تازہ ترین

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    Balochistan attack: sessions judge Abdul Hakeem Ka…

    ByJustpaste.in

    District and Sessions Judge Abdul Hakeem Kakar and his security guard were killed in an armed attack while traveling toward Mastung from Quetta, officials confirmed on Thursday. According to officials, Judge Kakar was traveling with Additional Sessions Judge Tariq Lashari when unidentified armed men targeted their vehicles near Wali Khan crossing. The attack resulted in the deaths of Judge Kakar and his guard, while Judge Lashari and another person sustained injuries. Balochistan Home Department officials said the injured victims were shifted to a hospital in Mastung for medical treatment. Authorities have launched an investigation into the attack and are collecting evidence from the crime scene. Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti took notice of the incident and directed authorities to investigate all aspects of the attack. Officials said strict action would be taken if any negligence was found during security arrangements. The provincial government described the attack as a targeted assault against the judicial community. Officials said such incidents were aimed at creating fear and challenging the authority of state institutions. President Asif Ali Zardari strongly condemned the attack and expressed grief over the deaths of the judge and his guard. He said the sacrifices of those killed in such attacks would not go in vain and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to fighting terrorism. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also condemned the incident, saying such acts could not weaken the nation’s determination against terrorism. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari expressed solidarity with the victims’ families and vowed that those responsible would be brought to justice. The attack comes amid heightened security concerns in Balochistan, where several violent incidents have recently taken place. Just a day earlier, three people were killed and several others injured in an attack on a passenger bus in Mastung, while a bridge on the national highway was damaged in a separate incident. Security forces have intensified operations across the province following a rise in militant activities. Authorities say counterterrorism efforts are continuing to restore peace and prevent further attacks. The investigation into the killing of Judge Abdul Hakeem Kakar and his guard remains ongoing, with security agencies working to identify and arrest those responsible.

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    China’s Saindak copper mine in Pakistan faces su…

    ByJustpaste.in

    China’s long-running copper mining project in Pakistan is facing growing operational challenges as repeated militant attacks in Balochistan disrupt supply routes connected to the mine. The Saindak copper and gold mine, located in Balochistan’s Chagai district, is considered one of China’s oldest mining investments in Pakistan and remains its only major copper interest in the country. Analysts say ongoing security issues have created difficulties for transporting materials and maintaining regular operations. The attacks along key routes have raised concerns about what some analysts describe as an “economic blockade,” potentially affecting the movement of supplies required for mining activities and the shipment of copper produced at the site. Copper is a strategically important commodity for China, which is the world’s largest consumer of the metal due to its extensive manufacturing, energy, and technology industries. Any disruption to supply sources can create concerns for industries dependent on stable copper availability. The Saindak project has long been viewed as an important symbol of Pakistan-China economic cooperation. The mine has contributed to Pakistan’s mineral sector while providing China with access to copper resources. However, security challenges in Balochistan have repeatedly affected development projects and infrastructure networks. The province has witnessed several militant attacks targeting government installations, security forces, and economic projects. Officials and security agencies have increased efforts to protect strategic assets and transportation routes, but continued instability remains a major challenge for investors operating in the region. Experts say maintaining security around mining operations is essential not only for the continuity of the Saindak project but also for attracting future foreign investment in Pakistan’s mineral resources. As global demand for critical minerals continues to rise, the stability of resource-rich regions like Balochistan will remain a key factor in determining the future of mining cooperation between Pakistan and international partners.

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    PPP resents Punjab’s development says Uzma Bukha…

