National

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    Three minors allegedly sexually abused in Chakwal;…

    ByJustpaste.in

    CHAKWAL: Three minors were allegedly subjected to sexual abuse in separate incidents reported in Chakwal district, with police registering cases against the suspects and arresting three men, including a mosque imam, while two others were taken into custody after an alleged exchange of fire. The incidents, reported in the jurisdictions of Wanhar and Kallar Kahar police stations, have caused concern among residents and prompted calls for effective protection of children and swift action against those found responsible. In the first case, a 10-year-old girl was allegedly sexually assaulted by a local mosque imam after other children attending Quran lessons had left the mosque, according to the complaint lodged by her father with Wanhar police. The complainant said his two daughters regularly went to a nearby mosque in Mohallah Bawa Khan Baig to learn Quranic recitation. On the day of the alleged incident, the imam allegedly sent the 5years younger sister home early and dismissed the other children after hearing their lessons. According to the complaint, the suspect then allegedly called the 10-year-old girl into a room and sexually assaulted her. The girl was allegedly threatened with a knife and warned that she would be killed if she disclosed the incident to anyone. Police registered a case against the imam and launched an investigation. The suspect was subsequently arrested in an injured condition during an operation in the Manara area, police said. According to police, a raid on Wasnal Road, Manara, to arrest the suspect when he allegedly attempted to flee after seeing the police party. Police said the suspect stumbled and fell while fleeing, causing a pistol allegedly concealed in his waistband to discharge. He sustained a gunshot wound and was arrested before being shifted to the Trauma Centre in Kallar Kahar for medical treatment. The suspect was identified as Maulvi Saqlain Hussain, son of Nazar Hussain, a resident of Manara. In a separate incident within the jurisdiction of Kallar Kahar police station, a 16-year-old boy was allegedly sexually assaulted by a man who was staying at a local mosque in Shamsabad, near Khai village. According to the complaint filed by the boy’s father, who is a prayer leader at the mosque, the suspect allegedly assaulted his son and later attempted to assault him again. The complainant said the boy had initially remained silent about the alleged earlier incident out of fear. However, when he went to serve food to the traveller staying at the mosque, a commotion was heard after some time. The mosque caretaker and the boy’s father allegedly reached the spot and saw the suspect attempting to assault the boy, prompting the suspect to flee, according to the complaint. The boy later informed his father about the alleged earlier incident as well. In the third incident, two men allegedly involved in the sexual assault of a Class 10 student were arrested in an injured condition following an alleged exchange of fire in Chak Nagri, an area falling within Wanhar police jurisdiction. According to police, the suspects and two unidentified accomplices had allegedly taken the student to a nearby forest several days earlier, subjected him to severe physical assault and sexually assaulted him. Police alleged that the suspects recorded the incident and subsequently used the video to blackmail and intimidate the student. A police team later raided the suspected hideout to arrest the accused, police said. The suspects allegedly opened fire on the police party along with their two unidentified accomplices. During the ensuing exchange of fire, the two wanted suspects sustained gunshot wounds, allegedly after being hit by firing from their own accomplices, according to police. The two unidentified men escaped under the cover of darkness and the forest terrain. The injured suspects were arrested and shifted to a medical facility for treatment. Police said further investigation and legal proceedings were under way. The three cases have highlighted concerns over the vulnerability of children to sexual violence and exploitation. Residents have called for prompt investigation of the allegations, protection of the victims and strict action against suspects if the charges are established in court. Police officials said investigations into all the cases were continuing and that further action would be taken in accordance with the law.

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    AJK elections, two polling stations set up in Mult…

    ByJustpaste.in

    MULTAN: Preparations are in full swing in Multan for the second phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) elections, with authorities establishing two polling stations to facilitate voters registered in the constituency. According to election officials, the polling stations have been set up for LA-42 Valley-III, where a total of 966 registered voters are expected to cast their ballots. Polling for the second phase of the AJK elections is scheduled to take place on August 2. Police said comprehensive security arrangements have been finalised to ensure a peaceful voting process. A total of 295 police personnel have been deployed at the two polling stations to maintain law and order and provide security for voters, polling staff and election materials. Election authorities said all necessary arrangements are being completed ahead of polling day. Officials confirmed that ballot papers, ballot boxes and other election materials will be delivered to the polling stations before voting begins. The contest in the constituency is expected to be closely watched, with four candidates in the race. The main competition is anticipated between Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) candidate Syed Wajid Ali and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) candidate Asim Sharif Butt. The second phase of the AJK elections will cover three districts of Muzaffarabad Division as well as 12 refugee seats, making it a key stage in the electoral process. Authorities have urged voters to cooperate with security personnel and follow election rules to ensure a smooth and transparent polling process. Officials expressed confidence that the arrangements in Multan will enable eligible voters to exercise their democratic right in a safe and orderly environment.

