iri nacta team
|

IRI, NACTA team up to promote sectarian harmony

ByJustpaste.in

Islamabad: The Islamic Research Institute (IRI) of the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) and the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) have joined hands to combat violent extremism, promote inter-sectarian harmony and strengthen peacebuilding efforts across Pakistan.

The two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Friday at a ceremony attended by senior officials. Professor Dr Ahmed Saad Alahmed, Acting Rector and President of IIUI, and Mr Jawad Ahmad Dogar, PSP, National Coordinator of NACTA, signed the agreement on behalf of their respective organisations.

The MoU follows several months of consultations and meetings between the two sides. The discussions identified areas for cooperation and established a long-term framework for joint initiatives. Both institutions also nominated focal persons to coordinate the partnership, while the draft agreement went through legal review before receiving final approval.

Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Dr Ahmed Saad Alahmed highlighted the importance of cooperation between universities and national institutions in addressing major social challenges. He said universities have a key role in producing credible research, encouraging balanced religious discourse and providing practical policy recommendations that support national unity and social cohesion.

Mr Jawad Ahmad Dogar described IRI as one of Pakistan’s leading centres for Islamic scholarship and policy research. He said the partnership would combine academic expertise with practical national experience to develop initiatives that promote tolerance and help prevent violent extremism.

The collaboration has already produced its first major initiative. On July 9, 2026, IRI and NACTA jointly organised a pilot seminar titled **“Inter-Sectarian Harmony: Past Efforts and Future Roadmap.”** The event brought together scholars, policymakers, religious leaders and practitioners to discuss ways to improve sectarian understanding and develop lasting mechanisms for religious harmony.

The two institutions are now preparing a major joint programme for August 2026, which will focus on academic dialogue, policy engagement and community outreach.

The partnership also supports the government’s broader policy to establish Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) Centres at higher education institutions across the country. Under the MoU, IRI and NACTA will work together on research, training workshops, educational resources and capacity-building programmes to help universities establish and effectively operate CVE Centres.

The agreement also covers joint research projects, policy studies, conferences, seminars, faculty development, curriculum support, publications and other capacity-building activities. The two sides will continue to engage researchers, policymakers, religious scholars, educators and practitioners to address emerging threats of violent extremism through research-based strategies.

IRI reaffirmed its commitment to providing a national platform for Islamic scholarship and policy research, while NACTA expressed its resolve to strengthen cooperation with academic institutions to help build a peaceful, inclusive and resilient Pakistan.

Similar Posts

  • | |

    NCCIA launches probe into social media campaign ag…

    ByJustpaste.in

      The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has launched an investigation into an alleged social media campaign aimed at damaging the reputation of Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon and his son. According to NCCIA officials, the agency has received a formal complaint from Sharjeel Inam Memon regarding the alleged defamatory content circulating on various social media platforms. The complaint was received by the Deputy Director of the NCCIA’s Karachi Zone, who has initiated the process of investigating the matter. Officials said the agency is currently working to identify individuals allegedly involved in operating social media accounts, creating content and disseminating posts that are claimed to have harmed the reputation of the senior provincial minister and his son. The investigation will focus on tracing the origin of the posts, identifying the people responsible for creating and publishing the material, and determining how the content was circulated and amplified across social media platforms. NCCIA officials said the agency has contacted around 10 major social media platforms, including Facebook, WhatsApp, X, and Instagram, as part of its investigation. The platforms have reportedly been asked to provide relevant information about the accounts and individuals involved in spreading the alleged defamatory posts. The agency has also sought details of accounts that allegedly played a role in making the posts viral. Investigators are attempting to determine whether the content was originally posted by a particular account and subsequently shared or promoted by other users. In addition, the NCCIA has requested data relating to social media accounts from which the allegedly objectionable posts were later deleted. Officials are seeking information that could help investigators identify the users behind such accounts, even where the original content is no longer publicly available. The development comes amid growing concerns over the use of social media platforms to circulate unverified, misleading or allegedly defamatory material against public figures. With social media allowing information to spread rapidly across multiple platforms, cybercrime investigators increasingly rely on digital records and platform data to trace the origins of online content. The NCCIA’s investigation is expected to examine the digital trail associated with the alleged campaign, including the accounts involved in creating, sharing and circulating the material. Investigators may also examine the extent to which the content was distributed and whether multiple accounts were coordinated in spreading it. The complaint reportedly alleges that the social media campaign was intended to damage the honour and reputation of Sharjeel Inam Memon and his son. However, the allegations remain part of the ongoing investigation, and any responsibility for the content will ultimately depend on the findings of the relevant authorities. The agency’s request for information from social media platforms is aimed at obtaining additional evidence that could assist in identifying the people behind the accounts and determining the circumstances surrounding the creation and distribution of the posts. The NCCIA has not yet disclosed the identities of any suspects or announced arrests in connection with the case. Further action is expected after investigators receive and analyse the requested information from the social media platforms. The case highlights the increasing role of cybercrime authorities in addressing complaints involving online harassment, defamation and the alleged misuse of social media. The investigation will determine whether the content in question violated relevant laws and whether those responsible can be identified and proceeded against under the applicable legal framework.

