National

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    Bilawal calls for truth commission to end AJK unre…

    ByJustpaste.in

    PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has urged the government and protesters in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) to agree on the formation of a truth and reconciliation commission to investigate the violence and political tensions that have gripped the region. Speaking to party workers in Muzaffarabad on Tuesday, Bilawal said the commission could provide a peaceful mechanism to determine the facts behind the unrest and help prevent further loss of life. He said maintaining peace, fairness and transparency was particularly important during the ongoing AJK elections, arguing that the issue should not be treated as a contest between winners and losers. According to Bilawal, the PPP had been advocating a truth and reconciliation commission for about a month. He proposed that protesters suspend their demonstrations while the commission investigates the incidents and presents its findings. He criticised both the authorities and protesters for failing to compromise, warning that ordinary Kashmiris were suffering despite having no connection with either side. Bilawal said those responsible for violence should be identified through an investigation rather than being punished on the streets. He also accused the state of giving greater importance to the interests of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) than to the interests of Kashmir. Bilawal questions AJK election process Bilawal also criticised the conduct of the AJK elections, particularly the violence and allegations of irregularities reported during polling in parts of the region. He claimed that the PPP had a strong mandate in Mirpur and alleged that polling stations were forcibly occupied and party polling agents removed. He also accused rival political workers of using violence to influence the electoral process. According to preliminary election results, the PML-N won nine of the 13 constituencies in the first phase, while the PPP secured four seats. Bilawal rejected the results in several constituencies and alleged that the PPP’s mandate had been compromised. He questioned how PPP candidate Chaudhry Yasin could lose his home constituency and described the result as unacceptable. He also criticised the decision to conduct the AJK elections in three phases, alleging that the arrangement had failed to prevent electoral malpractice. The PPP chairman referred to reports of violence, firing and the death of a political worker, while also raising concerns over internet disruptions in parts of the region. He called on the authorities to decide whether national interests or political considerations would guide their actions in AJK. Bilawal warned that continued violence and political instability could damage the future of the region. He urged PPP workers to remain peaceful but said the party would not accept attacks on its supporters or the alleged seizure of polling stations. He also appealed for political restraint, saying that the PPP wanted to pursue peaceful politics but would continue to defend what it considers its electoral mandate.

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    Rajab Butt breaks silence on viral gym video with …

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistani YouTuber and social media influencer Rajab Butt has responded to widespread speculation regarding his relationship with fitness influencer Sadia Baloch after videos of the two working out together at a gym went viral across social media platforms. The rumors gained momentum shortly after Rajab Butt confirmed his separation from his former wife, Iman. As the viral clips spread online, many social media users began speculating that the YouTuber and Sadia Baloch might be involved in a romantic relationship. The videos showed Rajab assisting Sadia during workout sessions, demonstrating different exercises, and offering fitness guidance. The clips quickly attracted thousands of views and comments, with online discussions ranging from supportive messages to criticism and unverified claims about their personal lives. The growing speculation prompted Rajab Butt to publicly address the matter and clarify the nature of their relationship. Speaking about the viral videos, Rajab Butt stated that his connection with Sadia Baloch is strictly based on friendship and professional respect. According to him, the purpose of their meeting at the gym was solely related to fitness training and exercise. He emphasized that there is no romantic relationship between them despite the assumptions circulating on social media. Rajab also urged his followers not to draw conclusions based on short viral clips. He explained that brief videos often fail to provide the full context of a situation and can easily lead to misunderstandings. He encouraged fans to rely on verified information rather than believing rumors or speculation shared online. Sadia Baloch, a well-known fitness and digital content creator from Karachi, has built a strong following by sharing workout routines, health advice, and motivational fitness content. Her growing popularity in Pakistan’s digital community has made her a recognizable figure among fitness enthusiasts. The incident once again highlights how viral social media content can fuel speculation about public figures, especially when personal milestones such as relationship changes are already attracting public attention. While online discussions continue, Rajab Butt’s statement makes it clear that he views his association with Sadia Baloch as purely professional and centered on fitness. As with many viral stories, the situation serves as a reminder that social media clips often present only a small part of a larger picture. Public figures frequently face intense scrutiny, making it important for audiences to distinguish between verified statements and unconfirmed rumors before forming opinions.

