تازہ ترین

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    Hania Aamir shares heartfelt Independence Day mess…

    Pakistani actress Hania Aamir has shared a heartfelt message for the country on Independence Day, wishing Pakistan a happy birthday while expressing a deeply personal hope for its future. As Pakistan marks its 79th Independence Day, the Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum star took a moment to reflect on what freedom should mean for the people living in the country. While holding the national flag, Hania shared a message that focused not only on celebrating Pakistan but also on the safety and well-being of its children. “Happy birthday, Pakistan. I hope one day all your children can feel safe here,” Hania said in her Independence Day message. Her words quickly attracted attention online, with many people praising the actress for highlighting an important issue alongside the celebrations. (Instagram⁠) Rather than focusing solely on patriotic celebrations, Hania’s message carried a quieter and more thoughtful tone. Her wish for children to feel safe reflects a broader desire for peace, security and a better future for the younger generation. For many Pakistanis, Independence Day is a time to celebrate the country’s history and remember the sacrifices made during the struggle for independence. However, Hania’s message encouraged people to think about what the future of the country should look like for its youngest citizens. Children are often considered the future of any nation. Their ability to grow, study and build their lives in a safe environment is an important part of a country’s progress. Hania’s simple message therefore resonated with people who share the hope of seeing a more peaceful Pakistan. The actress has frequently used her social media presence to connect with her millions of followers and speak about issues close to her heart. Her latest Independence Day message continued that approach, combining a traditional birthday wish for Pakistan with a hopeful thought about the country’s future. Social media users responded to the message by praising its sincerity. Several posts sharing Hania’s words described her wish as a reminder that true freedom should include safety and peace for everyone, particularly children. (Facebook⁠) Hania’s message ultimately offered a different kind of Independence Day reflection. While flags, celebrations and patriotic songs remain an important part of August 14, her words focused on a hope that goes beyond a single day. Her wish is simple: a Pakistan where every child can grow up without fear and feel secure in the place they call home. As the country celebrates another year of independence, Hania’s message serves as a reminder that building a safer and more peaceful future is an important part of the meaning of freedom.

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    Dead lizard found in teapot, 5 Multan family membe…

    MULTAN: Five members of a family were hospitalized after allegedly suffering food poisoning following the consumption of tea in Multan, rescue officials said on Saturday. The incident occurred near Godam Chowk, where the affected family members reportedly became ill after drinking tea. According to the family, a dead lizard was later discovered inside the teapot, raising concerns that it may have contaminated the drink. Rescue personnel reached the scene and provided initial medical assistance to the victims. Following a preliminary examination, all five patients were shifted to Nishtar Hospital for further treatment. Authorities are expected to investigate the incident and determine how the lizard ended up in the teapot.

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    Mir Raza’s father seeks suspension of police off…

    KARACHI: The father of slain businessman Mir Raza Ali has called for the suspension of Karachi East DIG Dr Farrukh Ali and other police officials, accusing them of delaying the investigation and allegedly concealing crucial evidence in his son’s murder case. Speaking to reporters, Mir Hussain said the police had mishandled the investigation and urged authorities to take action against the Ferozabad SHO and other officers allegedly involved in the case. He claimed that officials had “played a game” with the grieving family. Twenty-five-year-old Mir Raza Ali, an IBA graduate and businessman, went missing on July 28 and was found dead in Gulistan-e-Jauhar the following day. While the initial investigation considered suicide as a possibility, his family consistently maintained that he had been abducted, tortured and murdered. The case took a new turn after a fresh post-mortem reportedly identified a gunshot wound to Ali’s back along with other injuries. A chemical examination also detected acid particles and gunshot-residue elements on his shirt, while police said sedatives were found in his blood and DNA testing matched his parents. Meanwhile, the family has requested that Ali’s smartwatch be examined by the Punjab Forensic Science Agency (PFSA), rather than the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). Family lawyer Jibran Nasir expressed concern that the device had remained with a former investigation committee head for several days before being handed to the NCCIA, raising fears of possible tampering. The newly formed investigation team, headed by DIG Amir Farooqi, has written to the NCCIA seeking forensic analysis of the smartwatch as well as information concerning Ali’s social media and other digital accounts. Investigators have also revisited the crime scene, interviewed nursery staff and collected additional evidence. The team has been tasked with examining outstanding aspects of the case, including geofencing, mobile-data records and digital evidence. Authorities have set August 15 as the deadline for submission of the investigation report. Meanwhile, a medico-legal officer who conducted the initial post-mortem was removed following an inquiry that identified serious lapses in the examination.

