National

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    Two women killed, two girls injured in Lahore dome…

    ByJustpaste.in

    A man has been arrested in Lahore after allegedly killing his mother and a neighboring woman during a domestic dispute in the Harbanspura area. The incident also left two girls injured, prompting a swift response from police and forensic investigators. According to police, the attack took place in Kotli Pir Abdul Rehman, a locality in Harbanspura, where the suspect allegedly assaulted multiple people using a screwdriver. Authorities said the victims suffered serious injuries during the attack, resulting in two fatalities and two injuries. The deceased have been identified as 70-year-old Kaneez Fatima, the suspect’s mother, and 52-year-old Sultana Imran, a neighboring resident. Police said both women died after sustaining multiple injuries during the incident. Two girls, identified as 23-year-old Aqsa and 13-year-old Arifa, were also injured in the attack. They were immediately shifted to a nearby hospital, where they received medical treatment. Officials have not yet released further details about their current condition. Police officers, forensic experts, and investigators arrived at the scene shortly after receiving reports of the incident. The area was secured while evidence was collected to assist in the investigation. Authorities also documented the crime scene and interviewed witnesses to determine the sequence of events. Law enforcement officials confirmed that the suspect was arrested at the scene along with the alleged weapon used in the attack. The accused has been identified as Aurangzeb, and investigators have begun formal legal proceedings. Police stated that the motive appears to be linked to a domestic dispute, although the exact circumstances remain under investigation. The bodies of the deceased were transferred to a hospital for medico-legal procedures and post-mortem examinations, while investigators continue to gather evidence and record witness statements. Officials said additional details will be released as the inquiry progresses. Incidents of domestic violence remain a serious concern, with authorities emphasizing the importance of early intervention in family disputes and improved access to conflict resolution and mental health support where appropriate. Police have urged the public to report threats or violent behavior promptly to help prevent similar tragedies. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are expected to present the suspect before the relevant court in accordance with legal procedures. As with all criminal cases, the allegations against the accused remain subject to investigation and judicial determination.

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    Pakistan stock exchange slides over 1,100 points 

    ByJustpaste.in

      KARACHI: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) experienced a volatile trading session on Tuesday as strong gains recorded in early trading quickly disappeared, with the benchmark KSE-100 Index ending the day more than 1,100 points lower. Widespread profit-taking in major sectors, combined with cautious investor sentiment influenced by global market uncertainty, weighed heavily on the market. The benchmark KSE-100 Index initially climbed to an intraday high of 178,768.83 points, reflecting optimism among investors during the opening hours. However, the momentum proved short-lived as selling pressure gradually intensified across the market. By the close of trading, the index had fallen to 177,083.22 points, registering a decline of 1,116.80 points, or 0.63%, after touching an intraday low of 177,043.10 points. Market participants attributed the sharp reversal to extensive profit-booking in several heavyweight sectors. Commercial banks, oil and gas exploration companies, cement manufacturers, investment firms, and fertiliser stocks all came under significant selling pressure, dragging the benchmark index into negative territory despite its promising start. Investor confidence also remained subdued due to mixed developments in international financial markets. Asian stock markets traded without a clear direction as investors balanced encouraging corporate earnings from the United States against continuing geopolitical tensions. At the same time, international oil prices climbed by more than two percent as uncertainty surrounding diplomatic efforts to ease tensions between the United States and Iran persisted. Concerns over potential disruptions to global oil supplies through major shipping routes also contributed to market caution. Commenting on the day’s performance, Ahmed Sheraz, an equity trader at KTrade Securities, said the KSE-100 Index remained under pressure throughout the session because the market lacked fresh positive catalysts capable of sustaining its recent upward momentum. According to him, the absence of encouraging economic or corporate developments prompted investors to lock in profits after recent gains. Sheraz noted that selling activity was widespread across key sectors, particularly banking, oil and gas, cement, investment companies, and fertilisers. He added that despite Brent crude oil trading between $84 and $86 per barrel, investors largely preferred to stay on the sidelines while waiting for stronger economic indicators and corporate earnings announcements before making new investment decisions. Looking ahead, Sheraz believes the stock market is likely to remain highly sensitive to news flow. Upcoming corporate earnings reports, macroeconomic indicators, and foreign investment activity are expected to play a decisive role in shaping market sentiment over the coming weeks. He also identified the 176,500 to 177,000-point range as an important technical support level for the benchmark index, suggesting that maintaining this level could help stabilise the market. Trading activity slowed compared with the previous session. Total market volume declined to 711.2 million shares, down from 785.3 million shares recorded on Monday. Meanwhile, the total value of traded shares stood at Rs25.8 billion. A total of 495 companiesparticipated in trading during the session. Among them, 161 stocks closed higher, 295 stocks ended in negative territory, while 39 stocks remained unchanged. Pakistan International Bulk Terminal emerged as the session’s most actively traded stock, with approximately 89.8 million shares changing hands. The company’s share price declined by Rs0.34, closing the session at Rs16.74.