  • | |

    AJK polling extended amid rain, PPP alleges electi…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Polling continued on Sunday in the second phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) elections, with voters casting ballots in eight of the nine constituencies in the Muzaffarabad division and all 12 refugee constituencies. The polling process began at 8am and was initially scheduled to conclude at 5pm. However, an AJK Election Commission spokesperson announced a one-hour extension, allowing voters to cast their ballots until 6pm. Heavy rainfall forced authorities to postpone polling in LA-27 (Muzaffarabad-I), AJK Chief Election Commissioner Ghulam Mustafa Mughal said. More than 300 candidates are contesting the seats in the Muzaffarabad division and the 12 constituencies reserved for refugees settled in various parts of Pakistan. Meanwhile, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari renewed his allegations of electoral irregularities, accusing the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) of attempting to influence the voting process during the second phase as well. In a post on X, Bilawal condemned what he described as an attack on PPP’s regional president Chaudhry Latif Akbar, who is also contesting from LA-31 (Muzaffarabad-V). He alleged that elements linked to the PML-N were responsible for the incident and claimed that PPP worker Mushtaq Shah was killed in the same constituency. Bilawal accused the PML-N of using intimidation and violence to interfere with the electoral process and called for the immediate arrest of those responsible for the alleged attack on Akbar and the killing of the party worker. In another statement, the PPP chairman alleged that attacks had targeted his party’s voters as well as the AJK president. He said the contest in Muzaffarabad had turned into a struggle between the PPP’s political principles and what he described as the PML-N’s use of threats, coercion and alleged rigging. The PPP also submitted a formal complaint to the AJK Election Commission, alleging that Akbar faced a physical assault while participating in election-related activities on polling day. The party named three individuals in connection with the incident and said it had initiated the process of registering a first information report (FIR). The PPP urged the Election Commission to investigate the alleged security failure and determine how the incident occurred despite security arrangements at the polling site. AJK Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore, who belongs to the PPP, also took notice of the incident. He directed the chief secretary and inspector general of police to investigate the matter and ensure that those responsible face legal action.

  • | | |

    Gastroenteritis and Cholera cases rise in Lahore 

    ByJustpaste.in

      Gastroenteritis and cholera cases have started emerging in Lahore and surrounding areas, raising concerns about the quality of drinking water, food hygiene and sanitation in the city. Health officials have reported a significant number of patients suffering from gastrointestinal illnesses at basic health centres, dispensaries and district health units across Lahore. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Health Lahore, Dr Asif Niazi, said that gastroenteritis cases were being reported at basic health centres, dispensaries and district health units. According to him, approximately 7,000 people were affected by gastroenteritis during the month of July. Dr Niazi further revealed that basic health centres were receiving an average of 271 gastroenteritis patients every day. He said that a significant proportion of those affected were children, with most patients falling between the ages of five and 10. The increasing number of cases has also been observed at major teaching hospitals in Lahore. Senior Medical Officer Dr Mustafa Kamal said that patients suffering from gastroenteritis and cholera were being brought to teaching hospitals for treatment. He stated that Sir Ganga Ram Hospital was receiving between 150 and 200 such patients within a 24-hour period. According to Dr Kamal, a high incidence of dysentery is one of the major symptoms associated with cholera. He added that cholera cases were also being reported in the emergency department and outpatient department of Mayo Hospital. The health officials have linked the rise in gastrointestinal diseases to unsafe drinking water and unhygienic food. Senior Medical Officer Dr Kazim said that contaminated water was one of the major factors contributing to the spread of cholera and other gastrointestinal illnesses. He also warned against consuming food sold by roadside vendors, saying that unhygienic food from carts and stalls could increase the risk of cholera and diarrhoea. According to the medical officer, ice sold in local markets could also be a potential source of contamination and may contribute to the spread of cholera and diarrhoea. Health experts have repeatedly emphasized the importance of clean drinking water, proper sanitation and food hygiene in preventing waterborne diseases. Gastroenteritis can cause symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain and dehydration, while cholera can become particularly dangerous if severe dehydration is not treated promptly. The situation is particularly concerning for children, who can become dehydrated quickly after repeated episodes of diarrhoea or vomiting. With most reported gastroenteritis patients reportedly between five and 10 years of age, health authorities and families may need to pay particular attention to children’s water and food consumption. Residents have been advised to take precautions by drinking safe and properly treated water, maintaining hand hygiene and avoiding food and beverages prepared under unhygienic conditions. Particular caution may also be necessary when purchasing ice, as contaminated water used in its preparation can potentially transmit waterborne infections. The rising number of cases has highlighted the need for improved monitoring of drinking-water sources, food outlets and roadside vendors in Lahore and its surrounding areas. Authorities may also need to strengthen public awareness campaigns about preventive measures and ensure that affected patients have timely access to medical treatment. With thousands of cases reported in July and hospitals continuing to receive patients, health officials are closely monitoring the situation. Ensuring access to clean water and safe food remains essential to controlling the spread of gastroenteritis, cholera and other waterborne diseases across Lahore.