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    Sonia Hussyn calls for meaningful freedom in Indep…

    Pakistani actress Sonia Hussyn has shared a thought-provoking message on Independence Day, urging people to look beyond the usual celebrations and think about what freedom truly means. The actress took to social media to express her concerns about the way some Pakistanis celebrate Independence Day. Rather than focusing only on flags, decorations and festivities, Hussyn questioned whether a nation can truly protect its rights if its people do not first learn to protect their own dignity, discipline and principles. In her message, the actress asked what a nation can do to protect its rights when its citizens do not know how to remain organized, principled or protect their self-respect. She also criticized the tendency to limit patriotic enthusiasm to free cake, loud celebrations and modified motorcycle silencers. Her comments appeared to be a call for greater responsibility among citizens. The message suggested that patriotism should not be limited to one day of celebration but should be reflected in people’s everyday behavior and choices. Hussyn’s remarks came as Pakistanis across the country prepared to celebrate Independence Day on August 14. Streets, homes and public spaces were decorated with national flags, while people took part in rallies, concerts and other festivities. Social media was also filled with patriotic messages and photographs celebrating the occasion. However, Hussyn encouraged her followers to consider a deeper meaning of independence. Her message focused on discipline, self-respect and responsibility as qualities that can help strengthen society. The actress’s comments quickly attracted attention online. A social media post featuring her message was shared alongside reactions from other Pakistani celebrities who also reflected on the country’s challenges while celebrating Independence Day. (Instagram⁠) Hussyn’s message reflects a broader conversation that often emerges around August 14: whether national pride should be expressed through temporary celebrations or through actions that contribute to society throughout the year. For many people, Independence Day is an opportunity to remember the sacrifices connected to Pakistan’s creation. Hussyn’s words add another perspective, suggesting that maintaining freedom also requires citizens to take responsibility for their communities and their own conduct. Her criticism of noisy celebrations does not necessarily reject patriotism itself. Instead, it highlights the difference between celebrating independence and actively contributing to the country. Simple acts such as following rules, respecting others, maintaining cleanliness and standing up for one’s rights can also become meaningful expressions of patriotism. Ultimately, Sonia Hussyn’s message asks Pakistanis to think beyond the excitement of August 14. Her central point is that a strong nation needs citizens who are disciplined, principled and conscious of their dignity. As Independence Day celebrations continue, her words serve as a reminder that loving one’s country can mean more than displaying a flag. It can also mean helping create a society worthy of the freedom that people celebrate each year.

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    Karachi aerial firing leaves dozens injured on eve…

    Pakistan’s Independence Day celebrations turned tragic in Karachi after celebratory aerial firing injured dozens of people across the city. According to rescue officials, at least 86 people were injured in separate incidents of aerial firing on the eve of August 14. The victims included 59 men, 17 children and 10 women, highlighting the serious danger posed by the unlawful practice. (Dawn⁠) The injured were transported to several major hospitals in Karachi for immediate medical treatment. Rescue officials reported that 24 victims were taken to Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, while 35 were shifted to Jinnah Hospital. Another 26 people were transported to Civil Hospital. One additional injured woman was taken to a private hospital. (PakTribune⁠) The incidents were reported from several areas of Karachi, including Lyari, Saddar, Korangi, Malir, Azizabad, North Nazimabad, Nazimabad, Gulbahar, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Orangi Town, Jamshed Quarters and Defence. The injuries occurred as residents gathered to celebrate Pakistan’s Independence Day. While Independence Day is traditionally marked with flags, decorations, patriotic songs and family gatherings, the use of firearms during celebrations has repeatedly turned festive occasions into dangerous situations. Authorities have consistently warned citizens against aerial firing. Despite these warnings and existing restrictions, celebratory gunfire continues to occur during major occasions such as Independence Day and New Year’s Eve. Police also launched a crackdown against people allegedly involved in aerial firing in different parts of Karachi. (Dawn⁠) The danger of aerial firing is particularly serious because bullets fired into the air can travel significant distances before falling. People who are completely unaware of the firing can be struck while standing outside, travelling through the city or even staying inside their homes. The latest incident also comes after a similarly tragic Independence Day last year. In 2025, three people, including a minor girl, were killed and more than 100 others were injured in celebratory gunfire across Karachi. Authorities subsequently arrested suspects and recovered illegal weapons. (Dawn⁠) The repeated incidents have renewed concerns about public safety and the enforcement of restrictions against celebratory firing. What some people consider a form of celebration can result in permanent injuries, loss of life and lasting trauma for innocent families. Independence Day is meant to celebrate Pakistan’s freedom and national identity. However, the injuries reported in Karachi serve as a painful reminder that celebrations should never put other people’s lives at risk. As authorities continue efforts to control aerial firing, citizens are also being urged to celebrate responsibly. Fireworks, flags, music and family gatherings can create a festive atmosphere without putting innocent people in danger. The Karachi incidents underline a simple message: patriotism should bring people together, not leave families rushing to hospitals. (Dawn⁠)