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    Pakistan defeat South Korea to clinch test series …

    ByJustpaste.in

      ISLAMABAD:Pakistan’s national hockey team continued its impressive run by defeating South Korea in the third match of the four-Test series, securing an unassailable 3-0 lead and sealing the series with one game still to be played. The third Test, played at the Nasir Bunda Hockey Stadium in Islamabad, turned out to be an exciting contest filled with momentum shifts, dramatic goals, and a spirited comeback by the home side. Pakistan displayed resilience and determination, recovering from two separate deficits before claiming a memorable victory in front of the home crowd. South Korea made the stronger start and took the lead in the opening quarter. Their early pressure paid off in the 11th minute, when Lim Deun found the back of the net with a well-taken goal, giving the visitors a 1-0 advantage. Pakistan attempted to respond before the end of the first quarter but was unable to create a clear scoring opportunity. The second quarter saw Pakistan dominate possession and launch several attacks on the Korean goal. The hosts earned promising opportunities and repeatedly tested the opposition’s defence, but they failed to convert their chances into goals. South Korea remained organised at the back and successfully protected its narrow lead. As a result, neither side managed to score during the second quarter, and the visitors went into halftime leading 1-0. Pakistan finally restored parity in the third quarter when Hayat scored an important equaliser, lifting the spirits of both the players and the spectators. However, the celebrations were short-lived as South Korea responded quickly. Kim scored to put the visitors back in front, allowing Korea to end the third quarter with a 2-1 advantage. The fourth and final quarter produced the most thrilling action of the match, with a total of four goals scored. Pakistan came out with renewed energy and determination, pressing aggressively in search of another equaliser. Their persistence paid off as they erased South Korea’s lead and brought the match level once again. The visitors briefly regained the advantage by scoring another goal to make it 3-2 increasing the pressure on the Pakistani side. However, Pakistan refused to give up. During the final ten minutes, the home team produced an outstanding display of attacking hockey, dominating possession and creating multiple scoring opportunities. Pakistan’s relentless pressure eventually overwhelmed the Korean defence. The hosts not only equalised once more but also scored the decisive winning goal, completing a remarkable comeback. The Pakistani defence then held firm in the closing moments to preserve the lead until the final whistle, sealing another impressive victory. With this win, Pakistan secured a commanding 3-0 lead in the four-match Test series, ensuring the series title before the final fixture. The result reflects the team’s growing confidence and consistency, providing a major boost as it continues preparations for upcoming international competitions. Following the match, Pakistan Hockey Federation President Mohiuddin Wani distributed awards to the players in recognition of their performances. The ceremony was also attended by two legendary figures of Pakistan hockey, Olympians Samiullah and Hassan Sardar, who were present as special guests and applauded the team’s fighting spirit and successful series-winning performance.

