تازہ ترین

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    Islamabad High Court extends stay on 50% additiona…

    ByJustpaste.in

      The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has extended its earlier interim order preventing the collection of an additional 50 percent toll tax from vehicles that do not have an M-Tag installed. The relief will remain in effect until the next hearing of the case, providing temporary protection to motorists while the legal proceedings continue. During the hearing, the National Highway Authority (NHA) submitted its written response before the court, outlining its position regarding the policy of imposing an additional toll charge on vehicles that are not registered under the M-Tag system. The response is expected to form the basis of further arguments in the case. The petitioner’s counsel requested additional time to carefully review the written reply submitted by the NHA before presenting a detailed response. Accepting the request, the court adjourned the proceedings to a later date, allowing both parties sufficient time to prepare their arguments. While postponing the hearing, the Islamabad High Court announced that its previous order would continue to remain in force until the next hearing. As a result, authorities have been restrained from collecting the additional 50 percent toll tax from vehicles that either do not have an M-Tag installed or have insufficient balance in their M-Tag accounts. The interim relief means that motorists falling into these categories cannot be charged the extra amount until the court issues further directions. However, the regular toll charges applicable under existing rules may still be collected. The dispute centers on the National Highway Authority’s policy requiring motorists to register their vehicles with the M-Tag electronic toll collection system. Under the authority’s regulations, vehicles that are not registered with M-Tag are subject to a 50 percent higher toll fee when using motorways and designated highways. Similarly, vehicles with an M-Tag account that does not have sufficient balance may also be charged the additional amount under the same policy. The NHA introduced the M-Tag system to modernize toll collection, reduce congestion at toll plazas, promote cashless payments, and improve the efficiency of traffic management on Pakistan’s motorway network. The electronic system enables vehicles to pass through toll plazas more quickly, minimizing delays and reducing manual cash transactions. Despite these objectives, the policy of imposing an additional 50 percent toll charge has faced criticism from some motorists and legal experts. Opponents argue that the surcharge is excessive and places an unnecessary financial burden on drivers, particularly those who have not yet registered for the M-Tag system or encounter technical issues with their accounts. They also contend that such a financial penalty should have a clear legal basis and should not be enforced without proper safeguards. The NHA’s decision has therefore been challenged before the Islamabad High Court, where the petitioner seeks to have the additional toll charge declared unlawful. The court will examine the legal validity of the policy after considering the arguments of both parties, including the authority’s written response and the petitioner’s objections. Until the next hearing, the High Court’s interim order will continue to provide temporary relief to affected motorists by preventing the collection of the disputed 50 percent additional toll tax. The outcome of the case is expected to determine whether the National Highway Authority can lawfully enforce the surcharge in the future or whether changes to the policy will be required.

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    Nawaz Sharif urges PML-N leaders to ignore Naqvi&#…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif has reportedly directed party leaders to avoid reacting to recent remarks made by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, stressing that national unity and institutional harmony are essential in the current political and security environment. According to sources, Nawaz Sharif described coordination between the federal government and state institutions as a critical national requirement at a time when Pakistan is facing significant economic, political, and security challenges. He reportedly advised party leaders to exercise restraint and refrain from making statements that could create the impression of differences between the government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. The development comes after Mohsin Naqvi’s recent remarks regarding the country’s political system reportedly prompted concerns within sections of the PML-N leadership. Senior party members are said to have conveyed their reservations to Nawaz Sharif during internal consultations. Sources said Nawaz Sharif instructed party leaders to ignore the statement and avoid escalating the matter publicly. He emphasised that the country’s national interest requires maintaining close cooperation and mutual understanding among all state institutions. According to the sources, the PML-N president believes that unnecessary public controversy over individual statements could undermine confidence at a time when the country is confronting multiple internal and external challenges. Nawaz Sharif reportedly maintained that preserving institutional harmony is essential for political stability, effective governance, and addressing the country’s economic and security priorities. He also urged party leaders to remain focused on governance and public service rather than engaging in political disputes that could create perceptions of divisions within the state structure.

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    Malala expresses grief over Swat attack, calls for…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai has expressed deep sorrow over the recent suicide attack in Swat, urging authorities to ensure the protection of civilians and prevent the region from falling back into violence. In a statement, Malala said she was deeply saddened by the suicide bombing in her hometown of Swat, describing the incident as a tragic reminder of the suffering the region has endured over the years. She noted that the attack claimed the lives of more than a dozen people, including police personnel, and said she could understand the pain and grief being experienced by the families of the victims. Malala extended her heartfelt condolences to those who lost their loved ones and prayed for strength and patience for the bereaved families. She also expressed hope for the speedy recovery of those injured in the attack. Emphasising the importance of public safety, Malala called on the authorities to take all necessary measures to protect the lives and property of citizens and ensure lasting peace and security in the region. Reflecting on Swat’s past, she said the girls of the valley have always dreamed of living in peace, free from fear and violence. She added that her prayers are with the people of Swat and expressed hope that they would never again be forced to live under the shadow of the Taliban. Malala said the people of Swat deserve a peaceful future where children can pursue their education, families can live without fear, and communities can rebuild their lives in a secure environment.