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    Bushra Ansari urges people to understand the respo…

    Veteran Pakistani actress Bushra Ansari has sparked discussion with her recent comments about multiple marriages in Islam, urging people to focus on the responsibility and fairness that come with such a decision. While discussing the subject, Ansari emphasized that people often highlight the permission for a man to have up to four wives but pay less attention to the requirement of treating those wives fairly. Her remarks have renewed conversation about how Islamic teachings on marriage are understood and practiced in society. The Quran permits a Muslim man to marry up to four women, but it places an important condition on that permission. If a man fears that he will not be able to deal justly with multiple wives, the Quran directs him to marry only one. (IslamQA⁠) This requirement of justice is at the heart of the discussion surrounding polygamy. It means that multiple marriage cannot simply be viewed as a privilege without responsibilities. A husband is expected to fulfill the rights of each wife and treat them fairly in matters within his control. Ansari’s comments appear to highlight this often-overlooked aspect. In societies where discussions about multiple marriages can become emotionally charged, her message encourages people to consider the consequences for everyone involved rather than focusing only on the number of marriages allowed. Islamic scholarship also emphasizes that justice between wives is a serious obligation. Financial responsibilities, living arrangements, time and other practical rights are among the areas in which fairness is expected. If a person believes he cannot fulfill these responsibilities, choosing one marriage is the safer course. (IslamQA⁠) The subject is particularly sensitive because marriage involves more than a legal relationship. It affects spouses, children and extended families. A decision that is made without careful consideration can create emotional and financial difficulties for everyone involved. Pakistan’s legal framework also places regulations around multiple marriages. Under the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, a man seeking another marriage while already married is subject to specific legal requirements, including approaching an Arbitration Council for permission. Pakistani courts have also upheld the importance of these legal procedures. (Pakistan Lawyer⁠) Ansari’s remarks therefore arrive amid an ongoing conversation about the difference between religious permission and personal responsibility. The fact that something is permitted under certain conditions does not mean those conditions can simply be ignored. Her comments have encouraged audiences to look at the broader principles behind marriage: fairness, responsibility, respect and protection of rights. For couples and families, these principles can be just as important as the legal question of whether another marriage is permitted. Ultimately, the discussion surrounding Bushra Ansari’s statement is less about simply counting marriages and more about understanding the responsibilities that accompany them. Her message serves as a reminder that when people discuss religious rights, they should also acknowledge the duties and accountability that come with those rights.

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    PM Shehbaz orders urgent flood relief nationwide

    Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to intensify relief efforts and ensure maximum assistance for people affected by ongoing monsoon rains and floods. The prime minister issued the instructions during a meeting with NDMA Chairman Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik in Islamabad on Saturday. He ordered authorities to utilise all available resources to support flood-hit communities and provide immediate relief to those facing difficult conditions. Shehbaz also stressed close coordination between the NDMA, provincial governments and Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) to ensure relief operations remain effective and reach affected populations without delay. During the meeting, the NDMA chairman briefed the prime minister on the latest weather conditions and the flood situation resulting from heavy monsoon rainfall. He also provided an update on relief operations and ongoing measures to rehabilitate people displaced or affected by the flooding. According to the briefing, federal authorities are supporting relief activities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Rescue and assistance operations in these areas will continue with the cooperation of the federal government. The prime minister also praised the NDMA’s use of artificial intelligence and modern technology at the National Emergencies Operation Centre, saying advanced systems could strengthen disaster monitoring and response. The latest figures show the growing impact of monsoon-related incidents across the country. The NDMA reported that at least 155 people have died and 460 others have been injured in rain-related incidents between June 26 and August 14. Pakistan’s monsoon season generally lasts from June to September and plays an important role in replenishing water resources. However, intense rainfall can also cause flash floods, river flooding, landslides and displacement, particularly in vulnerable communities. The situation could remain challenging in the coming days. The Flood Forecasting Division of the Pakistan Meteorological Department has warned of possible high-level flooding in storm-water channels connected to the Chenab and Ravi rivers between August 15 and 21 as water levels continue to rise.