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    PCB warns former cricketers over participation 

    ByJustpaste.in

      The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken serious notice of the participation of former Pakistani cricketers in the unauthorized Asian Legends League currently being held in Zambia. The board has announced strict disciplinary measures against any current or former player who participates in the event without obtaining prior approval through a No Objection Certificate (NOC). According to the PCB, the Asian Legends League is not recognized or approved by either the International Cricket Council (ICC) or the Zambia Cricket Union. As a result, the tournament is considered an unauthorized event, and players participating without official permission are deemed to be in violation of the board’s regulations. In an official statement, the PCB emphasized that all current and former Pakistani cricketers must obtain an NOC before taking part in any cricket event or league outside Pakistan. The board stressed that this requirement is in place to protect the integrity of the game, ensure player accountability, and maintain proper coordination with international cricket authorities. The PCB warned that any former cricketer found participating in the unauthorized league without receiving an NOC will face strict consequences. One of the key penalties announced by the board is a two-year ban on the issuance of any future NOCs. This means that players who violate the regulations will not be granted permission to participate in overseas cricket tournaments or exhibition events organized outside Pakistan during that period. In addition to restrictions on international participation, the PCB has also declared that individuals involved in the unauthorized league will be ineligible for coaching, mentoring, commentary, talent development, or any other official responsibilities associated with the Pakistan Cricket Board and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for two years. The decision reflects the board’s intention to ensure that those associated with unauthorized competitions do not continue to benefit from official roles within Pakistan’s cricket structure. The board’s statement serves as a strong reminder that compliance with PCB regulations is mandatory for all Pakistani cricketers, regardless of whether they are active professionals or retired players. The NOC system is designed to regulate players’ participation in foreign leagues, safeguard contractual obligations, and ensure that events meet international standards and receive recognition from the relevant governing bodies. The PCB further advised all current and former players to verify the status of overseas tournaments before accepting invitations to participate. Players have been instructed to seek formal approval from the board in advance to avoid disciplinary action and ensure that the competitions they join are officially sanctioned. Cricket boards around the world often require players to obtain NOCs before participating in overseas leagues. These approvals help confirm that tournaments are legitimate, properly organized, and conducted under recognized cricketing authorities. The PCB’s latest decision reinforces its commitment to maintaining professionalism, protecting the reputation of Pakistani cricket, and ensuring that its players compete only in approved events. By announcing these strict measures, the Pakistan Cricket Board has sent a clear message that unauthorized participation in unrecognized tournaments will not be tolerated. The board hopes the policy will encourage greater discipline among players while preserving the credibility of Pakistan’s cricketing system. Going forward, all Pakistani cricketers are expected to strictly follow PCB regulations and obtain the necessary approvals before participating in any cricket event outside the country.

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    Arshad Nadeem confirmed for Lausanne Diamond Leagu…

