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    PTI founder strong, reads the Quran and its transl…

    ByJustpaste.in

      ISLAMABAD: Aleema Khan, the sister of the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has said that her brother remains mentally and physically strong despite being in prison. Speaking to the media outside the Islamabad High Court on Thursday, she stated that the PTI founder continues to spend his time reading the Holy Quran along with its translation, describing this as a source of strength and resilience during his incarceration. Aleema Khan also raised concerns about her brother’s health, claiming that he has been experiencing vision problems for several months. According to her, the PTI founder informed his lawyer, Salman Safdar, back in December that he was having difficulty seeing and that there was an issue with one of his eyes. She suggested that despite bringing the matter to the attention of his legal counsel, adequate medical attention had not been provided. Speaking further about his conditions in custody, Aleema Khan alleged that the PTI founder’s access to reading material has been restricted. She claimed that prison authorities had confiscated his books, preventing him from continuing his regular reading routine. According to her, books have always been an important part of his daily life, and taking them away has made his time in prison more difficult. Despite these alleged restrictions, Aleema Khan insisted that the PTI founder has remained determined and steadfast. She said he continues to focus on reading the Quran and reflecting on its translation whenever possible, adding that his faith has helped him maintain a positive outlook while facing the challenges of imprisonment. Her remarks came as PTI leaders, supporters, and lawyers gathered outside the Islamabad High Court, where they continued to call for legal relief for the former prime minister. The media interaction attracted significant attention as party members expressed concern over the PTI founder’s health and prison conditions. Aleema Khan’s comments are the latest in a series of statements from the PTI leadership regarding the treatment of the party founder during his detention. Party officials have repeatedly voiced concerns about his medical care, access to books, and overall prison environment. They have urged the authorities to ensure that he receives appropriate healthcare and is granted facilities in accordance with prison regulations. The government and prison authorities have previously rejected or disputed several allegations made by PTI leaders regarding the former prime minister’s treatment in custody. However, the issue continues to remain a point of political debate, with PTI maintaining that its founder’s legal rights and well-being should be protected. As legal proceedings continue, Aleema Khan reiterated that her brother remains firm in his resolve. She concluded by saying that, despite the challenges he faces in prison, he remains spiritually strong through his regular recitation of the Holy Quran and reading of its translation.

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    AJK PML-N chief rejects PPP rigging allegations, c…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) President Shah Ghulam Qadir has strongly rejected the Pakistan Peoples Party’s (PPP) allegations of election rigging, describing the claims as “baseless” and insisting that the election results genuinely reflect the will of the people. Addressing party office-bearers and workers from across Azad Jammu and Kashmir, as well as representatives of Kashmiri refugees from Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) residing in Pakistan, Qadir congratulated supporters on what he described as a decisive electoral victory for the PML-N. He said the party was preparing to establish a stable government in AJK under the leadership of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. According to Qadir, the upcoming government will focus on accelerating development projects and improving public welfare across the region. Highlighting the party’s previous tenure, Qadir said that infrastructure and development initiatives undertaken by the PML-N in AJK demonstrate its commitment to serving the people. He added that the party remains determined to address public concerns and deliver essential services at the grassroots level. With the final phase of polling in Rawalakot Division scheduled for August 10, Qadir appealed to party workers to maintain peace, cooperate with election authorities, and help ensure a smooth electoral process. He expressed confidence that voters in Rawalakot would extend their support to the PML-N, predicting a strong electoral performance in the division. Responding to criticism from opposition parties, Qadir reiterated that the elections in Mirpur Division, Muzaffarabad Division, and the 12 refugee constituencies reserved for Kashmiris from IIOJK settled in Pakistan were conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner. He argued that the election results clearly demonstrated public confidence in the PML-N. Qadir also criticised the PPP, suggesting that the party should focus on addressing governance challenges in Sindh rather than questioning the electoral process in AJK. The meeting was attended by several senior PML-N leaders, including AJK Legislative Assembly member Raja Muhammad Riasat Khan, former minister Sardar Farooq Sikandar, Kashmir Council member Malik Muhammad Hanif, and other party officials, who congratulated Qadir on the party’s performance in the recently concluded phases of the AJK elections.

