تازہ ترین

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    Centre, Sindh join hands to tackle marine pollutio…

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: The federal government and the Sindh administration have agreed to launch a coordinated campaign to combat marine pollution, safeguard coastal ecosystems, and promote the sustainable growth of Pakistan’s blue economy. The decision was reached during a meeting between Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry and Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori’s successor, Governor Nehal Hashmi, where both sides reviewed the growing environmental challenges facing the country’s coastline and discussed their impact on marine biodiversity, fisheries, coastal communities, and critical infrastructure. Speaking on the occasion, the maritime affairs minister said marine pollution had evolved into a major environmental, economic, and public health challenge. He noted that pollution was not only damaging coastal ecosystems but was also threatening livelihoods and economic activities dependent on marine resources. The minister said the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, through its Marine Pollution Control Board, was already implementing measures to address the issue and proposed a joint meeting with the Sindh government and relevant provincial departments to develop a comprehensive response. He identified the discharge of untreated sewage into the sea as one of the most serious threats to Pakistan’s marine environment, warning that the continuous release of wastewater was harming mangrove forests, fish habitats, coral ecosystems, and other sensitive coastal resources. Emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation, he said protecting marine ecosystems was essential for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the country’s blue economy. Governor Nehal Hashmi described marine pollution as a growing public health concern, particularly for residents of Karachi’s coastal communities, who face increasing health risks due to contaminated seawater. He stressed the need for stronger coordination among federal, provincial, and local authorities to improve wastewater management and prevent untreated sewage from reaching the sea. The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to strengthen institutional coordination and jointly formulate long-term strategies aimed at reducing marine pollution, preserving coastal ecosystems, and supporting sustainable economic development through a healthier marine environment.

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    Scarlett Johansson reflects on how Hollywood red c…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Scarlett Johansson is opening up about the evolution of Hollywood’s red carpet culture, revealing how the expectations placed on actors have shifted dramatically since she began her career. The Oscar-nominated actress says today’s approach to fashion and public appearances is far more polished and strategic than it was when she first entered the entertainment industry. Speaking in a recent interview, Johansson reflected on the early years of her career, recalling a time when red carpet events felt more relaxed and less focused on creating viral fashion moments. According to the actress, celebrities once had greater freedom to express themselves without the intense scrutiny that now comes with every public appearance. (People⁠) Johansson explained that, in the past, actors often selected outfits based on personal preference rather than carefully planned branding strategies. Today, however, red carpet appearances have become an important part of celebrity image-building, with stylists, fashion houses, and social media all playing significant roles in shaping a star’s public identity. The Black Widow star acknowledged that fashion remains an exciting part of the entertainment industry, but she believes the pressure surrounding high-profile events has increased considerably. Every outfit is now analyzed instantly across social media platforms, where fans and fashion critics closely examine every detail. Looking back, Johansson said she appreciates the more spontaneous atmosphere that existed when she was starting out. She noted that celebrities were able to experiment with different styles without worrying that every fashion choice would become the subject of widespread online discussion. The actress also reflected on how digital media has transformed celebrity culture. Before the rise of social media, red carpet moments were largely limited to television broadcasts and magazine coverage. Today, images circulate around the world within seconds, making fashion an even bigger part of an actor’s public presence. (Vanity Fair⁠ and People⁠) Despite the changes, Johansson said she still enjoys attending premieres and industry events. She praised the creativity of designers and stylists while emphasizing that confidence and authenticity remain more important than following every trend. For her, the best fashion moments are those that genuinely reflect a person’s personality rather than simply chasing headlines. Johansson’s comments have resonated with many fans, who praised her honest perspective on the realities of modern Hollywood. Some agreed that celebrity fashion has become increasingly commercialized, while others argued that social media has also given stars more opportunities to connect directly with audiences and showcase their individual style. As one of Hollywood’s most recognizable actresses, Johansson has attended countless premieres, award shows, and international film festivals throughout her career. Her reflections offer a rare behind-the-scenes look at how celebrity culture has evolved over the past two decades. While glamorous red carpets continue to be a defining part of the entertainment industry, Scarlett Johansson believes the experience has fundamentally changed. Her candid remarks highlight the growing influence of fashion, branding, and social media, while reminding audiences that authenticity remains timeless in an industry constantly adapting to new expectations.

