تازہ ترین

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    Shahzeb Khanzada’s stance for women applauded by celebrities

    Shahzeb Khanzada is one of Pakistan’s most prominent television anchors and journalists. He hosts his current affairs show every night, where he regularly discusses important national issues and highlights matters affecting ordinary citizens. Over the years, he has also become known for speaking openly about social injustices and calling attention to issues that often fail to receive the attention they deserve. At a time when concerns about violence, abuse and public safety are growing across the country, Khanzada recently used his platform to speak strongly against violence targeting women and children. His remarks came amid widespread public concern over a number of disturbing cases that have emerged in recent weeks, once again raising questions about the safety of vulnerable members of society. Khanzada strongly condemned violence against women and emphasized the responsibility of individuals and society to stand against such acts. He made it clear that remaining silent after becoming aware of violence against a woman cannot simply be treated as neutrality. According to his stance, people who know that a woman is being subjected to brutality but deliberately choose not to speak up also carry a moral responsibility for allowing such violence to continue. His comments struck a chord with many viewers and public figures. Several celebrities took to social media to appreciate the journalist for using his influential platform to address an issue that requires collective attention. They praised him for refusing to remain silent and for highlighting the importance of protecting women from violence and abuse. Actress Ayesha Omar was among those who appreciated Khanzada’s efforts. She thanked him for consistently speaking up on important social matters and acknowledged his willingness to address difficult subjects publicly. Her response reflected the sentiments of many people who believe that influential personalities have an important role to play in raising awareness about serious social problems. Politician and public figure Mussadiq Malek also expressed his support for Khanzada. He urged people to protect and stand behind individuals who use their platforms to speak against injustice. His comments further highlighted the importance of supporting voices that draw public attention to violence and social issues. Actress Samiya Mumtaz also praised Khanzada for raising his voice. She thanked him for speaking about the issue and joining the conversation surrounding violence against women. The reactions from these well-known personalities demonstrate how strongly Khanzada’s message resonated with people from different backgrounds. His comments have also sparked further discussion about the responsibility of media figures, celebrities and ordinary citizens in confronting violence. Cases involving women and children have repeatedly generated anger and concern across Pakistan, with social media often becoming a platform where people demand justice and accountability. However, public outrage alone cannot address the deeper problems behind such incidents. Greater awareness, responsible reporting, stronger legal protection and a willingness to intervene when someone is at risk are all important parts of creating a safer society. Khanzada’s stance has therefore received appreciation not only because he discussed a sensitive issue on television, but also because he emphasized the importance of refusing to normalize silence around violence. The support from celebrities such as Ayesha Omar, Mussadiq Malek and Samiya Mumtaz shows that his message has found an audience beyond his regular viewers. As conversations surrounding women’s safety and violence continue, Khanzada’s remarks have added another prominent voice to the growing demand for greater accountability and protection. His decision to use his platform for the issue has been widely appreciated by those who believe that speaking against injustice is an important responsibility of public figures.

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    Rs22 Billion allocated to PIMS, 14 newborns dead

