Friday, June 30, 2023

Karachi dairy farmers hike milk rate by Rs20 per litre

Karachi dairy farmers milk

KARACHI: The Karachi Dairy and Cattle Farmers Association has jacked up milk prices by Rs20 per litre, ARY News reported.

As per details, the milk is already being sold at Rs210/kg in Karachi against the official rate of Rs180 and now the Karachi dairy farmers have further increased the price by Rs20 per litre.

In his statement, Derry Farmers leader Shakir Umar Gujjar said that the commissioner had twice convened a meeting for milk prices but he himself remained absent.

Read more: ‘Milk price in Karachi to touch Rs200 per litre’

“We told the additional commissioner that if prices were not immediately raised, we would announce raise ourselves.”

He said the rise in milk prices was announced in conjunction with stakeholders، From July 1, the x-farm rate will increase by Rs600 per 40kg of milk.

Recently, Commissioner Karachi ordered to carry out operations and seal dairy shops selling milk at higher prices.



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Gov Kamran Tessori announces free health card for low income people

Kamran Tessori, health card,

KARACHI: Governor Sindh Kamran Khan Tessori has announced free health care facility for low-income people, ARY News reported.

As per details, Governor Sindh said in a statement, he said free healthcare facilities will be for those having income from 35 to 40 thousand rupees.

Health insurance up to five hundred thousand rupees will be free through a health card. The cardholders will be able to get treatment in the best hospitals.

It is pertinent to mention here that the federal government has allocated an amount of Rs1 billion in the budget 2023-24 for health insurance of working journalists and media workers.

Read More: Budget 2023-24: Rs1bn allocated for health insurance of journalists

Taking to Twitter, Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb confirmed the development, saying that Rs1 billion has been allocated for health insurance of working journalists and media workers.

“Delighted to announce that an allocation has been made in the budget for health insurance of working journalists for the first time,” the minister said in a tweet.

She extended gratitude to Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif and Finance Minister Ishaq Dar for allocating funds for the “very important measure”.

“As Information Minister, it was one of my goals to be able to arrange this facility for working journalists, especially during these difficult times,” the minister remarked.



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Petrol price to remain unchanged diesel hiked by Rs7.5

Petrol price, diesel, hiked

ISLAMABAD: Finance Minister Ishaq Dar has announced that the prices of petrol will remain unchanged while the diesel price hiked by Rs7.5 per liter, ARY News reported. 

The federal government decided to maintain the petrol price at Rs262 per liter, while the diesel price has been hiked by Rs7.5 for 15 days and the new price will be Rs260.50 per liter.

Earlier today it was reported that the government of Pakistan is likely to impose an additional burden on citizens by raising petroleum levies to fulfill International Monetary Fund (IMF) terms.

According to the sources, the federal government is expected to increase the petroleum levy after which the initial electricity tariff will likely raise Rs 3 to Rs 5 per unit, adding that the gas will also become more expensive for the citizens of Pakistan.

Read more: PAK-IMF agreement: Govt expected to raise petroleum levy

The government sources maintained that the federal cabinet will decide on the increase in electricity tariff. Simultaneously, government sources have also hinted at an anticipated decision to further increase gas prices shortly.

It is pertinent to mention here that Pakistan has signed a $3 billion staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in a ceremony held in Lahore.

International Monetary Fund (IMF) announced that a “Stand-By Arrangement” between the global money lender with Pakistan has been reached successfully. The staff-level agreement has been concluded between Pakistan and the IMF, valuing $3 billion for 9 months.



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Former PTI minister arrested under MPO

PTI minister, arrested

MALAKAND: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) former provincial minister from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Shakeel Khan arrested again, ARY News reported.

As per details, the former PTI minister was arrested from the house of former MNA Junaid Akbar.

The Assistant Commissioner said that Shakeel Khan has been shifted to Mardan Jail.

Earlier, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) former provincial minister from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Dr Amjad, and city mayor Shahid Ali Khan were arrested in Swat.

According to sources, city mayor Shahid Ali Khan was arrested from his residence. Both the PTI leaders Dr Amjad and Shahid Ali Khan have been taken to Saidu Sharif jail.

In a separate, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Ali Muhammad Khan has been re-arrested for the sixth time after being released from jail.

The judge of an anti-corruption court approved the bail of PTI leader Ali Muhammad Khan today. The Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) arrested Khan again in another case.

Khan was immediately arrested by the ACE officials at the jail gate. A new corruption case was lodged against the PTI leader yesterday for alleged financial irregularities in development projects. Former minister Muhammad Atif, Tufial Anjum, and others were also nominated.

It is pertinent to mention here that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Murad Saeed’s brother was arrested by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) police. The PTI leader’s brother Kaleem Saeed was arrested by the KP police. The police said that several cases were registered against him. Police have taken Kaleem Saeed to an unknown location. Sources said that he was booked in the case on May 10 in Mingora police station.



