تازہ ترین

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    India accused of promoting banned committee narrat…

    India has allegedly stepped up efforts to promote the narrative of a banned committee in Azad Jammu and Kashmir after the group failed to gain wider public support, according to security sources. The sources claimed that Indian forces played videos linked to the banned Public Action Committee in the Keran sector on August 13 and 14. The alleged move was aimed at creating anti-Pakistan sentiments among people living near the Line of Control. Security officials said the videos were used to highlight the committee’s narrative and influence public opinion. Experts believe the alleged move raises questions about possible links between the banned group and India. They said the promotion of the committee’s material from the Indian side could indicate an attempt to exploit political and social issues in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Defence analyst and retired Major General Zahid Mahmood said people were already aware of claims regarding foreign involvement in the activities of the banned Action Committee. He said information about alleged external support had previously emerged through what he described as reliable sources. Mahmood said efforts had been made to develop a specific narrative about Azad Jammu and Kashmir. According to him, the objective was to damage the broader Kashmir freedom movement and create divisions among the people. He alleged that India and other international actors were playing a role in shaping narratives related to Kashmir. The retired general also claimed that some international forces and media groups were helping promote these narratives. He said such efforts could be aimed at influencing public opinion and weakening support for the Kashmir cause. Security sources maintained that the alleged circulation of the videos was part of a broader attempt to provoke anti-Pakistan sentiments. They said the use of material associated with the banned committee could also be intended to create political unrest and confusion among the public. The allegations come amid continued tensions surrounding political developments in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities are closely monitoring activities along the Line of Control and the dissemination of material they believe could fuel unrest.

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    PPP takes LA-15, PML-N wins LA-16

    The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) have won one seat each in Bagh district of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), according to unofficial and preliminary results. The results came after repolling was held at 23 polling stations in two constituencies. Voting was conducted on Saturday from 8am to 5pm. The repolling was ordered after voting could not take place at some polling stations during the earlier election process. In LA-16 Bagh, PML-N candidate Mir Akbar Khan emerged victorious. According to unofficial results from all 186 polling stations, he received 20,793 votes. His main rival, PPP candidate Qamar Zaman Khan, secured 16,964 votes. Akbar Khan defeated Qamar Zaman by 3,829 votes. The result gave the PML-N an important victory in the constituency. The party candidate maintained a clear lead after counting was completed at all polling stations. In the other constituency, LA-15 Bagh, the PPP secured victory. Its candidate Zia Qamar received 17,019 votes, according to unofficial results from all 213 polling stations. PML-N candidate Mushtaq Minhas stood second with 15,127 votes. Zia Qamar defeated Minhas by a margin of 1,892 votes. The two results mean that the PPP and PML-N have secured one constituency each in Bagh district. Repolling at the 23 polling stations continued for the full voting period. Voters were allowed to cast their ballots between 8am and 5pm. The polling stations had previously faced disruptions. In some areas, election material had not reached the polling stations on time. Voting was also suspended at some locations because of unrest and security concerns. The Election Commission arranged the fresh polling to complete the voting process at the affected stations. The exercise was conducted under heightened attention because of the importance of the two constituencies. The latest results are still unofficial and non-final. The relevant election authorities will formally verify the results before declaring the final outcome.

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    Supreme Court upholds death sentence in woman’s …

    The Supreme Court has issued a landmark ruling concerning women’s rights, declaring that a woman’s right to seek khula (judicial divorce) is a constitutional right and that violence against a woman exercising this right amounts to an attack on the Constitution. A three-member bench of the Supreme Court dismissed the jail petition filed by convict Waseem Abbas and upheld his death sentence. Justice Muhammad Hashim Khan Kakar authored the four-page detailed judgment. According to the judgment, women are fully protected under Articles 9, 14 and 25 of the Constitution, which guarantee their security, dignity and equal rights. The court said that anyone who uses violence against a woman seeking khula would face the full force of the law. It observed that killing a woman for exercising her legal right is an act of brutality and open defiance of the law. The Supreme Court further ruled that a convict involved in a cold-blooded and planned murder does not deserve any concession. The judgment also clarified that the testimony of relatives cannot automatically be rejected in cases involving crimes committed within the privacy of a home. The court said forensic evidence recovered from the crime scene provided conclusive evidence against the accused. The forensic examination established a match between the recovered bullet casings and the pistol linked to the crime. The Supreme Court found no legal or factual flaw in the decisions of the lower courts and upheld the death sentence awarded to Waseem Abbas. According to the case record, Waseem Abbas shot and killed his former wife, Shehnaz Bibi, on October 11, 2020. She had obtained a legal khula decree from a family court before the incident. The convict allegedly entered the woman’s home and killed her around 48 hours after she obtained the decree. A trial court subsequently sentenced Abbas to death and awarded him 10 years in prison. The Lahore High Court later upheld the death sentence.