    ISLAMABAD: A deadly fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) on August 26 resulted in the deaths of at least 14 newborns, raising serious questions about safety standards, hospital management and the use of public funds. The tragedy has brought renewed attention to the financial resources provided to the country’s major public hospitals. Federal government records show that approximately Rs22 billion was allocated to PIMS over the past three years. Despite these substantial allocations, the hospital continues to face staff shortages, maintenance concerns and problems with essential equipment Official budget figures show that PIMS received an allocation of Rs6.84 billion during the previous financial year. However, the hospital spent approximately Rs7.51 billion, exceeding its approved budget by around Rs670 million.The institution also received an additional Rs660 million in supplementary funds during the year.For the current financial year, the government’s allocation for PIMS has been increased to approximately Rs7.63 billion. Questions have also been raised over funds allocated for repair and maintenance. The federal government had previously provided Rs500 million under this category, while only Rs230 million has been earmarked for the current year. These figures have prompted concerns over whether available resources are being effectively utilised and whether sufficient priority is being given to basic safety, maintenance and patient care. Despite receiving billions of rupees in government funding, PIMS is reportedly operating with a significant shortage of staff. Hospital data indicates that 949 sanctioned positions remain vacant. These include 385 doctors, 363 nurses and 201 paramedical staff. Such shortages can place additional pressure on existing employees and affect the hospital’s ability to provide timely care. Understaffed wards can also make emergency response more difficult, particularly in critical departments where patients require continuous monitoring. The PIMS fire has therefore intensified questions about whether staffing gaps and inadequate resources played any role in the tragedy. Determining the exact causes, however, will require a transparent and independent investigation. The concerns surrounding PIMS are part of a broader debate over safety and accountability in Pakistan’s public hospitals. A review of reported incidents between 2016 and 2026 has highlighted several cases involving alleged negligence and failures in healthcare facilities across the country. In June 2025, 20 children, including 15 newborns, reportedly died at DHQ Hospital Pakpattan, with oxygen shortage cited as a possible factor. In October 2020, seven patients died at Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar following an oxygen supply failure. In November 2024, a three-year-old child reportedly fell into an open manhole inside Children’s Hospital Lahore. Other reported incidents across different cities have involved alleged treatment delays, incorrect injections, oxygen-related problems and unsafe hospital infrastructure. The PIMS tragedy has once again raised questions about whether increasing government allocations are producing meaningful improvements in public healthcare. The government has ordered an inquiry into the fire, which is expected to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths and identify any negligence or safety failures. For the families who lost their newborns, however, no investigation can undo the loss. The central question now is whether the billions allocated to PIMS have been used effectively and whether hospital authorities maintained adequate staffing, equipment, fire-safety systems and infrastructure. If a major public hospital receiving billions in government funding cannot guarantee basic safety for vulnerable patients, accountability must extend beyond temporary suspensions or administrative changes. The tragedy has highlighted the urgent need for stronger oversight, transparent financial management, adequate staffing and enforceable safety standards across Pakistan’s public healthcare system.

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    Why is the risk of an India-China clash rising in …

    Tensions along the India-China border remain a major security concern, particularly in Arunachal Pradesh despite recent efforts by both countries to improve relations and maintain peace along their disputed frontier. India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Kumar Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently held talks in Beijing on the long-running border dispute. The meeting marked the 25th round of discussions between the two countries special representatives on the boundary issue. Following the talks China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Wang Yi emphasized the importance of stable relations between China and India. He described the two countries as important neighbours and emerging economies arguing that improved and stable bilateral relations are in the fundamental interests of both populations. According to the Chinese statement Wang called for a strategic and long-term approach to bilateral relations stronger communication and efforts to reduce differences. He also urged both sides to remove obstacles and promote cooperation as good neighbours and friendly partners. Doval also struck a conciliatory tone during the discussions. According to the Chinese statement he said India and China are ancient civilizations with large populations and important economies adding that the two countries should be viewed as partners rather than rivals. Doval reportedly said that under the guidance of the leadership of both countries India-China relations had returned to the right track. He also said overall peace had been maintained in border areas and that exchanges and cooperation in several fields were making progress. However, the disputed border remains a sensitive issue. Arunachal Pradesh is particularly important because China claims large parts of the Indian-administered territory and refers to the region as “Zangnan” or southern Tibet. India firmly rejects China’s territorial claims and considers Arunachal Pradesh an integral part of the country. The two sides have previously experienced serious confrontations along the Line of Actual Control making border management and military deployments highly sensitive. During the latest talks both sides discussed advancing negotiations on boundary demarcation strengthening border management mechanisms improving procedures and expanding cross-border cooperation. Although the latest diplomatic engagement indicates that both countries are seeking to prevent further escalation unresolved territorial claims and military activity continue to create the possibility of confrontation. The key challenge for India and China will be to maintain dialogue while managing their competing territorial claims and preventing local disputes from developing into a broader military crisis.