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    US sees strong potential for agricultural technolo…

    ByJustpaste.in

    The United States has underscored the potential for expanding agricultural technology cooperation with Pakistan, saying that greater adoption of American innovation could modernise the country’s farming sector while creating new opportunities for bilateral trade and investment. The remarks were made by US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker during a Direct Line webinar organised by the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU) in collaboration with the US Embassy in Islamabad, the US Department of Commerce, and the Government of Pakistan. The virtual event brought together American companies, Pakistani government officials, investors, and representatives from the agriculture industry to discuss future collaboration. Speaking at the webinar, Baker described agriculture as one of Pakistan’s most important economic sectors, contributing nearly one-quarter of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and supporting millions of livelihoods. She said Pakistan’s efforts to modernise agriculture present significant opportunities for American businesses to introduce advanced technologies and expertise. According to Baker, US companies can contribute in key areas such as precision agriculture, advanced irrigation systems, digital farm management, cold chain logistics, and modern food processing technologies. She noted that these innovations could help improve agricultural productivity, reduce resource wastage, and strengthen food security while creating commercial opportunities for both countries. The US diplomat also highlighted the growing trade relationship between the two countries, revealing that US exports to Pakistan exceeded $1.5 billion in agricultural and related goods during 2025. She described the webinar as part of the US Mission’s broader strategy to promote stronger economic cooperation and expand commercial ties with Pakistan. During the discussions, Pakistani officials outlined regulatory reforms and policy initiatives designed to facilitate greater imports of American agricultural products, including soybeans, cotton, and high-quality planting seeds. They also encouraged increased US investment in farm mechanisation, biotechnology, seed development, controlled-atmosphere storage, and food processing industries. Baker stressed that American investment offers benefits beyond financial capital by promoting technology transfer, workforce training, and long-term business partnerships. She said such collaboration can strengthen local expertise and contribute to sustainable economic growth in Pakistan’s agriculture sector. The webinar also served as a preview of the US Department of Commerce’s Certified Agricultural Technologies Trade Mission to Pakistan, scheduled for October 26–30. Baker invited American companies to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan’s agricultural technology and food processing sectors, reaffirming that supporting US businesses seeking to invest in Pakistan remains a key priority for the embassy.

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    Uganda backs sending troops to planned Gaza peace …

    ByJustpaste.in

    Uganda’s Parliament has approved a government proposal to deploy troops to a planned international peace and stabilisation force for Gaza, marking the country’s first commitment to the proposed multinational mission. The resolution was introduced by Uganda’s Minister of Defence and received parliamentary approval following debate among lawmakers. With the decision, Uganda joins Morocco, which has also announced its willingness to contribute troops to the proposed force. The Ugandan government has not publicly disclosed the diplomatic discussions or political considerations behind its decision. However, the move sparked debate in Parliament, with opposition members expressing concerns about the potential implications for Uganda’s foreign policy and regional relationships. Opposition lawmaker Hassan Kiromera questioned the mission’s objectives, asking which parties Ugandan troops would ultimately be expected to confront if deployed. He argued that the government should provide greater clarity regarding the mandate of the proposed force before committing military personnel. Defence Minister Jacob Oboth-Oboth defended the proposal, stating that the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) possess extensive experience in international peacekeeping operations, including missions in Somalia and other conflict zones. He said that this experience would enable Ugandan troops to contribute effectively to efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in Gaza. According to the report, the proposed Gaza International Stabilisation Force is expected to consist of approximately 20,000 personnel from multiple countries. The force is reportedly planned under a proposal associated with US President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace and would be commanded by US Major General Jasper Jeffers. The mission is intended to help maintain law and order in Gaza following the end of hostilities between Israel and Hamas. Reports indicate that the proposal was first introduced earlier this year as part of broader discussions on post-conflict governance and security arrangements in the territory. The development follows recent announcements regarding a reported agreement under which Hamas would disarm and Israel would gradually withdraw its military forces from Gaza. Under the reported framework, the international stabilisation force would be deployed after the phased Israeli withdrawal. However, uncertainty remains over the implementation of the proposed arrangement. Israeli officials have reportedly expressed serious security concerns after reviewing the reported agreement, arguing that certain provisions could pose risks to national security. As a result, questions remain about the timeline and conditions for the deployment of the multinational peace force despite Uganda’s parliamentary approval.

