National

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    Freedom greatest blessing, says LHC justice at Ind…

    RAWALPINDI: Senior Justice of the Lahore High Court Rawalpindi Bench, Sadaqat Ali Khan, has described freedom as the greatest blessing and called on citizens to contribute positively to Pakistan’s progress by following the vision and principles of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. He was speaking at a grand Independence Day ceremony held at the premises of the Lahore High Court ( LHC) Rawalpindi Bench, attended by Justice Mirza Waqas Rauf, retired judges, senior lawyers and court officials. The ceremony began with a guard of honour for Justice Sadaqat Ali Khan, who later hoisted the national flag alongside fellow judges. Senior judicial officers, representatives of the legal community and other officials also participated in the event. Addressing the gathering, Justice Sadaqat Ali Khan said Pakistan’s independence was achieved through immense sacrifices by the Muslims of the subcontinent under the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. He said Independence Day was not merely a celebration of freedom but also a reminder of the determination and struggle that led to the creation of Pakistan. He paid tribute to the heroes who sacrificed their lives and resources for the country’s independence, saying their sacrifices should inspire the nation to work for Pakistan’s development and prosperity. The senior judge stressed that every citizen has a responsibility to play a constructive role in strengthening the country and advancing the ideals envisioned by Quaid-e-Azam.

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    Sihala Police Chief calls for sensitive rape case …

    RAWALPINDI: Commandant Sihala Police College Ashfaq Ahmad Khan has called upon police officers to adopt a compassionate, respectful and impartial attitude towards victims of rape and sexual violence. He was addressing sub-inspectors who successfully completed the one-month SSIOU course at Sihala Police College, Rawalpindi. Speaking at the concluding ceremony, Ashfaq Ahmad Khan said that rape victims, particularly women, children and girls, are already in a highly vulnerable situation, and it is the responsibility of police officers to protect their dignity and self-respect throughout the investigation process. He stressed that investigations into rape cases must be conducted professionally, sensitively and impartially. The identity and personal information of victims must be kept strictly confidential so that their dignity and reputation in society are not compromised. The Commandant urged the newly trained officers to ensure that every stage of an investigation is carried out while respecting the privacy and dignity of victims. At the same time, he said, investigations must be thorough, transparent and evidence-based so that perpetrators can be brought to justice and face the consequences of their crimes under the law. Ashfaq Ahmad Khan said the police have a crucial responsibility to provide victims with justice, protection and confidence. He added that a compassionate approach, combined with professional investigation, would help ensure that victims are treated with dignity while criminals are brought to justice. make it proper title

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    Father, two relatives held over newlywed’s deat…

    KHANEWAL: The sudden death of a 25-year-old newlywed woman in Khanewal has taken a disturbing turn after police arrested her father and two relatives over allegations that she was strangled days after marrying a man of her choice. The woman, identified as Iqra, died in Mehr Shah, an area falling within the jurisdiction of Sadar Khanewal Police Station. Police said her family initially attempted to present the death as an electrocution incident. According to the police and the FIR, Iqra had married Sohail three days before her death despite opposition from her family. Her husband alleged that her father, angered by the marriage, brought her back from her in-laws’ home on the pretext of formally sending her off from her parental house. Investigators allege that after bringing her home, Iqra was strangled with the assistance of her uncle and brother. Police are also examining claims that the family later staged the scene to make the death appear accidental. The case has now triggered a formal murder investigation, with authorities focusing on the circumstances surrounding the young woman’s death. Police arrested Iqra’s father, Falak Sher, and registered a case. Her body was shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital in Khanewal for a post-mortem examination, which is expected to help establish the exact cause of death. Sadar police SHO Ramzan Gul said Falak Sher was in custody and that investigators were waiting for the post-mortem report before drawing final conclusions. The officer said preliminary findings suggested that Iqra’s father could be the main suspect, while investigators were questioning other family members and examining the alleged strangulation and reported attempt to disguise the circumstances of her death. Police said the investigation would proceed further once the medical findings are received. Until then, the allegations remain under investigation, while authorities continue to determine what happened to Iqra after she returned to her family home.

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    False rape report in Rawalpindi lands two in Polic…

    RAWALPINDI: A woman and a man have been booked by police in Rawalpindi after an alleged rape report was found to be fabricated, with the woman reportedly admitting that she made the accusation at the behest of another person. According to police, Assistant Sub-Inspector Rizwan Awan told Dhamial police station that an emergency helpline 15 call had been received from Waqar Khan, who claimed that a woman had been raped at Banni Stop. However, when police arrived, the caller was not present and his mobile phone was switched off. At the location, officers found a woman who introduced herself as Shahana Kausar. She initially alleged that a man named Shahid, who lived near Banni Stop and was known for helping people in need, had sexually assaulted her. She told police that she had approached Shahid seeking assistance. According to her account, he allegedly took her inside his house, where no one else was present, placed a pistol on a table and sexually assaulted her. She further claimed that he later gave her his phone number and asked her to contact him the following day. The woman said she subsequently asked Bykea rider Waqar Khan, who had accompanied her to Shahid’s residence, to contact emergency services. Police, however, found inconsistencies in her account and launched an inquiry. During questioning by a female police official, the woman reportedly disclosed that her real name was Musarrat Ghafoor. Police said she eventually admitted that no rape had occurred and that she had fabricated the allegation against Shahid at the direction of a person identified as Raja Riasat. She also admitted that Waqar had been asked to make the emergency call. Police have booked the two individuals for allegedly providing false information and making serious false allegations. Further investigation is under way to determine the motive behind the fabricated report and the role of others involved.