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    Sunny Deol’s ‘Batwara 1947’ earns praise for raw, emotional performance

    The story of Partition has returned to the big screen with “Batwara 1947” and early viewers are already sharing largely positive reactions online. Many praised the film’s emotional storytelling, characters and performances. Directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, the film released in cinemas on August 14. It stars Sunny Deol as Sikandar, Shabana Azmi as Mai, and Preity Zinta as Hamida. Several viewers described the film as an emotional watch suited for the whole family. One social media user called it a complete family film and recommended watching it alongside parents, while also praising Azmi’s performance specifically. Other reactions focused on how the film portrayed the struggles people faced during Partition. Viewers pointed to its handling of fear, displacement and uncertainty as key emotional throughlines. One viewer noted that the film avoided painting Sikandar and Hamida as purely right or wrong. According to that reaction, their choices only made sense once the full weight of their circumstances became clear. Sunny Deol’s performance quickly became one of the most talked-about elements of the film. Numerous users praised his portrayal of Sikandar, particularly his expressive work in emotionally heavy scenes. One user wrote on X that Deol completely owns his character throughout the film. Another said his performance revealed emotional range well beyond his well-known action image, highlighting the quieter moments where his expressions carried entire scenes. The film’s character arc also drew significant attention from early viewers. Several noted that Sikandar’s journey across the story stood out as one of its strongest elements. One viewer pointed out that Sikandar was not written as a flawless hero from the start, instead confronting his own anger and beliefs as the narrative unfolds. Another praised a specific scene where his visible helplessness reportedly shifted the entire mood inside the theatre. Set in Lahore during the 1947 Partition, “Batwara 1947” explores the era’s impact through the lives of ordinary people. The film reportedly draws inspiration from Asghar Wajahat’s play “Jis Lahore Nai Vekhya, O Jamya E Nai.” These early reactions reflect only initial social media responses, with more detailed reviews expected as the film reaches wider audiences in the coming days.

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    Mastung attack foiled, Ziaullah Langau praises pol…

    Balochistan Home Minister Ziaullah Langau has praised security personnel for successfully foiling an attack on his security squad in Mastung. Speaking at a press conference in Quetta, Langau said Mastung police confronted the attackers and forced the terrorists to flee, preventing the attack from succeeding. He said five police personnel were injured during the incident. The minister praised the police officers for their courage and said their response prevented a potentially serious attack. Langau said the people of Balochistan had endured violence and conflict for a long time. He urged those involved in armed activities in the mountains to realise that the conflict was futile and would not achieve its objectives. He appealed to both Baloch and Pashtun communities not to fall victim to what he described as terrorist propaganda. “Protect your children’s future from terrorists,” he said, urging families and communities to reject violence and militant activities. The provincial minister also alleged that terrorists were receiving support from India and Afghanistan. He said the government and security forces would continue efforts to counter terrorism and protect citizens. The attack took place in Mastung as security personnel accompanying the provincial home minister came under fire. Security forces responded to the attack, while several personnel were wounded.

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    ‘Incredibles 3’ shifts spotlight to Violet, Dash, teases new villain

