تازہ ترین

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    PTA fines CM Pak Rs77.8 Million for SIM sales Geo-fencing violation

    ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has imposed a fine of Rs77.8 million on China Mobile Pakistan (CM Pak) after determining that the operator failed to ensure compliance with mandatory geo-fencing rules governing biometric verification system (BVS) devices used for SIM sales. The regulatory action followed a field inspection in which the PTA found that an authorised sales representative linked to CM Pak’s Taxila franchise was selling SIMs from a location in Islamabad that fell outside the approved geographical area of the franchise. According to the PTA’s enforcement order, the inspection was carried out on March 30, 2026. During the inspection, the regulator discovered that a Data Sales Officer (DSO) associated with the Taxila franchise was conducting SIM sales at I-10 Markaz, Islamabad. The location was not within the authorised territorial jurisdiction or designated geo-location of the franchise. The PTA also found that the sales activity had been conducted without the required Door-to-Door/Kiosk approval from the regulator. Geo-fencing requirement The PTA’s regulatory framework requires BVS devices used for SIM issuance to remain within a prescribed distance of the approved sales location. Under the mandatory geo-fencing mechanism, such devices must operate within 100 metres of the designated geo-location of an authorised sales channel. The purpose of the requirement is to ensure that biometric devices are not moved to unauthorised locations for SIM issuance. The mechanism is also designed to strengthen oversight of SIM sales, prevent misuse of biometric verification equipment and improve the traceability of subscriber registrations. The regulator made it clear that SIM sales outside an approved geo-location are not permitted unless prior approval has been obtained from the PTA. CM Pak challenges regulatory action CM Pak contested the proposed enforcement proceedings, maintaining that the incident was an isolated operational lapse involving an individual DSO rather than evidence of a broader failure in the company’s compliance system. The operator argued that the SIMs concerned had been issued only after the required biometric verification process had been successfully completed. It further stated that the transactions were properly recorded and remained traceable through the prescribed systems. CM Pak also maintained that there had been no issuance of fake or anonymous SIMs, no bypass of biometric verification and no failure in the verification process conducted through the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). The company told the regulator that it had taken disciplinary and corrective measures after being informed of the violation. These measures included issuing a show-cause notice and warning letter to the concerned franchise and terminating the services of the DSO involved in the incident. CM Pak also said it had circulated compliance instructions across its network and strengthened internal monitoring mechanisms to prevent similar incidents in the future. PTA rejects defence The PTA, however, did not accept the company’s argument that successful biometric verification should be treated as sufficient compliance. The authority ruled that biometric verification and geo-fencing constitute separate regulatory requirements. While biometric verification is intended to establish the identity of a subscriber, geo-fencing controls where the SIM sale and verification process can legally take place. According to the regulator, compliance with one requirement does not eliminate the obligation to comply with the other. The PTA observed that allowing BVS devices to operate beyond their authorised locations could weaken the regulatory controls established for SIM issuance, regardless of whether the subscriber’s biometric verification was successfully completed. The regulator also rejected CM Pak’s position that responsibility for the incident could primarily be attributed to the franchise or individual sales officer. Under the applicable Subscribers Antecedents Verification Regulations and licence conditions, the PTA maintained that the licensed operator carries direct responsibility for ensuring that its authorised sales network complies with regulatory requirements. Corrective action not enough to erase violation The authority further noted that steps taken by an operator after a violation has been detected can potentially serve as mitigating factors but cannot remove the violation itself. The PTA stressed that geo-fencing is a substantive regulatory safeguard rather than a procedural requirement that can be overlooked if other verification mechanisms are functioning properly. It said allowing subsequent corrective measures to effectively neutralise an established breach could undermine the purpose of mandatory compliance requirements and weaken regulatory oversight of SIM issuance. After reviewing the show-cause notice, CM Pak’s written responses, compliance report and submissions made during the hearing, the PTA concluded that the operator had failed to maintain adequate supervision and regulatory control over its authorised sales channel. Rs77.8m penalty imposed Based on its findings, the PTA held CM Pak liable under Section 23 of the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organization) Act, 1996. The authority subsequently imposed a penalty of Rs77.8 million (Rs77,800,000) on the company and directed it to deposit the amount within 10 days of receiving the enforcement order. The PTA warned that failure to pay the penalty within the specified period could result in further proceedings or action under the applicable law.