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    Pentagon signs framework agreement with lockheed M…

    ByJustpaste.in

      The United States Department of Defense (Pentagon) has entered into a framework agreement with leading American defense contractors Lockheed Martinand Northrop Grumman to expand the production capacity of critical components used in missile defense systems. The agreement is part of the U.S. government’s broader effort to strengthen its defense industrial base and ensure that the military maintains sufficient stocks of advanced missile interception systems amid rising global security challenges. According to Arab media reports, the Pentagon has not disclosed the financial value of the framework agreement. While details regarding the total cost and production timeline remain confidential, officials have indicated that the initiative is intended to significantly increase manufacturing capabilities for components used in missile interceptor systems. The agreement comes at a time when the United States is reassessing its defense production capacity in response to ongoing international conflicts and growing demand for advanced military equipment. Reports suggest that the prolonged wars involving Iran-related regional tensions and the conflict in Ukraine have placed considerable pressure on U.S. weapons and missile inventories. As a result, the Pentagon has been working to replenish depleted stockpiles while ensuring that American forces remain prepared for future security challenges. Missile defense systems play a crucial role in protecting military installations, strategic assets, and civilian populations from incoming missile threats. These systems rely on highly sophisticated interceptor missiles and advanced technologies capable of detecting, tracking, and destroying hostile missiles before they reach their intended targets. Increasing production of the key components used in these systems is expected to improve the United States’ ability to respond quickly to evolving security threats and maintain a reliable supply of defensive capabilities. Defense analysts have noted that expanding manufacturing capacity is becoming increasingly important as global geopolitical tensions continue to rise. The ongoing war in Ukraine has resulted in significant military assistance from the United States and its allies, including the transfer of advanced missile defense equipment and interceptor missiles. At the same time, heightened tensions in the Middle East have increased the demand for missile defense systems capable of countering a wide range of aerial threats. The latest framework agreement follows another major defense contract announced just last week. The U.S. Army awarded Lockheed Martin a contract worth up to $58.6 billion for the production of Patriot interceptor missiles, one of the world’s most widely used air and missile defense systems. The Patriot system is designed to intercept ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and hostile aircraft, making it a critical component of the United States’ missile defense network as well as that of several allied nations. The new agreement with Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman is expected to complement that large Patriot missile contract by ensuring that manufacturers have the capacity to produce the essential components needed for future missile defense programs. By investing in increased production capabilities, the Pentagon aims to strengthen supply chains, reduce manufacturing bottlenecks, and accelerate the delivery of critical defense equipment. Although the Pentagon has not revealed the financial details of the framework agreement, the move underscores Washington’s continued commitment to enhancing national security and maintaining military readiness. As global conflicts and regional tensions persist, expanding defense production is expected to remain a top priority for the U.S. Department of Defense in the years ahead.

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    Pakistan High Commission London launches direct digital property transfer service for British Pakistanis

    ByJustpaste.in

    In a major step to improve consular services for overseas Pakistanis, the Pakistan High Commission in London has launched a digital property transfer facility, enabling British Pakistanis to transfer property in Punjab without travelling to Pakistan. Introduced in line with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s directives to enhance services for the Pakistani diaspora, the initiative allows overseas Pakistanis to complete the property transfer process directly at the High Commission after verifying their identity. Under the new system, applicants are no longer required to issue a Power of Attorney or appoint an agent to handle property transfers on their behalf, reducing the risk of fraud and unnecessary legal expenses. The digital property transfer process is designed to be transparent, secure, efficient and cost-effective, offering overseas Pakistanis a streamlined alternative to the traditional method of property transactions. The service is part of a collaboration between the Punjab Land Records Authority (PLRA) and Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, bringing digital land record services closer to the Pakistani community in the United Kingdom. Officials said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to modernising public services and facilitating overseas Pakistanis by allowing them to manage property matters from London without the need to travel to Pakistan.

