تازہ ترین

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    UN urges evacuation of 6,000 sailors stranded in S…

    ByJustpaste.in

    GENEVA: The United Nations has called for the immediate evacuation and repatriation of nearly 6,000 sailors stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that the escalating conflict in the Middle East is placing thousands of civilian seafarers in increasing danger. Speaking in Geneva, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk, through his spokesperson Shabia Mantoo, urged all parties involved in the conflict to prioritize the safety of commercial shipping crews caught in the crisis. “Parties to the conflict should urgently work to facilitate safe passage for stranded seafarers to safely evacuate and disembark, as well as ensure the delivery of critical supplies,” Mantoo told reporters, highlighting the growing humanitarian concerns in one of the world’s most strategically important waterways. The Strait of Hormuz serves as a vital global shipping route, handling a significant portion of the world’s oil exports. However, escalating military tensions have disrupted maritime traffic, leaving thousands of sailors aboard commercial vessels unable to safely continue their journeys or return home. The UN warned that many crews have remained at sea for extended periods, facing uncertainty over security conditions while access to food, medical assistance, and other essential supplies becomes increasingly challenging. Human rights officials stressed that civilian seafarers should not become casualties of geopolitical conflicts and called on all sides to respect international humanitarian and maritime law by ensuring safe navigation and humanitarian access. Maritime experts say prolonged disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could have far-reaching consequences beyond the humanitarian crisis, affecting global energy supplies, international trade, and shipping costs. The UN’s appeal comes as diplomatic efforts continue to prevent further escalation in the region. While governments work to ease tensions, the world body has urged immediate action to protect the thousands of sailors still stranded at sea, emphasizing that humanitarian needs must remain a priority regardless of the ongoing conflict.

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    Ahaan Panday, Sharvari film gets release date

    ByJustpaste.in

    A major update has emerged about Ahaan Panday and Sharvari’s upcoming untitled film with director Ali Abbas Zafar. Yash Raj Films has officially announced that the romantic action entertainer will hit cinemas on March 26, 2027, during the Good Friday weekend, giving fans a release date for one of Bollywood’s most anticipated upcoming projects. The film marks the first on-screen collaboration between Ahaan Panday and Sharvari. Directed by Ali Abbas Zafar and backed by Aditya Chopra under the Yash Raj Films banner, the project has been generating significant buzz since it went on floors earlier this year. The announcement has further heightened expectations following Ahaan’s successful debut and Sharvari’s growing popularity in the industry. Apart from Ahaan and Sharvari, the film also features Bobby Deol and Aaishvary Thackeray in pivotal roles. According to reports, the project is a romantic action drama that blends high-octane action sequences with an emotional love story. Much of the film has been shot across the United Kingdom, with the makers aiming to deliver a visually grand cinematic experience. The announcement comes at a time when Ahaan Panday’s career is receiving widespread attention after the success of Saiyaara. Industry insiders believe Yash Raj Films is positioning the young actor as one of its next leading stars, with the Ali Abbas Zafar directorial expected to further establish him in Bollywood. Sharvari, meanwhile, continues to strengthen her impressive film lineup. The actress has earned praise for her recent performances and is currently attached to several major productions. Her pairing with Ahaan has already sparked curiosity among moviegoers, with many eager to see the fresh on-screen chemistry between the two stars. For Ali Abbas Zafar, the film marks his reunion with Yash Raj Films after years. The filmmaker previously delivered successful films for the studio and is returning with another large-scale commercial entertainer. Fans are expecting the director’s signature blend of action, romance and emotionally driven storytelling. The official release date announcement has been welcomed enthusiastically on social media, with fans expressing excitement about the cast and the collaboration between Yash Raj Films and Ali Abbas Zafar. Although the film’s title remains under wraps, the latest update confirms that audiences can expect to see Ahaan Panday and Sharvari together on the big screen on March 26, 2027, making it one of the most awaited Bollywood releases of the year.