    Fans got their first real look at “Incredibles 3” during D23, where Pixar director Pete Docter offered a preview of what to expect from the franchise’s next chapter. The reveal took place at Friday’s fan event in Anaheim. According to multiple reports, the new film picks up just a few weeks after “Incredibles 2.” This time, though, the focus shifts away from the parents and toward the family’s superpowered kids. After Bob led the original film and Elastigirl took centre stage in the sequel, “Incredibles 3” will finally put the spotlight on the family’s eldest children. Docter confirmed that Violet and Dash are eager to prove themselves as capable Supers in their own right. He explained that the siblings want to show they are ready for real hero work, even though their parents are not entirely convinced. As a result, the kids have been sneaking out at night to protect the city on their own. That decision, Docter noted, does not go over well once their parents find out. Making matters more complicated, the family is also struggling to keep Jack Jack’s unpredictable powers under control. Beyond the family dynamics, Docter teased a new threat that is taking a serious toll on Bob emotionally. He explained that Bob is grappling with his own relevance in a world of Supers that may have moved past him. According to Docter, the story explores how legality does not automatically mean morality within this world. He pointed out that even though Supers are now legal again, that doesn’t guarantee all of them are good. The filmmaker nearly revealed more about the film’s central villain, describing the character as more powerful than the entire Parr family and every other Super combined. Before he could share further details, Edna Mode actress interrupted him, urging him not to spoil the movie ahead of release. “Incredibles 3” is currently scheduled to hit theatres in June 2028, giving fans plenty of time to speculate about the new villain’s true identity and abilities.

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    ‘Malamaal Weekly 2’ adds Fardeen Khan, Mahesh Manjrekar to cast

    The star cast of “Malamaal Weekly 2” continues expanding, with Fardeen Khan and Mahesh Manjrekar now joining the ensemble. The sequel first entered development back in February 2026. Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned that both actors have officially signed on for the project. Their addition marks the latest in a steady string of casting announcements surrounding the film. Amit Joshi, known for directing 2024’s “Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya” was confirmed as director back in April. Since then, the cast has grown rapidly with each passing week. Last week alone brought news of Raveena Tandon and Parineeti Chopra joining the project. That was quickly followed by confirmation on August 11 that Shilpa Shirodkar had signed on too, marking her Bollywood return after 26 years. Just two days later, on August 13, Elvish Yadav and Rajpal Yadav were also locked in for roles. The rapid pace of signings reflects growing momentum behind the project. According to a source, Fardeen Khan was considered an easy choice for the makers. The insider explained that Khan has been on a strong career comeback, working across multiple genres while remaining especially popular in comedic roles, which made him a natural fit for the makers. The source added that Khan was genuinely pleased with the offer and signed on without hesitation. His comic sensibility reportedly aligned well with what the makers were looking for. Mahesh Manjrekar’s casting was explained similarly, with the source describing him as a uniquely versatile performer who excels in comedy as well. The film reportedly includes a quirky character that the makers felt suited him perfectly. According to the insider, Manjrekar was excited to be offered a role in the sequel of such a beloved original film. The producers reportedly feel confident he’ll deliver a performance audiences will enjoy. The film is expected to begin shooting in November 2026. While the storyline itself will be entirely new, it is set to retain the spirit of the original, following ordinary small-town characters caught up in poverty, greed and the chaos triggered by a sudden shot at wealth.

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    Fire breaks out at warehouse near Karachi’s Sher…

