Nasir Iqbal storms into international squash final

  Overseas Pakistanis have welcomed the proposal to create new provinces in the country, describing it as a positive step toward improving administrative efficiency, strengthening governance and bringing public institutions closer to citizens. Rajah Nasir Hussain, a representative of overseas Pakistanis and a prominent businessman from Gujar Khan, expressed his support for the proposal . He said the idea of creating seven provinces should be considered alongside the establishment of an eighth province comprising Islamabad and the Potohar region. According to Hussain, the creation of new provinces could help address administrative challenges and improve the delivery of public services. He stressed, however, that any decision regarding the creation of new provinces should be made through constitutional amendments and broad political consensus. He said the issue should not be treated as a matter of political rivalry or regional competition. Instead, it should be viewed as an administrative reform aimed at improving governance and ensuring that citizens in different parts of the country receive better access to state institutions and public services. Hussain also highlighted the important role played by overseas Pakistanis in the national economy. He said millions of Pakistanis living and working abroad contribute significantly to the country through remittances. The funds sent by overseas Pakistanis provide vital support to Pakistan’s economy and help strengthen the country’s financial system. He noted that overseas Pakistanis continue to make economic contributions despite living outside the country. Their remittances support families, increase foreign exchange inflows and contribute to economic stability. In his view, their role should therefore be recognised not only in economic terms but also through greater representation in the country’s administrative and political framework. Hussain argued that the government and political leadership should explore new mechanisms through which overseas Pakistanis can participate more effectively in national affairs. He said their experience of living and working in different countries gives them exposure to modern administrative systems, business practices and governance models that could potentially benefit Pakistan. He further suggested that overseas Pakistanis should have greater opportunities to contribute to policy discussions concerning economic development, investment, governance and administrative reforms. Their participation, he said, could help policymakers understand international practices and identify approaches that may be adapted to Pakistan’s circumstances. Regarding the proposed new provinces, Hussain emphasised the importance of consultation among all stakeholders. He said political parties, provincial governments, civil society, constitutional experts and representatives of the affected regions should be involved in the discussion before any final decision is taken. He maintained that the creation of provinces should be based on administrative requirements, population, geographical considerations, economic viability and the interests of local communities rather than short-term political objectives. The proposal to consider Islamabad and Potohar as an eighth province, he said, should also be examined within this broader framework. Such a move, if supported by constitutional and political consensus, could potentially improve administrative management and representation in the region. Hussain reiterated that overseas Pakistanis support reforms aimed at strengthening the country’s administrative structure. He said the debate over new provinces provides an opportunity to consider broader governance reforms while ensuring constitutional procedures and national consensus. He concluded that overseas Pakistanis should be regarded as important stakeholders in Pakistan’s future. Given their economic contributions and national role, developing effective mechanisms for their political and administrative representation should be considered a priority alongside wider institutional reforms.

Pakistan marked its 79th Independence Day with spectacular celebrations, dazzling fireworks and a vibrant display of national spirit across major cities, including Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar and Quetta. The festivities reached a major highlight in Islamabad with the inauguration of the newly built Victory Monument. President, Prime Minister and Field Marshal attended the ceremony, where the national flag was hoisted in the presence of service chiefs, federal ministers and foreign diplomats. Across the country, streets, homes, markets and public buildings were illuminated with colourful lights and decorated with Pakistan’s green-and-white flags. Citizens joined the celebrations with patriotic enthusiasm, while national songs echoed through cities and communities. Karachi took on a festive appearance as residents decorated their neighbourhoods and public spaces. The special Azadi Safari train also travelled from Karachi to Chhor as part of the Independence Day celebrations. Lahore witnessed colourful decorations and lively festivities, while Islamabad was illuminated with spectacular displays. In Peshawar, Quetta and Multan, people also celebrated the national day with great enthusiasm. The Punjab government organised a special Independence Day ceremony featuring performances by renowned singers, adding music and entertainment to the celebrations. From fireworks lighting up the night sky to the widespread display of national flags and patriotic songs, Pakistan’s Independence Day brought citizens together in a nationwide expression of pride, unity and love for the country.

  Investigators have obtained the mobile phone data records and forensic report related to the death of Mir Raza Ali as the investigation into the mysterious case continues. According to officials involved in the inquiry, digital evidence collected from his mobile phone has provided important leads, although authorities say it is still too early to reach a final conclusion about the circumstances surrounding his death. According to the investigation team, Mir Raza Ali sent a message to one of his friends on the night of July 28. The content of this communication is being examined as part of the broader investigation to determine his state of mind and the events leading up to his death. Officials also stated that Mir Raza Ali’s complete medical report has not yet been received. His family has expressed dissatisfaction with the preliminary medical report, saying it does not fully address their concerns. The initial report identified the cause of death as a gunshot wound, but investigators emphasize that further medical findings are awaited before drawing any definitive conclusions. The family has alleged that Mir Raza Ali’s body bore signs of physical assault and burn marks, raising questions about whether additional injuries may have been inflicted before his death. Investigators have said that if the family requests a second medical examination or another post-mortem review, the authorities are prepared to facilitate it in order to ensure transparency and address all concerns. As part of the investigation, officials have recorded statements from 15 individuals including the online taxi driver who was reportedly connected to the case and the person who first informed authorities about the body. These statements are being cross-checked with forensic findings, digital evidence, and other available information to establish a clear timeline of events. Investigators stressed that they are carefully examining every aspect of the case to determine whether Mir Raza Ali’s death was a suicide or a homicide. They said no possibility has been ruled out, and all available evidence is being analyzed thoroughly before reaching a final conclusion. Mobile phone data has also revealed that Mir Raza Ali had contacted a friend requesting a loan of Rs. 30 million (3 crore). According to investigators, he reportedly told his friend that he was facing serious difficulties and was in urgent need of money. This information has prompted investigators to explore whether financial stress may have played a role in the events leading up to his death. Further examination of Mir Raza Ali’s mobile records suggests that he owed money to multiple individuals. Authorities are now reviewing his financial dealings, communications, and personal relationships to understand whether these debts could have contributed to the incident or whether they point toward another motive. Investigators also disclosed that Mir Raza Ali’s fiancée sent him continuous messages between 3:10 a.m. and 3:50 a.m. on the night in question. However, according to the mobile data, Mir Raza Ali did not respond to any of her messages. Officials are examining the timing of these communications alongside other digital evidence to reconstruct the sequence of events before his death. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities awaiting the final medical report and additional forensic analysis. Officials have reiterated that all evidence—including witness statements, forensic findings, mobile phone records, and financial information—will be carefully reviewed before determining the exact cause and manner of Mir Raza Ali’s death. They have assured the public that the inquiry will be conducted impartially and that every possible angle will be investigated to ensure the truth is established.