    ByJustpaste.in

      Pakistan’s Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem has officially been included in the entry list for the Lausanne Diamond League one of the most prestigious athletics competitions in the world. The organizers released the official entry list for the event, which is scheduled to take place on August 21 in Lausanne, Switzerland. The competition is expected to feature many of the world’s finest javelin throwers, promising an exciting contest among elite athletes. Arshad Nadeem, who has become one of Pakistan’s greatest sporting icons following his remarkable achievements on the international stage, will compete against some of the biggest names in javelin throwing. His participation has generated significant excitement among Pakistani sports fans, who are eager to see him continue his outstanding form against the world’s best competitors. One of the biggest highlights of the event will be the much-anticipated rivalry between Arshad Nadeem and India’s Neeraj Chopra. The two Olympic stars have developed one of the most exciting rivalries in international athletics, consistently delivering high-quality performances whenever they compete. Their presence at the Lausanne Diamond League is expected to attract global attention, with athletics enthusiasts looking forward to another thrilling showdown. The competition will also feature an impressive lineup of world-class athletes. Two-time world champion Anderson Peters of Grenada has confirmed his participation and will be aiming to add another major victory to his impressive career. Former Olympic champion Thomas Röhler of Germany will also compete, bringing his vast experience and championship pedigree to the event. In addition, Trinidad and Tobago’s Olympic gold medalist Keshorn Walcott is included in the entry list, further strengthening the highly competitive field. Several other leading javelin throwers from around the world are also expected to take part. These include Romesh Pathirage of Sri Lanka, Curtis Thompson of the United States, Jakub Vadlejch of the Czech Republic, Julian Weber of Germany, and Simon Wieland all of whom have established themselves as strong competitors on the international athletics circuit. Their inclusion ensures that the Lausanne Diamond League will feature one of the strongest javelin fields of the season. The Lausanne Diamond League is recognized as one of the premier events in the annual Diamond League series, attracting Olympic champions, world champions, and top-ranked athletes from across the globe. Strong performances at these meetings not only boost athletes’ world rankings but also serve as valuable preparation for upcoming international championships. For Pakistan, Arshad Nadeem’s participation represents another significant milestone in the country’s growing presence in international athletics. His consistent performances have inspired a new generation of athletes and elevated the profile of track and field sports in Pakistan. Fans will be hoping he can once again deliver a memorable performance and further cement his reputation among the world’s elite javelin throwers. The Lausanne Diamond League will take place on August 21 in Lausanne, Switzerland where spectators can expect a thrilling contest featuring Olympic champions, world champions, and several of the finest javelin throwers from around the globe.

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    Three killed, four injured in family dispute shoot…

    ByJustpaste.in

      At least three people were killed and four others sustained injuries in a shooting incident near Charsadda Adda in Peshawar, according to local police authorities. The tragic incident, which occurred following a heated domestic dispute, has shocked residents of the area and prompted an immediate police investigation. Police officials stated that the shooting took place after an argument between two groups of relatives escalated into a violent confrontation. What initially began as a disagreement over family matters quickly turned deadly when firearms were used. The exchange of gunfire resulted in the deaths of three individuals at the scene, while four others were injured and rushed to nearby hospitals for medical treatment. The condition of the injured has not yet been officially disclosed. Law enforcement authorities responded swiftly after receiving reports of the incident. Police teams reached the crime scene, secured the area, and began collecting evidence. The bodies of the deceased were shifted to a hospital for legal formalities and post-mortem examinations, while investigators interviewed witnesses to determine the exact sequence of events. According to the police, a formal case has been registered at Faqirabad Police Station, and efforts are underway to identify and arrest those responsible for the shooting. Authorities have launched a search operation to locate the suspects, who reportedly fled the scene immediately after the incident. Police officials expressed confidence that those involved would soon be brought to justice. Preliminary investigations indicate that both groups involved in the incident are closely related. Police believe the violence stemmed from a long-standing domestic dispute that escalated beyond control. Although the exact nature of the disagreement has not been officially revealed, investigators are examining all aspects of the family conflict to establish the motive behind the shooting. Family disputes turning violent remain a serious concern in various parts of Pakistan, where disagreements over property, inheritance, financial issues, or personal matters can sometimes escalate into deadly confrontations. Law enforcement agencies have repeatedly urged citizens to resolve conflicts through legal and peaceful means rather than resorting to violence. The incident has created an atmosphere of fear and sadness among local residents, many of whom expressed concern over the increasing use of firearms in personal disputes. Community members have called on authorities to ensure that those responsible are held accountable and to strengthen measures aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future. Police officials emphasized that the investigation is still in its early stages and that additional details will be made public as evidence is collected and witness statements are recorded. Authorities are also reviewing forensic evidence from the crime scene to support the investigation. The tragic shooting serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of unresolved family conflicts and the dangers associated with the misuse of weapons. As the investigation continues, the families of the victims await justice, while local authorities remain committed to apprehending the suspects and uncovering the full circumstances surrounding the incident. The police have assured the public that every effort is being made to complete the investigation promptly and transparently. Further updates are expected as the search for the accused continues and more information becomes available through the ongoing inquiry.