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    Cambridge paper leak case: students hand over 17 papers evidence to NCCIA, but investigation still not complete

    ByJustpaste.in

    Islamabad: The investigation into the alleged Cambridge A Level and O Level paper leaks has drawn fresh criticism after affected students claimed that they provided complete evidence, forensic details and technical assistance to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), but the inquiry remains incomplete. Students associated with the Accountability4Cambridge movement said they made every possible effort to help NCCIA investigate the case and submitted evidence related to 17 leaked examination components. They claimed they even conducted their own forensic checks and prepared detailed records before handing them over to authorities. The students said their main demand was a quick investigation because their future depends on the final results. They wanted the matter resolved before results were announced so that affected students could receive relief if unfair practices had affected their grades. However, according to the students, NCCIA has still not completed its investigation. They claimed that the investigation officer assigned to the case has gone on training, causing further delay. The Accountability4Cambridge representatives said they submitted a complete evidence package to NCCIA, including 44 exhibits with verification details. They said the material was prepared carefully to help investigators identify where the papers were leaked and who was involved. The students said they tracked the movement of leaked papers and provided information about possible sources, online groups and communication channels where the leaked material was shared. Their evidence included details about WhatsApp numbers, Telegram groups and payment methods allegedly used to purchase the leaked papers. The students submitted the evidence directly to NCCIA’s forensic department and expected progress within days, but they were later informed that the assigned official was unavailable because he had gone for training. The controversy started after students alleged that Cambridge examination papers reached some candidates before the official exams, creating an unfair advantage for those who accessed them early. According to Accountability4Cambridge, around 17 examination components were leaked during the June 2026 examination series. They said Cambridge International acknowledged four of these components, while the remaining cases were still disputed. Students argued that a leaked paper could damage the grades of honest candidates because grade boundaries may change when some students score unusually high marks after seeing questions in advance. They said a student who worked honestly could lose university opportunities if their grades dropped because of unfair competition. The students also raised concerns about delays in the official response. The Senate Standing Committee on Federal Education had directed NCCIA to provide findings by July 21, 2026, but the deadline passed without a final report being submitted. The group said only an informal indication was given that findings would come later, while students continued waiting for answers. During their efforts, students met with various institutions, including the IBCC, Senate committees and NCCIA officials, and prepared documentation to support their claims. They said the evidence was not based only on screenshots but included detailed verification methods such as timestamps, recordings and technical information to support the authenticity of the leaked material. The students said they wanted authorities to identify the people responsible and ensure accountability instead of allowing the matter to continue without a clear conclusion. They also demanded stronger action from Cambridge, including transparency regarding how the leaks happened, where they originated and what action was taken against those involved. The students further demanded reforms in the examination system, including better protection of papers, separate arrangements for Pakistan and measures to prevent future leaks. They warned that the issue concerned not only marks but also the future of thousands of students who depend on Cambridge results for university admissions in Pakistan and abroad.

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    Fact check: SRK never backed Jantar Mantar protest

    ByJustpaste.in

    A social media claim suggesting that Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan publicly backed the ongoing student demonstrations at Jantar Mantar in Delhi has been found to be untrue, following verification against his official accounts. A screenshot circulating widely online alleged that the actor had voiced solidarity with the protesting students. The post claimed he described himself as standing behind them “emotionally and morally.” The image spread rapidly, and a large number of social media users took it at face value, assuming Khan had genuinely made a public statement on the matter. But a closer look at his verified profiles told a different story. Neither his official Instagram nor his X account contained any post referencing the protest. According to various reports, the mix-up likely originated from a fan-run account operating under his name, which had been posting updates related to the demonstrations. A number of users apparently mistook these fan posts for statements coming directly from the actor himself. As the fake screenshot kept circulating, other users began flagging it as inauthentic. Comments pushing back on the claim appeared across social platforms. One person simply labeled it “Fake.” Another echoed the sentiment, writing, “This is fake.” A third user challenged those sharing it, asking why they were “spreading fake news” when the actor “has not posted anything.” Yet another dismissed it in Hindi, writing “Fake hai.” For his part, Shah Rukh Khan has stayed silent on the protest altogether. His attention, based on available reports, remains directed toward his upcoming release, ‘King’, rather than commentary on the demonstrations. The protests themselves have drawn considerable attention, pulling in thousands of participants. The gathering followed the larger ‘Chalo Sansad’ march, which appears to have been a catalyst for the broader movement. At this point, there is no confirmed or verified statement from Shah Rukh Khan addressing the protest in any capacity. Until his official channels indicate otherwise, claims attributing such remarks to him should be treated as unverified and, based on current evidence, false.