    ByJustpaste.in

      Lahore: Punjab Information Minister Uzma Bukhari has said that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) is fully aware of why the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) harbors resentment toward Punjab, adding that the province’s rapid development has become difficult for its political opponents to accept. Responding to recent statements made by PPP spokespersons in Lahore, Bukhari said that the Punjab government is utilizing public funds for the welfare and development of the people of Punjab, which, according to her, is the real source of the PPP’s criticism. She remarked that the “Nawabs of Larkana” are unable to digest the fact that Punjab’s resources are being spent on improving the lives of its citizens. The Punjab information minister also addressed PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, urging him to refrain from promoting what she described as politics of hatred and division. She said that as the chairman of a major political party, Bilawal should be mindful of the responsibilities associated with his position and avoid making statements that could deepen political polarization. Bukhari questioned why PPP representatives from Sindh rarely highlight the performance of their own provincial government. Instead of criticizing Punjab, she suggested, they should focus on informing the public about the achievements and governance record of the Sindh administration, which has remained under PPP leadership for several years. Highlighting the performance of the Punjab government, Bukhari said that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has ensured that development projects and public resources are distributed across the province without discrimination. According to her, the government has extended development initiatives from Attock in northern Punjab to Rahim Yar Khan in the south, and from Rawalpindi to Vehari, ensuring that all regions benefit equally from provincial resources. She stated that the current administration is committed to improving public services, infrastructure, and the overall quality of life for people across Punjab. Bukhari added that those who are envious of Punjab’s progress and prosperity would continue to criticize, but such criticism would not hinder the government’s commitment to development.   Referring to the PPP’s political standing in Punjab, Bukhari claimed that the party currently ranks fourth in terms of public support in the province. She said this was not the fault of the PML-N but rather a reflection of the people’s confidence in the performance of the provincial government. According to her, Punjab’s residents continue to express satisfaction with the governance and development initiatives undertaken by the PML-N administration. In her remarks, Bukhari also referred to Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, saying that when he visited Lahore to learn from the city’s governance and development model, the Punjab government welcomed him openly. She added that the same level of development, progress, and prosperity witnessed in Punjab should also be achieved in Sindh for the benefit of its people. The minister concluded by reaffirming that the Punjab government remains focused on serving the public through transparent governance and equitable development. She maintained that political criticism would not distract the administration from its objective of ensuring sustained progress and improving living standards throughout the province.

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    Sindh Cabinet approves increase in conveyance allo…

    ByJustpaste.in

      Karachi: Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon announced that the Sindh Cabinet has approved an increase in the conveyance allowance for provincial government employees. The revised allowance will apply to employees in Grades 1 to 16, providing financial relief in light of rising transportation costs. Addressing a press conference following the Sindh Cabinet meeting, Memon said the cabinet had taken several important decisions covering governance, public welfare, economic development, and disaster preparedness. He stated that the meeting approved a six-month extension of the health insurance program for employees working at the Governor House and Chief Minister House to ensure continued access to medical facilities. The provincial minister further announced the establishment of multiple task forces to strengthen governance in key sectors. According to him, specialized task forces have been formed to focus on the economy, investment, finance, and water resources. In addition, the cabinet approved the creation of dedicated task forces on climate change and artificial intelligence to address emerging challenges and explore opportunities for technological and environmental development in the province. Memon also revealed that the Sindh Cabinet has approved a strict crackdown against the production, sale, and distribution of gutka and mainpuri, both of which are widely consumed forms of smokeless tobacco. He said the Department of Narcotics Control would be responsible for taking legal action against those involved in the illegal trade of these products. He added that the provincial government is also working on new legislation to further strengthen enforcement and curb the menace of hazardous tobacco products. Speaking about the agriculture sector, Memon emphasized that the Sindh government does not want farmers to suffer losses. He claimed that existing laws prohibit restrictions on the transportation of wheat, but alleged that Punjab has blocked the movement of wheat by sealing border points. He condemned the restrictions, arguing that they were negatively affecting the free movement of agricultural produce. He further stated that this year’s wheat harvest had been exceptionally good but acknowledged that some individuals in Sindh had engaged in wheat hoarding. To stabilize wheat supplies and discourage hoarding, Memon announced that the Sindh government plans to import 500,000 metric tons of wheat. He added that the province would also purchase wheat from the Pakistan Agricultural Storage and Services Corporation (PASSCO). According to him, these measures would ensure sufficient wheat availability in the market while causing significant financial losses to those involved in hoarding. The minister also announced plans to establish a 400-acre truck terminal on Karachi’s Northern Bypass. He said the project would improve transport infrastructure, facilitate logistics operations, and help reduce traffic congestion within the city.   Highlighting preparations for the ongoing monsoon season, Memon said that all relevant provincial departments and emergency response agencies had been placed on high alert. Referring to recent heavy rains across the country, he expressed concern over the loss of lives in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab, claiming that these incidents had not received adequate attention in sections of the media. He stated that both urban and rural areas of Punjab had been severely affected by heavy rainfall and that widespread destruction had occurred across the country due to the ongoing monsoon. According to Memon, 17 people lost their lives in rain-related incidents in Punjab, while 20 people were killed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Commenting on the ongoing elections in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Memon alleged that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) was violating the election code of conduct during the electoral process. He urged all political parties to respect democratic principles and ensure that the elections are conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner.