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    78 policemen suspended after Lahore station rape a…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Punjab Police suspended 78 officials of Lahore’s Ghaziabad Police Station after an assistant sub-inspector (ASI) was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a mentally challenged young woman inside the police station. The action followed the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against the accused under rape provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code and relevant sections of the Police Order 2002. Senior police authorities immediately took notice of the incident and ordered the arrest of the suspect. According to the complaint filed by the victim’s father, his 19 to 20-year-old daughter, who has a mental disability, left home on Sunday afternoon and did not return for some time. During the search, a local resident allegedly informed the family that a policeman in plain clothes had taken the girl away. The complainant said he rushed to the Ghaziabad Police Station, where he was told that his daughter had already been sent home. After returning home, he found her in distress. He alleged that she told him a police official had taken her to the station and sexually assaulted her. Following the complaint, police registered a case and arrested the accused ASI. Authorities also launched both criminal and departmental investigations into the matter. As part of disciplinary action, 78 police personnel, including the station house officer (SHO), sub-inspectors, assistant sub-inspectors, front desk officials and other staff members, were suspended over alleged negligence, poor supervision and failure to maintain discipline at the police station. All suspended officials have been directed to report to Police Lines until further orders. Police officials said maintaining discipline and ensuring a safe environment at police stations is the responsibility of every officer. They warned that negligence or irresponsible conduct would not be tolerated and pledged strict accountability at the police station level. A new SHO has been appointed to take charge of Ghaziabad Police Station while the investigation continues. Punjab Women Protection Authority Chairperson Hina Parvez Butt strongly condemned the incident, describing it as deeply disturbing and calling for strict legal action against those responsible. Police said further legal and departmental proceedings will be carried out after the investigation is completed.

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    Petrol down Rs3.39, diesel Rs4.07

    ByJustpaste.in

    The federal government has announced another reduction in petroleum prices, lowering the rates of both petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD) effective August 5 under the recently introduced daily fuel pricing mechanism. According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Petroleum, the price of petrol has been reduced by Rs3.39 per litre, bringing the new rate to Rs328.56 per litre. The price of high-speed diesel has also been cut by Rs4.07 per litre, with the revised rate set at Rs385.86 per litre. The latest reduction follows a similar decrease announced a day earlier, reflecting continued adjustments under the government’s daily fuel price review system. The new pricing mechanism, introduced on July 17, determines fuel prices using a seven-day average of international oil market rates. The policy aims to align domestic petroleum prices more closely with global market trends and allow quicker adjustments in response to fluctuations in crude oil prices. Pakistan remains heavily dependent on imported crude oil and refined petroleum products, making local fuel prices highly sensitive to movements in international energy markets. Changes in global oil prices directly affect the country’s import bill, foreign exchange reserves and inflation. Energy analysts say international petroleum prices continue to be influenced by geopolitical developments, including tensions in the Middle East, decisions by OPEC+ countries, sanctions on major oil producers and disruptions in key global shipping routes. These factors can significantly impact crude oil prices and transportation costs, ultimately affecting domestic fuel prices in Pakistan.

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    Amnesty urges Pakistan to free Imran Khan