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    PTI will win even if Pakistan has 100 provinces, B…

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan on Friday launched a sharp criticism of the country’s ruling coalition, claiming that administrative reforms or the creation of new provinces would not weaken his party’s political strength. Speaking to reporters outside Parliament House, Gohar said the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) lacked both the political will and public mandate to introduce major constitutional changes, including the formation of new administrative units or provinces. “You may create 100 provinces, but PTI will still emerge victorious across the country because the people stand with Imran Khan,” Gohar said, asserting that the former prime minister continues to enjoy overwhelming public support. The PTI chairman also commented on the health of Bushra Bibi, saying she had recently been shifted to hospital for an eye examination before being returned to Adiala Jail. He said he was informed about her transfer only after she had already been taken to the hospital. Responding to speculation about political contacts, Gohar denied having any communication with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi or PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. He questioned the government’s handling of national affairs and urged authorities to explain what had led the country’s governance system into what he described as a “default mode.” Turning to the judiciary, Gohar argued that recent constitutional amendments had failed to improve the justice system despite the appointment of dozens of additional judges. He claimed public confidence in judicial institutions had declined and called for reforms based on consensus rather than political interests. The PTI leader further alleged that the ruling parties were considering administrative restructuring to weaken the opposition. He insisted that constitutional amendments should not be introduced without broad political agreement. Gohar also criticised the PPP, accusing it of remaining silent on national issues while focusing on political gains. He repeated PTI’s longstanding allegations regarding the 2024 general elections and challenged the PPP leadership to a public debate over disputed electoral seats, including constituencies in Karachi. His remarks come amid renewed political debate over constitutional reforms, governance and the country’s evolving political landscape, with both the government and opposition continuing to exchange sharp criticism over electoral legitimacy and institutional performance.

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    Jamaat-e-Islami plans motorway blockade as part of…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Kallar Syedan: The monthly gathering of members and workers of Jamaat-e-Islami Kallar Syedan Zone was held under the chairmanship of Zonal Ameer Muhammad Tauqeer Awan . A large number of zonal and UC office bearers, members and workers participated in the gathering. In the gathering, with reference to 7th August, and on the call of Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman , it was decided to launch a protest movement across Pakistan against the exorbitant increase in petroleum prices and unjust taxes in electricity bills. As a result, roads across the country will be blocked. Under this, a convoy from Kallar Syedan will depart for 26 Number Chungi, where the Motorway will be blocked. In this regard, it was also decided to distribute pamphlets in all the markets of Kallar Syedan Tehsil and to hold meetings with the market traders’ associations and transporters to invite them to fully participate in this strike. It was also decided to run a vigorous campaign to stop the government from further oppression of the people. In further addition, for the elections to be held on 2nd August in Kashmir LA-39 Jammu 6, responsibilities for the election campaign and polling agents for Jamaat-e-Islami candidate Mirza Tajammal Jarral were assigned.

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    Over 300 patients receive free medical treatment a…

    ByJustpaste.in

    KETI BUNDER: More than 300 patients benefited from free healthcare services during a one-day medical camp organized at the Town Committee Gharobari in Taluka Keti Bunder, District Thatta. The camp focused on the diagnosis and treatment of oral diseases, hepatitis screening, and general health consultations, aiming to improve access to quality healthcare for residents of the area. The medical camp was held under the supervision of Assistant Commissioner Gharobari Sorath Mazhar Abro, Mukhtiarkar Gharobari Maqsood Ahmed Jokhio, and Chairman Town Committee Gharobari Muhammad Ramzan Panhwar. Local residents, including women, children, and elderly patients, attended the camp in large numbers and received free medical examinations, medicines, and professional consultations. A team of experienced healthcare professionals, led by renowned dental surgeon Dr. Shyam Kumar of Civil Hospital Makli and Dr. Mehran Abro, conducted detailed examinations and provided treatment for various oral and dental diseases. Patients were also screened for hepatitis, while doctors educated them about preventive measures, personal hygiene, and the importance of early diagnosis and timely treatment. District Health Officer (DHO) Thatta, Syed Safdar Shah, visited the camp to review the arrangements and interact with the medical staff. He appreciated the dedicated efforts of the doctors, paramedics, and organizers in delivering quality healthcare services to the local community. Speaking on the occasion, he said that free medical camps are essential for improving public health, particularly in remote and underserved areas, as they provide timely medical assistance and create awareness about disease prevention. Residents expressed gratitude to the district administration and health department for organizing the camp and hoped that similar healthcare initiatives would continue regularly to benefit people living in rural areas of Thatta.

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    Pakistan needs hard governance to defeat terror: D…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry has said Pakistan must become a “hard state” where the Constitution and law are applied equally to everyone, stressing that strong governance is essential to defeating terrorism and ensuring lasting peace. He rejected claims that the security situation in Balochistan is worsening, calling them part of a deliberate campaign to create a false perception about the province. Addressing a detailed press conference on Friday, the military spokesperson said Pakistan’s security forces continue to make significant gains against terrorism through sustained intelligence-based operations across the country. Lt Gen Chaudhry said a total of 40,348 intelligence-based operations (IBOs) have been carried out so far this year by the armed forces, police, intelligence agencies and civil armed forces. More than 31,000 of these operations were conducted in Balochistan, reflecting the state’s continued focus on restoring peace in the province. He said Pakistan recorded 3,145 terrorism-related incidents during 2026. Of these, 1,971 incidents occurred in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 1,148 in Balochistan and 26 in other parts of the country. The ISPR chief said security forces killed 2,084 confirmed terrorists during operations this year, describing it as the highest average in the country’s history. On average, around 10 terrorists have been eliminated every day, while nearly 200 intelligence-based operations are conducted daily. Highlighting the sacrifices made in the fight against terrorism, Lt Gen Chaudhry said 819 Pakistanis lost their lives in terrorism-related incidents this year. The victims included 303 military personnel, 194 members of police and civil armed forces, and 322 civilians. He also revealed that 28 suicide attacks had taken place across the country during the year. According to him, most of these attacks involved Afghan nationals or individuals linked to groups operating from Afghan territory. The military spokesperson said the rise in terrorist attacks should not be viewed as a sign of weakness. Instead, he argued that militant groups have intensified attacks because of increasing pressure from proactive security operations and repeated battlefield setbacks. Lt Gen Chaudhry also accused the Afghan Taliban administration of allowing terrorist groups to operate from Afghan soil, claiming cross-border support remains a major factor behind terrorism inside Pakistan. Explaining his vision of a “hard state,” he said it does not mean military rule. Rather, it refers to a country where institutions function according to the Constitution, laws are enforced fairly, and no individual or group stands above the law. Referring to Article 5 of Pakistan’s Constitution, he said loyalty to the state and obedience to the Constitution are fundamental duties of every citizen. He added that discussions about rights must also include recognition of civic responsibilities. Speaking specifically about Balochistan, Lt Gen Chaudhry said the province’s real challenge lies with certain elites and tribal leaders who seek to preserve the existing power structure. He alleged that some influential groups oppose educational and economic progress because they fear losing their traditional influence. He further claimed that some individuals benefit from illegal activities, including smuggling and other criminal networks, and promote unrest whenever the state strengthens law enforcement or cracks down on such activities. The military spokesperson reiterated that Pakistan would not negotiate with terrorist groups or those using violence for political purposes. Instead, he said the armed forces would continue engaging directly with the people of Balochistan, whom he described as the province’s true stakeholders. Lt Gen Chaudhry also alleged that hostile foreign powers are attempting to exploit Balochistan’s strategic location and natural resources by supporting anti-state elements in collaboration with local actors opposed to reforms and development. Discussing the issue of missing persons, he said the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances has received 10,901 complaints since its establishment. Of these, 9,372 cases have been resolved, with 4,896 individuals returning home, around 1,030 found in prisons, 308 confirmed dead, and nearly 2,400 complaints determined to be incorrectly reported. He added that 2,933 complaints originated from Balochistan, of which 2,767 have already been resolved.

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    Lasting solutions beyond military action require n…

