تازہ ترین

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    Tight security marks peaceful Chehlum procession

    ByJustpaste.in

    The main Chehlum procession concluded peacefully in Karachi on Tuesday after passing through its designated route under comprehensive security arrangements. Thousands of mourners participated in the annual religious procession to mark Chehlum, also known as Arbaeen, which commemorates the 40th day of mourning for the martyrdom of Imam Husain (AS), the grandson of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Law enforcement agencies implemented an extensive security plan to ensure the procession was held without any untoward incident. The event concluded successfully after participants reached the designated endpoint. Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah expressed satisfaction over the peaceful conclusion of the procession. He praised the Sindh Police, Pakistan Rangers, and other security agencies for their coordinated efforts to maintain law and order throughout the day. The chief minister also appreciated the cooperation extended by procession organisers, religious scholars, volunteers, and participants. He said their collective efforts helped ensure the religious event remained peaceful and well-organised. Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar also commended the police for their professional performance. He said the successful completion of Chehlum processions reflected effective planning and strong coordination among all institutions responsible for security. A comprehensive security strategy had been put in place ahead of the event. More than 11,000 police officers and personnel were deployed across Karachi to protect Chehlum processions, religious gatherings, and imambargahs. Security officials remained on high alert throughout the day. Additional police personnel were stationed along the procession route and at sensitive locations across the city. Rangers and other law enforcement agencies also assisted in maintaining security. Authorities carried out continuous patrolling, snap checking, and picketing in different areas. Officers were instructed to remain present in their respective jurisdictions and ensure strict monitoring of important public places, government buildings, private installations, and religious sites. To facilitate security arrangements, several major roads along the procession route remained closed. Traffic police introduced a detailed diversion plan to reduce inconvenience for commuters. Motorists were advised to use alternate routes through Lasbela Chowk, Nishtar Road, Kashmir Road, Shahrah-i-Quaideen, Martin Road, Bahadur Yar Jang Road, Soldier Bazaar, and other connecting roads. Traffic police personnel remained deployed across the city to guide commuters and manage the flow of vehicles.

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    K-pop label CEO arrested in $21m fraud case

    ByJustpaste.in

    SEOUL: The head of South Korea’s entertainment agency One Hundred Label has been arrested over allegations of large-scale financial fraud, adding to the growing controversies surrounding the K-pop industry. Cha Gawon, chairman of Piac Group and the representative of One Hundred Label, was taken into custody after a Seoul court approved an arrest warrant. The court cited concerns that evidence in the case could be destroyed if the suspect remained free during the investigation. According to investigators, Cha is accused of securing advance payments worth 24.2 billion Korean won (about $16.9 million) from an entertainment technology company for a business project involving the intellectual property rights of artists managed by the agency. Authorities allege the promised project was never carried out. Prosecutors further claim that Cha entered into the agreement despite knowing that an existing contract with another company would prevent the deal from moving forward. Investigators believe the alleged actions resulted in financial losses estimated at nearly 30 billion Korean won, or around $21 million. The case is being investigated under South Korea’s law covering major economic crimes. Following the arrest, Cha was transferred to a police detention facility in Seoul while the investigation continues. Authorities have also accused Cha of collecting billions of won through property lease arrangements that were allegedly never completed. Officials say these transactions are also part of the wider fraud investigation. Police reportedly sought Cha’s arrest more than once, but earlier requests required additional investigation. After examining bank records and contractual documents, investigators submitted another request, which was later approved by the court. The legal troubles have intensified uncertainty surrounding One Hundred Label. Several well-known artists have already ended their association with the agency following disputes over contract terms and financial settlements. Actor and singer Lee Seung-gi previously terminated his exclusive contract with the company, citing contractual violations. K-pop group The Boyz also launched legal proceedings against the agency over alleged unpaid earnings, delayed staff payments, and breach of contract. Most members successfully suspended their exclusive contracts through a court order, while member New remained with the company. SHINee member Taemin had also parted ways with the agency’s subsidiary, Big Planet Made, before the latest developments.