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Pakistans last-gasp IMF bailout as it happened

Pakistan last-gasp, IMF bailout,

KARACHI: Pakistan reached a staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to release $3 billion in critical bailout funds following a long drawn-out review process for the cash-strapped economy since November last year.

The agreement is under a Stand-By Arrangement (SBA), as the existing Extended Financing Facility (EFF) programme signed in 2019 expires later on Friday.

Here are some facts about the lead-up to the last-gasp agreement:

May 2019: IMF approves a $6 billion, 39-month bailout package for Pakistan under the EFF struck with the government of then Prime Minister Imran Khan.

April 2022: Khan’s government is removed in a parliamentary vote of no confidence. Shehbaz Sharif takes over as Prime Minister as the country reels from economic and political turmoil.

READ: PAK-IMF agreement: Govt expected to raise petroleum levy

July 2022: IMF and Pakistan reach staff-level agreement for the release of about $1.2 billion in the last successful EFF review until the SBA.

Aug 2022: The IMF board approves the seventh and eighth reviews of the bailout programme, allowing for a release of over $1.1 billion and an extension by a year.

Sept 2022: Miftah Ismail resigns as finance minister, the fifth such minister to be replaced in less than four years.

Ishaq Dar takes over as finance minister for his fourth stint in the job, with Pakistan’s next staff review, the ninth under the EFF, and funds tranche due in November.

Nov 2023: Pakistan, IMF begin virtual engagement for the ninth review of the loan programme. A staff delegation visit does not materialise due to differences on programme targets, and Dar hits out at the IMF for the delay.

Jan 2023: Pakistan reiterates commitment to completing the IMF programme in a meeting on the sidelines of a climate conference in Geneva.

An IMF staff delegation visits Pakistan after weeks of delays, but the 10-day visit concludes without an agreement to send the matter to the board, increasing economic uncertainty.

Feb 2023: Pakistan, IMF decide to resume talks virtually on steps needed to secure an agreement for the ninth review.

May 2023: IMF mission chief says continuing to work with Pakistani authorities to bring the ninth review to conclusion once necessary financing is in place.

June 22, 2023: Sharif meets IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva in Paris, looking to secure a last minute release of the stalled funds before the programme expires on June 30.

June 24, 2023: Pakistan changes its budget for the financial year starting on July 1, including the latest fiscal tightening measures dictated by the IMF.

June 26, 2023: Pakistan’s central bank raises its benchmark interest rate by 100 basis points to 22% at an emergency meeting days before IMF programme expires.

June 30, 2023: IMF reaches staff-level agreement with Pakistan on $3 billion funding, which is spread over nine months and is higher than expected. The country was awaiting the release of the remaining $2.5 billion from the $6.5 billion bailout package agreed in 2019, which was expiring on Friday.



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PAK-IMF agreement: Govt expected to raise petroleum levy

Pakistan, additional burden, petroleum levy, IMF terms

The government of Pakistan is likely to impose additional burden on citizens by raising petroleum levy to fulfill International Monetary Fund (IMF) terms, ARY News reported on Friday, Citing sources.

According to the sources, the federal government is expected to increase the petroleum levy after which the initial electricity tariff will likely to raise Rs 3 to Rs 5 per unit, adding that the gas will also become more expensive for the citizens of Pakistan.

The government sources maintained that the federal cabinet will take the decision regarding the increase in electricity tariff. Simultaneously, government sources have also hinted at an anticipated decision to further increase gas prices in the near future.

READ: IMF, Pakistan reach $3bn staff-level agreement

Furthermore, the sources said that the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) already sent a proposal to the government to raise gas tariff up to 50 per cent.

The confidential sources have stated that the government possesses the capacity to levy an additional Rs 10 per liter on both petrol and diesel prices. At present, petrol and diesel prices stand at Rs 50 per liter, and if approved, the government could exercise its authority to escalate them to Rs 60 per liter, further impacting the transportation and fuel expenses of the populace.

It is pertinent to mention here, under the coalition government, electricity and gas consumers had already been grappling with a cumulative burden exceeding Rs 1.3 trillion.

Moreover, the electricity consumers, in particular, have been subject to an additional burden exceeding Rs. 1 trillion. Similarly, the gas consumers have been saddled with an extra cost of Rs 310 billion.

Under the present government, electricity prices have risen to an alarming Rs 11.30 per unit. The initial tariff for electricity has also witnessed an increase, reaching Rs 7.91 per unit.

In addition to these escalations, an extra surcharge of Rs 3.39 per unit has been imposed on electricity consumers.

The coalition government has hiked gas prices by 112 percent since taking charge. Such steep increases have raised concerns among consumers and industry stakeholders, who fear the adverse consequences on businesses and the overall cost of living.