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    Woman killed, 70 injured in Karachi aerial firing

    Pakistan is celebrating its 79th Independence Day with national spirit and enthusiasm. However, celebrations in Karachi turned tragic as aerial firing was reported in several parts of the city. The firing began soon after midnight. Police had issued strict warnings against the use of firearms during Independence Day celebrations. Despite the warnings, gunshots were heard from different areas of Karachi. Rescue authorities said that a woman was killed after being struck by a bullet fired from an unidentified direction. At least 70 other people were injured in the incidents. The injured included women and children. Rescue officials said the victims suffered injuries after stray bullets hit them during the aerial firing. Some people were also injured amid the rush and celebrations that followed midnight. The injured were immediately shifted to nearby hospitals for medical treatment. They were taken to Jinnah Hospital, Civil Hospital and Abbasi Shaheed Hospital. Medical teams received the injured and provided them with emergency treatment. The condition of the victims was not immediately clear. Aerial firing is repeatedly reported during major celebrations in Karachi despite warnings from law enforcement authorities. Police have often urged citizens to avoid firing weapons into the air because bullets can travel long distances before falling and can seriously injure or kill people. The latest incident has once again raised concerns about the enforcement of restrictions on aerial firing during public celebrations. Authorities have urged citizens to celebrate Independence Day responsibly and avoid any activity that could put other people’s lives at risk. The incident also highlights the dangers faced by families and children who take part in Independence Day celebrations in different parts of the city.

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    Nation celebrates 79th Independence Day with grand…

    Pakistan is celebrating its 79th Independence Day today with national spirit and enthusiasm. The celebrations began across the country at midnight. People came out of their homes to mark the occasion. Streets, markets and neighbourhoods were decorated with the national flag. Green and white lights illuminated many cities. Buildings and public places were also decorated for the national day. Fireworks were held in several major cities. Citizens gathered at different locations to enjoy the celebrations. Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar, Quetta and Multan witnessed large gatherings. Many people carried national flags and wore green and white clothes. Rallies were also organised in different parts of the country. Citizens took part in patriotic events and expressed their love for Pakistan. In Lahore, a spectacular fireworks display was held at Greater Iqbal Park. A large number of people gathered at the park to celebrate Independence Day. Another major fireworks display was organised at Liberty Chowk. Families and young people attended the event in large numbers. Hyderabad also witnessed fireworks soon after midnight. Residents came out onto the streets to celebrate the national occasion. Multan joined the celebrations with a fireworks display at Ghanta Ghar Chowk. The district administration organised the event. A large crowd gathered at the historic location. The official celebrations continued after midnight. Special prayers were offered during Fajr prayers across the country. Prayers were made for Pakistan’s development and prosperity. People also prayed for national unity and peace. Special prayers were offered for the country’s security and stability. In Lahore, the day began with a 21-gun salute. The salute was held to mark the beginning of Independence Day. A similar 21-gun salute was held at the cantonment in Quetta. Mosques across the city also held special prayers for the country’s safety and security. The national day is being marked with ceremonies and patriotic activities across Pakistan. Government institutions, security forces and citizens are participating in different events. The celebrations highlight national unity and patriotism. People are also using the occasion to remember the sacrifices made for the creation of Pakistan.

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    Pakistan’s armed forces vow unbreakable defence …

    The Armed Forces of Pakistan have extended their warm greetings to the nation on the 79th Independence Day. The armed forces reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to defending the country against all threats. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal, along with the Chief of Naval Staff and Chief of Air Staff, congratulated the nation on the Independence Day. The military leadership said the defence of Pakistan remains their foremost responsibility. They reaffirmed their determination to protect the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The armed forces said they would continue to defend the motherland against every threat. They also pledged to remain vigilant in safeguarding Pakistan’s national interests. ISPR said the vision and principles of the founders of Pakistan continue to guide the nation. These principles encourage citizens to uphold the country’s ideology and national values. The armed forces said they would continue working with the nation to protect peace and stability. They stressed that national unity is essential for confronting challenges. The military also called on the people to promote unity, national solidarity and tolerance. It said these values are vital for a peaceful and stable Pakistan. The armed forces paid tribute to the Ghazis and veterans for their services to the country. They acknowledged their contributions to Pakistan’s defence and security. The military leadership also paid rich tribute to the martyrs of Pakistan. It honoured the sacrifices made by those who gave their lives while defending the country. The armed forces said the sacrifices of the martyrs would continue to inspire the nation. Their services would remain an important part of Pakistan’s national history. On Independence Day, the military reiterated its commitment to standing with the people. It said the armed forces would remain steadfast in protecting Pakistan’s peace, security and stability. Moreover, Pakistan is celebrating its 79th Independence Day today with national spirit and enthusiasm. The celebrations began across the country at midnight. People came out of their homes to mark the occasion. Streets, markets and neighbourhoods were decorated with the national flag. Green and white lights illuminated many cities. Buildings and public places were also decorated for the national day. Fireworks were held in several major cities. Citizens gathered at different locations to enjoy the celebrations.