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    Ryan Gosling set to produce live-action Flintstones movie

    Ryan Gosling is stepping into another major Hollywood project, this time entering the prehistoric world of one of animation’s most recognizable families. The Barbie star is reportedly in the early stages of developing a live-action movie based on The Flintstones for Warner Bros., with his Open Invite producing partner Jessie Henderson also attached to the project. The upcoming film is expected to offer a fresh take on the classic animated franchise rather than simply retelling the original story. According to reports, the project will center on Bamm-Bamm Rubble, the famously strong and energetic son of Barney and Betty Rubble. The character has been a memorable part of The Flintstones universe since the original animated series, and the new film could explore what his life looks like as an adult. While the project has generated interest because of Gosling’s involvement, it is still in the early development stage. The producers are currently looking for a writer who can shape the story and bring the concept to the big screen. No director or additional cast members have been confirmed at this stage, meaning many details about the live-action adaptation remain under wraps. Gosling’s involvement marks another ambitious addition to his growing list of Hollywood projects. Alongside his acting career, the 45-year-old actor has increasingly taken on producing responsibilities, including through his partnership with Henderson. Their next producing collaboration is Love of Your Life, a romantic drama directed by Rachel Morrison. The film is scheduled to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival next month and is expected to attract attention as another major project from the pair. Meanwhile, Gosling also remains connected to the possibility of returning to the world of Barbie. Discussions surrounding a potential sequel to the hugely successful 2023 movie have reportedly been complicated by negotiations over compensation. The original film, directed by Greta Gerwig and written by Gerwig and Noah Baumbach, became a global phenomenon and featured Gosling alongside Margot Robbie. Although plans for a follow-up have reportedly faced delays, interest in another Barbie movie remains high. Gosling’s portrayal of Ken became one of the most talked-about aspects of the original film, earning him widespread praise and further establishing his versatility as an actor. Gosling has also had a successful year with Project Hail Mary, his major 2026 science-fiction release. The movie attracted audiences internationally and added another commercially successful title to his filmography. Its strong reception has only increased anticipation surrounding his future projects. With The Flintstones now reportedly entering development, Gosling appears set to continue exploring a wide range of genres and characters. A live-action story centered on an adult Bamm-Bamm could give the classic franchise a modern direction while introducing the beloved character to a new generation. However, fans will have to wait for further announcements before the project moves forward. With a writer still being sought and no official production timeline revealed, the live-action Flintstones movie remains in its early stages. If Gosling and Henderson succeed in bringing the concept together, the project could become another high-profile addition to Warner Bros.’ growing slate of franchise films.

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    Sindh empowers Deputy Commissioners to manage Evac…

    The Sindh government has expanded the powers of deputy commissioners by appointing them as administrators of evacuee trust properties in their respective districts. According to a notification issued by the Sindh Minorities Affairs Department all deputy commissioners in the province have been given additional responsibilities to oversee and protect evacuee trust properties. Under the new arrangement deputy commissioners will supervise commercial, agricultural and religious properties located within their districts. They will also be responsible for ensuring the proper management protection and regulation of these properties. The move is aimed at strengthening the administrative oversight of evacuee trust properties and ensuring that such assets are properly managed at the district level. The notification gives deputy commissioners specific powers to regulate and protect these properties. They will also be required to establish district-level committees to assist with the administration and management of evacuee trust properties. The Sindh government’s decision is expected to provide a more centralized administrative mechanism for dealing with properties under the relevant trust arrangements. District administrations will now have a greater role in monitoring these assets and addressing issues related to their management. The new powers cover different categories of properties including commercial agricultural and religious assets. Deputy commissioners will oversee these properties within their respective jurisdictions and take administrative measures under the authority granted by the provincial government. The notification further states that the new orders will take effect immediately. The decision comes as provincial authorities seek to strengthen the protection and regulation of properties that fall under the evacuee trust framework. By assigning these responsibilities to deputy commissioners the government has placed district administrations at the center of the property management process. The formation of district-level committees is also expected to help deputy commissioners carry out their new responsibilities and improve coordination between relevant departments. The Sindh government has not indicated that the new arrangement is temporary. With immediate effect deputy commissioners across the province will exercise their newly assigned administrator powers and oversee evacuee trust properties within their districts. The development represents a significant expansion of the administrative role of deputy commissioners in Sindh and gives district authorities greater responsibility for the protection regulation and management of evacuee trust properties