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    The Shards star Homer Garrett reveals the first pe…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Homer Garrett is preparing to make his acting debut in one of television’s most highly anticipated thriller series, The Shards, and the rising star says there was one person he immediately wanted to share the life-changing news with. Speaking about his first major acting role, Garrett revealed that the very first phone call he made after learning he had been cast was to his father, Richard Garrett. The young actor described his father as a constant source of encouragement and professional support throughout his journey into the entertainment industry. His heartfelt revelation offers a glimpse into the close bond the two share as Homer steps into the spotlight. The Shards, created by acclaimed television producer Ryan Murphy, is based on Bret Easton Ellis’ bestselling 2023 novel of the same name. The psychological thriller has generated significant buzz thanks to its dark storyline, star-studded creative team, and Murphy’s reputation for producing hit series. Garrett takes on the role of Robert Mallory, marking the first leading role of his acting career. (People⁠) Reflecting on the emotional moment he received the news, Garrett said his father was the first person he wanted to tell because he had always believed in him. He explained that Richard Garrett had supported his ambitions from the beginning, encouraging him to pursue acting while offering guidance whenever challenges arose. The actor admitted landing such a significant role still feels surreal. Taking the lead in a major television adaptation is a dream opportunity for any newcomer, and Garrett said he is grateful to begin his career with a project led by Ryan Murphy, one of Hollywood’s most successful television creators. The upcoming series follows a gripping mystery set within an elite Los Angeles high school during the 1980s. As unsettling events unfold, Robert Mallory becomes entangled in a story filled with suspense, secrets, and psychological twists. Fans of Bret Easton Ellis’ novel have eagerly awaited the adaptation, with expectations running high for Murphy’s interpretation of the acclaimed book. Garrett praised the cast and crew for helping him feel comfortable throughout production despite it being his first professional acting experience. He said working alongside experienced performers allowed him to grow both personally and professionally while gaining confidence in front of the camera. His comments about his father have also resonated with fans, highlighting the importance of family support during career milestones. While Hollywood success often focuses on glamorous premieres and major roles, Garrett’s story serves as a reminder that personal encouragement behind the scenes can be just as meaningful. As anticipation builds for The Shards, Garrett is emerging as one of Hollywood’s promising new talents. With Ryan Murphy leading the adaptation and Bret Easton Ellis’ celebrated novel providing the foundation, expectations for the series continue to grow. For Garrett, however, one memory stands above the rest. Before the excitement of filming began, before the headlines and interviews, he simply picked up the phone to thank the person who had believed in him from the very beginning—his father.

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    NCCIA Punjab arrests 4 in cybercrime crackdown

    ByJustpaste.in

    LAHORE: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) Punjab has arrested four suspects during coordinated enforcement operations conducted in Lahore and Multan as part of its ongoing campaign against serious cybercrime. The cases involve the alleged trafficking of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), online harassment of a minor, cyber blackmail, and the unlawful sharing of intimate digital content. In the most significant operation, NCCIA investigators in Lahore arrested a suspect accused of possessing and distributing Child Sexual Abuse Material, including illegal content depicting the sexual abuse of children and animals. According to investigators, the material was allegedly circulated through online platforms for commercial purposes. Mobile devices and other electronic evidence were seized during the operation and have been sent for forensic examination. Investigators are working to identify additional victims, trace the origin of the material, and determine whether other individuals were involved. Child Sexual Abuse Material is regarded worldwide as one of the most serious forms of online criminal exploitation. The production, possession, distribution, or sale of such material is treated as a major criminal offence by law enforcement agencies across the globe. In a separate operation in Lahore, NCCIA officers arrested another suspect accused of using social media to harass and intimidate a minor. Investigators collected digital evidence that will form part of the continuing criminal investigation. In Multan, two additional suspects were taken into custody in separate investigations involving the alleged blackmail of female victims through private photographs and videos. Investigators allege that the suspects used WhatsApp and other online platforms to issue threats and unlawfully share sensitive digital content. Electronic devices and other evidentiary material were recovered during the operations, and forensic analysis is continuing. Director NCCIA Punjab Muhammad Ali Wasim said the agency will continue to pursue individuals involved in child exploitation, cyber extortion, online harassment, and related offences. He said crimes involving Child Sexual Abuse Material demand an immediate and uncompromising law enforcement response because of the serious harm they inflict on children. He also encouraged parents and members of the public to remain alert, supervise children’s online activity, and promptly report suspected cybercrime so that timely legal action can be taken.