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    Two officials martyred in Kohat terror attack

    ByJustpaste.in

    Two government officials were martyred and another was seriously injured after terrorists attacked a government vehicle at a joint security check post near the Kohat Toll Plaza on the Indus Highway late Thursday night, officials said. According to police, unidentified armed men opened fire on a customs enforcement vehicle that was carrying out routine anti-smuggling duties at the joint check post. The intense firing caused the vehicle to catch fire, resulting in heavy damage. The officials martyred in the attack were identified as Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Sajjad-ul-Islam of the Kohat Excise Office and Customs Enforcement Constable Jawad Ahmed of the Peshawar Collectorate. Both officers lost their lives while performing their official duties. Another Customs official, Basirullah, suffered serious injuries during the attack. Rescue teams reached the scene shortly after receiving an emergency call, provided first aid and shifted the injured official to the District Headquarters Hospital in Kohat for further treatment. Rescue personnel also recovered the body of the customs constable from the burnt government vehicle, while firefighters extinguished the blaze to prevent it from spreading further. Soon after the incident, police and security forces cordoned off the area and launched a search operation to trace the attackers. Authorities have started an investigation to determine how the attack was carried out and identify those responsible. Officials said the attack created panic in the area, prompting additional security measures along the highway and surrounding locations. Funeral prayers for ASI Sajjad-ul-Islam were offered near his residence in Kohat. Senior officials from the Excise Department, law enforcement agencies and other government institutions attended the funeral and paid tribute to his services. The Excise Department described him as a dedicated and professional officer who served the department with commitment and courage. Officials expressed solidarity with his family and prayed for the elevation of his rank. Funeral prayers for Customs Constable Jawad Ahmed were also offered at the Custom House in Peshawar. Customs officials, colleagues and family members attended the funeral to pay their final respects. The Customs Department expressed deep sorrow over the loss of its officer, stating that he embraced martyrdom while carrying out his national duty. The department honoured his sacrifice and extended condolences to his family. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the terrorist attack and expressed deep grief over the martyrdom of the two officials. He offered condolences to their families, prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured officer and directed the relevant authorities to arrest those behind the attack. The prime minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating terrorism, saying operations against militant groups would continue until peace and stability are fully restored across the country.

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    Pakistan to import 1 million tons of wheat to meet…

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: The federal government has decided to immediately import one million tons of wheat to ensure an uninterrupted supply across the country and meet the growing demand of the provinces. The decision was reached after detailed consultations between the federal government and provincial authorities on wheat availability, pricing, and supply. During the meeting, participants agreed that wheat stocks currently held by the Pakistan Agricultural Storage and Services Corporation (PASSCO) would be released without delay to address the immediate requirements of the provinces. Officials noted that while PASSCO’s existing reserves would help ease the short-term situation, the available stocks are insufficient to meet the combined demand of all provinces. To bridge the gap and maintain market stability, the government approved the immediate import of one million tons of wheat. Federal Minister for National Food Security Rana Tanveer Hussain said the government remains committed to ensuring the availability of affordable, high-quality wheat for consumers. He stated that PASSCO’s wheat reserves would be distributed according to provincial needs, while the planned imports would help fulfill the country’s overall requirements and prevent supply disruptions. The minister added that the move is aimed at maintaining stable wheat supplies, supporting provincial food security, and preventing unnecessary fluctuations in the domestic market.

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    Dar, Iran FM reaffirm diplomatic cooperation