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    GB to auction hunting permits for Markhor, blue Sh…

    GILGIT: The Parks and Wildlife Department of Gilgit-Baltistan is set to auction hunting permits for three Astore markhors, 14 blue sheep and 100 Himalayan ibexes under the region’s Trophy Hunting Programme for the 2026-27 season. The base price for an Astore markhor permit has been fixed at $200,000, making it the most expensive permit on offer. The minimum price for a blue sheep permit has been set at $25,000, while permits for Himalayan ibex will start at $11,000. According to the auction notice, four Astore markhors are included in the exportable quota. However, one permit from the previous hunting season has been carried forward, leaving three fresh permits to be auctioned this year. The open auction will take place on September 10 at the Forest Complex in Jutial, Gilgit. The trophy hunting season will begin on October 15, 2026, and continue until April 10, 2027, in accordance with the GB Trophy Hunting Guidelines 2019. Hunting will be permitted only within officially designated conservation areas. The department said the annual hunting quota has been determined following wildlife population surveys conducted by experts. GB Chief Conservator Parks and Wildlife Zakir Hussain said that the department collected approximately Rs350 million through permit auctions last year against a target of Rs550 million. He said several permits remained unused during the 2025-26 season, including those for two Astore markhors, five blue sheep and 10 exportable Himalayan ibexes. The unused permits resulted in an estimated revenue loss of around Rs200 million. According to officials, the cancellation of hunting plans by American and other international hunters was linked to the law-and-order situation following violent protests in Gilgit and Skardu. Local business owners and tourism operators have expressed concern over repeated increases in trophy hunting permit prices. They argue that higher baseline rates have discouraged foreign hunters and negatively affected businesses connected with hunting tourism. Ikram Beg, a local business owner who sells hunting equipment, said the trophy hunting programme was facing significant challenges. He claimed that the Wildlife Department had increased baseline prices by more than 300 per cent over the past two years without adequately incorporating recommendations from major stakeholders. According to Beg, excessive price increases could make Gilgit-Baltistan less competitive in the international trophy hunting market. He warned that declining international participation could reduce government and community revenues while weakening incentives for local residents to participate in wildlife conservation. Beg stressed that trophy hunting should primarily serve as a conservation mechanism rather than simply becoming a source of increased government revenue. He said the programme’s long-term success depends on reasonable pricing, international participation, transparent administration and meaningful financial benefits for local communities. Local stakeholders have called for a review of the permit rates and greater consultation with communities, conservation specialists and industry representatives. They have also demanded transparency and strict adherence to applicable rules and regulations. Although trophy hunting remains controversial internationally, its supporters argue that regulated hunting can generate funds for conservation, discourage illegal hunting and provide financial benefits to communities living near wildlife habitats. In Gilgit-Baltistan, the programme began with community participation in Bar Valley, Nagar, in 1990. Under the existing revenue-sharing model, approximately 80 per cent of licence revenue goes to local communitiesfor wildlife protection and conservation activities. The region’s challenging terrain and harsh weather also make trophy hunting highly demanding. Hunters must navigate steep and rugged mountain slopes while dealing with extremely cold conditions. Gilgit-Baltistan is home to diverse wildlife because of its varied ecosystems and climate. Species found in the region include Marco Polo sheep, ibex, markhor, urial, blue sheep, lynx, snow leopards, brown and black bears, wolves, foxes and golden eagles. However, wildlife experts and conservationists continue to face concerns over illegal hunting, inadequate wildlife management and the effects of climate change, all of which pose long-term threats to the region’s biodiversity.