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    Sabahat Bukhari opens up about healthy flirting on drama sets

    ByJustpaste.in

    Veteran Pakistani television actress Sabahat Bukhari has shared her thoughts on friendly interactions between co-stars, saying that healthy flirting can help create positive energy and improve chemistry between actors on set. Sabahat Bukhari is a familiar face in Pakistan’s television industry and has been associated with showbiz for many years. She began her professional journey as an announcer at PTV Lahore Centre before moving towards acting. Over the years, she established herself as a versatile performer by appearing in numerous television productions and playing a variety of memorable roles. Some of her notable television projects include Kankar, Rehmat, Intekhab, Humnawa, Bas Aik Tum Hi, Sambhal Ja Ae Dil and Inteha. She is also set to appear in another upcoming television drama. Alongside her acting career, Sabahat remains active on social media, where she frequently entertains her followers with humorous videos, reels and glimpses from her professional life. During a recent podcast appearance, Sabahat spoke candidly about her experiences while working in the entertainment industry. The conversation turned towards whether she had ever received romantic attention or been approached by colleagues during her career. Responding to the question, the actress explained that several colleagues had complimented her or expressed admiration for her over the years. Instead of viewing such attention negatively, she said she considers respectful praise a compliment. Sabahat went on to discuss what she described as “healthy flirting,” explaining that lighthearted and respectful interactions between colleagues can sometimes create a comfortable working environment. According to her, maintaining friendly energy on a drama set can help actors connect with one another and make working together more enjoyable. She believes that when co-stars are comfortable and friendly with each other, their connection can also contribute to stronger chemistry in front of the camera. Such interactions, she stressed, should remain respectful and positive. The actress also revealed that one of the most meaningful compliments she has received throughout her career is being told that she carries positive energy. She appeared pleased that people around her recognize her optimistic and energetic personality. However, Sabahat clarified that she does not consider herself a flirtatious person. She explained that whenever she finds someone attractive, pleasant or positive, she does not hesitate to appreciate them sincerely. For her, complimenting another person is simply a way of acknowledging their positive qualities rather than necessarily expressing romantic interest. Sabahat’s comments offer an interesting perspective on relationships and friendships behind the scenes of television productions. Her remarks suggest that respectful appreciation, friendliness and positive communication between colleagues can contribute to a healthier atmosphere while also helping performers develop a natural connection required for their role.

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    Pakistan backs Iran-US dialogue, Hormuz progress k…

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has expressed hope that progress on the Strait of Hormuz issue will create momentum for renewed dialogue between Iran and the United States, reaffirming its commitment to supporting diplomatic efforts aimed at easing tensions in the region. Speaking at the weekly media briefing on Thursday, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said Pakistan expects the implementation of the Islamabad Reconciliation Framework to advance through consensus on the Strait of Hormuz, paving the way for technical-level talks between Tehran and Washington. He said Pakistan supports the resumption of negotiations between Iran and the United States and will continue to play a constructive diplomatic role alongside regional partners. According to the spokesperson, Pakistan, Qatar, Oman, and other friendly countries remain engaged in coordinated efforts to promote peace and stability, with Oman playing a particularly positive role in efforts related to the Strait of Hormuz. Andrabi also confirmed that Iran’s foreign minister has been invited to visit Pakistan, while noting that the National Assembly Secretariat would clarify whether an invitation has also been extended to the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament. On the situation in Gaza, the spokesperson said lasting peace requires not only the disarmament of Hamas but also Israel’s withdrawal from the occupied territories. He stressed that Israel must fulfill its international obligations and end its military presence in Gaza. Responding to questions about the possible deployment of an international peacekeeping force in Gaza, Andrabi said it was too early to discuss such a proposal. He added that Pakistan would examine any formal plan if it is presented through appropriate international channels. Commenting on political developments in Bangladesh, the spokesperson reiterated that Pakistan does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries and declined to comment on statements made by Bangladesh’s former prime minister. He also strongly condemned recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, describing them as violations of international law and threats to maritime security. Andrabi reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to supporting the safety of global trade routes and said defense cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia would continue.