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    Burnt body found in Karachi car identified through…

    ByJustpaste.in

    A partially burnt body discovered inside a car in Karachi’s Surjani Town has been identified through biometric technology after an initial case of mistaken identity complicated the investigation. According to police, the body was recovered from a vehicle in Shah Beg Goth, located in Karachi’s District West. At first, investigators believed the deceased was 42-year-old Zeeshan Naz, based on documents, a mobile phone, and the vehicle found at the scene. However, when the suspected victim’s family was contacted, they identified the recovered belongings but stated that the body did not belong to their relative. The conflicting information prompted investigators to expand the scope of their inquiry. Police used biometric verification and other technical methods to establish the victim’s identity. The biometric scan confirmed that the deceased was 38-year-old Qurban Hussain, son of Ghulam Sabir Khan. After confirming the identity, police traced and contacted the victim’s family. Authorities said Qurban Hussain originally belonged to Muzaffargarh but had been living with his wife in North Karachi Sector 7-A, where he worked as a sanitation worker. His wife, Sakina Bibi, later identified the body, bringing an end to the uncertainty surrounding the victim’s identity. Police said the discovery marks significant progress in the investigation, although several questions about the case remain unanswered. Investigators are now trying to determine how the victim ended up inside the vehicle and the circumstances that led to his death. They are also searching for the individual connected to the documents and mobile phone recovered from the car, as those items do not belong to the deceased. Authorities believe tracing that person could provide important leads in the homicide investigation. Police have confirmed that a murder case is being registered, and further investigations are underway to identify those responsible. Forensic evidence, digital records, and witness statements are expected to play a key role in uncovering the sequence of events. The case highlights the importance of biometric technology in criminal investigations, particularly when victims are difficult to identify due to the condition of the body. By combining forensic techniques with technical investigations, law enforcement officials were able to establish the victim’s identity despite the initial confusion. Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive or announced any arrests. Investigators say they are pursuing multiple leads and are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward as the investigation continues.

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    PCB introduces comprehensive fitness policy for do…

    ByJustpaste.in

      The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has introduced a comprehensive domestic cricket fitness policy for the 2026-27 season, making physical fitness a key requirement for players representing regional, departmental, district, and zonal teams across the country. The newly announced policy has been designed to improve players’ overall fitness standards and ensure they are better prepared for the physical demands of modern cricket. Covering athletes from junior age-group competitions to first-class domestic cricket, the framework aims to establish a consistent and measurable fitness system throughout Pakistan’s domestic structure. The fitness programme has been developed by PCB Director of Sports and Exercise Medicine Javed Mughal. It follows a structured two-tier model that has been designed to align with international cricket standards while remaining practical, reliable, and easy to implement across different levels of the domestic game. The testing procedures have been created to produce consistent and repeatable results, allowing coaches and trainers to accurately monitor players’ physical progress. Under the new system, Tier 1 will apply to players representing the country’s 20 regional teams, eight departmental first-class sides, and more than 25 Grade-II departmental teams. These players will be required to complete 11 separate fitness tests, providing a total of 17 scoring opportunities during the assessment process. Tier 2 has been introduced for players competing in senior district cricket, U19 district teams, and regional U17 and U15 squads. Participants in this category will undergo eight different fitness tests, offering a maximum of 12 scoring opportunities. The PCB has also established a clear scoring system to determine whether a player passes or fails the assessment. In Tier 1, players may receive up to seven red scores and still meet the required fitness standard. However, recording eight or more red scores will result in a failed assessment. Those who fail will be allowed one opportunity to retake the test. Similarly, Tier 2 players will fail the assessment if they receive six or more red scores. The board hopes that the grading system will encourage players to maintain high fitness standards while also identifying areas requiring improvement. Fitness monitoring will not end after the initial assessment. Players who successfully complete the testing process will undergo another round of fitness evaluations approximately six months later. The purpose of the follow-up assessment is to measure each player’s progress and ensure that fitness levels continue to improve throughout the season. According to the PCB, every player is expected to demonstrate measurable improvement compared to their initial baseline results. The board believes continuous assessment will promote long-term physical development rather than one-time preparation for testing. The policy also outlines the procedure for players who do not meet the required benchmarks. Instead of repeating only the failed components, any player who fails the assessment will be required to complete the entire fitness testing programme again. This approach is intended to ensure overall physical readiness rather than focusing on individual weaknesses. The responsibility for conducting the assessments will rest with PCB-approved strength and conditioning coaches. These coaches will supervise fitness testing at every level of domestic cricket and submit the results to the National Cricket Academy along with the PCB’s Medical and Sports Science Department for evaluation and record-keeping. With this initiative, the PCB aims to strengthen the fitness culture within domestic cricket, enhance player performance, and create a stronger pathway for athletes aspiring to represent Pakistan at the international level.

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    Pakistan links JAAC protests to India-funded forei…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has alleged that violent protests by the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) in Azad Jammu and Kashmir are being driven by militant elements pursuing a foreign agenda with Indian funding, as the government moves to restore order following the first phase of regional elections. Speaking on Tuesday, Tarar maintained that while the recent elections in the Mirpur division were peaceful and transparent, the banned outfit could not accept the democratic process and resorted to violence. He noted that the people of Kashmir had given a “spectacular response” to the elections, with 600,000 votes cast in Rawalakot alone. Tarar claimed that investigators have uncovered irrefutable evidence linking the JAAC’s social media campaign to India. Security agencies recently arrested a digital marketing services provider whose payment trails were traced to Indian gateways. According to the minister, an entire misinformation network was operating through bot farms to spread anti-state content targeting Pakistan’s sovereignty, government institutions, and armed forces. The investigation also recovered WhatsApp conversations between the arrested suspect and an Indian operator discussing payments and content amplification. “The investigation found that the entire misinformation network was operating through bot farms,” Tarar stated, adding that forensic analysis identified India-based accounts even when VPNs were used. State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry emphasized that the government had accepted 37 out of 38 JAAC demands, with only the issue of refugee seats in the AJK Legislative Assembly remaining unresolved due to constitutional complexities. “Thirty-seven out of 38 JAAC demands were accepted, and the government of Pakistan fully cooperated with them,” Chaudhry said. He noted that the movement was not about securing rights but about “snatching” the rights of AJK people. The minister questioned the timing of the protests, noting that JAAC initially tried to stop the election schedule in AJK. “When they failed, JAAC members started long marches, sit-ins, strikes, blocked roads and disrupted activities across the region,” he added. The AJK government has declared JAAC a proscribed organization under the Anti-Terrorism Act, and authorities have announced a Rs10 million reward for information leading to the arrest of four wanted JAAC leaders. Officials allege that armed members of the group have engaged in violence, resulting in injuries to police personnel. The federal government has assured full support to AJK authorities in maintaining law and order.

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    Police constable martyred , two suspected robbers …

    ByJustpaste.in

    A police constable was martyred and two suspected robbers were shot dead during an exchange of fire in Karachi’s Orangi Town early on Tuesday morning, according to police and rescue services officials. The senior superintendent of police (SSP) of District West, Tariq Illahi Mastoi, said that four police officials of District West were conducting routine motorcycle patrolling near Liaquat Chowk, within the limits of Pakistan Bazaar Police Station, when they encountered armed robbers. Upon seeing the police party, the suspects opened indiscriminate fire. The police retaliated in self-defence, resulting in an exchange of fire, he said. The SSP added that both armed suspects were killed during the exchange of fire. Two pistols along with ammunition, spent shell casings, and the motorcycle being used by the suspects were recovered from their possession. According to a police statement, there were “at least 13 criminal cases” registered against one suspect, while one case had been registered against the other. The incident comes amid a recent surge in violent crime in the port city. Last week, a suspected robber was gunned down and a policeman was wounded in a shoot-out on Mauripur Road. Earlier this month, two suspected robbers were shot dead by citizens in Gulzar-i-Hijri and Cattle Colony. In another incident, a suspected robber was lynched by an angry mob and another was wounded by a bullet allegedly fired by an accomplice during a robbery in Korangi. Police have reiterated their commitment to combating criminal activity in the city, while the latest encounter underscores the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in maintaining public safety amid rising street crime.

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    Govt increases petrol by Rs1.63, diesel by Rs1.55

    ByJustpaste.in

    The government on Tuesday increased the price of petrol by Rs1.63 and high-speed diesel (HSD) by Rs1.55 per litre, passing on the impact of fluctuating global oil prices following renewed hostilities in the Persian Gulf. Following the changes, the price of petrol stands at Rs335.81 per litre, while HSD is now priced at Rs388.38 per litre. The government is charging a total of Rs110 per litre in taxes and duties on petrol and Rs96 on diesel. The Petroleum Division’s notification said the new prices would be applicable for July 29 (Wednesday). The diesel price has come down from a peak of Rs520.35 recorded on April 3, after beginning its upward trajectory from Rs281 per litre when the US-Iran war broke out on February 28. Similarly, petrol had peaked at Rs458.41 on April 3 after rising from Rs266 in the first week of March. Earlier, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik announced that fuel prices would now be fixed on a daily basis due to fluctuations in international market prices. The government had been announcing weekly revisions since early March, alongside conservation measures amid possible oil supply disruptions due to the ongoing Middle East conflict. In April, the federal government also announced targeted relief measures to provide subsidised fuel. The petroleum minister stated that the cabinet and prime minister had decided to give the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) the responsibility of deciding fuel prices daily based on international market trends. The daily pricing decision was rejected by the All Pakistan Dealers Association, which said it would consider a protest plan this week. Petrol is mainly used in private transport, small vehicles, rickshaws and two-wheelers, and changes in its price affect the middle and lower-middle classes. Similarly, diesel price changes impact the public at large, as it is primarily used in the heavy transport sector, power plants and large generators. Petrol and HSD are the major revenue earners, with monthly sales of about 700,000 to 800,000 tonnes, compared to just 10,000 tonnes of monthly demand for kerosene.

  • Tarar links AJK unrest to foreign funded agenda

    ByJustpaste.in

    Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said on Tuesday that the recent protests by the banned Joint Awami Action Committee in Azad Jammu and Kashmir were not peaceful. He alleged that militant groups pursuing a foreign agenda, backed by funding from India, were involved in the unrest. Earlier the same day, AJK Information Secretary Muhammad Rashid Hanif said many protesters taking part in the JAAC demonstrations were linked to Fitna Al Khawarij. This is the term Pakistani authorities use for militants belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan. Speaking at a press conference, Hanif said illegal and violent acts had taken place in AJK, aimed at disrupting the ongoing phases of the region’s elections. He said maintaining law and order and protecting the democratic process remains the state’s core duty, and the state is capable of doing so. Hanif said the JAAC protests were not made up of ordinary citizens alone. He played a video showing masked gunmen standing on a rooftop as evidence. He said common protesters were fewer in number, while armed militants linked to Fitna Al Khawarij were present in significant numbers. He urged people to distance themselves from these elements and said the government would issue public appeals soon. He also alleged that anti-state groups were using women and children as human shields, and that misleading videos calling this a human rights movement were being spread on social media. AJK police spokesperson DIG Irfan Kashfi said these armed individuals would be treated as militants, not peaceful protesters, given their possession of automatic weapons, M-4 rifles, AK-47s, and reportedly sniper rifles. He said one police official was killed and five others injured in recent clashes. One suspect, described as a foreign national acting as a sniper, was arrested in Rawalakot with a military-grade weapon in his possession. Kashfi said security forces were acting purely in self-defence and to protect the public, and assured citizens that militants would not be allowed to capture Rawalakot or any other area. AJK Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore said the unrest had been planned for weeks and described the march toward Muzaffarabad during the elections as a scheme to trigger mass unrest. He appealed to the public to stay away from the protesters, alleging they were using civilians as human shields. The JAAC was declared a banned organisation on June 5 after weeks of protests demanding the abolition of 12 reserved refugee seats in the AJK assembly. Authorities have since arrested many of its leaders and placed 147 activists under anti-terrorism watch.

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    741 dangerous buildings identified across Sindh

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) has identified 741 dilapidated and dangerous buildings across the province. The disclosure was made during a meeting of the Sindh Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in Karachi. The meeting was chaired by PAC Chairman Nisar Khuhro. According to an official statement, the SBCA briefed the committee about the condition of buildings across Sindh. The authority said a large number of unsafe structures were located in Karachi. Of the 741 dangerous buildings identified across the province, 588 are situated in Karachi. The figure includes 444 buildings classified as heritage structures. The SBCA also informed the committee about steps taken to deal with buildings that pose risks to residents and the public. According to the authority, approval has been granted to evacuate 59 dilapidated buildings. Permission has also been given to demolish 39 structures considered dangerous. The issue of heritage buildings also came under discussion during the meeting. The Public Accounts Committee decided to summon the Heritage Committee at its next session. It also sought a detailed report on buildings constructed illegally around the Mazar-i-Quaid. The committee expressed concern over unauthorised construction in important areas of Karachi. It directed the relevant authorities to provide complete details of such structures. The meeting also discussed illegal housing schemes operating in Karachi. The committee was informed about 58 unauthorised housing schemes in the city. The PAC directed authorities to take steps to prevent people from investing in these illegal schemes. It also ordered action against individuals and groups involved in operating them. The committee further directed officials to identify and disclose the names of people involved in the illegal housing projects. The latest disclosure has raised concerns over the safety of residents living in old and structurally weak buildings across Sindh. The authorities are now expected to take further measures to identify unsafe structures, evacuate residents where necessary and remove buildings that pose an immediate threat. The issue is particularly significant in Karachi, where hundreds of old and heritage buildings are located in densely populated areas.

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    PM Shehbaz seeks stronger US ties in trade, IT and…

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    Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for stronger cooperation between Pakistan and the United States in key economic and strategic sectors. The prime minister made the remarks during a meeting with a delegation of the US Congress. The delegation included Ryan Zinke and Representative Michael Baumgartner. According to an official statement, the meeting focused on Pakistan-US relations and opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation. Prime Minister Shehbaz welcomed the visit by the US lawmakers. He described it as a positive step towards strengthening ties between the two countries. The prime minister also conveyed his best wishes to US President Donald Trump. He appreciated Trump’s role in helping secure a ceasefire between Pakistan and India. Shehbaz described the US president’s intervention as bold and decisive. The prime minister said Pakistan wanted to further expand cooperation with the United States in several important areas. These included trade, agriculture, information technology and energy. He said stronger economic engagement could create new opportunities for both countries. Pakistan, he added, was interested in building broader and more productive relations with the United States. The US congressional delegation also spoke positively about bilateral relations. The delegation said President Trump’s strong ties with Pakistan’s leadership were producing positive results. It also recognised the importance of continued engagement between Islamabad and Washington. The visiting lawmakers praised Pakistan for its role in efforts to promote peace and stability in the region. The meeting comes as Pakistan seeks to deepen its relations with the United States. Economic cooperation remains an important part of the bilateral relationship. Trade and investment are among the areas where Pakistan wants greater engagement with the US. Islamabad is also seeking cooperation in technology, agriculture and energy. The government believes stronger cooperation in these sectors can support economic growth and create new opportunities for businesses. The meeting also highlighted the importance of political engagement between the two countries. Regular exchanges between Pakistani and US officials can help strengthen mutual understanding. Following the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hosted a reception for a delegation of executives from the US corporate sector. The reception provided an opportunity to discuss business and investment opportunities. The government is seeking greater participation from international companies in Pakistan’s economy. It hopes stronger engagement with the US corporate sector will help attract investment and expand economic cooperation.