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    Video of Sunil Dutt’s ancestral home in Pakistan…

    ByJustpaste.in

    A video showcasing the ancestral home of legendary Bollywood actor Sunil Dutt in Pakistan’s Jhelum district has gone viral on social media, attracting widespread attention from audiences in both Pakistan and India. The video was shared by Pakistani social media influencer Sameel Atif, who visited the historic house located in the village of Khord in Jhelum. According to the video, the property is the childhood home of Sunil Dutt, who was born as Balraj Dutt before the partition of British India in 1947. Following the video’s circulation, many social media users tagged Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt, Sunil Dutt’s son, encouraging him to visit the family’s ancestral home and reconnect with his roots. The video has generated thousands of comments highlighting the shared cultural and historical ties between the two neighbouring countries. Reports state that Sunil Dutt spent his early years in the village before his family migrated to India during Partition. He later became one of Bollywood’s most respected actors and went on to serve as a member of the Indian Parliament. The story is further connected to Sanjay Dutt’s mother, legendary actress Nargis Dutt, whose family roots trace back to Rawalpindi. As a result, both of Sanjay Dutt’s parents had ancestral links to regions that are now part of Pakistan. In his social media post, Sameel Atif claimed that Sunil Dutt visited his ancestral village years after Partition. According to the post, the veteran actor requested the current owners of the house to preserve its original structure so that future generations could remember their shared history and heritage. This account has been widely shared online, though it reflects the information presented in the post. The viral video also includes a past interview in which Sanjay Dutt recalled his father’s emotional attachment to his birthplace. He said that whenever Sunil Dutt felt nostalgic, he would express a desire to return to what he considered his real home in Jhelum rather than Mumbai. Sanjay Dutt has also reportedly expressed a wish to visit Pakistan one day to see his father’s ancestral village and experience the place that held such deep emotional significance for him. The video has resonated with viewers on both sides of the border, many describing it as a reminder of shared history, cultural heritage, and enduring human connections beyond political boundaries. https://www.instagram.com/sameelatiff/reel/Dbs49YvKl5w/

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    Pakistan rejects Imran Khan’s sons’ allegation…

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Government of Pakistan has categorically rejected allegations by the sons of former Prime Minister Imran Khan that he has been kept under a seven-month communications blackout and denied access to his family, lawyers and doctors, terming the claims “unsubstantiated” and contrary to official prison records. In a detailed response, the government said documented records showed that Imran Khan had continued to receive visitors, legal access and medical care during his imprisonment, rejecting what it described as an attempt to create an international controversy without evidence. According to the government, since the beginning of his conviction, prison records show 198 meetings involving more than 900 visitors, including family members, legal representatives and political associates. It said Khan was also allowed a weekly meeting with his wife, with the latest meeting taking place on 4 August 2026, the same day his sons made allegations of a communications blackout during an appearance on CNN. The government said prison authorities maintain records of approved visits and communications, including WhatsApp and landline calls with family members in Pakistan and abroad. It added that Khan’s last call with his son was recorded on 21 March 2026. The statement said any temporary restrictions were imposed under Pakistan Prison Rules, court orders and security requirements applicable to high-profile prisoners, particularly due to political activities outside the prison. “There is no prohibition on access; it is regulated under the law,” the government said, adding that prison meetings cannot be used as unrestricted political communication channels. Rejecting claims regarding medical treatment, the government said Imran Khan had received regular medical examinations by specialist teams and medical boards from institutions including the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), Shifa International Hospital, Shaukat Khanum Memorial Hospital and Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital. The government said Khan underwent treatment for a retinal condition, including five intravitreal anti-VEGF injections, specialist examinations and retinal imaging. It added that his latest specialist assessment was carried out in July 2026, with further medication and follow-up care prescribed. According to the official statement, medical records describe Khan as “oriented and stable”, with no reported acute or unmanaged deterioration. The government said disclosure of medical reports remained subject to legal procedures, patient confidentiality and ongoing proceedings before the Supreme Court of Pakistan. Addressing the issue of Khan’s sons’ travel to Pakistan, the government said the matter involved separate processes relating to NICOP and visa requirements. It stated that overseas Pakistanis holding a valid NICOP are eligible for visa-free entry and rejected what it called an attempt to present an administrative matter as political victimisation. The statement also detailed the facilities provided to Imran Khan in prison, saying he was being kept in a separate compound with accommodation and amenities exceeding minimum requirements for prisoners in the same category. The government maintained that Imran Khan was being treated according to constitutional guarantees, prison laws and court directives, while insisting that no individual was entitled to a separate legal framework or exemption from security regulations.