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    Another Reko Diq-Sized mining project in Pakistan,…

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: The United States has expressed strong confidence in Pakistan’s mineral sector, with a senior US Embassy official revealing that the Trump administration is prepared to support another mega mining project on the scale of  to invest in Pakistan despite security concerns, viewing the country’s vast mineral wealth as strategically important for future global industries. During a background briefing with journalists on Wednesday, the embassy official said Washington considers Pakistan a key partner in the global race for critical minerals that are essential for advanced technologies, clean energy, artificial intelligence, semiconductors and defence manufacturing. According to the official, the US government is encouraging American investors to explore Pakistan’s untapped mineral resources, ranging from large-scale copper and gold projects to smaller mining ventures worth only a few million dollars. US Prepared to Finance Another Mega Project The official said the US administration is ready to support another project comparable to the multibillion-dollar Reko Diq development if geological surveys and feasibility studies demonstrate strong commercial potential. He added that financing support could be extended through US institutions such as the Export-Import (Exim) Bank and the Development Finance Corporation, both of which are playing a growing role in securing global supply chains for critical minerals. The official noted that American companies are not only interested in major mining investments but are also examining opportunities to acquire, develop and expand smaller mining operations across Pakistan. Reko Diq Progress Continues Despite Delays Discussing the Reko Diq copper and gold project, the official acknowledged that work is progressing, although at a slower pace than initially anticipated. He explained that project costs are currently being reassessed, after which developers will return to financiers to finalize the remaining funding package. The first phase of the Reko Diq project is estimated to cost around $7.7 billion, while the US Exim Bank has already offered $1.25 billion in financing. However, the overall financial structure remains under discussion. The project has experienced delays due to rising construction costs and security concerns in Balochistan, prompting project stakeholders to revise cost estimates more than once. Earlier this year, Barrick Gold, which owns a 50 percent stake in the project, also reviewed development timelines because of increasing costs and security-related challenges. Major Economic Benefits Expected The embassy official said Reko Diq has the potential to transform Pakistan’s economy once it becomes fully operational. According to the estimates shared during the briefing, the project could generate nearly $2 billion in annual free cash flow. Of this amount, around $500 million would go directly to the Government of Balochistan, while another $500 million would benefit Pakistan’s state-owned enterprises. The official further stated that Pakistan’s mining sector currently contributes roughly 3 percent to the country’s economy, while Reko Diq alone could increase national GDP by approximately 0.5 percentage points, highlighting its significance for long-term economic growth. Critical Minerals Becoming Strategic Priority The US official emphasized that critical minerals have become a top strategic priority for Washington as demand continues to rise across technology, renewable energy and defence sectors. Pakistan possesses commercially attractive reserves of copper, antimony, tungsten and several other minerals considered essential for future industries. He said American companies believe Pakistan has enormous untapped potential, particularly as global demand for copper is expected to rise sharply over the coming decades. The official added that US firms are actively seeking long-term supply agreements for minerals extracted from Pakistani mines, while some investors are interested in purchasing and developing smaller mining assets. Investment Opportunities Across Pakistan Besides Balochistan, American investors are also exploring mineral opportunities in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, particularly for copper deposits, while rare earth mineral prospects in Gilgit-Baltistan have also attracted attention. The official said the United States is searching globally for around 60 critical minerals needed for emerging technologies, many of which are found in Pakistan. He noted that several companies have already begun exploration and extraction activities in different regions of the country. Security Remains the Biggest Challenge Despite strong investment interest, the official acknowledged that security remains one of the most significant obstacles facing mining projects in Pakistan. He said US companies fully understand the risks associated with operating in regions such as Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa but remain willing to invest if appropriate security arrangements are provided. The official stressed that the Pakistani government should continue strengthening security measures and facilitating investors to ensure long-term success of mining projects. He added that American companies are encouraged to partner with local firms, which possess valuable experience in navigating operational and security challenges in remote mining areas. US Calls for Transparent Investment Environment The embassy official also urged Pakistan to maintain a transparent, predictable and competitive investment climate to attract greater foreign investment into the mineral sector. He noted that Pakistan’s participation in the US Critical Minerals Initiative earlier this year reflects growing cooperation between the two countries in securing future mineral supply chains. According to the official, if exploration and investment continue at the current pace, Pakistan’s mining industry could emerge as one of the country’s strongest economic sectors over the next 10 to 20 years, creating employment, increasing exports and significantly boosting national revenues.