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    Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers’ meeting, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and promoting peace through diplomacy. During the meeting, the two foreign ministers reviewed the evolving regional situation, particularly rising tensions in the Middle East. They discussed recent developments affecting regional security and agreed that continued dialogue, restraint and diplomatic engagement remain the most effective path toward achieving lasting peace and stability. Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining close and friendly relations with Iran. He stressed the importance of avoiding further escalation and called on all parties to resolve differences through peaceful negotiations. He also highlighted the need to build upon the understandings reached under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in June 2026, which aimed to encourage diplomatic engagement and reduce regional tensions. The Pakistani foreign minister expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in the region and said cooperation among neighbouring countries is essential to preserve peace, protect economic interests and ensure regional stability. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions and promote constructive dialogue. He thanked Pakistan for its continued support in regional peace initiatives and acknowledged Islamabad’s role in facilitating the safe return of Iranian fishermen and crew members, including individuals whose vessels had been intercepted during recent regional tensions. Both leaders agreed to maintain close coordination and regular consultations on regional and international issues of mutual interest. They reiterated their shared commitment to strengthening cooperation for peace, security and prosperity in the region. The meeting took place as tensions between the United States and Iran continue to escalate. Recent military exchanges have increased concerns about wider instability in the Middle East, with continued air strikes and retaliatory actions raising fears of a broader regional conflict. The situation has also affected key international shipping routes, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, increasing concerns over global energy supplies and international trade. The uncertainty has contributed to higher oil prices and renewed fears about the impact on the global economy. In recent days, US President Donald Trump warned of stronger military action against Iran following attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea. Iranian officials, however, have continued to reject the accusations and have criticised recent US policies, including proposals concerning frozen Iranian assets. Against this backdrop, Pakistan has continued to advocate dialogue and diplomacy as the only sustainable solution to regional disputes. Pakistani officials maintain that peaceful engagement remains essential to preventing further escalation and ensuring long-term stability across the Middle East.

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    Bangladesh President Shahabuddin resigns, cites serious health issues

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    Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin has resigned from office after citing serious health concerns that he said were preventing him from fulfilling his constitutional responsibilities. The 76-year-old announced that he had recently been diagnosed with autonomic neuropathy, a medical condition that occasionally causes sudden loss of consciousness. He said continuing in office had become increasingly difficult because of his health and that stepping down was in the country’s best interest. Shahabuddin had been serving as Bangladesh’s president since April 2023. While the presidency is largely a ceremonial position, the office plays an important constitutional role as the country’s head of state and commander-in-chief of the armed forces. Following his resignation, the Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad (Parliament) will assume the responsibilities of acting president until parliament elects a new head of state under constitutional procedures. His resignation comes at a crucial time for Bangladesh, which has undergone major political changes since the 2024 student-led uprising that led to the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from power. The country’s political landscape has since shifted significantly, with the Awami League facing legal restrictions and many of its leaders confronting legal challenges or remaining out of public view. Shahabuddin had been elected president in 2023 with the backing of the Awami League. His departure means another major political figure associated with the former ruling party has left public office during Bangladesh’s ongoing political transition. The government is now expected to begin the constitutional process of electing a new president. Until then, the acting president will perform all official duties to ensure the continuity of state affairs. Political observers say the selection of Bangladesh’s next president will be closely watched, as it comes during a period of political uncertainty and institutional reforms. The new appointment is expected to play an important symbolic role as the country prepares for future political and constitutional developments. In his resignation statement, Shahabuddin thanked the people of Bangladesh for their trust and support during his tenure. He expressed hope that the country would continue on a path of peace, democratic stability and economic progress despite the current political challenges.

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    Rs19,000 billion federal spending sparks Senate de…