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    Goats caught riding a green bus in Oregon in viral…

    An unusual incident in Portland, Oregon, has caught the attention of social media users after two stray goats were spotted entering a public bus station and briefly boarding a green bus. The bizarre incident reportedly took place at a bus station on Division Street, where authorities received a 911 call about two goats wandering freely around the area. What happened next turned an ordinary day into an amusing story for local commuters. According to the local transport authority, security camera footage showed the two goats calmly entering the station. The animals then appeared to board a nearby bus before eventually getting off and walking toward a shopping center in the area. The sight of the unexpected passengers quickly became the highlight of the incident. Rather than causing major disruption, the goats seemed to explore the station and bus as if they were simply looking for their next destination. Police were alerted and began searching the area after receiving the report. However, by the time officers arrived, the goats had disappeared. Their whereabouts remained unknown. The local transport authority also responded to the unusual incident with a humorous message, jokingly raising questions about where the goats had come from, where they were going and whether they had valid tickets for their journey. The incident has since attracted attention online, with the unusual footage providing plenty of entertainment for viewers. While public transportation is normally associated with human passengers, the appearance of two goats on a bus created a memorable and amusing moment. The goats ride green bus incident is another example of how unexpected moments captured on security cameras can quickly become viral stories. For the goats, however, the brief bus adventure may simply have been another day of exploring their surroundings. The incident ended without reports of injuries, and authorities were left with more questions than answers about the animals’ unexpected public-transit adventure

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    ISPR extends Independence Day greetings to nation

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Armed Forces have extended warm greetings to the nation on the country’s 79th Independence Day, paying tribute to the founders of Pakistan, martyrs, veterans and all citizens who have contributed to the country’s progress and security. According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, along with the Chief of Naval Staff and Chief of Air Staff, conveyed their Independence Day wishes to the Pakistani nation. The military leadership paid homage to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the countless individuals who made sacrifices for the creation and protection of Pakistan. The statement highlighted that the vision, courage and determination of the country’s founders continue to guide the nation and inspire people to uphold Pakistan’s core values. The Armed Forces also honoured the sacrifices of martyrs and acknowledged the contributions of veterans and former service personnel who served the country with dedication. ISPR further recognized the efforts of law-enforcement personnel and citizens serving the nation in different capacities. It said the sacrifices of martyrs, the courage of ghazis, the commitment of law-enforcement agencies and the collective efforts of Pakistanis have played a vital role in strengthening the country’s resilience. The Armed Forces reaffirmed their commitment to the ideals on which Pakistan was founded and called for continued national unity, dedication and service to the country on this historic Independence Day.

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    Pakistan’s water is red line, PM Shehbaz warns I…

    ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has warned that Pakistan will respond directly if India fails to change course, declaring that every drop of the country’s water is a “red line.” Addressing the inauguration ceremony of the Victory Monument in Islamabad, the prime minister said Pakistan wanted peace rather than war, but its desire for peace should never be mistaken for weakness. He said the country was committed to pursuing peace with dignity while remaining prepared to protect its sovereignty and national interests. Shehbaz Sharif described the Victory Monument as a symbol of the courage, determination and professional capabilities of Pakistan’s armed forces. He said the monument also paid tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives defending the country and honoured the armed forces personnel who demonstrated exceptional bravery. The prime minister congratulated the nation on what he described as a historic victory in the May 2025 conflict and praised Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for his leadership. He said Pakistan’s response had strengthened the country’s standing and sent a clear message that any future challenge to its sovereignty or security would be met with a stronger response. Referring to India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, Shehbaz Sharif accused New Delhi of undermining regional peace. He warned that Pakistan’s water resources were a matter of national security and reiterated that the country would take direct action if India continued on its current course. The prime minister said the monument represented a milestone in Pakistan’s broader journey towards becoming a prosperous, stable and welfare-oriented state. He stressed the need to combine national defence with economic development, technological advancement and investment in human resources. Highlighting the growing importance of information technology and artificial intelligence, Shehbaz said Pakistan must prepare its younger generation for a rapidly changing global environment. He pledged that the government would provide maximum possible support for innovation, technology and skills development. On foreign policy, the prime minister said Pakistan wanted a region free from conflicts and supported resolving disputes through justice and the principles of the United Nations. He highlighted Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran and praised Field Marshal Asim Munir’s efforts towards promoting peace in the Middle East. Shehbaz also referred to the emerging trilateral defence cooperation involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, describing it as a positive development for regional stability and a message of peace for the wider Muslim world. Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari jointly inaugurated the Victory Monument in Islamabad, attended by senior civil and military officials.