Pakistan stands firmly with Saudi Arabia: PM

LAHORE: The deaths of two young women in police custody have raised fresh questions after their autopsy reports revealed black spots on their lungs and blood clots in their hearts, while failing to find visible signs of physical assault or torture. The two women, identified as Amina and Anmol, died while in the custody of Lahore’s Township police. According to sources, their post-mortem examinations found no external injuries or marks suggesting physical violence. Samples of their blood and internal organs have now been sent for histopathological testing, which is expected to help establish the final cause of death. The autopsies were conducted two days after the deaths and the reports were finalised after the medical board reached a consensus. Doctors found the women’s livers, kidneys and stomachs to be in normal condition, while black spots were observed on both sets of lungs and clots were detected in their hearts. The findings have not yet provided a definitive explanation for the deaths. Authorities are waiting for the histopathology results before determining the final cause. The families of the deceased have meanwhile called for an independent and transparent investigation. Tajamul Hussain, the father of one of the women, rejected the police version that the deaths were linked to a medical condition. He questioned how both women could have suffered fatal heart problems while in custody and alleged that they were killed. Police have denied the allegations. SSP Investigation Naveed Ahmed said the women had previous criminal records and were arrested after a passerby contacted Police Emergency 15 and reported that they had allegedly snatched an earring. The officer also claimed that the women used drugs but firmly rejected allegations that they were tortured or mistreated during their detention. With the histopathology reports still awaited, the investigation is expected to focus on the women’s medical condition, their treatment while in custody and the circumstances leading up to their deaths.

  Lahore: Punjab Information Minister Uzma Bukhari has said that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) is fully aware of why the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) harbors resentment toward Punjab, adding that the province’s rapid development has become difficult for its political opponents to accept. Responding to recent statements made by PPP spokespersons in Lahore, Bukhari said that the Punjab government is utilizing public funds for the welfare and development of the people of Punjab, which, according to her, is the real source of the PPP’s criticism. She remarked that the “Nawabs of Larkana” are unable to digest the fact that Punjab’s resources are being spent on improving the lives of its citizens. The Punjab information minister also addressed PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, urging him to refrain from promoting what she described as politics of hatred and division. She said that as the chairman of a major political party, Bilawal should be mindful of the responsibilities associated with his position and avoid making statements that could deepen political polarization. Bukhari questioned why PPP representatives from Sindh rarely highlight the performance of their own provincial government. Instead of criticizing Punjab, she suggested, they should focus on informing the public about the achievements and governance record of the Sindh administration, which has remained under PPP leadership for several years. Highlighting the performance of the Punjab government, Bukhari said that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has ensured that development projects and public resources are distributed across the province without discrimination. According to her, the government has extended development initiatives from Attock in northern Punjab to Rahim Yar Khan in the south, and from Rawalpindi to Vehari, ensuring that all regions benefit equally from provincial resources. She stated that the current administration is committed to improving public services, infrastructure, and the overall quality of life for people across Punjab. Bukhari added that those who are envious of Punjab’s progress and prosperity would continue to criticize, but such criticism would not hinder the government’s commitment to development.   Referring to the PPP’s political standing in Punjab, Bukhari claimed that the party currently ranks fourth in terms of public support in the province. She said this was not the fault of the PML-N but rather a reflection of the people’s confidence in the performance of the provincial government. According to her, Punjab’s residents continue to express satisfaction with the governance and development initiatives undertaken by the PML-N administration. In her remarks, Bukhari also referred to Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, saying that when he visited Lahore to learn from the city’s governance and development model, the Punjab government welcomed him openly. She added that the same level of development, progress, and prosperity witnessed in Punjab should also be achieved in Sindh for the benefit of its people. The minister concluded by reaffirming that the Punjab government remains focused on serving the public through transparent governance and equitable development. She maintained that political criticism would not distract the administration from its objective of ensuring sustained progress and improving living standards throughout the province.

  The Irrigation Department has reported a significant increase in the water flow of the Chenab River, raising concerns about flooding in nearby riverine areas. According to officials, the rising water level has already affected several low-lying settlements, forcing floodwater into residential and agricultural areas and creating difficulties for local communities. The department stated that the increase in the river’s discharge has caused water to spread into nearby villages located along the banks of the Chenab River. As a result, a protective embankment known as the Zamindara Bund in Jalalpur Pirwala Tehsil has been breached. The collapse of the embankment has allowed floodwater to move more rapidly into surrounding areas, increasing the risk to people, homes, livestock, and crops. According to the Irrigation Department, at least five villages have been submerged due to the rising floodwaters. Among the affected settlements are Basti Khuda Bakhsh, Basti Allah Rakha, and Basti Bakhsha, along with two other nearby villages. Residents in these areas are facing severe challenges as water continues to enter homes, farmland, and local roads. Many families are concerned about the safety of their property and the possibility of further flooding if water levels continue to rise. Officials have also reported that water levels have increased in the surroundings of Head Muhammad Wala Road and near Qasim Bela. These areas are being closely monitored as authorities assess the situation and evaluate the potential for additional flooding. The rise in water has affected transportation routes, making travel difficult for residents and increasing the need for precautionary measures. The Irrigation Department is keeping a close watch on the river’s flow and is expected to continue monitoring the situation in coordination with local administration and disaster management authorities. Residents living in vulnerable riverine areas have been advised to remain alert and follow official instructions. If water levels continue to increase, further evacuations and emergency measures may become necessary to ensure public safety. Flooding in the Chenab River region is a recurring challenge during the monsoon season, particularly when heavy rainfall upstream leads to a sudden increase in river discharge. Breaches in protective embankments can significantly worsen the situation by allowing water to spread rapidly into populated areas. Such incidents often result in damage to homes, agricultural land, and infrastructure, while also disrupting daily life and economic activities. Local authorities are expected to assess the extent of the damage once water levels stabilize. Relief efforts may include providing temporary shelter, food, clean drinking water, and medical assistance to affected families. The government and emergency response agencies are likely to continue monitoring weather conditions and river flows to reduce further risks. The situation remains under observation, and officials have urged residents in flood-prone areas to stay informed through official updates and cooperate with emergency responders. Authorities are working to minimize the impact of the flooding and ensure the safety of communities living along the Chenab River.