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Pakistan to achieves economic stability with IMF bailout: PM Shehbaz

PM Shehbaz Sharif, expressed satisfaction, IMF staff-level agreement, economic stability,

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday expressed his satisfaction after Pakistan signed a staff-level agreement on a “standby arrangement” for nine months, helping to achieve economic stability in Pakistan, ARY News reported on Friday.

READ: IMF, Pakistan reach $3bn staff-level agreement

PM Shehbaz Sharif in a tweet stated that the signing of a $3 billion Stand-By Arrangement will help strengthen Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves, enable Pakistan to achieve economic stability, and put the country on the path of sustainable economic growth.

This agreement will not only provide immediate financial relief but also pave the way for future economic stability and growth.

He appreciated Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and his team at the Ministry of Finance for their efforts and hard work to achieve this outcome.

Shehbaz Sharif expressed gratitude to Managing Director (MD) of IMF Kristalina Georgieva for her cooperation and collaboration during the course of time.



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Four of family killed over personal enmity in Faisalabad

tragic incident, reported, Faisalabad, four individuals, murdered, occasion of Eid,

A tragic incident was reported from Faisalabad where four individuals from the same family were murdered on the occasion of Eid, ARY News reported on Friday.

According to the details, this incident occurred in the Khurrianwala area of Faisalabad, where adversaries blinded by animosity unleashed a hail of bullets, claiming the lives of a father, daughter, and two others from the same household, while leaving three individuals, including two women, injured.

READ: Three killed, minor injured over ‘personal enmity’ in Karachi

According to the police, the two brothers, Imran and Aamir along with other family members, were returning home after celebrating Eid with their sister, when the armed assailants, who had already set up an ambush near Karianwala, opened fire on their car.

The gunfire resulted in the instant death of three persons, including Aamir and a 6-year-old child, while four, including two women, were injured.

The injured and the bodies were transported to the hospital, where one more child succumbed to the injuries. the police termed the incident is a sign of personal enmity.

RPO Faisalabad, Abid Khan, taking note of the killings, has ordered the prompt arrest of the culprits and has requested a detailed report on the incident.



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Thursday, June 29, 2023

IMF Pakistan reach $3bn staff-level agreement

IMF, Pakistan, reach $3bn, staff-level agreement,

ISLAMABAD: International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Friday, announced that a “Stand-By Arrangement” between the global money lender with Pakistan has been reached successfully, ARY News reported.

According to the details, a staff-level agreement has been concluded between Pakistan and the IMF, valuing $3 billion for 9 months.

IMF Mission Chief Nathan Porter along with his team maintained continuous communication with Pakistani authorities and completed the agreement through virtual negotiation.

Regarding the agreement, IMF Mission Chief Nathan Porter has said that the staff-level agreement with Pakistan has been made under a Stand-By Arrangement for 9 months.

READ: Pakistan ‘hopeful’ of IMF deal as loan programme set to expire tomorrow

The final approval of this agreement will be given by the IMF’s executive board, which is expected to take place in mid-July. After this approval, Pakistan can receive a loan of $3 billion.

Nathan Porter further stated that Pakistan’s parliament played an important role in achieving economic goals and took significant steps to increase tax revenues. The parliament has increased funds for Benazir Income Support Program and limited exemptions in taxes.

IMF Mission Chief stated that the increase in tax revenues can result in a primary surplus of 0.4 per cent for Pakistan’s economy and the additional funds generated through increased tax revenues can be allocated to social sectors.



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Ishaq Dar expects IMF deal in next 24 hours

Ishaq Dar IMF, IMF staff-level agreement, IMF deal

LAHORE: Finance Minister Ishaq Dar said a staff-level agreement for a crucial bailout deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) was “very close” and expected in the next 24 hours.

Pakistan is racing against time to unlock at least $1.1 billion under the lender’s ninth review of a $6.5-billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) agreed in 2019. The programme expires on Friday.

“We are very close to signing a staff-level agreement with the IMF,” minister Ishaq Dar told Reuters late on Thursday.

“I think it should come some time tonight or maximum within 24 hours. We have finalised everything.”

A source familiar with talks told Reuters that Pakistan and the global lender were also in discussions for the release of the full $2.5 billion pending under the IMF programme.

The source said the staff-level agreement was to set to initially unlock around $1.1 billion and then be followed by a “standby agreement” which could release the rest after the programme finishes on Saturday.

A representative for the IMF in Pakistan did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Read More: Pakistan ‘hopeful’ of IMF deal as loan programme set to expire tomorrow

The agreement, which would be subject to approval by the IMF board, has faced an eight-month delay.

The funds under discussion would offer some respite to Pakistan which is battling an acute balance of payments crisis and falling foreign exchange reserves.

A total of $4 billion have already been released. Dar had earlier told media the government was working on a mechanism to try to unlock the full $2.5 billion pending under the IMF programme.