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    Rana slams Naqvi’s ‘confusing’ provinces rem…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Adviser on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, said it was true that former prime minister Nawaz Sharif had instructed party leaders not to respond to Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s recent statements. He added that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) strongly disagreed with both the content and tone of Naqvi’s remarks. Speaking on a television programme, Rana Sanaullah described Mohsin Naqvi’s comments as “meaningless” and lacking context. He said he had listened to Naqvi’s speech but could not understand what message he was trying to convey. “It appeared that he wanted to make a significant point but failed to explain it properly. Once he made the statement, his subsequent remarks contradicted one another. I simply could not understand what he was saying or why he was saying it,” Rana Sanaullah said. He stressed that whenever a person makes a public statement, it reflects their personal opinion, adding that it was up to Mohsin Naqvi to clarify the intent behind his remarks and take responsibility for their interpretation. Responding to Naqvi’s proposal regarding the creation of new administrative units or provinces, Rana Sanaullah said such matters could not be decided merely through public statements. “You cannot simply talk about new provinces and expect them to come into existence. The Constitution clearly defines the procedure for creating new provinces or administrative units,” he said. He maintained that the issue should first be debated in Parliament, while the final decision would rest with the leadership of the political parties. Rana Sanaullah recalled that during the PML-N government in Punjab from 2013 to 2018, the party had formally proposed the creation of new provinces. He said he had personally presented both the resolution and the proposal for establishing a commission to examine the matter. He explained that a national commission would have to be formed to review all aspects of creating new provinces, including financial resources, administrative arrangements and constitutional requirements. “The commission would also need to consult on representation in the National Assembly, provincial assemblies and the Senate. This is a highly complex issue that requires serious deliberation by experienced policymakers,” he said. Rana Sanaullah added that Pakistan could adopt smaller provinces, a stronger local government system, or even both, but such decisions should be made collectively by political parties after thorough consultation

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    ATC remands Mushtaq Ahmad for three days

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Islamabad on Monday granted police a three-day physical remand of former senator Mushtaq Ahmad and his associate, Daniyal, in a case linked to a protest over the recent unrest in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). The suspects were presented before Duty Judge Rukhsanda Shaheen after their arrest. During the hearing, the prosecution requested a 30-day physical remand, arguing that investigators needed additional time to recover a vehicle and alleged weapons connected to the case. After hearing arguments from both sides, the court approved a three-day remand instead of the longer period requested by the prosecution and directed police to continue their investigation. The case has been registered at Islamabad’s Shalimar Police Station. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the protest and the allegations associated with it. The development comes days after Mushtaq Ahmad’s supporters claimed he had been detained for more than 24 hours after security personnel stopped him from entering Azad Jammu and Kashmir. According to his team, the detention was linked to his public support for protests taking place in the region. Following his release, Mushtaq Ahmad addressed a press conference in Islamabad, where he announced plans to hold a condolence, solidarity and peace gathering in support of the people of AJK. He invited students, journalists, civil society members and Kashmiri residents of Islamabad to participate in the event at F-10 Markaz. Earlier, Mushtaq Ahmad had stated that he was travelling to AJK carrying white flags as a symbol of peace and solidarity with families affected by the recent violence. He said security officials stopped him at Azad Pattan Bridge and prevented him from entering the region, after which he recorded a protest message and began returning to Islamabad. His team further alleged that Punjab Police later intercepted his vehicle in Kahuta and took him into custody.

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    Police officer martyred in gun attack near Jamali …

    ByJustpaste.in

    A police officer was martyred after unidentified gunmen opened fire on two policemen near Jamali Bridge on Karachi’s Super Highway on Monday. The attack has prompted senior police officials and the Sindh government to order an immediate investigation and intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible. According to police, the two officers were deployed on duty near Jamali Bridge when unidentified assailants riding a motorcycle approached and opened indiscriminate fire. Constable Zaman, who was serving at Site-A Police Station, sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene. His fellow officer survived the attack without injury. Authorities have not yet confirmed the motive behind the shooting, and an investigation is underway to determine whether the incident was a targeted attack or linked to other criminal activity. Police have begun collecting evidence from the crime scene and reviewing available information to identify the suspects. Following the incident, Inspector General (IG) Sindh Javed Alam Odho took immediate notice of the attack and directed the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) East to submit a detailed report without delay. The IG instructed law enforcement officials to ensure that those involved in the attack are arrested and brought to justice as quickly as possible. The police chief also ordered investigators to utilize all available resources, including modern technology, intelligence networks, and investigative tools, to trace and capture the suspects. He further directed police units to strengthen patrolling, checkpoint operations, and snap checking across the area while maintaining strict surveillance of suspicious individuals and vehicles. Separately, Sindh Home Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar also sought an immediate report from the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) East regarding the incident. He emphasized that every available resource should be employed to identify and arrest the attackers and ensure they face the full force of the law. The home minister instructed police to make effective use of intelligence information, forensic techniques, and modern investigative methods during the operation. He also called for enhanced police patrols, tighter security measures, and increased monitoring of suspicious activity to prevent similar incidents. Paying tribute to the fallen officer, Lanjar said the sacrifice of police personnel would not be forgotten and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to pursuing those responsible. The attack highlights the continued security challenges faced by law enforcement officers in Karachi, where police personnel remain on the frontline against crime and violence. Investigations into the shooting are ongoing, and authorities have yet to announce any arrests.