  • Thai Birth Certificate Fraud Involving Chinese Spreads as Officials Dig Deeper

    ByJustpaste.in

    NAKHON RATCHASIMA — An investigation into fraudulent Thai birth certificates involving Chinese nationals has uncovered 28 additional cases — including six sets of twins — as authorities dig deeper into a widening scandal that has now implicated officials in multiple provinces. Bangladeshi Woman Arrested at Phuket Airport With Cocaine and Forged Documents Kittipong Pongsurawet, the […]

  • | |

    Committee formed to investigate HIV Cases at Landh…

    ByJustpaste.in

      The authorities have established an inquiry committee to investigate the recent HIV cases reported at the Social Security Hospital in Landhi, Karachi. The decision comes after concerns were raised following the confirmation of 10 HIV cases at the hospital, prompting officials to initiate a detailed investigation into the matter. According to an official notification, a five-member inquiry committee has been constituted under the leadership of Chief Medical Officer Dr. Naila Zaheer. The committee has been assigned the responsibility of conducting a comprehensive investigation into the reported HIV cases and identifying any possible shortcomings in hospital practices that may have contributed to the situation. As part of its mandate, the committee will verify the total number of HIV cases reported at the hospital. It will also confirm the identities of the affected patients and examine laboratory reports to ensure the accuracy of the diagnoses. This verification process is considered essential to establish the exact scope of the issue before any conclusions are drawn. The inquiry will also focus on identifying the possible sources of HIV transmission. Investigators will carefully review medical procedures carried out at the hospital, particularly the use of injections and disposable syringes. The committee will examine whether proper infection prevention and control protocols were followed and whether single-use syringes and other disposable medical equipment were used appropriately. Any evidence of negligence or unsafe medical practices will be documented as part of the investigation. In addition, the committee has been directed to investigate the procurement, availability, and utilization of medicines and disposable medical supplies within the hospital. This includes reviewing purchasing procedures, stock management, and the distribution of medical equipment to determine whether any irregularities or shortages may have affected patient safety. The notification further states that the committee will compile complete records of the affected children and their parents. This data collection aims to provide a clearer understanding of the circumstances surrounding each reported case and assist in determining whether there are any common factors linking the infections. The information gathered will also help health authorities provide appropriate medical care and follow-up support to the affected families. Another important responsibility assigned to the committee is identifying any individuals or departments found responsible for lapses in hospital procedures, if such lapses are confirmed during the inquiry. The final report will include recommendations aimed at improving hospital management, strengthening infection control measures, enhancing patient safety, and preventing similar incidents in the future. The formation of the inquiry committee reflects the authorities’ effort to thoroughly investigate the reported HIV cases and ensure transparency in the process. Health officials are expected to review the committee’s findings once the investigation is completed and take tappropriate action based on its recommendations. It is worth noting that 10 HIV cases have been reported at the Social Security Hospital in Landhi, leading to growing public concern and the launch of this formal investigation. The outcome of the inquiry will play an important role in determining the cause of the reported infections and in reinforcing public confidence in healthcare services by ensuring accountability and improved safety standards.