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    Busy Philipps reveals rare brain tumour diagnosis and surgeries

    Busy Philipps has opened up about one of the most frightening periods of her life, revealing that she was diagnosed with a rare malignant brain tumour earlier this year and underwent two surgeries during what she described as the “weirdest six months” of her life. The 47-year-old actress, best known for her work in Dawson’s Creek, Freaks and Geeks, Cougar Town and Girls5eva, shared details of her health battle in an emotional interview with People. Philipps said she is now grateful to be alive after doctors discovered a tumour in the frontal lobe of her brain despite her having no obvious warning signs. The tumour was found after Philipps underwent a full-body Prenuvo scan in February. She had initially considered cancelling the appointment, but her ex-husband, Marc Silverstein, encouraged her to go ahead with it. The timing was particularly emotional because her former Dawson’s Creek co-star James Van Der Beek had died shortly before the scan following his battle with cancer. Philipps recalled that she did not have typical symptoms associated with a brain tumour, such as seizures. She simply felt that something was telling her to get the scan. The examination eventually revealed a mass measuring around 2.6 centimetres in her brain. Doctors diagnosed her with a grade 2 oligodendroglioma, a rare and slow-growing type of brain tumour. Although the tumour is classified as malignant because of its potential to return over time, her medical team explained that this type has one of the more favourable prognoses among malignant gliomas. Early detection also allowed doctors to act before the condition became more serious. Following the diagnosis, Philipps underwent a major operation on March 2 to remove the tumour. She later faced another serious setback when a staphylococcus infection developed at the surgical site. The complication required a second operation to treat the infection and clean the affected area. The actress has described the entire experience as physically and emotionally overwhelming. During her initial conversation with her doctor, Philipps even managed to bring some humour into the frightening situation. She asked how quickly she could return to work after surgery and jokingly wondered whether her doctor could perform a brow lift while removing the mass from her frontal lobe. Despite everything she went through, Philipps was able to return to work after her recovery. She is continuing to undergo regular medical scans so doctors can monitor her condition and check for any possible recurrence. At present, she does not need chemotherapy or radiation treatment. Philipps has also spoken about the importance of listening to one’s instincts and being willing to seek medical answers even when something does not appear obviously wrong. Her decision to proceed with the scan ultimately led to the discovery of a tumour she did not know was there. For fans of Philipps and Van Der Beek, their connection goes back to Dawson’s Creek, the popular teen drama that aired from 1998 to 2003. Philipps joined the series in its later seasons as Audrey Liddell, while Van Der Beek played the title character, Dawson Leery. The two remained connected with their former co-stars even after the series ended. Looking ahead, Philipps is continuing her acting career. She is set to appear in Cupertino, a new CBS drama, while her other upcoming work includes the horror-comedy Horrified, featuring Julie Benz and Ron Perlman. After surviving such a difficult chapter, Philipps is now focusing on her recovery, her family and returning to work. Her story has also highlighted how unexpected medical discoveries can sometimes come from taking action even when there are no clear symptoms. By sharing her experience publicly, Philipps hopes to encourage people to pay attention to their bodies, ask questions and seek medical advice when something does not feel right. Her journey from an unexpected diagnosis to recovery has been difficult, but she says she is ultimately grateful for the chance to move forward.

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    Singapore offers $55,000 per child to tackle birth crisis

    Singapore has announced a major expansion of financial support for families as the city-state struggles with a record-low birth rate and a rapidly ageing population. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong unveiled the new measures during his annual National Day Rally speech, saying the government wants to make it easier for Singaporeans who wish to have children to start and raise families. Under the revised package, families will receive nearly S$70,000, equivalent to about US$55,150, in direct financial support for each Singaporean child up to the age of 17. The assistance includes a S$10,000 payment at birth, while another S$10,000 will be provided to help with further education. The government plans to distribute the financial support over a child’s early years rather than concentrating most of the assistance around birth. Singapore will also expand parental leave, particularly for families with more children. The government intends to cover a greater share of the costs associated with extended leave, reducing the financial burden on employers and working parents. Housing support is another part of the initiative. Authorities plan to make it easier for families with children to purchase their first homes through subsidised housing schemes. The measures come as Singapore’s fertility rate continues to fall. The country’s total fertility rate dropped to a record 0.87 children per woman last year, compared with 0.97 in 2024. The figure is far below the estimated replacement level of 2.1 needed to maintain a stable population without relying on immigration. The demographic decline is becoming an increasingly serious challenge for Singapore. Longer life expectancy combined with fewer births means the country is rapidly moving towards an older population. Singapore is expected to enter the United Nations’ category of a “super-aged” society this year, when more than 21 per cent of its population is aged 65 or above. The proportion is expected to increase further, with one in four Singaporeans projected to be aged 65 or older by 2030. Wong acknowledged that financial incentives alone may not reverse the trend. Many younger Singaporeans are postponing parenthood because of concerns about financial stability, housing, careers and the responsibilities associated with raising children. Others are choosing not to have children. The prime minister said the government must be realistic about the limits of its policies and warned that the fertility rate is likely to remain below replacement level. With fewer births, Singapore’s working-age population could shrink while the number of elderly citizens continues to rise. This could place greater pressure on the younger population to support healthcare, pensions and other social services.