      KARACHI: A fire broke out at a warehouse near Shershah in Karachi West, prompting emergency response teams to rush to the scene and begin efforts to bring the blaze under control. According to Rescue 1122, its teams were immediately dispatched to the affected area after receiving information about the incident. Rescue personnel are currently engaged in firefighting operations and are working to prevent the flames from spreading to nearby buildings and commercial establishments. The fire reportedly erupted at a warehouse located in the vicinity of Shershah, an area known for its busy commercial and industrial activities. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, while officials have not immediately provided details regarding the extent of the damage or whether anyone was injured. Rescue 1122 officials said their teams were actively working at the site to control the flames. Firefighters are using emergency equipment to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the warehouse or surrounding properties. The incident has raised concerns because warehouse fires can spread rapidly, particularly when buildings contain combustible materials, packaging, chemicals or other flammable goods. Such fires can also generate thick smoke, making firefighting operations more difficult and creating risks for people living or working nearby. Emergency personnel have been focusing on bringing the situation under control while assessing the conditions inside and around the affected warehouse. Authorities may also inspect the premises after the fire is extinguished to determine how the incident started and whether safety regulations were being followed. The Shershah area is one of Karachi’s important commercial zones, with numerous warehouses, workshops, markets and businesses operating in and around the locality. A fire in such an area can potentially affect surrounding businesses and disrupt traffic and commercial activity. Residents and workers in the vicinity have been Fire breaks out at warehouse near Karachi’s Shershah area KARACHI: A fire broke out at a warehouse near Shershah in Karachi West, prompting emergency response teams to rush to the scene and begin efforts to bring the blaze under control. According to Rescue 1122, its teams were immediately dispatched to the affected area after receiving information about the incident. Rescue personnel are currently engaged in firefighting operations and are working to prevent the flames from spreading to nearby buildings and commercial establishments. The fire reportedly erupted at a warehouse located in the vicinity of Shershah, an area known for its busy commercial and industrial activities. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, while officials have not immediately provided details regarding the extent of the damage or whether anyone was injured. Rescue 1122 officials said their teams were actively working at the site to control the flames. Firefighters are using emergency equipment to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the warehouse or surrounding properties. The incident has raised concerns because warehouse fires can spread rapidly, particularly when buildings contain combustible materials, packaging, chemicals or other flammable goods. Such fires can also generate thick smoke, making firefighting operations more difficult and creating risks for people living or working nearby. Emergency personnel have been focusing on bringing the situation under control while assessing the conditions inside and around the affected warehouse. Authorities may also inspect the premises after the fire is extinguished to determine how the incident started and whether safety regulations were being followed. The Shershah area is one of Karachi’s important commercial zones, with numerous warehouses, workshops, markets and businesses operating in and around the locality. A fire in such an area can potentially affect surrounding businesses and disrupt traffic and commercial activity. Residents and workers in the vicinity have been advised to remain cautious and avoid approaching the affected location unnecessarily. Keeping roads and access routes clear is particularly important during emergency operations because firefighting vehicles and rescue teams need sufficient space to reach the site and carry out their work. At the time of the initial report, there were no confirmed details regarding casualties or the financial losses caused by the fire. Officials are expected to provide further information once firefighting operations are completed and the situation is assessed. The incident once again highlights the importance of fire safety measures at warehouses and commercial facilities. Proper storage of combustible materials, functional fire extinguishing systems, emergency exits and regular safety inspections can help reduce the risk of major fires and limit damage when accidents occur. Rescue 1122 teams remain engaged in firefighting efforts, while further details about the cause of the blaze, possible injuries and property damage are awaited. Authorities are expected to investigate the incident after the fire has been brought under control. The investigation will help determine whether the fire was caused by an electrical fault, an equipment malfunction, negligence or another factor. For now, emergency teams are concentrating on their immediate priority: extinguishing the fire, protecting nearby properties and ensuring the safety of people in the surrounding area. Further updates are expected as officials assess the situation and complete their operations. to remain cautious and avoid approaching the affected location unnecessarily. Keeping roads and access routes clear is particularly important during emergency operations because firefighting vehicles and rescue teams need sufficient space to reach the site and carry out their work. At the time of the initial report, there were no confirmed details regarding casualties or the financial losses caused by the fire. Officials are expected to provide further information once firefighting operations are completed and the situation is assessed. The incident once again highlights the importance of fire safety measures at warehouses and commercial facilities. Proper storage of combustible materials, functional fire extinguishing systems, emergency exits and regular safety inspections can help reduce the risk of major fires and limit damage when accidents occur. Rescue 1122 teams remain engaged in firefighting efforts, while further details about the cause of the blaze, possible injuries and property damage are awaited. Authorities are expected to investigate the incident after the fire has been brought under control. The investigation

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    Two killed, several injured in firing during funer…