    ByJustpaste.in

    Amnesty International has called on the Pakistani government to release former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan as he completes three years in prison, urging authorities to restore his fundamental rights and ensure access to medical care, family members and legal counsel. In a statement issued ahead of the third anniversary of his imprisonment, Amnesty International’s South Asia office expressed concern over Imran Khan’s detention conditions, alleging that he has been denied a fair trial, kept in prolonged solitary confinement and restricted from meeting his relatives and lawyers. The organisation claimed that Imran has not been allowed to meet members of his family for several months and raised concerns over reports that his eyesight has worsened while in custody. It also said that both Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, have faced prolonged restrictions on access to legal representatives. Amnesty urged the authorities to immediately restore the couple’s right to meet their lawyers and family members, provide appropriate medical treatment and end what it described as unlawful solitary confinement. The rights organisation also called on the government to ensure that planned public gatherings marking Imran Khan’s three years in detention are allowed to proceed peacefully. It stressed that citizens should be able to exercise their right to peaceful assembly without facing arbitrary restrictions or crackdowns. The appeal comes days after a United Nations special rapporteur also expressed concern over reports regarding Imran Khan’s health and urged authorities to provide him with humane treatment, proper medical care and access to doctors of his choice. Imran Khan has remained in Adiala Jail since August 2023. He is serving sentences in multiple cases, including the £190 million corruption case and the Toshakhana-II case, while also facing several other legal proceedings linked to the May 9, 2023 protests. PTI has repeatedly alleged that its founder is being denied adequate medical treatment, particularly for an eye condition, and has appealed to international human rights organisations to intervene. The party maintains that his constitutional rights and due process protections have been violated during his incarceration. The government has previously rejected allegations of mistreatment, maintaining that legal proceedings against Imran Khan are being conducted in accordance with the law.

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    Govt approves Rs13bn relief for PTV

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: The federal government has approved a Rs13 billion supplementary grant to help Pakistan Television Corporation (PTV) overcome its worsening financial difficulties, while also authorizing sovereign guarantees worth Rs34.6 billion for the Sialkot–Kharian Motorway project. The decisions were made during a virtual meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting had requested Rs20 billion to cover PTV’s salaries, allowances, utility bills, and other essential operational expenses. However, the ECC approved Rs13 billion, which will be released in quarterly installments of approximately Rs3.25 billion. PTV, which operates under the Pakistan Television Corporation Act and is headed by Information Secretary Ashfaq Ahmed Khokhar as its Managing Director, has been facing mounting financial challenges. According to the Ministry of Finance’s latest report, the broadcaster’s revenue declined by 22 percent during fiscal year 2024-25, falling to Rs14.3 billion. The corporation also recorded a net loss of Rs639 million, placing it among Pakistan’s 20 largest loss-making state-owned enterprises. The ECC also cleared sovereign guarantees totaling Rs34.6 billion for the 69-kilometre Sialkot–Kharian Motorway project. The motorway is being developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model and was awarded in September 2021 to Sialkot Kharian Infrastructure Management (Private) Limited, a subsidiary of the Frontier Works Organization (FWO). The approved guarantees include Rs17.4 billion for Capital Viability Gap Funding, Rs10.3 billion to facilitate commercial borrowing, and nearly Rs7 billion for Operational Viability Gap Funding. In addition, the Ministry of Finance confirmed that the ECC authorized Rs27.62 billion in fresh sovereign guarantees and approved the rollover of Rs6.94 billion in existing operational viability funding to help the project achieve financial close under its revised financing structure. The government had already revised the PPP agreement for the motorway in February this year, requiring the concessionaire to complete financial arrangements within six months. Rising construction costs, inflation, higher interest rates, and design modifications prompted a restructuring of the project’s financial framework. As part of the revised agreement, the concession period has been extended from 25 years to 29 years. During the first year of operations, toll rates are expected to start at Rs4.1 per kilometre for cars, around Rs10 for minibuses, Rs13.7 for large buses, and Rs23 per kilometre for heavy trucks. The Ministry of Finance estimates that new sovereign guarantees worth Rs683 billion will be issued between April 2026 and June 2027 for various public projects and state-owned entities. Pakistan’s total sovereign guarantees currently stand at Rs4.4 trillion and are projected to exceed Rs5 trillion by June next year. More than Rs2.4 trillion of these guarantees support the power sector, while Rs895 billion have been allocated for commodity procurement and storage operations.