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    Nick Jonas reveals daughter Malti’s unusual ‘Camp Rock’ order

    Nick Jonas has shared a heartwarming update about his daughter Malti’s introduction to the “Camp Rock” franchise. He opened up about the moment during the premiere of the highly anticipated “Camp Rock 3.” Speaking with E! News on Monday, August 10, the 33-year-old revealed that he and wife Priyanka Chopra decided to show their four-year-old the third film first. Nick joked that this unconventional approach actually works in her favour. He explained that Malti has not seen the first two instalments yet, but called that part of the charm. According to him, she’ll essentially be discovering the franchise backwards. Nick predicted that Malti will likely move on to “Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam” next. He suggested this reverse-order approach might actually become how many newcomers discover the franchise going forward. He added that plenty of families will probably start with the newest film before circling back to the originals. Nick said Malti loved it, and he expects young viewers worldwide will feel the same way. “Camp Rock 3” marks a major reunion for the Jonas Brothers, with Nick, Joe and Kevin returning as Connect 3 members Nate, Shane and Jason Gray. Demi Lovato is also making her comeback as Mitchie Torres, eight years after the original film helped launch her Disney career. Maria Canals-Barrera returns as well, reprising her role as Mitchie’s mother and camp director. Lovato has described her return as deeply nostalgic, saying the character holds a special place in her heart. The film’s plot follows Connect 3 after their opening act unexpectedly drops out ahead of a reunion tour. That forces the band to return to Camp Rock in search of fresh new talent. The new cast is led by Liamani Segura and Malachi Barton, joined by Lumi Pollack, Sherry Cola and Hudson Stone. Together, they bring a fresh generation of characters into the long-running franchise. “Camp Rock 3” is set to premiere on Disney Channel on August 13. It will become available for streaming on Disney+ the following day, giving fans multiple ways to catch the long-awaited sequel.

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    Akshay Kumar goes full villain, says ‘Haiwaan’ role has no grey shades

    Akshay Kumar is stepping into unfamiliar territory with his upcoming thriller “Haiwaan” taking on a fully negative character for the first time. The role marks a clear departure from his usual on-screen image. The actor recently opened up about his first look and the nature of his character in the film. He made clear there is nothing sympathetic or conflicted about the role he is playing. Kumar explained that his character matches the film’s title exactly, with absolutely no shades of grey involved. He described the role as being completely and unapologetically evil from start to finish. He admitted that taking on such a character felt like an entirely new experience for him. Kumar said he had always wanted to play a psychopath on screen, something he had not attempted in his career so far. He also pointed out that his recent projects have spanned a wide range of genres. From comedy and horror to action and drama, Kumar said he has been consciously exploring different creative directions. Director Priyadarshan also spoke about how Kumar’s distinctive look for the film came together. He revealed that the idea for the beanie actually originated on the sets of a completely different project. Priyadarshan explained that he spotted Kumar casually wearing the beanie during the shoot of “Bhooth Bangla” and instantly loved the look. That casual moment ended up shaping the actor’s final appearance for “Haiwaan.” The director also shared that he had not expected Kumar to accept the role when he first narrated the story. He assumed the actor might turn it down, given how different it was from his usual choices. To his surprise, Kumar showed genuine interest right away. The film also features Saif Ali Khan, Saiyami Kher and Shriya Pilgaonkar in key roles alongside Kumar. Together, the cast brings a mix of star power to what’s shaping up to be a darker, more intense project. “Haiwaan” is currently scheduled for a theatrical release on September 11. With Kumar stepping into unfamiliar villain territory, the film is already generating curiosity ahead of its release.

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    Julie Andrews confirms exit from Princess Diaries 3

    Julie Andrews has confirmed that she will not return as Queen Clarisse Renaldi in The Princess Diaries 3, ending hopes that the beloved royal figure would share the screen with Anne Hathaway’s Mia Thermopolis. Andrews, 90, explained in a recent interview that she considers herself largely retired from on-screen acting. Instead, the Oscar-winning star now focuses on writing books, podcasts and voice work. She said the creative team had approached her repeatedly during the past year about appearing in the sequel, but she ultimately decided against it. The decision marks a change for a franchise built around Andrews’ portrayal of Clarisse, Mia’s grandmother and Genovia’s former queen. Andrews appeared alongside Hathaway in both The Princess Diaries, released in 2001, and The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement in 2004. Andrews indicated that the third film can continue without her. Her comments reflect the passage of more than two decades since the original movies and her decision to focus on other creative work. The news comes as anticipation for the long-awaited return to Genovia continues to build among audiences who grew up with the films. Hathaway remains attached to the third installment, which is being directed by Adele Lim. The project remains in development, with filmmakers shaping a story that moves Mia into a new stage of life. Lim has said the team wants to honor the affection audiences have for the original films while giving the sequel its own direction. Andrews’ absence has already prompted an emotional response from fans. For many viewers, her performance as Clarisse was central to the charm of the series, making the prospect of returning to Genovia without her bittersweet. Others have supported Andrews’ decision to step away from on-screen acting. Although Clarisse will not return in Andrews’ performance, her legacy remains deeply woven into The Princess Diaries. As the third film moves forward, Hathaway and the creative team face the challenge of bringing audiences back to Genovia while honoring the actress who helped make the kingdom unforgettable. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/why-julie-andrews-wont-return-princess-diaries-3-1236670387/