  • | |

    More provinces or better governance? In Sindh, div…

    ByJustpaste.in

    “Start With Punjab”: Saeed Sarbazi Calls for Pilot Model Karachi: Once again, the demand for new administrative units and provinces has been sparked — this time from within the government itself. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s recent statement has reignited the debate, raising questions about governance, service delivery, and political intent. Coming at a time when the current setup is widely described as a “hybrid system,” Naqvi is seen by many as representing the other partner in that arrangement. His call therefore carries weight beyond routine political rhetoric, forcing both parliament and the public to ask: is this about bringing the state closer to the people, or about redrawing Pakistan’s political map? MQM-P Backs Demand: “Engine of Pakistan’s Economy” The debate found immediate backing from MQM-Pakistan, which has once again strongly supported the idea of separating Karachi from Sindh. The party argues that the city, which generates the bulk of Pakistan’s revenue, should have control over its own resources so that what is earned in Karachi is spent on Karachi. Calling it the “engine of the entire Pakistan economy,” MQM-P maintains that an independent administrative setup for the metropolis is the only way to fix its decades-old issues of infrastructure, water, transport and governance. Sindh Government Rejects: “Dangerous Precedent” However, the Sindh government has strongly opposed the idea. Provincial leaders and ministers like Sharjeel Memon, Saeed Ghani and Nasir Hussain argue that carving out Karachi from Sindh will only deepen existing fault lines and promote hate and division among communities. They maintain that Karachi is an integral part of Sindh’s history, culture, and economy, and that separating it administratively would set a dangerous precedent for the federation. For them, the solution lies in better governance and resource allocation within the existing provincial structure, not in division. PML-N Opposition: “Will Never Be Approved” The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz has also come out in opposition to the proposal. A senior PML-N minister and veteran politician, Rana Sanaullah, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, stated in a TV talk show that any legislation aimed at dividing provinces into units would “never be approved” in the National Assembly. He also asserted that such proposals were never discussed in cabinet or in parliament. The party argues that such moves risk destabilizing national harmony, and that the focus should remain on strengthening local government systems within provinces rather than redrawing administrative boundaries. MQM-P Counter: Parliamentary Precedent Cited Commenting on PML-N’s remarks, MQM-Pakistan head Mustafa Kamal fired back, saying those who want to reorganize Pakistan into smaller administrative units have the political strength to do so. He argued whether the 26th or 27th amendment bills were discussed in cabinet before they were floated for approval in parliament. He disclosed that both the bills were presented on the day of passing and were passed unanimously even before discussion. “If a bill for new provinces is brought to the floor of the National Assembly, it would be passed — just as the 26th and 27th constitutional amendments were,” Kamal said. His statement signals MQM-P’s confidence that with the right backing, even a contentious legislative move can sail through parliament. Saeed Sarbazi’s Expert View: Ill-timed Debate, Governance Needed, Not Division Talking to this correspondent, senior journalist, news editor at a reputable daily and former president of the Karachi Press Club, Saeed Sarbazi said raising such a subject at this critical stage was ill-timed. With the country going through a severe economic meltdown amid the Iran-US conflict, he argued, separating Karachi from Sindh would not serve any purpose. Sarbazi pointed out a key administrative fact: “More than 65 percent of Karachi belongs to cantonment areas. So blaming the Sindh government for the state of 34 percent of the infrastructure is not fair.” For him, the debate distracts from the real issue of joint responsibility and better coordination between all stakeholders. Federal Responsibility: Revenue vs Investment Gap Sarbazi, a seasoned union worker turned leader, also highlighted the federal government’s obligations in the debate. “If Karachi is mini Pakistan, where the country’s most important ports are located and the entire Pakistan benefits from its structure and institutions, then it is obligatory on the Federal government to provide monetary support,” he stated. He cited the example of the National Highway M9 — a key CPEC project — which still remains a single lane in parts despite years of promises. “Till to-date the federal government has not completed the double lane highway,” Sarbazi said, arguing that Karachi generates the most revenue but gets the least direct federal investment in return. “Start With Punjab”: A Pilot Model Suggested by Sarbazi The former KPC president further added that the discussion should not be limited to Sindh alone. “Punjab Assembly has already passed a resolution to divide Punjab into South and Central Punjab,” Sarbazi noted. “If those who aspire to see how administrative units will function and become a model, then it should start from Punjab. If it presents a good governance model, then perhaps Sindh will follow.” His remarks suggest that instead of confrontation, a pilot model in Punjab could set the tone for the rest of the country. Power Politics and PPP’s Role in Sindh Saeed Sarbazi, who holds the unprecedented record of being elected unopposed along with his entire panel to the Karachi Press Club, stated that such tactics of creating more administrative units are often ignited by power corridors as a tool for arm-twisting political parties. “Though democratically elected governments have flaws, these can only be corrected through good governance,” he said. “Such arm-twisting only brings political instability in Pakistan.” Sarbazi emphasized that the role of the Pakistan Peoples Party in the Sindh government should not be underplayed. “It is serious about improving infrastructure in the province — by providing people with good transport, water at their doorstep, and by improving the sewage and drainage system.” The Way Forward: Merits, Concerns, and Alternatives As the debate over new provinces resurfaces, both merits and concerns demand attention. Proponents argue that smaller administrative units

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *