Electrocution tops monsoon death causes in Pakistan

A woman who was allegedly brought to Pakistan from Bangkok on the promise of marriage has accused a man of sexually assaulting her in Rawalpindi. Police said a case was registered at the Rawat police station on the woman’s complaint. The allegations have been included in the first information report (FIR) registered against the nominated suspect. According to the FIR, the woman met the suspect in Bangkok about two years ago. The two reportedly developed a friendship after their meeting. She later alleged that the suspect continued to remain in contact with her and promised to marry her. The woman stated that around four months ago, she came to Pakistan after being assured of marriage. She said the suspect arranged a rented apartment for her in a private housing society in Rawalpindi. She then began living at the apartment. According to her statement, the suspect allegedly sexually assaulted her on several occasions. She claimed that whenever she asked him to marry her, he avoided giving a clear response and continued to delay the matter. The woman also alleged that the suspect restricted her movement. She claimed that she was not allowed to leave the apartment freely. She further accused him of physically assaulting her during her stay there. The complainant also alleged that the suspect took her money when he left the apartment. She approached the police after the alleged incidents and requested legal action against the man. Police confirmed that the nominated suspect has been arrested. After the FIR was registered, the investigation was handed over to the relevant specialised investigation unit. Officials said the case is under investigation. Police are collecting evidence and examining the allegations made by the complainant. Further legal action will be taken in accordance with the findings of the investigation.

Sindh Home and Law Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar has strongly rejected allegations made by former federal minister Miftah Ismail regarding police recruitment in the province, calling the claims baseless and politically irresponsible. Responding to Miftah Ismail’s statement, Lanjar said President Asif Ali Zardari represents all federating units of Pakistan and should not be portrayed as the representative of a single province, language or ethnic group. He added that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) is a truly federal political party, and attempts to associate the president with a particular region undermine national unity. The provincial minister said all government recruitment in Sindh, particularly in Karachi, is conducted in accordance with established laws, the quota policy and merit. He maintained that the Sindh Police is a professional, impartial institution committed to merit-based recruitment. Lanjar further said the Sindh government does not believe in discrimination on the basis of language, ethnicity, region or community, and remains committed to providing equal opportunities to all citizens. He urged Miftah Ismail, as a senior political leader, to avoid making unsubstantiated allegations or statements that could fuel ethnic divisions. He said that if Miftah possesses evidence regarding any irregularity in police recruitment, he should present it before the relevant legal or administrative forum instead of making general accusations. The Sindh home minister also called on Miftah Ismail to clarify and withdraw what he described as an irresponsible statement that was contrary to the facts.

Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Yahya Afridi has announced that Women Facilitation Centres will be established in courts across the country to make the justice system more accessible, supportive and efficient for women. The announcement was made during a meeting with representatives of the Sindh High Court Bar Association and the Karachi Bar Association at the Supreme Court’s Karachi Registry. The meeting focused on improving facilities for women litigants and addressing challenges faced by female lawyers in the legal profession. During the discussion, the chief justice said the proposed centres are part of broader judicial reforms aimed at creating a more welcoming and convenient environment for women seeking legal assistance. He stressed that women should have easier access to courts and receive the support needed to pursue their cases without unnecessary difficulties. Justice Yahya Afridi said the Women Facilitation Centres would provide a wide range of services under one roof. In addition to offering legal guidance, the centres would include mediation and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) facilities to help settle suitable cases quickly and reduce the burden on courts. He added that the centres would also provide psychological counselling and connect women with relevant government departments and support organisations whenever required. The initiative is intended to ensure that women receive both legal and social assistance throughout the judicial process. The chief justice informed the delegation that the judiciary has already selected the three best designs for the proposed centres. These model designs will be shared with all high courts to ensure a uniform system is introduced across Pakistan. The representatives of women lawyers welcomed the initiative and thanked the chief justice for giving priority to the needs of female litigants. They also highlighted several issues affecting women in the legal profession, including workplace challenges and barriers to equal opportunities within the justice system. Justice Afridi assured the delegation that the concerns raised during the meeting would be addressed on a priority basis. He said the judiciary would work closely with the relevant high courts and other institutions to develop practical solutions and improve facilities for women across the country’s judicial system.

Lahore : The administration of Punjab University has taken a significant step by forming a three-member inquiry committee to investigate multiple complaints submitted against the university’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Khurram Shehzad. The committee has been constituted with the approval of the Vice Chancellor and has been directed to complete its investigation within one week and submit a detailed report along with recommendations. According to official documents, the inquiry committee comprises Dr Nadir Shah, Dr Imtiaz Shafiq, and the Deputy Registrar (Administration). The committee will review the complaints, examine relevant records, assess available evidence and record statements from concerned individuals before finalising its findings. Sources said that Khurram Shehzad has been serving as PRO on additional charge for several years. During this period, several faculty members reportedly submitted written complaints to the Vice Chancellor, alleging concerns regarding the use of official authority and the handling of administrative responsibilities. The complaints reportedly include allegations relating to misuse of official resources, administrative conduct, procedural issues and other matters connected with the performance of duties. The allegations, however, will be subject to verification by the inquiry committee. The Vice Chancellor has directed the committee to conduct a transparent review and submit its findings within the stipulated timeframe, after which any further administrative action will be considered in light of the inquiry report. The formation of the committee has attracted attention within academic and administrative circles, with university stakeholders awaiting the outcome of the investigation.