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    PAC meeting reveals Rs1.06 billion embezzlement

    ByJustpaste.in

      Islamabad: A meeting of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) revealed a major financial irregularity involving the Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (HESCO), where more than Rs1.06 billion was allegedly embezzled through the payment of salaries to ghost employees and retired staff. The disclosure was made during the committee’s review of an audit report highlighting serious financial mismanagement within the power distribution company. According to the audit findings, salaries continued to be issued in the names of non-existent employees as well as individuals who had already retired from service, resulting in a massive loss to the national exchequer. The audit report stated that the alleged embezzlement was carried out through the collusion of officials from HESCO’s Drawing and Disbursing Officer (DDO) office, Executive Engineer (XEN) office, and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) office. The report indicated that weaknesses in internal financial controls and payroll monitoring allowed the irregular payments to continue for an extended period without detection. During the PAC meeting, members expressed serious concern over the scale of the fraud and questioned how such a significant amount of public money could be misappropriated without timely intervention. The committee emphasized the need for stronger financial oversight, transparent payroll management, and strict accountability to prevent similar incidents in the future. Responding to the audit observations, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of HESCO informed the committee that disciplinary action had already been taken against officials found responsible for the irregularities. According to the CEO, four employees have been dismissed from service, including three accounts officers and one finance officer. He stated that the company has adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption and financial misconduct and is cooperating fully with the relevant authorities. Officials from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) also briefed the committee on the progress of the criminal investigation. They informed lawmakers that five criminal cases had been registered in connection with the fraud. According to the FIA, more than 130 individuals were allegedly involved in the scam, either directly or indirectly, making it one of the largest payroll fraud cases uncovered in a public sector utility. Despite the registration of multiple cases, the FIA reported that only Rs130 million has been recovered so far, a small portion of the total amount allegedly embezzled. Investigators said efforts are continuing to trace the remaining funds, identify all those responsible, and recover the outstanding amount through legal proceedings. The PAC directed the relevant authorities to expedite the investigation and ensure that all individuals involved are brought to justice, regardless of their position or influence. Committee members stressed that those responsible for the misuse of public funds must be held accountable to restore public confidence in government institutions. The revelations have once again highlighted the need for comprehensive reforms in payroll management, financial auditing, and internal accountability mechanisms within state-owned organizations. The committee reiterated that transparent governance and effective oversight are essential to preventing corruption and safeguarding public resources from financial abuse.

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    Vijay’s last film, “Jana Nayagan” releases amid massive fan celebrations

    ByJustpaste.in

    Vijay’s swansong film, Jana Nayagan, has finally arrived in theatres, marking what many are calling the actor’s farewell to the big screen as he turns his full attention to his political career. The film, which now carries extra weight given Vijay’s current role as Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister, has generated the kind of anticipation only a true superstar exit could produce. The journey to this release was nowhere near smooth. Jana Nayagan was originally slated for a January debut, but ran into a roadblock with the CBFC over its certification, pushing the launch back by months. Now that the film has cleared that hurdle and secured its certificate, the excitement has spilled out everywhere. Tamil Nadu’s fan culture came out in full force. Outside numerous theatres, supporters erected giant cutouts of Vijay, transforming entrances into shrines of celebration. The scenes were not quiet either, fireworks lit up the skies and drummers kept the energy pumping as crowds gathered ahead of screenings. At Rohini Theatre, devotion took a more traditional turn. Fans performed an aarti ceremony in front of Vijay’s posters just moments before the first show rolled, treating the release less like a movie premiere and more like a sacred occasion. Meanwhile, according to a report from Gulf News, the celebrations in Tirunelveli had their own flavor entirely. Crowds assembled outside Muthuram Multiplex where organizers had set up a full DJ rig, turning the theatre’s exterior into an impromptu dance floor. The buzz was not limited to fans only. Fellow actors made it a point to be present for this milestone screening. Keerthy Suresh and Trisha Krishnan were both spotted arriving at the theatre shortly before showtime, joining the wave of well-wishers eager to witness Vijay’s on-screen moment one final time. Altogether, the release has turned into something far bigger than a typical movie opening. It feels like part fan tribute, part cultural event, and part send-off for an actor stepping fully into public office. Whether it is the drumbeats outside Tamil Nadu cinemas, the DJ sets in Tirunelveli, or the aarti rituals in Chennai, the message from fans is clear, this is not just another release, it is the closing chapter of a cinematic era, and they were not going to let it pass quietly.