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    Pakistan’s trade deficit surges 25% to nearly $4 billion in July 

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s trade deficit expanded sharply during the first month of the new fiscal year, reaching nearly $4 billion in July, as a strong rise in imports continued to outpace export growth, highlighting persistent weaknesses in the country’s external sector despite a series of incentives announced for exporters. According to the latest figures released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the country’s trade deficit widened to $3.95 billion in July 2026, compared to $3.16 billion recorded during the same month last year. The deficit increased by approximately $794 million, representing an annual rise of 25.2%. The widening gap was primarily driven by a substantial increase in imports, which climbed to $6.9 billion from $5.8 billion in July 2025. This reflects an increase of more than $1 billion, or 18% year-on-year, indicating stronger demand for imported goods and raw materials. Exports Show Growth but Remain Below Key Milestone While Pakistan’s exports registered positive growth, they once again failed to cross the important $3 billion monthly mark. Exports reached $2.94 billion, falling short of the milestone by around $61 million. On an annual basis, exports increased by 9.5%, adding nearly $256 million compared to July last year. Although the improvement reflects steady recovery in overseas shipments, analysts believe the pace remains insufficient to counter the rapid expansion in imports. Exports had crossed the $3 billion threshold in January 2026, touching approximately $3.05 billion, but the country has been unable to maintain that level in the months that followed. Tariff Reforms Under Scrutiny The latest trade figures have renewed debate over Pakistan’s tariff liberalisation policy, introduced under broader economic reforms supported by international financial institutions, including the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The government has gradually lowered tariff barriers to increase competition and integrate Pakistan more closely into global markets. However, economists argue that the economy was opened before domestic industries were provided with sufficient support to compete effectively. Business leaders have repeatedly pointed out that exporters continue to face high energy prices, elevated financing costs, tax-related uncertainties and exchange rate volatility, all of which reduce their competitiveness in international markets. Earlier projections by the World Bank had suggested that tariff reforms would increase exports by 14% while limiting import growth to around 7%. However, the latest figures suggest imports have grown much faster than anticipated, while export gains have remained comparatively modest. Government Rolls Out Fresh Export Incentives To strengthen export performance, the federal government has announced a series of financial support measures during the current fiscal year. In the federal budget, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reduced the minimum and advance tax on exporters to 1.25% and abolished the 10% super tax on export earnings in an effort to improve liquidity and encourage investment in export-oriented industries. More recently, the government approved a Rs98 billion export support package aimed at improving competitiveness and increasing foreign exchange earnings. Under the revised Export Finance Scheme (E-EFS), exporters will be able to obtain six-month working capital loans at an interest rate of 8.5%, with the government absorbing 5 percentage points of the financing cost. The subsidy for this component alone is estimated at Rs58 billion during the current fiscal year. ECC Approves New Financing Facilities The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has also expanded access to concessional financing by increasing the ceiling of the existing short-term financing portfolio from Rs1 trillion to Rs1.5 trillion. In addition, the committee approved the launch of a new Long-Term Growth Financing Facility, allowing exporters to access loans at an interest rate of 2% for the first two years, followed by a fixed 5% rate for the subsequent eight years. The government has also introduced a performance-based rebate scheme, effective from July 1, 2026, with an estimated annual allocation of Rs15 billion. Under the programme, exporters recording annual export growth of up to 10% over the previous year will receive a rebate equal to 1% of the incremental export value, while exporters achieving growth exceeding 10% will qualify for a 2% rebate on additional exports. Long-Term Challenges Persist Despite successive incentive packages introduced over several decades, Pakistan continues to struggle with achieving sustained export-led growth. Industry observers note that no single Pakistani exporter has generated $1 billion in annual export earnings, underscoring the structural challenges facing the country’s export sector. These challenges include limited product diversification, low industrial productivity, rising production costs, inconsistent policy implementation and insufficient value addition. Monthly Performance Offers Some Relief On a month-on-month basis, the trade data presented a more encouraging picture. Exports increased by 31% in July compared to June, rising by approximately $697 million, while imports remained largely unchanged at around $6.9 billion. As a result, the monthly trade deficit narrowed by nearly 15%, or around $709 million, compared with the previous month.