It was unclear what portion of the funds would be released in the announcement he expected in the next 24 hours.



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Pakistan strongly condemns desecration of Holy Quran in Sweden

Pakistan strongly condemns desecration of Holy Quran in Sweden

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Thursday strongly condemned the despicable act of public burning of the Holy Quran outside a mosque in Sweden on the occasion of Eid-ul-Azha.

“Such willful incitement to discrimination, hatred and violence cannot be justified under the pretext of freedom of expression and protest,” the foreign office said in a statement.

“Under international law, States are duty bound to prohibit any advocacy of religious hatred, leading to incitement of violence,” the FO said in a statement.

The statement further said that the recurrence of such Islamophobic incidents during the last few months in the West calls into serious question the legal framework which permits such hate-driven actions.

“We reiterate that the right to freedom of expression and opinion does not provide a licence to stoke hatred and sabotage inter-faith harmony,” it added.

Pakistan’s concerns about the incident are being conveyed to Sweden, the FO said and once again urged the international community and the national governments to undertake credible and concrete measures to prevent the rising incidents of xenophobia, Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hatred.



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Armed forces chiefs felicitate nation on Eidul Azha

Armed forces, chiefs felicitate nation on Eidul Azha

RAWALPINDI: The armed forces of Pakistan, CJCSC and services chiefs wished a very happy Eid to fellow Pakistanis.

“Eidul Azha gives us a message of peace, unity, fraternity & selfless sacrifice for humanity. Let us remember and honour Shuhada of Pakistan on this day who sacrificed their lives for the motherland,” stated the ISPR, adding, “They will forever be etched in our hearts.”

Pakistanis are celebrating Eidul Azha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, with zeal and fervour today (Thursday) amid prayers for an economic turnaround.

The South Asian nation faces one of its worst crises as the government struggles to revive a stalled International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme.

The day dawned with special prayers in mosques for the well-being of Ummah and progress, prosperity and security of the country.

Eid prayer congregations were held at mosques, Eidgahs and open places in all cities, towns and villages.

Ulema, in their Eid sermons, are highlighting the significance of the philosophy of great sacrifice rendered by Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) and Hazrat Ismail (AS).

Later, people will offer sacrifice of animals to follow the Sunnah of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS).

Civic authorities have made special arrangements for disposal of offals and other solid waste during the Eid days.

‘Maximum relief’

On the occasion of Eid ul Adha, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged the people to take special care and remember those who became homeless due to last year’s floods.

The PM, in a statement, said that he was cognisant that Pakistan was facing rising inflation triggered by “external issues in the shape of inflation and recession”.

The prime minister felicitated the Pakistani nation and the Muslim ummah on the auspicious occasion of Hajj and Eid ul Adha as he prayed for the acceptance of all the religious rituals and sacrifices.

The prime minister said the incumbent government was utilising all its resources to provide relief to the public.

It had provided “maximum relief” to the salaried class, pensioners and labourers in the current fiscal budget.

The prime minister prayed for the peace and prosperity of the Muslim world and the alleviation of the sufferings of Muslims worldwide, particularly the oppressed brothers and sisters in Indian Illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine.

The prime minister observed that peace, tolerance, brotherhood, and obedience to the commands of Allah were the messages conveyed through sacrifices and the performance of Hajj.

He added that meeting such requirements through practical attainment, coupled with pondering over the significance of the occasion and purpose behind it, would fulfill the real objectives of this Eid.

He said the basic philosophy behind Eidul Azha was to sacrifice the dearest thing for Allah by showing sincerity and devotion.

‘Spirit of sacrifice’

Acting President Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani extended his heartfelt greetings to the whole nation on the blessed and joyful occasion of Eidul Azha.

In a statement, he said Eid ul Adha was a wonderful symbol of obedience as on this day, Muslims commemorate the acts of obedience and submission performed by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) when God commanded him to sacrifice his son, Ismail (AS), which established such an eternal tradition of obedience and sacrifice that continued to be followed till the end of time.

“This spirit of sacrifice has a universal status. No nation in the world can progress unless it has the spirit of sacrifice,” he said.

The acting president said the nation has to work together for the development and prosperity of the country. “We should keep all our interests, preferences and prejudices behind us.”

He said that now was the time to overcome all political affiliations and adopt a common plan of action for the development and prosperity of the country.

“This country came into being as a result of endless sacrifices, tolerance and stability,” he said.

He asked the people to take special care of their brothers and sisters who have been left behind due to the oppression of the situation.

“We should keep an eye around us so that none of our neighbours can miss out on the joys of this holy occasion.”



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Several inmates escape in Chaman prison break

Several inmates escape in Chaman prison break

CHAMAN: Several inmates escaped the prison in Balochistan’s Chaman after overpowering guards when they were allowed out of cells for Fajr prayers in the wee hours of Thursday.

