MQM-P groups resume talks after Bahadurabad clash

  Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon has alleged that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) is attempting to secure power in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) through electoral manipulation rather than the democratic process Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Memon strongly criticized the ruling party’s political approach and accused its leadership of relying on what he described as “backdoor” methods to gain power. He claimed that the PML-N was now trying to repeat the same strategy in Azad Kashmir ahead of the upcoming political developments in the region. “The Pakistan Muslim League-N wants to come to power in Azad Kashmir through rigging,” Memon said while addressing journalists. He argued that free and fair elections are essential for maintaining public trust in democratic institutions and urged all stakeholders to ensure transparency in the electoral process. During the press conference, Memon also took aim at former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. He alleged that Nawaz Sharif had himself entered power through what he called the “backdoor,” adding that Maryam Nawaz had followed the same path. Referring to one of her recent public remarks, Memon criticized her statement asking, “When will the Day of Judgment come?” He said such expressions should not be used by political leaders, arguing that they were inappropriate in public discourse. The Sindh minister emphasized that politicians should exercise caution in their choice of words and avoid making statements that could create unnecessary controversy or distract from issues affecting the public. He said political leaders have a responsibility to maintain respectful and constructive dialogue, particularly during periods of heightened political activity. Memon also spoke about the challenges facing Karachi, describing the country’s largest city as unique in both its size and complexity. “Karachi has many challenges because Karachi is not just a city—it is like a country,” he remarked. He said the metropolis faces a wide range of issues, including infrastructure demands, traffic congestion, rapid population growth, and the need for improved public services. According to Memon, the Sindh government continues to work on addressing these longstanding challenges through development projects and administrative reforms. He stressed that managing Karachi requires coordinated efforts from both provincial and federal institutions due to the city’s economic significance and its role as Pakistan’s commercial hub. The press conference primarily focused on the current political environment, electoral transparency, and governance issues. Memon reiterated that democratic values must be upheld and that any attempt to influence election outcomes unfairly would undermine public confidence in the political system. His remarks come amid increasing political activity across the country, with parties positioning themselves ahead of future elections and regional political contests. The statements are expected to draw responses from the Pakistan Muslim League-N, which has previously rejected similar allegations and maintained that it believes in democratic and constitutional processes. The comments made by Sharjeel Memon add to the ongoing political debate in Pakistan, where electoral integrity, governance, and accountability continue to dominate public discussion. As political tensions persist, attention remains focused on ensuring transparent elections and promoting constructive political dialogue across the country.

Lahore, July 26, 2026: A high-level delegation from the United States Congress, including Congressman Ryan Zinke and Congressman Michael Baumgartner, visited the headquarters of the Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) in Lahore. During the visit, the delegation was briefed on the Authority’s advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based systems, modern surveillance technologies, and digital public safety initiatives aimed at improving security and emergency response mechanisms across Punjab. The visiting delegation was warmly welcomed by Managing Director Punjab Safe Cities Authority Muhammad Ahsan Younas and Chief Operating Officer Muntansir Feroz upon their arrival at the PSCA headquarters. The officials provided an overview of the Authority’s operations and highlighted the role of technology-driven solutions in strengthening law enforcement capabilities and ensuring better public safety services for citizens. During their visit, the U.S. Congressional delegation toured different operational sections of the Authority and observed the functioning of various advanced security systems. The visitors were informed about the latest technological developments introduced by PSCA, including artificial intelligence-powered upgrades, smart monitoring tools, and digital solutions designed to improve security management throughout the province. According to the PSCA spokesperson, the delegation received a detailed briefing on the Authority’s modern surveillance infrastructure, including state-of-the-art security cameras, the Integrated Command and Control Centre, AI-based security modules, and province-wide monitoring networks. Officials explained how these technologies help authorities monitor public spaces, respond quickly to emergencies, and support law enforcement agencies in maintaining peace and security. The delegation was also briefed on PSCA’s coordination with Punjab Police and other security institutions. Officials highlighted the Authority’s role in creating an integrated security environment through advanced communication systems, data-driven monitoring, and rapid emergency response mechanisms. The visitors were informed about how these systems assist law enforcement agencies in improving operational efficiency and providing timely assistance to citizens. The PSCA spokesperson further explained that the delegation was given a detailed presentation on the upgraded features of Emergency Helpline 15. The briefing included information about its technology-based emergency response system and various citizen-focused digital services developed to make emergency assistance faster and more accessible for the public. The U.S. Congressional delegation showed particular interest in several major initiatives launched by PSCA, including the Women Safety App, Virtual Women Police Station, Virtual Center for Child Safety, Intelligent Traffic Management System, and other innovative digital public safety projects. These initiatives were presented as examples of how technology can be effectively used to address social challenges and improve public services. The visiting representatives appreciated the efforts of the Punjab Safe Cities Authority in using modern technology to enhance public security and improve citizen services. They recognized these initiatives as progressive models that demonstrate the potential of artificial intelligence and digital innovation in strengthening safety systems. At the conclusion of the visit, commemorative shields were presented to the members of the U.S. Congressional delegation as a gesture of appreciation and goodwill. Senior officials from PSCA and representatives of relevant departments were also present during the concluding ceremony. The visit highlighted the growing importance of technological cooperation and knowledge-sharing in the field of public safety. The Punjab Safe Cities Authority continues to focus on adopting modern digital solutions to create safer communities, enhance emergency response capabilities, and provide improved services to citizens across the province.