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    Role Model jokes about his ‘war’ with an oblivious Harry Styles

    Role Model has addressed longstanding jokes online about a supposed rivalry with former One Direction star Harry Styles. He opened up about the friendly banter during a recent podcast appearance. The 29-year-old, who recently confirmed his relationship with actress Dakota Johnson, sat down for a conversation on the “And the Writer Is” podcast. The topic of Styles came up almost immediately. When asked directly whether Styles has ever confronted him about their supposed feud, Role Model laughed nervously before answering. He said, as far as he knows, there is genuinely no beef between them. He then recalled an actual meeting he had had with the Grammy-winning singer, describing the encounter warmly. According to Role Model, Styles came across as lovely and completely unaware of internet culture surrounding him. He joked that Styles’ total disconnect from social media gives him free rein to joke about their fictional rivalry. Role Model said he could rant for an entire year about their so-called war, and Styles would remain blissfully unaware. The playful comments quickly caught fans off guard online, with many reacting to the unexpected mention of Styles. One user online expressed pure surprise at the unlikely crossover between the two artists. Role Model has been generating buzz recently after confirming his relationship with Dakota Johnson. The actress made a surprise vocal appearance on his track “Love I You,” from his new album “Chuck Timely & The Hourglass.” That surprise feature effectively served as their public relationship reveal, drawing significant attention from fans and media alike. The pairing has since become one of the more talked-about celebrity romances of the summer. Meanwhile, Harry Styles has been making headlines of his own, linked to rumours of a budding romance with actress Zoe Kravitz. Neither he nor Kravitz has addressed the speculation directly so far. With both artists currently in the spotlight for their personal lives, Role Model’s lighthearted comments about Styles have added an unexpected but fun crossover moment for fans of both stars.

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    Iran says US military weaker as Hormuz crisis deep…

    TEHRAN: Iran has intensified its rhetoric against the United States as attacks on commercial shipping and stalled peace efforts deepen uncertainty over the future of the war, with Tehran warning that the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz will remain closed unless Washington accepts its conditions. Mohammad Reza Naqdi, an adviser to the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, said in an interview with PBS that the US military had proved “weaker than what we perceived” during the five-month conflict. Naqdi said Iran had gained valuable battlefield experience during the war and claimed Tehran would continue to emerge victorious. “The longer this war lasts, the more experience we gain,” he said, arguing that Iranian forces had learned how to confront the US military through direct experience. His comments came as maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz dropped sharply. Shipping data showed only eight vessels were tracked through the waterway on Tuesday, below a 10-day average of about 12 and the lowest daily figure since August 5. Before the conflict, the strait typically handled around 130 to 140 vessels a day. The slowdown has heightened fears over global energy supplies because Hormuz is a crucial route for oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. The International Maritime Organization has previously warned of serious risks to vessels and seafarers operating in the area. Shipping attacks raise fresh alarm Tensions also spread to other maritime chokepoints. Four crew members were reportedly killed in a suspected Houthi attack on a cargo vessel in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, while two Yemeni rescuers were also killed, according to reports cited in the source material. The US military separately said an MH-60 helicopter fired two Hellfire missiles at a Panama-flagged cargo ship after the vessel allegedly ignored warnings linked to a blockade of Iranian ports. Maritime sources said the incident occurred off Pakistan in the Gulf of Oman. The attacks have added to concerns that the conflict could disrupt shipping routes connecting the Gulf with the Red Sea and beyond. Iran sets conditions for reopening Hormuz Iranian security official Mohsen Rezaei said the Strait of Hormuz would not reopen unless Washington agreed to Tehran’s demands, including the release of frozen Iranian assets and an end to conflicts across the region. Iran’s parliament is also preparing legislation that would restrict military and commercial vessels from countries Tehran considers hostile from entering the Gulf without Iranian authorisation. The proposed law is intended to strengthen Iran’s control over the strategically important waterway. US President Donald Trump, meanwhile, has continued to combine threats with suggestions that negotiations could eventually produce a settlement. He has claimed the United States has control over the Strait and warned Iran against further escalation. Oil markets have already reacted to the uncertainty. Brent crude rose 1.4 per cent to $88.91 a barrel, while US crude gained 1.3pc to $83.20. Pakistan seeks diplomatic space Amid the worsening security situation, Pakistan has continued diplomatic engagement with Tehran. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited Iran and met President Masoud Pezeshkian, with both sides stressing the importance of strengthening bilateral political, economic, trade, cultural and security ties. Pezeshkian praised Pakistan’s commitment to closer relations and said Tehran was ready to expand cooperation with Islamabad. Naqvi said his visit was aimed at following up on understandings reached between the two countries and accelerating implementation of existing agreements. With military rhetoric rising, shipping routes under pressure and negotiations at an apparent impasse, the Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of a crisis whose consequences could extend far beyond the Middle East.