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    Rs1.52 billion still unpaid by Chanar Sugar Mills,…

    LAHORE: Outstanding payments owed by M/s Chanar Sugar Mills Limited have reached approximately Rs1.518 billion, with liabilities accumulating across four crushing seasons, according to official data updated on August 24, 2026. The figures show that the amount determined by the Directorate General of Food/CCPb against the sugar mill for the crushing seasons from 2022-23 through 2025-26 totals Rs2.103 billion. Of this amount, around Rs1.518 billion remains unpaid. The latest data indicates that the largest outstanding liability relates to the 2025-26 crushing season. The mill has yet to clear Rs802.19 million determined for that season, representing the entire amount recorded against it. For the 2024-25 season, Rs588.14 million was determined, while approximately Rs341.94 million remains outstanding. Similarly, against Rs552.17 million determined for the 2023-24 season, around Rs347.63 million is still pending. The oldest outstanding amount relates to the 2022-23 crushing season. Against Rs160.25 million determined for that period, Rs26.73 million remains unpaid. The figures highlight the continuing issue of delayed payments within the sugar sector, where outstanding dues can create financial pressure for growers and other stakeholders dependent on timely settlements. The accumulation of unpaid liabilities across multiple crushing seasons has also raised concerns about the timely clearance of dues ahead of the next crushing cycle. Stakeholders have called for effective enforcement and prompt settlement of outstanding amounts to protect the interests of farmers and support the smooth functioning of the sugar industry. The latest official figures underline the scale of the pending liabilities and place renewed focus on the mechanisms available to authorities for ensuring that assessed payments are recovered within the prescribed timeframe.

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    SC summons Sindh IG over murder FIR delays

    The Supreme Court has summoned the Inspector General of Sindh Police over delays in registering murder cases. A bench of the Supreme Court heard a case concerning the alleged delay in the registration of murder FIRs. During the hearing, the court expressed serious concern over the police response to complaints and directed the Sindh police chief to appear personally at the next hearing. The court also summoned the Advocate General Sindh and the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Sukkur. All three officials have been directed to appear before the court at the next hearing and explain the situation regarding delays in registering criminal cases. Justice Hashim Kakar expressed strong displeasure over the performance of the Sindh police. He observed that the system of accountability and punishment appeared to be ineffective in the province. The judge said the police were allegedly allowing accused persons to escape accountability. He noted that in the case being heard by the court, the murder case was registered two days after the killing. Justice Kakar further observed that police in several cases appeared reluctant to register FIRs. He questioned how victims and their families could receive justice if cases were not registered promptly. The judge used strong remarks to highlight the seriousness of the situation and criticised what he viewed as shortcomings in the handling of murder complaints. Justice Salahuddin also expressed concern over the law-and-order situation in parts of Sindh. He specifically pointed to the conditions in Sukkur and Larkana, describing the situation there as particularly troubling. The court directed the relevant officials to appear personally and provide answers regarding the alleged delays and the overall performance of the police in registering murder cases. The Supreme Court subsequently adjourned further proceedings in the case until September 21. The summoned officials are expected to appear before the court on that date and respond to the concerns raised by the judges.