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    Islamabad: A Senate committee has raised serious questions over the functioning of the Council of Common Interests (CCI), warning that constitutional powers given to provinces after the 18th Amendment are being weakened through the revival of federal ministries on devolved subjects. The Senate Standing Committee on Devolution expressed concern that ministries related to education, health, agriculture, food security, climate change and other provincial matters were recreated at the federal level despite their transfer to provinces under the constitutional process. The committee questioned why federal institutions were continuing to handle matters that were supposed to belong to provinces after the 18th Constitutional Amendment, calling for a review of the entire system. The meeting was held at Parliament House, Islamabad, where Senator Zamir Hussain Ghumro presided over the session. Senators Poonjo Bheel and Jan Muhammad Buledi also attended the meeting. Senator Ghumro said that under the 18th Amendment, a detailed process was completed in 2010 and 2011 to transfer powers from the federal government to provinces. He explained that notifications issued on December 2, 2010, April 15, 2011, and June 29, 2011 resulted in the devolution of 17 ministries dealing with subjects that were shifted to provincial control. According to Senator Ghumro, the recreation of ministries after June 30, 2011, on subjects already transferred to provinces was against the spirit of the Constitution. He specifically pointed towards areas including education, health, national food security, culture, climate change, housing, social initiatives, EOBI, Evacuee Trust matters and Zakat and Ushr related functions. The senator argued that creating federal structures for provincial subjects has increased government expenses at a time when Pakistan is facing financial pressure. He claimed that federal government expenditure has increased to around Rs19,000 billion, while the country’s total tax and non tax revenue stands near Rs20,000 billion. Senator Ghumro said that apart from defence requirements due to security challenges, other federal ministries should have limited budgets according to constitutional responsibilities. He suggested that reducing unnecessary federal administrative structures could save around Rs5,000 to Rs6,000 billion and help reduce dependence on foreign loans. The committee also raised concerns about the ineffective role of the Council of Common Interests, a constitutional body responsible for resolving issues between the federation and provinces. Senator Ghumro said the CCI’s permanent secretariat was not functioning effectively and stressed that the institution must be strengthened to protect provincial rights. The committee decided to form a subcommittee to examine alleged violations related to the implementation of the 18th Amendment, including the revival of ministries and the role of the CCI. Senator Poonjo Bheel said that ministries created on devolved subjects should be abolished because the matter had already been settled through the constitutional process. Senator Jan Muhammad Buledi said the subcommittee should not only review the recreated ministries but also examine why the CCI had become ineffective despite having an important constitutional role. The committee also directed the Establishment Division to avoid making appointments in departments dealing with devolved subjects and ensure that provincial representation is protected in government appointments and promotions. Officials were asked to provide details of appointments in different grades within two weeks and submit a compliance report within 15 days. It emphasized that the federal government should support provinces rather than reduce their constitutional benefits. The committee also reviewed the issue of the Rs46 billion allocation for Quaid-e-Azam’s Mausoleum, which was not released last year and was reportedly transferred to another ministry. The committee directed authorities to provide monthly progress reports regarding the development and maintenance of Mazar-e-Quaid. The committee further sought details about the tenure of federal secretaries and directed the Establishment Division to submit complete records.

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    PMD issues nationwide monsoon rain alert

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    The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast widespread monsoon rains, thunderstorms and strong winds across most parts of the country from July 24 to July 28, warning that heavy rainfall could trigger urban flooding and disrupt normal life in several regions. According to the latest weather advisory, a low-pressure system over southwest Rajasthan and adjoining areas is drawing strong monsoon currents into Pakistan. Under its influence, rain of varying intensity is expected across Sindh, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir during the next few days. In Sindh, moderate to heavy rain is expected in Tharparkar, Umerkot, Mirpurkhas, Badin, Sanghar, Hyderabad, Matiari, Jamshoro, Tando Allahyar, Tando Muhammad Khan, Shaheed Benazirabad, Sukkur, Larkana, Khairpur, Jacobabad, Kashmore, Shikarpur and Thatta. Karachi is also likely to receive light rain and cloudy weather during the forecast period. In Punjab, rain accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds is expected in Lahore, Sheikhupura, Okara, Sahiwal, Pakpattan, Vehari, Khanewal, Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, Muzaffargarh, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Rahim Yar Khan, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Murree and several nearby districts. Some places may experience heavy downpours. The weather department has also predicted rain in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, Swat, Chitral, Dir, Malakand, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Haripur, Mardan, Nowshera, Charsadda, Kohat, Bannu, Dera Ismail Khan, Tank, Lakki Marwat and other districts until July 27. In Balochistan, rainfall is expected in Zhob, Sherani, Loralai, Kohlu, Sibbi, Naseerabad, Jhal Magsi, Barkhan, Dera Bugti, Khuzdar and surrounding areas. Isolated heavy rainfall is also possible in some locations. The forecast further includes rain and thunderstorms in Gilgit-Baltistan, particularly in Gilgit, Hunza, Skardu, Diamer, Ghizer, Ghanche and Astore. Similar weather conditions are expected in Azad Kashmir, including Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Rawalakot, Bagh, Poonch, Mirpur, Kotli and nearby areas. The PMD has warned that heavy rainfall may lead to urban flooding in cities including Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Multan, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Mirpurkhas, Thatta, Badin and several other low-lying areas. Strong winds and lightning may also damage weak buildings, electric poles, trees and temporary structures. Tourists travelling to mountainous regions have been advised to remain cautious due to the risk of slippery roads, flash floods and landslides. Farmers have also been urged to plan agricultural activities carefully and take necessary measures to protect standing crops and livestock from adverse weather. Provincial governments and disaster management authorities have been directed to remain on alert throughout the forecast period. Rescue services, emergency response teams and drainage machinery have been placed on standby to respond quickly to any weather-related incidents.