The incident unfolded as the inmates of barrack No. 4 were being led out for prayers. Seizing a moment of opportunity, the prisoners launched a sudden and coordinated attack on the prison guards, overpowering them and taking control of the situation.

Sources within the prison reported that many of the prisoners involved in serious criminal cases, including murder and other heinous crimes, had been housed in barrack No. 4.

The prison authorities revealed that one inmate was killed in the ensuing retaliatory gunfire by the police. Two others sustained injuries during the clash and are currently receiving medical treatment.

Meanwhile, a comprehensive search operation was launched in the vicinity of the prison to apprehend the escaped prisoners.



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Earthquake jolts Islamabad adjoining areas

Earthquake jolts Islamabad, adjoining areas

ISLAMABAD: A magnitude 5.2 earthquake jolted the federal capital Islamabad and nearby areas on Thursday, ARY News reported on Thursday quoting National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC).

According to the NSMC, the depth of the quake was 170 kilometres with its epicenter being deduced to be the Afghanistan-Tajikistan border.

People came out of their houses in fear by reciting Kalma-e-Tayyaba. No loss is reported as per initial reports.

Earlier, an earthquake of magnitude 6 earthquake jolted twin cities of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, adjoining areas, and several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Local residents out of fear and panic ran out of their homes to open space in the wee hours of Sunday morning after the temblor jolted the area.

Read more: Magnitude 6 earthquake jolts Rawalpindi, Islamabad, KP districts

The earthquake tremors were also felt in Swat, Peshawar, Buttgram, Upper Dir, Swabi, Mardan, Kohat districts, and adjoining areas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

According to National Seismic Monitoring Centre in Islamabad, tremors were also felt at Lower Dir, Buner, Mohmand, and Charsadda districts of KP.



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Wednesday, June 28, 2023

Pakistan celebrates Eidul Azha amid economic hardships

Pakistan celebrates Eidul Azha amid economic hardships

Pakistanis are celebrating Eidul Azha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, with zeal and fervour today (Thursday) amid prayers for an economic turnaround, ARY News reported.

The South Asian nation faces one of its worst crises as the government struggles to revive a stalled International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme.

The day dawned with special prayers in mosques for the well-being of Ummah and progress, prosperity and security of the country.

Eid prayer congregations were held at mosques, Eidgahs and open places in all cities, towns and villages.

Ulema, in their Eid sermons, are highlighting the significance of the philosophy of great sacrifice rendered by Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) and Hazrat Ismail (AS).

Later, people will offer sacrifice of animals to follow the Sunnah of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS).

Civic authorities have made special arrangements for disposal of offals and other solid waste during the Eid days.

‘Maximum relief’

On the occasion of Eid ul Adha, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged the people to take special care and remember those who became homeless due to last year’s floods.

The PM, in a statement, said that he was cognisant that Pakistan was facing rising inflation triggered by “external issues in the shape of inflation and recession”.

The prime minister felicitated the Pakistani nation and the Muslim ummah on the auspicious occasion of Hajj and Eid ul Adha as he prayed for the acceptance of all the religious rituals and sacrifices.

The prime minister said the incumbent government was utilising all its resources to provide relief to the public.

It had provided “maximum relief” to the salaried class, pensioners and labourers in the current fiscal budget.

The prime minister prayed for the peace and prosperity of the Muslim world and the alleviation of the sufferings of Muslims worldwide, particularly the oppressed brothers and sisters in Indian Illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine.

The prime minister observed that peace, tolerance, brotherhood, and obedience to the commands of Allah were the messages conveyed through sacrifices and the performance of Hajj.

He added that meeting such requirements through practical attainment, coupled with pondering over the significance of the occasion and purpose behind it, would fulfill the real objectives of this Eid.

He said the basic philosophy behind Eidul Azha was to sacrifice the dearest thing for Allah by showing sincerity and devotion.

‘Spirit of sacrifice’

Acting President Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani extended his heartfelt greetings to the whole nation on the blessed and joyful occasion of Eidul Azha.

In a statement, he said Eid ul Adha was a wonderful symbol of obedience as on this day, Muslims commemorate the acts of obedience and submission performed by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) when God commanded him to sacrifice his son, Ismail (AS), which established such an eternal tradition of obedience and sacrifice that continued to be followed till the end of time.

“This spirit of sacrifice has a universal status. No nation in the world can progress unless it has the spirit of sacrifice,” he said.

The acting president said the nation has to work together for the development and prosperity of the country. “We should keep all our interests, preferences and prejudices behind us.”

He said that now was the time to overcome all political affiliations and adopt a common plan of action for the development and prosperity of the country.

“This country came into being as a result of endless sacrifices, tolerance and stability,” he said.

He asked the people to take special care of their brothers and sisters who have been left behind due to the oppression of the situation.

“We should keep an eye around us so that none of our neighbours can miss out on the joys of this holy occasion.”