      MUZAFFARABAD: At least two people were killed and several others injured when gunfire broke out during the funeral prayers of victims of an earlier clash in Kot Tralla, near Muzaffarabad in Azad Kashmir. According to Azad Kashmir Police, the incident occurred during the funeral prayers being held for two people who had been killed in a firing incident between two groups a day earlier. The latest shooting turned the funeral gathering into another scene of violence, resulting in further casualties. Police confirmed that two people had been killed in a clash between two groups in Kot Tralla the previous day. Following the incident, funeral prayers for the deceased were arranged in the area. However, while family members, relatives and other mourners had gathered to attend the prayers, another firing incident took place. According to police officials, the latest exchange of fire resulted in the deaths of two more people, while several others sustained injuries. The injured were shifted to nearby medical facilities for treatment. The exact number and condition of those injured were not immediately available. The incident has caused concern among local residents, particularly because the violence occurred during a funeral gathering. Such gatherings normally bring together large numbers of family members, relatives and community residents, making any outbreak of violence especially dangerous. Police teams reached the area following the shooting and began efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident. Authorities are investigating whether the latest firing was connected to the dispute that had led to the earlier clash between the two groups. The motive behind the initial confrontation has not yet been disclosed. Police officials are expected to investigate the cause of the dispute and identify those responsible for both incidents. Further action will be taken once the circumstances of the shootings and the identities of the suspects are established. The latest incident has also raised questions about security arrangements during funeral gatherings, particularly in areas where tensions exist between rival groups. Authorities may increase security measures in the area to prevent further violence and maintain law and order. Residents have expressed concern over the escalation of violence, as the dispute has now resulted in deaths on two consecutive days. The fact that the second shooting occurred during funeral prayers has further intensified fears of additional clashes. Police officials have urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement agencies. They are also expected to take steps to prevent any further confrontation between the two groups. The bodies of the victims are being handled according to local procedures, while the injured are receiving medical treatment. Families of those killed and injured are facing another tragedy following the earlier deaths in the area. Authorities have not yet released complete details about the weapons used, the identities of the attackers or the exact circumstances that led to the latest shooting. An investigation is underway, and additional information is expected as police gather evidence and question witnesses. The incident highlights how disputes between rival groups can quickly escalate and affect innocent people, particularly when violence occurs in crowded public gatherings. The authorities’ immediate priority is to restore peace in Kot Tralla, provide security to local residents and ensure that those responsible for the shootings are brought to justice. Further developments are expected as the investigation continues and officials release more information about the casualties and the circumstances surrounding the two incidents.

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    Adam Driver, Sadie Sink join Marvel’s upcoming X-Men film

      Marvel Studios has revealed an impressive new cast for its highly anticipated X-Men movie, with Adam Driver, Sadiew Sink and Inde Navarrette among the actors set to join the franchise. The announcement was made by Disney during its biennial D23 fan convention in California on Friday, generating considerable excitement among thousands of Marvel fans. Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige appeared on stage at the Honda Center during the opening night of the three-day event. He gave more than 10,000 attendees an early glimpse of the upcoming X-Men project, which has not yet received an official title. The film is currently scheduled to arrive in cinemas in May 2028. Sadie Sink, known for her role in Stranger Things will reportedly continue as Jean Grey following her appearance in Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Inde Navarrette will portray Rogue, while the ensemble cast also features Kit Connor as Cyclops, Samara Weaving as Emma Frost, Christopher Abbott as Professor Xavier and Maya Boyd as Storm. Adam Driver is also joining the project, taking on the role of the villain Nathaniel Milbury. The actor appeared at the D23 gathering through a video message and spoke about his long-running discussions with Feige regarding a possible role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Driver said that he and Feige had been discussing the possibility of working together for several years and believed they had eventually found the right project and the right moment to make their collaboration happen. The X-Men announcement was one of several major reveals made by Disney and Marvel during the event. Feige also presented footage from Avengers: Doomsday another major Marvel production scheduled for release in December. The movie is expected to bring together several major superhero groups, including the Avengers, the Fantastic Four and the X-Men, along with Wakandan warriors. The heroes will face one of Marvel’s most prominent villains, Doctor Doom, who will be portrayed by Robert Downey Jr. The crossover is expected to play a major role in the expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe. Disney also provided fans with their first glimpse of Ryan Gosling in Lucasfilm’s upcoming Star Wars: Starfighter.The new film is scheduled to reach cinemas in 2027, a year that will mark the 50th anniversary of the original Star Warsmovie. The D23 event also featured announcements about several new sequels. Pixar presented previews of upcoming projects including Gatto and the supernatural adventure Ghost Market. The studio also confirmed The Incredibles 3 and Coco 2 Other returning franchises receiving new installments include Lilo & Stitch 2 Ice Age: Boiling Point and Frozen 3.Stars Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel and Josh Gad were among those promoting the latest Frozen project. The strong focus on sequels was noticed by attendees. One visitor, Gary Aurin, joked that almost everything at the event appeared to be a continuation of an existing franchise. Disney also surprised audiences by announcing a new animated project featuring Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. Director Jon Favreau introduced the character, who will appear in a mini-series scheduled to premiere on Disney+ next year. Oswald was created by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks in 1927 for Universal Pictures and predates Mickey Mouse. Disney regained the character’s rights in 2006. The three-day D23 convention is scheduled to conclude on Sunday, bringing together fans, filmmakers, actors and creative teams to celebrate Disney’s upcoming entertainment projects.