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    Karachi watchman shot dead during suspected robber…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Two people were killed in separate shooting incidents reported within an hour in different areas of Karachi on Thursday, prompting police to launch investigations into both cases. The first incident occurred in the Boat Basin police jurisdiction near Bath Island in Clifton, where a watchman was fatally shot outside a residential bungalow. Rescue officials shifted the victim’s body to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre for legal formalities. According to Chhipa rescue officials, the deceased was identified as 40-year-old Mewa, who sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the chest. Initial information suggested that armed suspects opened fire after encountering resistance during an attempted robbery. However, Boat Basin Station House Officer (SHO) Riaz Niazi said the exact motive behind the killing had not yet been established. He confirmed that the victim originally belonged to the Thar region and was employed as a watchman at the bungalow where the incident occurred. The SHO said police were investigating all possible angles, including personal enmity and robbery, before reaching a final conclusion. Authorities are also attempting to obtain CCTV footage from the surrounding area to identify the suspects and reconstruct the sequence of events. In a separate incident, another man was shot dead near Link Road on the National Highway in the Bin Qasim area. The victim was also taken to Jinnah Hospital for medico-legal procedures. Bin Qasim SHO Faisal Rafiq identified the deceased as 40-year-old Bashir, a truck driver originally from Dera Ismail Khan. According to preliminary findings, Bashir was present at a truck terminal when unidentified assailants, who were allegedly lying in wait, opened fire on him. Police said the victim suffered three bullet wounds, including one to the chest. Investigators recovered three spent 30-bore pistol casings from the crime scene, which have been collected as forensic evidence. Officials believe the second shooting may have been motivated by personal enmity, although they emphasised that the investigation remains ongoing and no suspects have been arrested so far. The two fatal incidents highlight the continuing security challenges in Karachi, where police regularly investigate cases involving violent crime, targeted attacks, and robbery-related shootings. Authorities have appealed to the public to cooperate with investigators and provide any information that may assist in identifying those responsible.

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    Pakistan to launch advanced IT courses to boost di…

    ByJustpaste.in

    The federal government has announced a nationwide initiative to introduce advanced information technology (IT) courses as part of its broader strategy to strengthen Pakistan’s digital economy and equip young people with globally competitive digital skills. The decision was announced during a meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja, attended by the heads of IT training institutions from across the country. Participants agreed on a national roadmap aimed at accelerating the development of a skilled IT workforce and expanding access to high-quality digital training. During the meeting, the minister directed all provinces to immediately begin offering advanced IT courses and internationally recognised training programmes. The initiative is intended to prepare Pakistan’s youth for opportunities in the global technology sector, freelancing, and the rapidly growing digital economy. Shaza Fatima said developing a workforce with modern digital skills remains one of the government’s top priorities. She emphasised that training programmes should align with international industry standards and market requirements, enabling young Pakistanis to compete effectively in global employment markets. The government believes that expanding access to advanced IT education will not only increase employment opportunities but also help boost Pakistan’s exports of digital services and strengthen the country’s position in the global technology industry. The meeting also focused on improving coordination among IT training institutions to ensure consistent delivery of quality education and practical skills. Officials discussed measures to enhance the effectiveness of training programmes and ensure they meet the evolving demands of employers and technology companies. To monitor progress, the federal minister instructed all IT training institutions to submit weekly performance reports to the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication. The reports will help the ministry assess implementation, track outcomes, and identify areas requiring additional support. Pakistan has been placing greater emphasis on digital transformation in recent years, with increasing attention on technology education, entrepreneurship, freelancing, and software exports. Government officials view investment in digital skills as a key component of long-term economic growth and employment generation. The planned rollout of advanced IT courses is expected to provide students and professionals with access to updated technical knowledge and practical training in emerging technologies. By expanding the country’s pool of skilled IT professionals, the government aims to support innovation, attract investment, and accelerate the growth of Pakistan’s digital economy while creating new opportunities for young people in domestic and international markets.