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PM Shehbaz urges special care for flood hit people on Eid ul Azha

PM Shehbaz Sharif, Eid ul Azha

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif has urged the people to take special care of flood-hit homeless people on the occasion of Eid ul Azha, ARY News reported. 

In a message on the occasion of Eid ul Azha, 1444 Hijrah, the prime minister felicitated the Pakistani nation and the Muslim Ummah on the auspicious occasion of Hajj and Eid ul Azha, he prayed for the acceptance of all the religious rituals and sacrifices. He said that he was cognizant that Pakistan was facing price hike which was triggered by the external issues in the shape of inflation and recession.

The prime minister said the incumbent government was utilizing all its resources to provide relief to the public. It had provided maximum relief to the salaried class, pensioners and labourers in the the current fiscal budget, PM Office Media Wing in a press release on Wednesday quoted the prime minister as saying.

On the occasion, the prime minister prayed for the peace and prosperity of the Muslim world and for the alleviation of the sufferings of Muslims across the world, particularly the oppressed brothers and sisters in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine.

The prime minister observed that the peace, tolerance, brotherhood and obedience to the commands of Allah Almighty were the messages conveyed through sacrifices and performance of Hajj.

Meeting such requirements through practical attainment coupled with pondering over the significance of the occasion and purpose behind it, would fulfill the real objectives of Eid ul Azha, he added.

The prime minister said the august occasion reminded them of the supreme sacrifice of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) and his dear son Hazrat Ismail (AS), adding nothing could earn the Muslims a complete obedience to Allah Almighty unless they had the passion to sacrifice their best and the dearest thing for invoking His blessings.

He said the basic philosophy behind Eid ul Azha was to sacrifice the dearest thing for Allah Almighty by showing sincerity and devotion. Equality, purging of oneself, purity of heart and sentiments were the outcome of such great sacrifice without which the actual spirit of Sunnah- e-Ibrahimi (AS) could not be attained, he stressed.

The prime minister also underlined the need of distributing the sacrificial meat among the deserving people so that those could also share the happiness of the joyous occasion.
The prime minister said that observance of Eid ul Azha provided the Muslims to inculcate the true spirit of sacrifice, vigour of faith and passionate obedience to commands of Allah Almighty which were manifested by Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) and Hazrat Ismail (AS) in their lives.



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Butcher stabs man over motorcycle accident in Sadiqabad

Butcher, motorcycle accident,

SADIQABAD: A butcher hit a speech-impaired man with a knife in Ghulam Rasool colony Sadiqabad, ARY News reported. 

As per details, the man was hit by the butcher when he came into rage over a motorbike accident.

The speech-impaired man was shifted to Tehsil Headquarter in injured condition whereas the butcher fled the spot of the incident.

In a separate incident, as many as eight people were stabbed to death while sleeping in the farms in Hachar village of Sheikhupura, Punjab.

According to details, the police arrested a suspect for killing eight people with an axe in Hachar village of Sheikhupura. The police have also recovered the weapon used in the killing.

Sheikhupura District Police Officer (DPO) Faisal Mukhtar said the culprit attacked the men sleeping at different spots in the farms. “The suspect seems to be a mentally unstable person,” he said, adding that further investigations are underway.

A 20-year-old girl, Saba, was also stabbed to death by an unidentified man in New Karachi, sector 5J neighborhood of Karachi.

The girl had suffered life-threatening stabbing wounds and was immediately shifted to hospital but succumbed to her injuries while on the way to the hospital.

According to the police, the deceased was a lawyer and was attacked with a knife on a street next to her neighborhood.



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Tuesday, June 27, 2023

Man who walked from Okara to Makkah performed Hajj

Viral, Man walk, Makkah, Hajj

The Pakistani man named Usman Arshad walked from Okara to Makkah has performed Hajj, ARY News reported.

Usman Arshad covered 5400 km in six months and thirteen days. He reached Saudi Arabia after crossing Iran, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Bahrain.

He said that today he has fulfilled his dream of performing Hajj. Usman Arshad shared his picture on social media and people congratulated him on walking to Makkah and performing Hajj.

Usman Arshad received his Hajj visa with the efforts of the Pakistan Hajj mission. The DG Pakistan Hajj mission Abdul Wahab Soomro had said that Usman Arshad is a role model for the young generation.

He was hosted in the official residence of hajj pilgrims and was given every facility like other pilgrims.

It is pertinent to mention here that around 3 million pilgrims gathered in Mina to start Hajj rituals where they will remain in tent valley today and tonight and later head to Mount Arafat.

Most of Pakistani pilgrims prefered going to Arafat by train, as for the first time in the history, around 63 percent Pakistanis have been allotted tents near train route, Radio Pakistan reported.

The remaining pilgrims will embark on their sacred journey to Mount Arafat by bus or on foot. Pakistan Hajj Mission has urged the pilgrims to follow their scheduled departure to avoid any mishap due to overcrowding and hot weather conditions.