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    Zayn Malik posts after Gigi-Cooper wedding speculation

    ByJustpaste.in

    Singer Zayn Malik has shared a new message on social media following renewed speculation surrounding his former partner, Gigi Hadid, and her relationship with Hollywood actor Bradley Cooper. The former One Direction star returned to Instagram after several weeks of silence to celebrate the 11th anniversary of his fan community, known as the “Zquad.” Alongside a selfie, Zayn thanked his supporters for their loyalty and wrote, “Love you all!” His post marked his first social media update since mid-July. Although the singer did not mention Hadid or Cooper, the timing of the post drew attention as reports continue to circulate about the couple’s relationship. Marriage rumours surrounding Gigi Hadid and Bradley Cooper gained momentum after the pair were photographed together in Paris wearing rings on their left hands. The images quickly fuelled speculation on social media that the couple may have secretly tied the knot. The latest appearance was also their first public outing since attending the wedding celebrations of Taylor Swift and NFL star Travis Kelce last month. Hadid and Cooper have reportedly been in a relationship since 2023, but neither has publicly addressed the ongoing marriage rumours. Before dating Cooper, Gigi Hadid was in a long-term relationship with Zayn Malik. The former couple dated for nearly six years and welcomed their daughter, Khai, in September 2020. Their relationship ended following reports of family tensions involving Hadid’s mother, Yolanda Hadid. Despite their separation, Zayn and Gigi have continued to co-parent their daughter.

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    US waives $20,000 visa bond for Pakistanis

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan has been excluded from the United States’ newly permanent visa bond programme, meaning Pakistani applicants will not be required to deposit a refundable financial guarantee of up to $20,000 when applying for certain US visitor visas. The United States has officially made its 2025 Visa Bond Pilot Program a permanent policy. Under the programme, nationals of selected countries applying for business or tourist visas must provide a refundable financial bond ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 as part of the visa application process. According to international reports, the revised policy increases the maximum refundable bond amount from $15,000 to $20,000 for eligible applicants from countries included in the programme. The list reportedly includes around 50 countries, including Bangladesh, Nepal, and several African nations. Pakistan is not included in the list of countries subject to the visa bond requirement. Afghanistan, India, and Iran are also excluded from the programme. As a result, Pakistani citizens applying for US visitor visas will continue to follow the standard visa application process without the additional refundable financial guarantee required under the permanent visa bond policy.

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    Field Marshal visits NEOC, reviews monsoon disaste…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir visited the National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC), where he was briefed on preparedness measures and coordinated response arrangements for dealing with monsoon-related disasters. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) briefed the Field Marshal on the authority’s operational capabilities and its technology-driven disaster response mechanism. During the visit, Field Marshal Asim Munir stressed that the protection of human lives and critical national infrastructure must be ensured under all circumstances. He said the Pakistan Armed Forces remain fully prepared at all times to support the civil administration and the NDMA in relief, rescue, and rehabilitation operations whenever required. The Field Marshal also appreciated the NDMA’s efforts to strengthen the country’s disaster management capacity and enhance preparedness for natural emergencies. According to the ISPR, he underscored the importance of maintaining constant readiness, ensuring effective coordination among all relevant institutions, and delivering a timely response to emergency situations during the ongoing monsoon season.

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    UN warns Afghanistan’s child malnutrition crisis deepens

    ByJustpaste.in

    Afghanistan is facing a rapidly worsening malnutrition emergency as severe funding cuts leave millions without life-saving assistance, the United Nations has warned. Speaking from Kabul, the World Food Programme’s (WFP) Afghanistan Director John Aylieff said the country’s nutrition crisis is escalating at an alarming pace, with growing numbers of severely malnourished children reaching health facilities too late to receive effective treatment. He said child wasting, the deadliest form of malnutrition, has now reached critical levels in nearly one-third of Afghanistan’s provinces. According to the WFP, ongoing conflict, disruptions to trade, the return of thousands of Afghan migrants from neighbouring countries, and shrinking international aid have combined to create an unprecedented humanitarian emergency. The UN official said last year recorded the sharpest annual increase in malnutrition cases, while the situation has deteriorated even further in 2026. Children under the age of two account for around 80 percent of the most severe cases, highlighting the devastating impact on the country’s youngest and most vulnerable population. Aylieff said the WFP has only enough resources to provide treatment to one out of every seven acutely malnourished women and children this year. The remaining six are forced to leave without assistance because of a severe shortage of funds. He warned that the cries of starving children in Afghan health centres reflect a preventable tragedy that could claim countless more lives if emergency funding is not secured. The humanitarian agency also expressed concern that widespread hunger could fuel migration, instability and extremism, stressing that a stable Afghanistan remains important for regional security. Millions of Afghans have also returned from neighbouring countries, including Pakistan and Iran, over the past three years, placing additional pressure on already overstretched resources. Although this year’s harvest has improved, the gains have been overshadowed by the country’s worsening economic and humanitarian challenges. The WFP estimates that nearly 14 million Afghans are currently experiencing acute hunger. However, funding shortages have limited food assistance to only a small fraction of those in need, while preventive food distribution programmes in high-risk areas have been suspended.