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    Punjab launches drone flood surveillance

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Punjab government has introduced drone-based monitoring for the first time to strengthen its flood management system and improve early warning capabilities across the province. The new initiative is aimed at detecting flood surges before they reach populated areas, allowing authorities to take timely preventive measures and reduce the risk of damage to lives, property and infrastructure. According to a spokesperson for the Punjab government, the drone surveillance programme has been launched on the directions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The operation covers all major barrages, rivers and headworks in Punjab. Officials are using drones to monitor water levels, river flow and changing conditions in real time. The spokesperson said the technology will help authorities identify any sudden increase in water flow and provide advance warnings to disaster management agencies. This will improve emergency planning and allow local administrations to respond more quickly if flood conditions develop. As part of the monitoring campaign, drones surveyed Trimmu Barrage, where water levels were found to be within the normal range. Drone inspections were also carried out along the Ravi and Sutlej rivers in Pakpattan. Officials reported that water levels in both rivers remained stable and did not pose any immediate threat. Further drone surveillance was conducted at Talibwala Bridge over the Chenab River in Sargodha. Authorities observed that the river’s flow was normal. Similar monitoring was also carried out at Head Sidhnai, where officials reviewed water movement and overall river conditions through aerial imaging. At Head Marala, drones recorded a water flow of 174,000 cusecs. Authorities also monitored water conditions at Rasul Barrage in Mandi Bahauddin to assess the overall flood situation in the region. The provincial government said drone technology will play a key role in modernising Punjab’s flood monitoring system. Real-time aerial surveillance will help officials detect changes in river conditions more accurately and improve coordination among disaster response agencies.

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    Indian activist Sonam Wangchuk ends 26-day hunger strike

    ByJustpaste.in

    Indian environmentalist and social activist Sonam Wangchuk has ended his 26-day hunger strike after holding discussions over the ongoing nationwide protests against alleged examination paper leaks. However, demonstrations demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan are continuing across India. Wangchuk announced his decision through a post on social media, saying he ended the fast after lengthy negotiations and concerns that the situation could lead to further violence. He said he would soon explain the conditions that led to his decision in a separate video message. The 59-year-old activist had been fasting since June 28 in support of a youth-led protest movement that accuses the government of failing to prevent repeated examination paper leaks. Protesters have demanded the resignation of the education minister after alleged leaks in medical college entrance examinations forced millions of students to retake the tests. Shortly before Wangchuk’s announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation and pledged stronger legal action against those responsible for examination fraud. He described the paper leak scandal as a serious issue affecting the future of hundreds of thousands of students and said the government would introduce tougher legislation to combat such crimes. Modi also announced plans to speed up court proceedings against those involved in examination fraud, adding that the issue would be discussed by the federal cabinet. While outlining the government’s response, he did not comment on demands for the education minister’s resignation. Despite Wangchuk ending his fast, thousands of protesters continue to gather at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar and in several other cities. Demonstrators say they will maintain their peaceful campaign until the education minister steps down and comprehensive reforms are introduced to restore transparency and fairness in India’s examination system. The protests have become one of the biggest public challenges faced by Prime Minister Modi’s government since beginning its third term. Tensions have risen in recent days after clashes between police and protesters. Security forces used tear gas and batons to stop demonstrators attempting to march towards parliament, leading to widespread criticism from rights organisations over the handling of the protests.