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Govt ready to increase taxes on salaried class: economic expert

salaried class taxes, economic expert, khurram shehzad, bakhabar savera

Economic expert Khurram Shehzad said that the federal government has prepared to further increase taxes on the salaried class for expanding the tax net amid the high inflation rate, ARY News reported on Tuesday.

While talking to the ARY News programme ‘Bakhabar Savera’, economic expert Khurram Shehzad said that the government made the salaried class scapegoat once again for expanding the tax net.

He criticised that the nationals have always borne the consequences of politicians’ mistakes and the financial burden was always imposed on the common people. “The burden of the political mistakes will be borne by the nation and the corporate sector due to vague financial decisions.”

Shehzad admitted that the issue of the stalled International Monetary Fund (IMF) loan programme is quite serious but the global institution has never pushed the government to do injustice to the poor nation and the corporate sector but to improve the financial matters.

“The financial issues will not be resolved through only imposing taxes on the salaried class or the corporate sector which are already paying taxes.”

The economic expert said that the salaried class is already paying 40% to 45% of their earnings in terms of taxes i.e. withdrawal of salaries from banks, payments of utility bills and 18% GST on grocery purchases.

He added that unfortunately, the citizens are not getting anything in return despite paying higher taxes as they have to resolve other issues like security, children’s education and health. He said that the injustices raised several questions over the imposition of higher taxes when the government has failed to fulfil the basic needs of its citizens.



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Property investor murdered in Karachi target killing

murdered, Karachi, target killing

KARACHI: A property investor has been murdered in Baghdadi Lyari, Karachi in what police have termed as a target killing incident, ARY News reported.

The police identified the victim as Irfan, who invest money in properties in different areas. He has several property disputes with people.

Police officials said that one woman and a man who was passing by also sustained injuries when the unidentified men opened firing.

According to the initial investigation, the reason behind his murder is the property disputes. The crime scene unit has reached the spot of the incident and further investigation is underway.

Earlier, five people including two women were killed in separate firing incidents in Karachi in the last two hours.

According to details, the shootings took place in Memon Goth, Surjani Town, Defence, and Municipal Town۔

Police officers said two people were killed when unidentified men opened fire at a car near a petrol pump in Gulshan-e-Surjani، The deceased was identified as Babar and Naseem۔

Separately a man was shot dead at a wedding ceremony in Malir Saudabad, he was identified as Muhammad Arsalan. The body was transferred to Jinnah Hospital۔

A woman died in an accidentally fired shot in Karachi’s DHA. The incident was reported in Defence Phase 6, Khayaban-e-Halal.



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Ishaq Dar says nation to hear good news about IMF program soon

Ishaq Dar, IMF, good news

ISLAMABAD: Minister for Finance Ishaq Dar said that the nation will hear a good news about International Monetary Fund (IMF) program soon, ARY News reported.

As per details, the finance minister said that the negotiations between Pakistan and International Monetary Fund are on the right track and they will announce good news soon.

Ishaq Dar said economic revival and trade deficit are the two challenges for the country. He said that the foreign debt increased by 30 Billion USD in the last four years. He said the policy rate was increased to 22% on the demand of the IMF.

The Finance Minister said the past government did not honor the IMF conditions laid down in an agreement. Talking about the steps for the government employees, he said we did everything for the salaried class of the country.

Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif made his fourth contact with International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director (MD) Kristalina Georgieva in six days.

Pakistan’s ninth review by the IMF under the 2019 Extended Fund Facility (EFF) for the release of a $1.2bn funds is still pending with just 3 days remaining the programme’s expiry on June 30.

In a telephonic conversation, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has expressed the confidence that understanding on International Monetary Fund programme will shape into a final decision by the lender within a couple of days.

The premier also expressed the resolve to achieve the goals for improving economic condition of the country in collaboration with the Bank, a handout released by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said.



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Monday, June 26, 2023

Man throws three-year-old nephew into canal over family feud

Man throws nephew into canal, family feud

Man throws three-year-old nephew into canal over family feud

Following a family feud, a man has killed his three-year-old nephew by throwing him into a canal in Hafizabad, ARY News reported on Monday.

The incident took place in Garhi Ghaus neighbourhood of Hafizabad in which a man threw his minor nephew into canal three days ago. Rescue officials told the media that the minor boy’s body was recovered after three days.

Police said that the man killed his nephew due to a feud with his brother. Police said that the accused namely Babar was arrested with the help of CCTV footage and further action is underway.

READ: Woman throws her infant daughter into canal, another resuces her

In October last year, a man had thrown his four-year-old mentally challenged daughter, Esha, into a canal in the vicinity of Chorasta Mian Khan police station in Okara.

After committing the heinous crime, the man staged drama for the abduction of her daughter and registered a case to the police.