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    Erica Robin urges Pakistan to protect children

    Pakistan’s first Miss Universe, Erica Robin, used Independence Day to highlight an urgent issue facing children across the country, urging parents to take stronger measures to protect them from sexual abuse. In a message shared on social media, Robin said that while Independence Day is a time to celebrate Pakistan, the occasion should also be used to speak about serious social problems. She said recent reports of violence and abuse involving children were deeply disturbing and required greater awareness among families. Robin offered parents three key suggestions for protecting their children. First, she urged parents not to assume that children are automatically safe with relatives or other people they know. She said families should remain aware of who has regular access to their children, regardless of whether the child is a boy or a girl. Her second recommendation was to teach children about personal boundaries. Robin said children should understand that their bodies belong to them and that they have the right to refuse unwanted physical contact. Parents, she stressed, should never force children to hug, kiss or show affection to another person if they are uncomfortable. Robin identified open communication as the most important step. She encouraged parents to create an environment where children can speak freely about anything that makes them uncomfortable or frightened. She also advised parents to pay attention to sudden changes in a child’s behaviour, particularly when the child appears uneasy around a particular person. The model urged parents to share these lessons with others and work collectively to create an environment where children feel safe, respected and heard. Her message comes amid continuing concerns over child abuse in Pakistan. More than 1,900 cases of child abuse were reported across the country during the first half of the year, according to data cited in the report. Several recent cases have intensified public concern. In Karachi, police arrested a 17-year-old relative after the father of a young girl reported that she had gone out with him to buy something and later returned unconscious after being sexually assaulted. Earlier, the deaths of two young girls in Karachi and Sargodha also sparked outrage. Police investigations into both cases involved allegations of sexual violence, while several suspects were detained in connection with the incidents.

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    Dr Nigat Shah clarifies JPMC contract extension

    Professor Dr Nigat Shah, head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC), has clarified that her contract-based employment extension will not affect the posting or promotion of any associate professor. Speaking to the media, Dr Shah said several gynaecology units at JPMC had remained closed since 2013. She said one of the closed units was revived in 2022 to expand medical services and provide treatment to patients. She added that the department is continuing patient care alongside postgraduate training and research. According to Dr Shah, the hospital needs more specialised doctors, and she has no objection to the appointment of any qualified medical professional. Dr Shah stressed that her objective was not to create obstacles for another doctor’s appointment or career progression. She said her contract extension should not be viewed as an attempt to block the posting or promotion of any associate professor. The clarification comes after senior associate professors at Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU) reportedly raised concerns over Dr Shah’s reappointment. Several affected professors wrote to the Sindh chief minister, Sindh health minister and the federal ombudsman, expressing reservations about the decision. In their letter, the professors claimed that the second paragraph of a Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) notification issued on May 19 had been overlooked. They further maintained that the reappointment could affect the promotions of six associate professors who are awaiting advancement to higher positions. The professors have sought the authorities’ attention to the matter and called for the relevant rules and regulations to be considered while deciding appointments and promotions.

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    Powerful 7.7 quake kills 20 in Indonesia

    At least 20 people have been killed after a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Indonesia’s Flores Island early Saturday, triggering widespread panic, building damage and a series of strong aftershocks. The earthquake struck shortly before 5am local time at a depth of about 15 kilometres, according to Indonesia’s meteorological and geophysics authorities. The relatively shallow depth increased the potential for severe damage across affected areas. Indonesia’s disaster management authorities said several people were injured, with the figures still considered preliminary as rescue teams continue searching damaged buildings and assessing casualties. The strongest aftershocks included a 6.1-magnitude tremor, forcing residents to remain outdoors because of fears that weakened structures could collapse. Dramatic scenes were reported at the port of Maumere, where sections of a terminal building broke apart during the earthquake. A gangway leading to a ferry also collapsed, sending some passengers into the sea as people attempted to escape. East Nusa Tenggara Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena said some victims were killed while sleeping after rubble from collapsing structures fell on them. Residents described the earthquake as extremely frightening. People rushed out of their homes and moved towards safer areas, with many heading to higher ground after authorities issued a tsunami warning. The tsunami alert was later lifted about three hours after the earthquake when no significant rise in sea levels was detected. Authorities said around 2,000 people evacuated or moved to safer locations on their own during the warning. Officials reported fatalities in several provinces, including Sikka, Manggarai and East Manggarai. At least two people were seriously injured while 11 others suffered minor injuries. The earthquake also caused extensive structural damage. Initial assessments indicated that dozens of houses had been severely damaged along with healthcare facilities, places of worship, government buildings, an educational institution and a warehouse. Manggarai was identified as one of the worst-affected areas. Rescue and assessment teams are continuing to work in the region, although difficult mountainous terrain could make operations challenging. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm, avoid coastal areas and stay away from buildings that have been damaged or weakened by the earthquake and aftershocks.