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    Sonu Nigam explains why he will not discuss NEET protests publicly

    Sonu Nigam has addressed his decision to stay silent on the NEET protests, after a video of his reaction went viral online. The clip had sparked mixed reactions among fans and critics alike. Back in July, a video circulated showing Nigam being asked about the ongoing student protests during a media interaction. He appeared visibly uncomfortable, responding briefly before stepping away from the question entirely. The moment triggered widespread discussion on social media, with some users questioning why he chose not to comment. Nigam has now clarified his reasoning in a new interview with Bombay Times. He explained that every discussion has its own appropriate time and setting. According to Nigam, he has followed one clear rule throughout his career, staying focused strictly on the purpose of whatever event he’s attending. He said that after three decades of working in Mumbai, he’s learned to always stick to the agenda of a given occasion. Nigam added that he avoids letting conversations drift toward unrelated topics during press interactions. At the time of the viral video, Nigam was attending an event honouring the late singer Pankaj Udhas. He felt discussing an unrelated political issue there would have been inappropriate given the occasion’s purpose. He said bringing up politics during a tribute dedicated to his mentor felt disrespectful to him personally. For Nigam, staying on-topic was not avoidance, but a matter of basic professional etiquette. Nigam also revealed a personal commitment he’s made regarding public commentary. He said he promised his father he would never comment on issues he doesn’t fully understand or have proper knowledge of. He clarified that this does not mean he avoids speaking up altogether. Nigam pointed to past instances where he’s taken clear public stances, including issues like loudspeaker regulations at religious sites and royalty rights for performing artists. He said he has taken plenty of stands throughout his career and has played a role in pushing for real systemic changes. Nigam maintained that silence on one particular issue doesn’t reflect indifference, but rather a conscious choice about when and where to speak. Reactions to his explanation have remained divided, with some praising his restraint and others still critical of his initial response.

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    Ronaldo finally marries Georgina after 10 years

    Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has married his longtime partner, model and businesswoman Georgina Rodríguez, bringing their nearly decade-long relationship to a new chapter. The couple confirmed the marriage on August 11, 2026, through a post on Ronaldo’s Instagram account. The image showed two hands wearing wedding rings, with one hand resting over the other. The announcement quickly attracted millions of likes and widespread reactions from fans around the world. According to Portuguese media reports, Ronaldo and Rodríguez exchanged vows in a private civil ceremony in Cascais, a coastal town near Lisbon. The couple reportedly kept the celebration away from the public eye and limited the gathering to close family members. Their five children were present at the ceremony. Ronaldo’s eldest son, Cristiano Jr., as well as twins Eva and Mateo, Alana Martina and Bella Esmeralda, were part of the family celebration. The wedding also carried special significance because it took place exactly one year after Rodríguez announced their engagement. On August 11, 2025, she shared a photograph of her engagement ring and confirmed that she had accepted Ronaldo’s proposal. Ronaldo and Rodríguez first met in Madrid in 2016, when Rodríguez was working at a Gucci store. Ronaldo was playing for Real Madrid at the time. Their relationship gradually became public, and they soon emerged as one of the most recognised celebrity couples in the sporting world. Over the years, Rodríguez has accompanied Ronaldo during major stages of his football career, including his moves from Spain to Italy, England and Saudi Arabia. At the same time, she developed her own career in modelling, fashion and entertainment. The couple’s relationship has also been closely followed through Rodríguez’s Netflix reality series, I Am Georgina, which has offered audiences a glimpse into their family life and international lifestyle. Their marriage announcement came shortly after false rumours circulated that the pair were preparing to marry in Madeira. On August 8, crowds of fans and photographers reportedly gathered near Funchal Cathedral after social media speculation suggested that Ronaldo and Rodríguez were holding their wedding there. The event turned out to be the wedding of another couple. Ronaldo, 41, remains one of football’s most decorated players. He has won the Ballon d’Or five times and has represented Sporting, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and Al-Nassr, while also captaining Portugal. The Portuguese star has scored close to 1,000 career goals and recently appeared at his sixth World Cup, further extending his record-setting international career.