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    Eight Muslim nations condemn Al-Aqsa incursion

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    Eight Arab and Muslim-majority countries have jointly condemned the large-scale entry of Israeli settlers and far-right political figures into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem, describing the incident as a serious provocation that threatens regional stability and religious harmony. In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and the United Arab Emirates expressed deep concern over the incident. They said the entry of thousands of Israeli settlers into the mosque compound, accompanied by far-right Israeli ministers and protected by Israeli security forces, violated the longstanding historical and legal status of the holy site. The ministers warned that such actions could inflame tensions, encourage extremism and undermine international efforts aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace based on a two-state solution. They stressed that the current status of Jerusalem’s religious sites must be respected and preserved. According to Palestinian officials, more than 4,200 Israeli settlers entered the Al-Aqsa compound during the Jewish religious observance of Tisha B’Av, making it one of the largest such incursions this year. Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir also visited the site under heavy police protection. Palestinian authorities said Israeli security forces imposed strict restrictions on access to the mosque, preventing many Palestinian worshippers and students from entering the compound. They also alleged that several people were assaulted during the operation. The eight countries called on Israel to immediately remove restrictions on access to Al-Aqsa Mosque and respect the existing arrangements governing the site. They reaffirmed that the Islamic and Christian holy places in Jerusalem must be protected and that any unilateral measures altering their status are unacceptable. The joint statement also urged the international community to take a firm position against actions that violate the sanctity of religious sites and to press for an end to measures that could further escalate tensions in the occupied city. Al-Aqsa Mosque is one of Islam’s holiest sites and is administered by the Jerusalem Islamic Waqf under a long-standing arrangement. The compound remains one of the most sensitive religious and political flashpoints in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with repeated incidents at the site often triggering wider regional tensions.

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    US strikes Iran for 13th night as Trump escalates threats

    ByJustpaste.in

    The United States carried out fresh air strikes on Iran for the 13th consecutive night, further intensifying the military confrontation between the two countries. The latest attacks came as US President Donald Trump warned that Washington is prepared to launch even larger military operations if Iran continues targeting American interests and regional allies. According to the US military, the strikes targeted facilities linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Officials said the operation was intended to reduce Iran’s military capabilities and protect commercial shipping routes and US forces operating in the Middle East. Reports from Iran said explosions were heard in several parts of the country. Blasts were reported on Qeshm Island as well as in Khuzestan province. Missile strikes were also reported in the cities of Andimeshk and Omidiyeh. In the southern port city of Bandar Abbas, local media reported that attacks on a residential neighbourhood injured at least two civilians. Speaking earlier, President Trump said he was considering the largest military operation against Iran since the conflict began. He stated that preparations were complete and that a final decision could be taken soon if Iran continued its attacks on US allies and military assets in the region. The latest American strikes followed another round of Iranian missile and drone attacks on Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan. Iranian military officials said the attacks targeted US military facilities stationed in those countries. Tehran described the strikes as retaliation for continued US attacks on Iranian territory and infrastructure. Iran also claimed responsibility for striking a telecommunications tower in Kuwait. Iranian officials said the attack was carried out in response to previous US strikes on communication facilities inside Iran. Kuwaiti authorities later confirmed that hostile drones also targeted the Abdali border crossing with Iraq, raising security concerns along the frontier. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that the country would continue responding to every attack under an “eye for an eye” policy. Military officials said Iran’s retaliatory operations would continue for as long as American forces targeted Iranian infrastructure and coastal areas. The conflict has now spread beyond Iran and the United States, increasing fears of a wider regional war. Yemen’s Houthi movement claimed responsibility for attacks on two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea. The group warned that additional energy infrastructure could also become a target if the conflict continues. The growing violence has disrupted security across key maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, both of which are among the world’s most important oil shipping corridors. Continued attacks have increased risks to commercial shipping and raised concerns over global energy supplies. The worsening conflict has also pushed international oil prices above $100 per barrel, reflecting fears of prolonged supply disruptions. Analysts warned that further escalation could place additional pressure on the global economy by increasing fuel prices, disrupting trade and creating greater uncertainty in international energy markets.