LPG becomes costlier from August

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Adviser on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, said it was true that former prime minister Nawaz Sharif had instructed party leaders not to respond to Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s recent statements. He added that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) strongly disagreed with both the content and tone of Naqvi’s remarks. Speaking on a television programme, Rana Sanaullah described Mohsin Naqvi’s comments as “meaningless” and lacking context. He said he had listened to Naqvi’s speech but could not understand what message he was trying to convey. “It appeared that he wanted to make a significant point but failed to explain it properly. Once he made the statement, his subsequent remarks contradicted one another. I simply could not understand what he was saying or why he was saying it,” Rana Sanaullah said. He stressed that whenever a person makes a public statement, it reflects their personal opinion, adding that it was up to Mohsin Naqvi to clarify the intent behind his remarks and take responsibility for their interpretation. Responding to Naqvi’s proposal regarding the creation of new administrative units or provinces, Rana Sanaullah said such matters could not be decided merely through public statements. “You cannot simply talk about new provinces and expect them to come into existence. The Constitution clearly defines the procedure for creating new provinces or administrative units,” he said. He maintained that the issue should first be debated in Parliament, while the final decision would rest with the leadership of the political parties. Rana Sanaullah recalled that during the PML-N government in Punjab from 2013 to 2018, the party had formally proposed the creation of new provinces. He said he had personally presented both the resolution and the proposal for establishing a commission to examine the matter. He explained that a national commission would have to be formed to review all aspects of creating new provinces, including financial resources, administrative arrangements and constitutional requirements. “The commission would also need to consult on representation in the National Assembly, provincial assemblies and the Senate. This is a highly complex issue that requires serious deliberation by experienced policymakers,” he said. Rana Sanaullah added that Pakistan could adopt smaller provinces, a stronger local government system, or even both, but such decisions should be made collectively by political parties after thorough consultation

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has paid glowing tribute to Pakistan’s police martyrs, describing their courage, unwavering commitment and ultimate sacrifices as a source of immense pride for the nation. In his message on Police Martyrs’ Day, the president praised law enforcement personnel for standing on the front lines against terrorism and organized crime, saying their bravery has played a vital role in safeguarding the country’s peace and stability. President Zardari said the sacrifices made by police officers in the fight against terrorists and their foreign-backed supporters would always be remembered. He noted that countless officers had laid down their lives while protecting citizens, defending the rule of law and ensuring national security. Highlighting the force’s professional achievements, the president said police departments across Pakistan had successfully disrupted terrorist plots and dismantled criminal networks through intelligence-based operations, dedication and professional expertise. He added that their services continue to strengthen public confidence in the country’s security institutions. The president reserved special praise for the police forces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, acknowledging their exceptional courage in confronting terrorism under extremely challenging conditions. He said officers in both provinces have consistently demonstrated resilience and extraordinary commitment despite facing significant risks. President Zardari also expressed solidarity with the families of fallen police personnel, saying the nation salutes their patience, perseverance and strength. He stressed that supporting the families of police martyrs is a shared responsibility of both the state and society, adding that their welfare and well-being must remain a national priority. Emphasizing the need for stronger law enforcement institutions, the president said the government would continue efforts to modernize the police through improved training, advanced technology and better operational resources. He noted that equipping officers with modern tools and professional skills is essential for effectively responding to evolving security challenges. The message comes as Pakistan continues to face security threats in several regions, where police personnel remain actively engaged in counterterrorism operations alongside other security agencies. The president said the bravery and sacrifices of police officers serve as a lasting reminder of their dedication to protecting the nation. Police Martyrs’ Day is observed across Pakistan each year to honor officers who lost their lives in the line of duty and to recognize the invaluable contributions of law enforcement personnel in maintaining peace, public safety and the rule of law.