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, has said that military operations alone cannot permanently resolve Pakistan’s security challenges, stressing that lasting peace requires a collective national effort. Addressing a media briefing, the military spokesperson said that while the armed forces continue to conduct effective operations against terrorism, sustainable stability depends on the active role of all state institutions and society. He emphasized that the fight against terrorism is a national responsibility that extends beyond the battlefield. The DG ISPR noted that security forces remain committed to eliminating terrorist threats and protecting the country’s sovereignty. However, he underlined that enduring peace can only be achieved through coordinated governance, public support, and a comprehensive national strategy alongside security operations. His remarks highlighted the importance of unity and a whole-of-nation approach in addressing Pakistan’s security challenges, reaffirming that military successes must be complemented by political, administrative, and societal efforts to ensure long-term stability. Moreover, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry has said Pakistan must become a “hard state” where the Constitution and law are applied equally to everyone, stressing that strong governance is essential to defeating terrorism and ensuring lasting peace. He rejected claims that the security situation in Balochistan is worsening, calling them part of a deliberate campaign to create a false perception about the province. Addressing a detailed press conference on Friday, the military spokesperson said Pakistan’s security forces continue to make significant gains against terrorism through sustained intelligence-based operations across the country. Lt Gen Chaudhry said a total of 40,348 intelligence-based operations (IBOs) have been carried out so far this year by the armed forces, police, intelligence agencies and civil armed forces. More than 31,000 of these operations were conducted in Balochistan, reflecting the state’s continued focus on restoring peace in the province. He said Pakistan recorded 3,145 terrorism-related incidents during 2026. Of these, 1,971 incidents occurred in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 1,148 in Balochistan and 26 in other parts of the country. The ISPR chief said security forces killed 2,084 confirmed terrorists during operations this year, describing it as the highest average in the country’s history. On average, around 10 terrorists have been eliminated every day, while nearly 200 intelligence-based operations are conducted daily. Highlighting the sacrifices made in the fight against terrorism, Lt Gen Chaudhry said 819 Pakistanis lost their lives in terrorism-related incidents this year. The victims included 303 military personnel, 194 members of police and civil armed forces, and 322 civilians. He also revealed that 28 suicide attacks had taken place across the country during the year. According to him, most of these attacks involved Afghan nationals or individuals linked to groups operating from Afghan territory. The military spokesperson said the rise in terrorist attacks should not be viewed as a sign of weakness. Instead, he argued that militant groups have intensified attacks because of increasing pressure from proactive security operations and repeated battlefield setbacks. Lt Gen Chaudhry also accused the Afghan Taliban administration of allowing terrorist groups to operate from Afghan soil, claiming cross-border support remains a major factor behind terrorism inside Pakistan. Explaining his vision of a “hard state,” he said it does not mean military rule. Rather, it refers to a country where institutions function according to the Constitution, laws are enforced fairly, and no individual or group stands above the law. Referring to Article 5 of Pakistan’s Constitution, he said loyalty to the state and obedience to the Constitution are fundamental duties of every citizen. He added that discussions about rights must also include recognition of civic responsibilities. Speaking specifically about Balochistan, Lt Gen Chaudhry said the province’s real challenge lies with certain elites and tribal leaders who seek to preserve the existing power structure. He alleged that some influential groups oppose educational and economic progress because they fear losing their traditional influence. He further claimed that some individuals benefit from illegal activities, including smuggling and other criminal networks, and promote unrest whenever the state strengthens law enforcement or cracks down on such activities. The military spokesperson reiterated that Pakistan would not negotiate with terrorist groups or those using violence for political purposes. Instead, he said the armed forces would continue engaging directly with the people of Balochistan, whom he described as the province’s true stakeholders. Lt Gen Chaudhry also alleged that hostile foreign powers are attempting to exploit Balochistan’s strategic location and natural resources by supporting anti-state elements in collaboration with local actors opposed to reforms and development. Discussing the issue of missing persons, he said the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances has received 10,901 complaints since its establishment. Of these, 9,372 cases have been resolved, with 4,896 individuals returning home, around 1,030 found in prisons, 308 confirmed dead, and nearly 2,400 complaints determined to be incorrectly reported. He added that 2,933 complaints originated from Balochistan, of which 2,767 have already been resolved.

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    AJK violence won’t derail democracy: DG ISPR

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan’s military has defended the state’s handling of unrest in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and the security situation in Balochistan, saying the government is exercising restraint while remaining committed to constitutional governance, counterterrorism efforts and national stability. Addressing a detailed press conference on Friday, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said political issues should be resolved through democratic and constitutional means, while security challenges require strong governance and public support. State urges constitutional path in AJK The military spokesperson said the state had acted with restraint in dealing with recent unrest in AJK, adding that the electoral process would continue without disruption. He stressed that the will of the people should be reflected through democratic institutions and that all individuals would be held accountable under the Constitution and the law. He said Pakistan remained committed to its long-standing position on Kashmir, describing the region as central to the country’s national policy. He also rejected claims that the Pakistan Army was an occupying force in AJK, saying security matters in the region were being handled by the AJK government, police and civilian law enforcement agencies. The DG ISPR alleged that India was attempting to fuel instability inside Pakistan through proxy campaigns and misinformation, while reaffirming Pakistan’s support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination under United Nations resolutions. Good governance key to national security Responding to questions about governance reforms, the military spokesperson said effective administration was essential for ensuring peace and long-term stability. He noted that Pakistan’s rapidly growing population required a review of administrative structures and said reforms should be debated and implemented through constitutional and democratic processes. He said an administrative reset could be considered if it helped improve governance, but emphasized that any changes must reflect the will of the people and remain within the legal framework. Referring to the National Action Plan, he said most of its objectives—including countering extremist narratives, stopping terror financing, improving institutional capacity and tackling smuggling—depended on strong governance rather than military action alone. Security operations intensify against terrorism The DG ISPR said security forces had significantly increased intelligence-based operations across the country during 2026, conducting thousands of operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks. According to him, more than 2,000 militants had been killed this year, while hundreds of security personnel and civilians had embraced martyrdom. He said the majority of recent suicide bombers were Afghan nationals and accused militant groups linked to the Afghan Taliban of supporting cross-border terrorism against Pakistan. He maintained that the rise in security incidents reflected a more aggressive counterterrorism strategy, with intelligence-led operations forcing militants into direct confrontation with security forces. Balochistan challenges linked to governance and propaganda Discussing Balochistan, the military spokesperson said the province’s security challenges stemmed from a combination of militancy, organized crime, entrenched elite interests and external interference. He argued that some influential groups resisted reforms to preserve their political and economic influence, while terrorist organizations exploited local grievances through propaganda. He highlighted ongoing development projects, including investments in education, healthcare, transport infrastructure and Gwadar’s development, saying the government had allocated substantial resources to the province. He also referred to data from the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances, stating that most reported cases had already been resolved while investigations into the remaining cases were continuing.

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    Bugti offers militants rehabilitation, warns of co…

    ByJustpaste.in

    QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti on Friday announced that the provincial government is ready to hold political dialogue with those willing to abandon violence, while making it clear that security operations against armed militant groups will continue until peace is restored. Speaking at the passing-out parade of the Anti-Terrorism Force’s 20th basic training course in Quetta, the chief minister said individuals who surrender and renounce militancy would be given an opportunity to rebuild their lives through a comprehensive rehabilitation programme. Under the government’s reintegration plan, former militants will be offered government employment, educational opportunities for their children and access to healthcare facilities to help them become productive members of society. He said the initiative aims to encourage peaceful participation in the province’s development. However, Bugti warned that those who continue armed activities would face firm action. He said the provincial government, Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps, police, Counter Terrorism Department and Anti-Terrorism Force were working together to eliminate terrorism and restore lasting peace across Balochistan. Referring to the recent rise in militant attacks, the chief minister acknowledged that the province’s security challenges had intensified in recent years but expressed confidence that ongoing counterterrorism operations would defeat militant groups. Bugti also urged political leaders to avoid linking political disagreements with acts of terrorism. While criticism of the government was part of the democratic process, he said attacks on the country’s security forces should not be justified or politicised. Addressing the newly graduated ATF personnel, the chief minister praised their commitment to national service and described them as guardians responsible for protecting the people and maintaining peace. He added that the government was reviewing measures to further strengthen the professional training of security personnel to meet emerging security challenges. The chief minister also announced Rs150 million for improving the Anti-Terrorism Force training school’s infrastructure and highlighted recent steps taken to enhance benefits and welfare packages for police personnel and the families of martyred officers, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening law enforcement institutions.

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    Sewage flood damages SBCA property records

    ByJustpaste.in

    KARACHI: Sewage water has flooded the record room at the headquarters of the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA), damaging hundreds of land and building-related files and raising concerns over the safety of vital property records. The affected room at the SBCA Civic Centre headquarters contains thousands of documents submitted by citizens, including approved building plans, structural drawings and other records used to verify property details. Officials retain copies of approved residential and commercial building plans in the record room for future reference. However, sewage water reportedly entered the facility after poor maintenance and alleged negligence, submerging hundreds of files and damaging important documents. Another important SBCA department, formerly known as Town Planning and now called Structure Planning, operates next to the affected record room. Sources said the flooding also damaged records dating back several years. According to sources, sewage had been accumulating in the area for several days, but the maintenance department failed to resolve the issue in time, resulting in damage to critical official records. Following a report by Express News, Additional Director General Farhan Qaiser took notice of the incident and ordered an inquiry against three officials. He directed authorities to submit a report within 24 hours and warned that officials found responsible for negligence would face suspension. The incident has also raised questions about oversight, as the SBCA Director General’s office is located only a short distance from the affected record room. However, no immediate directives reportedly came from the DG’s office. An SBCA spokesperson said the Director General was attending a meeting with Sindh Local Government Minister Nasir Hussain Shah regarding improvements to the authority’s one-window operation. Citizens have expressed serious concern over the damage, saying the incident could undermine public confidence in the protection of property records. They have called on the Sindh government to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and proper preservation of such documents.