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    Police register kidnapping case after six-year-old…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Rawalpindi police have registered a kidnapping case after an extensive day-long search failed to locate a six-year-old girl who disappeared near Committee Chowk, prompting authorities to launch a formal criminal investigation while continuing search efforts. The missing child, identified as Hareem Umair, vanished near Landa Bazaar on Thursday morning after her family, who had travelled from Lahore to visit relatives in Rawalpindi, prepared to return home. According to police, her father, Umair Ali, realised she was missing while helping his children into the family vehicle following heavy overnight rainfall. The disappearance triggered a large-scale rescue operation led by Rescue 1122 amid concerns that the child may have been swept away by fast-flowing rainwater in the area’s drainage system. Heavy rainfall had caused stormwater drains and Nullah Leh to overflow, complicating search efforts. Rescue teams divided the search area into four sectors, covering more than four kilometres from the site of the disappearance through Bohar Bazaar Chowk, Colonel Maqbool Chowk, Liaquat Road, Gawalmandi, and extending to Moti Mahal Bridge. Officials searched both open and covered sections of the drainage network. According to Rescue 1122, two specialised water rescue teams, consisting of 12 rescuers and five emergency vehicles, participated in the operation. The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) also assisted in the search. Despite the extensive effort, no trace of the child was found before the operation was temporarily suspended after sunset due to poor visibility. Officials said the search would resume the following morning. Speaking to the media, Hareem’s father said he immediately searched nearby streets and questioned security personnel and relatives after discovering that his daughter was missing. He told police that the street was submerged under approximately one foot of rainwater at the time of the incident, leaving uncertainty over whether the child had been swept away or abducted. Following the unsuccessful search, relatives and local residents staged a protest at Bohar Bazaar Chowk, demanding intensified efforts to recover the missing girl. The demonstration continued for more than an hour before police assured protesters that every available resource would be used to continue both the investigation and the search operation. Waris Khan Police subsequently registered a First Information Report (FIR) under Section 363 of the Pakistan Penal Code, which relates to kidnapping. Authorities say both rescue operations and the criminal investigation remain ongoing as efforts continue to locate the missing child.

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    Government cuts petrol price by Rs3.19, diesel by …

    ByJustpaste.in

    The federal government has announced a reduction in petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD) prices for August 7, providing limited relief to consumers amid continued fluctuations in international oil markets. According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Petroleum, petrol prices have been reduced by Rs3.19 per litre, bringing the new price to Rs329.82 per litre. Meanwhile, the price of high-speed diesel has been lowered by Rs1.50 per litre and will now be available at Rs382.36 per litre. The latest adjustment comes just one day after the government increased petrol prices by Rs4.45 per litre while reducing HSD prices by Rs2 per litre for August 6. The frequent revisions reflect the country’s newly introduced fuel pricing mechanism, which allows daily adjustments based on international market movements. The government introduced the daily fuel price review system on July 17 in response to volatility in global oil prices following renewed tensions in the Middle East. Under the new mechanism, domestic fuel prices are calculated using a seven-day average of international petroleum rates in line with global pricing practices. Pakistan remains highly dependent on imported petroleum products, making domestic fuel prices vulnerable to changes in international crude oil markets. According to the Pakistan Economic Survey 2024-25, petroleum products represent one of the country’s largest import categories. Any rise in global oil prices increases Pakistan’s import bill, puts pressure on foreign exchange reserves, and contributes to inflation. In previous years, fuel prices were managed through government subsidies and administrative controls. While such measures provided short-term relief for consumers, they also increased financial pressure on the national budget, oil marketing companies, and refineries. Higher subsidies contributed to fiscal challenges and increased public borrowing. Global factors continue to influence oil prices, including decisions by oil-producing nations, conflicts in energy-producing regions, sanctions, and disruptions in major shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. International crude prices recently moved higher after reports that an Iranian parliamentary committee was considering measures affecting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude futures increased by more than $3 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures also recorded gains. Market analysts said traders remain focused on geopolitical developments and negotiations involving major oil-producing countries. Since a significant portion of global energy supplies previously moved through the Strait of Hormuz, any disruption in the route could immediately affect crude prices and fuel costs worldwide. The latest reduction in Pakistan’s fuel prices is expected to offer temporary relief to motorists and businesses, although future adjustments will continue to depend on international oil market trends.