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    FO rejects India’s criticism of AJK elections

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) has strongly rejected India’s criticism of the ongoing Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) legislative elections, saying New Delhi has neither the legal standing nor the moral authority to question the democratic process in the region. Speaking at the weekly media briefing on Thursday, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi dismissed remarks made by India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), which had described the AJK elections as a “farce.” He termed India’s comments baseless, politically motivated and an attempt to undermine a democratic process being conducted under the constitutional and legal framework of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Andrabi said the elections are taking place in a peaceful, transparent and orderly manner despite security challenges, reflecting the democratic aspirations and political will of the people of AJK. He added that Pakistan remains committed to ensuring a free and fair electoral process in the region. The spokesperson said India’s criticism comes as the seventh anniversary of New Delhi’s August 5, 2019 decision to revoke the special constitutional status of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) is being observed. He maintained that those unilateral measures violated international law, relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions and India’s own international commitments. He reiterated Pakistan’s position that Jammu and Kashmir remains an internationally recognised disputed territory, whose final status should be determined through a UN-supervised plebiscite in accordance with relevant UNSC resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people. Andrabi also accused India of attempting to divert global attention from alleged human rights violations and restrictions on political freedoms in occupied Kashmir. He said references to casualty figures and other claims made by Indian authorities cannot overshadow concerns raised by the international community over the situation in the region. Responding to another question regarding India’s reaction to Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s recent remarks on Youm-e-Istehsal, Andrabi described the Indian statement as an effort to justify its policies in occupied Kashmir. He alleged that a heavy military presence, strict security laws and demographic changes continue to affect the Muslim-majority character of the territory. He further claimed that development projects promoted by India cannot replace the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination

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    ECP proposes new powers to verify lawmakers’ ass…

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    The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has proposed amendments to the Election Rules, 2017, aiming to strengthen scrutiny of lawmakers’ annual declarations of assets and liabilities by allowing the commission to seek information directly from relevant institutions. According to a notification issued by the ECP, the proposed amendment would add a new provision to Rule 137 of the Election Rules. Under the proposed change, the commission would be empowered to seek clarification whenever it finds ambiguity or inconsistency in the asset and liability statements submitted by members of the National Assembly, Senate and provincial assemblies. The proposal would also authorize the ECP to obtain information not only from the concerned lawmaker but also from any individual, government department, organisation or financial institution that may possess relevant records. If approved, all entities approached by the commission would be legally required to provide the requested clarification or information within the timeframe specified by the ECP. The electoral body said the amendment has been proposed under the powers granted to it by Section 239 of the Elections Act, 2017. The draft amendment has been published to invite public feedback before it is finalised. Citizens and stakeholders have been invited to submit objections or suggestions regarding the proposed amendment to the ECP Secretariat in Islamabad by August 15, 2026. The commission said it will review all submissions and provide an opportunity for hearing before making a final decision. The draft amendment has also been uploaded to the ECP’s official website to ensure transparency and allow public participation in the legislative process.