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    UN experts urge Canada to protect Sikh Activist

    ByJustpaste.in

    United Nations human rights experts have called on Canada to strengthen security measures for Sikh activist Moninder Singh, citing repeated warnings from Canadian authorities about credible threats to his life. In a letter sent to the Canadian government on June 3 and released publicly under standard UN procedures, five independent experts expressed concern over allegations of foreign intimidation and reprisals targeting Singh, a Canadian citizen. The experts noted that since 2022, Canadian authorities have issued Singh four separate “duty to warn” notices, informing him of serious and imminent threats to his safety. They urged Ottawa to ensure his protection, safeguard his family, and provide security for others facing similar risks. The letter also called on Canadian authorities to speed up investigations, hold those responsible accountable, provide justice to victims, and take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. The appeal was signed by UN special rapporteurs responsible for issues related to counterterrorism and human rights, freedom of peaceful assembly, human rights defenders, freedom of religion, and democratic international order. A copy of the communication was also shared with the Indian government. Singh visited Geneva earlier this year to seek international attention over what he described as the targeting of Sikh activists abroad and the broader issue of transnational repression. The case comes amid longstanding tensions between Canada and India following the 2023 killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar near a Sikh temple in British Columbia. Canadian authorities alleged Indian involvement in the assassination, an accusation New Delhi has consistently denied. The dispute strained diplomatic relations, leading both countries to expel diplomats in 2024. Although bilateral ties have improved under Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, concerns over the safety of Sikh activists continue to draw international attention. Singh, who supports the Khalistan movement advocating for an independent Sikh homeland, said the UN experts’ intervention highlights growing concerns over the safety of Sikh voices abroad.

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    Pakistan completes 3-0 clean sweep against South K…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan’s national hockey team secured an impressive 4-3 victory over South Korea in the third Test match to complete a dominant 3-0 clean sweep in the Pakistan-South Korea Hockey Test Series. The thrilling encounter was played at the Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium in Islamabad under the supervision of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF). The final match of the series showcased Pakistan’s determination and fighting spirit. South Korea started the game aggressively and took an early lead through Kim Hyung Jin in the 10th minute. The visitors maintained their advantage throughout the first half, going into the break with a 1-0 lead. Pakistan responded brilliantly in the second half with an outstanding comeback. Hayat Zakaria leveled the score in the 32nd minute, giving the home side much-needed momentum. However, South Korea quickly regained the lead when Yang Ji Hoon scored in the 33rd minute. The contest remained highly competitive as Pakistan continued to attack. Rana Waheed Ashraf equalized in the 45th minute before Kim Yong Bok restored South Korea’s advantage in the 50th minute. Refusing to give up, Pakistan displayed remarkable resilience as Abdul Rehman scored in the 55th minute to make it 3-3. Just two minutes later, Shahid Hanan netted the winning field goal in the 57th minute, completing an unforgettable comeback and sealing a 4-3 victory. The win marked Pakistan’s third consecutive success against South Korea in the Test series, highlighting the team’s growing confidence and improved performances. The clean sweep is expected to boost the morale of the national squad as it prepares for upcoming international competitions. Federal Ombudsman Naveed Kamran Baloch attended the match as the chief guest and appreciated the exciting contest as well as the commitment shown by both teams. At the closing ceremony, Pakistan Hockey Federation President Mohiuddin Ahmad Wani presented a commemorative shield to the chief guest. Several prominent hockey personalities, including PHF Development Committee Chairman Olympian Hassan Sardar, Selection Committee Chairman Olympian Samiullah Khan, and Pakistan Sports Board Director General Yawar Hussain, were also present at the event. Pakistan’s impressive performance throughout the series reflects the team’s positive progress and offers renewed hope for the revival of the country’s rich hockey tradition. The comprehensive 3-0 series victory serves as an encouraging sign for Pakistan hockey and demonstrates the squad’s ability to compete at a high international level.