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    Congo Ebola outbreak death toll crosses 2,000

    KINSHASA: The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has intensified dramatically, with the death toll reaching 2,061 as authorities reported 4,449 confirmed cases, highlighting the growing challenge facing health workers and communities. The latest figures, reported by Congolese authorities on Tuesday, show how quickly the outbreak has expanded since it was officially declared on May 15. The outbreak is being driven by the Bundibugyo virus, a species of Ebola for which there is currently no licensed vaccine or specific treatment. Health authorities have been relying heavily on early diagnosis, supportive care, surveillance and infection-control measures. The outbreak began in Ituri province, with cases subsequently reported in other parts of the country. The World Health Organisation has warned that insecurity, population movement and limited healthcare infrastructure are complicating efforts to contain transmission. The current epidemic is Congo’s 17th Ebola outbreak, according to health authorities. Its rapid growth has raised concerns among international health agencies, particularly as affected communities face humanitarian and security challenges. Medical teams are working under difficult conditions, wearing protective equipment while treating patients and tracing contacts. WHO has said that strengthening surveillance, contact tracing, clinical care and community engagement remains central to the response. Recent research has also suggested that the outbreak may involve a previously unrecorded variant of the Bundibugyo strain and could have resulted from a new animal-to-human transmission event, underscoring the importance of monitoring potential spillover from wildlife. With thousands of confirmed infections and deaths already recorded, authorities face an urgent race to slow transmission and prevent the outbreak from spreading further across the region.

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    Rosie O’Donnell names Mounjaro as part of why sh…

    Rosie O’Donnell is opening up about a major change in her health journey, revealing that Mounjaro has played a role in helping her feel healthier and more comfortable at 64. The comedian and former talk-show host discussed her experience during a recent appearance on Amy Poehler’s Good Hang with Amy Poehler podcast. O’Donnell said she has reached a point where she feels better than she ever has, while reflecting on how her health has changed in recent years. (Business Insider⁠) O’Donnell’s unexpected weight-loss experience O’Donnell explained that her doctor initially prescribed Mounjaro about three years ago to help manage her diabetes. According to the actress, weight loss was not the reason she was given the medication. She said her doctor was focused on improving her health numbers rather than changing her appearance. However, O’Donnell soon noticed a significant change in her appetite and weight. The weight loss happened quickly enough to surprise her. O’Donnell recalled losing 12 pounds within two weeks without intentionally changing her lifestyle. The sudden change initially concerned her, and she said she even worried that an underlying illness could be responsible. For O’Donnell, the experience was particularly unexpected because she had struggled with losing weight in the past, even when she was actively trying. Feeling healthier at 64 While discussing her current health with Poehler, O’Donnell said she has never felt better. She acknowledged that it took until age 64 to reach this point, adding that Mounjaro was one part of the change. Her comments highlight how her experience with the medication began as part of diabetes care rather than a cosmetic weight-loss plan. Mounjaro contains tirzepatide and was approved by the FDA for treating type 2 diabetes in 2022. The same active ingredient was later approved for chronic weight management under the brand name Zepbound. (Business Insider⁠) A personal health conversation O’Donnell is among several public figures who have spoken publicly about their experiences with GLP-1 medications. However, responses to these medications can vary, and they can cause side effects including gastrointestinal problems. For O’Donnell, the discussion was less about a dramatic transformation and more about how she feels today. Her conversation with Poehler offered a personal look at a health journey that began with diabetes treatment and unexpectedly affected her weight as well. At 64, O’Donnell says she feels more comfortable and healthier, describing this period of her life as one in which she has finally found a better sense of well-being.