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    Sannia Ashfaq remarries? Viral post sparks buzz

    ByJustpaste.in

    Sannia Ashfaq, the former wife of Pakistan cricketer Imad Wasim, has once again become the focus of social media after sharing a mysterious Instagram post that has fuelled speculation about a possible new marriage. The viral video shows Sannia dressed in a striking red bridal ensemble, complemented by traditional Kundan jewellery. In the clip, she asks, “How am I looking?” before a man’s voice responds, “Looking my Dulhan.” She further intrigued followers by captioning the post, “Start of a New Chapter in Life, Alhamdulillah.” The post quickly gained traction across social media platforms, with many users congratulating Sannia and wishing her happiness. Several followers interpreted the post as an announcement of a new marriage, while others suggested it could be part of a bridal photoshoot, fashion campaign or promotional project. As of now, Sannia has not officially confirmed whether the video is related to her personal life or professional work. The latest development comes months after her widely discussed divorce from Imad Wasim, which remained a major topic on social media for weeks. Both Sannia and the former Pakistan all-rounder publicly addressed the end of their marriage, though each shared a different account of the reasons behind their separation. Following the divorce, Sannia spoke openly on social media about the emotional difficulties she experienced and alleged that another person played a role in the breakdown of the relationship. Her posts generated significant public attention and sparked widespread debate among fans. The controversy intensified when Imad Wasim later announced his marriage to Nyla Raja through Instagram. Responding to criticism at the time, the cricketer described the period following his first marriage as one of the most challenging phases of his life and defended his second wife against online backlash. Meanwhile, Sannia has continued to share updates about her life with followers, often reflecting on her personal journey and the challenges she faced after the separation.

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    Bilawal vows fight back after AJK election loss

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    PML-N secures 23 of 45 seats to form AJK government Information minister says rigging claims need real evidence Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has said the countdown for the federal government has begun. He made the statement after his party won fewer seats than expected in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir elections. The PPP has called the polls rigged. The PML-N government at the centre relies on support from several parties. The PPP remains its main ally. But during the AJK elections, the PPP repeatedly claimed the polls were unfair. The PML-N has won a simple majority to form the government in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The party secured 23 out of 45 seats. This was confirmed by Rana Sanaullah, adviser to the prime minister on political affairs. Bilawal addressed PML-N directly in a video message. He asked if they could hear a sound. He said it was the countdown for the federal government beginning. He also announced a public gathering in Bagh district. He called on supporters in Poonch to prepare for a rally on August 10. He told them to get ready for his arrival. Bilawal described the elections as neither free nor fair. He called them rigged, and used strong words like bullet elections and bloody elections. Despite the results, he praised his party workers. He said the PPP had won nine seats despite the difficult circumstances. He vowed to reclaim seats he said had been stolen in Mirpur and Muzaffarabad. He said the PPP would continue its struggle and would not lose courage or leave the field. Sindh minister and senior PPP leader Sharjeel Inam Memon issued a similar warning shortly before Bilawal spoke. Memon said the countdown for the federal government had begun. He claimed PML-N had given ballot papers to its candidates two days before voting, working together with the Election Commission. Memon also alleged that the administration was ignoring complaints from the current president and prime minister of AJK. He called it historic rigging. He questioned whether top PML-N leaders, including Nawaz Sharif, Shehbaz Sharif, and Maryam Nawaz Sharif, had genuinely won their own seats in the 2024 elections. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar responded on Monday. He said accusations of rigging should not be made without solid evidence. He urged the PPP to show political maturity and accept the election results. His comments came a day after the second phase of voting was held in Muzaffarabad Division and refugee seats. Unofficial results showed PML-N leading in five constituencies, while PPP had won two. In the first phase, PML-N had already secured nine of the thirteen seats in Mirpur Division, with PPP winning four. Tarar said PPP should have worked harder, as it did during the Gilgit-Baltistan elections. He questioned the evidence behind Memon’s claims and said accusations should not be made without proof. He said the people of AJK voted for the party that focused on development. He advised PPP to reflect on its own performance in Sindh instead of blaming others. Tarar praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for congratulating PPP after its win in Gilgit-Baltistan. He called it an example of political tolerance. He said PML-N ran a united and strong campaign in AJK, led by Nawaz Sharif, which helped secure the party’s victory.