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    Pakistan exempted from US visa bond requirement 

    ByJustpaste.in

      Pakistanis have been exempted from the United States’ proposed US$20,000 visa bond requirement, after the country was left out of the list covered by the new policy. The United States has officially made its 2025 Visa Bond Pilot Program a permanent measure. However, Pakistan is not included among the countries subject to the financial guarantee requirement. Under the program, travelers from certain countries may be required to pay a visa bond of up to US$20,000 before entering the United States. The bond serves as a financial guarantee to ensure visitors comply with the terms of their visas, including departing the country before their authorized stay expires. According to the latest list released by US authorities, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, and India are not among the countries included in the permanent visa bond program. As a result, Pakistani applicants seeking US visas will not be required to deposit the US$20,000 financial guarantee under this policy. The visa bond initiative was originally introduced as a pilot program in 2025 to reduce visa overstays and encourage compliance with US immigration laws. The program allows the US government to impose a refundable financial bond on visitors from selected countries that have high rates of visa overstays or other immigration concerns. With the program now becoming permanent, only nationals of the countries designated by the US government will be subject to the bond requirement. Since Pakistan has not been placed on that list, Pakistani travelers applying for US visas will continue to follow the standard visa application process without the additional financial bond. The decision is expected to provide relief to many Pakistani citizens planning to visit the United States for tourism, business, education, or family-related purposes, as the proposed bond could have posed a significant financial burden on applicants. While the visa bond requirement does not apply to Pakistan, all applicants must still meet the existing US visa eligibility criteria, including submitting the required documentation, attending a visa interview when necessary, and satisfying immigration officers that they intend to comply with the conditions of their visa.

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    Pakistan announces second consecutive cut in petro…

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Government of Pakistan has announced another reduction in the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel, marking the second consecutive day of relief for consumers. The revised fuel prices will come into effect from August 5, 2026, according to an official notification issued by the Ministry of Energy’s Petroleum Division. The notification stated that the latest revision has been made under the petroleum pricing mechanism recommended by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA). The adjustment reflects the government’s ongoing review of petroleum product prices in line with market conditions and regulatory recommendations. Under the new rates, the price of high-speed diesel (HSD) has been reduced by Rs4.07 per litre, bringing the new price down from Rs389.93 to Rs385.86 per litre. Diesel is widely used in Pakistan’s transportation, agriculture, and industrial sectors, making the reduction significant for businesses and consumers alike. Petrol prices have also been lowered by Rs3.39 per litre. Following the latest cut, petrol will now cost Rs328.56 per litre, compared to the previous price of Rs331.95 per litre. The reduction is expected to provide some financial relief to motorists and households dealing with high transportation costs. This announcement comes just a day after the government had already reduced fuel prices. On the previous day, petrol prices were cut by Rs4.08 per litre, while diesel prices were lowered by Rs2.45 per litre. The back-to-back reductions indicate a continued effort to pass on the benefit of changing petroleum market trends to consumers. Fuel prices play a vital role in Pakistan’s economy because they directly influence transportation expenses, production costs, and inflation. Lower fuel prices can help reduce operating costs for businesses, improve supply chain efficiency, and ease the financial burden on consumers. However, the overall economic impact will depend on global oil prices, exchange rate movements, and future government pricing decisions. The Ministry of Energy emphasized that the revised prices are based on the pricing mechanism established by OGRA and approved by the federal government. The new rates will officially take effect on August 5, 2026, and will remain applicable until the next scheduled review. The latest reduction in petrol and diesel prices is expected to be welcomed by consumers, transport operators, and businesses, offering short-term relief amid ongoing economic challenges and fluctuating international oil markets.