Rescue officials recovered his daughter’s body from Pakpattan canal and shifted to the hospital for post-mortem. He confessed to committing the crime during interrogation by the police officials.

Police said that he wants to get rid of his mentally challenged daughter. DPO Furqan Bilal said that action will be taken against the accused in accordance with the law.



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Ishaq Dar meets Acting President Sanjrani discusses political situation

Ishaq Dar, Sadiq Sanjrani, political situation, acting president

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Ishaq Dar on Monday called on Acting President Sadiq Sanjrani, who has assumed the role as President Arif Alvi went on Haj, and discussed country’s political situation.

According to details, the finance minister arrived at the residence of Sadiq Sanjrani in Islamabad and expressed his condolences on the death of the latter’s aunt.

During the meeting, Ishaq Dar and acting president also discussed country’s overall political and economic situation.

Earlier in the day, Acting President Sadiq Sanjrani on Monday signed the Finance Bill 2023-2024 to make it come into force from July 1, 2023.

The National Assembly had passed the Finance Bill 2023-2024, giving the go-ahead to the budgetary proposals for the upcoming financial year. The bill with a total outlay of Rs14,480 billion was moved by Finance Minister Ishaq Dar in the house.

Read More: Acting President signs bill limiting lawmakers’ disqualification period

The House passed the federal budget with the revised targets to appease the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for the revival of the stalled loan programme.

According to the amendments, the target for tax collection has been revised to Rs 9,415 billion from 9,200 billion.

Rupees Rs801 billion have been allocated for the payments of pension against the earlier allocation of Rs761 billion.



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Military courts case: Ex-CJP Jawwad S Khawaj issues clarification

Military courts case, jawwad s khawaja

Former chief justice Jawwad S Khawaja has issued a clarification statement regarding the military courts’ case being heard by the Supreme Court (SC), ARY News reported on Monday.

Justice Retired Jawwad S Khawaja said that he has not adopted a new stance regarding the civilians’ trials in the military courts. He added that he had adopted the same stance in 2015 that civilians cannot face trials in the military courts.

He said that those who declared his petition against the military courts a personal matter are seemingly unaware of his stance or misguiding the people by saying that he is supporting the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman.

He said that he and Hamid Khan knew each other for 46 years and he has not consulted him regarding the petition but it was filed in the public interest.

It is noteworthy to mention here that ex-CJP Jawwad S Khawaja challenged the trial of civilians in military courts in the Supreme Court (SC), demanding to declare the move ‘unconstitutional’.

READ: CJP Bandial hopes no civilian trial in military courts till ‘outcome of case’

Ex-CJP Jawwad Khawaja filed a petition in the Supreme Court (SC) and demanded to declare the trial of civilians in military courts ‘unconstitutional’.

The petition named the Federation of Pakistan through secretaries of law and justice, interior, defence, and chief secretaries of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh and Balochistan as respondents in the case.

Ex-CJP Jawwad Khawaja, in his plea, maintained that the trial of civilians by military courts in the presence of civilian ones is unconstitutional. The plea contended that proceedings of a court-martial were only appropriate and lawful in the case of army officers.

The plea demanded to declare “any proceedings against civilians on the basis of the impugned sections unlawful”. It prayed the court should direct that such civilians be transferred to the competent civilian authorities for appropriate proceedings before ordinary criminal courts.

The petition came after Chaudhry Aitzaz Ahsan filed a similar petition in the Supreme Court, challenging the trials of civilians in military courts.



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LEAs foil terrorism bid ahead of Eidul Azha

terrorism bid, LEAs, Eidul Azha

LOWER DIR: Law enforcement agencies foiled a major terrorism bid in Lower Dir ahead of Eidul Azha and recovered five suicide vests, 19 remote-controlled bombs and hand grenades and three SMGs during the search operation, ARY News reported on Monday.

Police, Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) conducted a successful search operation on the Malakand border. The LEAs recovered five suicide vests, 19 remote-controlled bombs and hand grenades and three SMGs from the suspects.

Moreover, the officials also recovered 30 kg of high-explosive material, five walkie talkie, 16 SMG magazines and hundreds of rounds. During the search operation, the officials seized medicines, clothes, bags, chargers, mobile phones, food and other weaponry.

DPO Ziauddin told the media that terrorists were planning to carry out a major terrorist activity on Eidul Azha which was foiled by the law enforcement agencies. A search operation is underway in the district to arrest the terrorists.

On Saturday, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) claimed to have arrested nine terrorists during the Intelligence-Based Operation (IBO) in different cities of Punjab.

The terrorists were arrested during Intelligence-Based Operations (IBOs) carried out in Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Bahawalpur, DG Khan and Multan.

The arrested terrorists are linked with the banned militant outfits Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Al-Qaeda. The terrorists were identified as Zahid, Naimat, Zubair and Abdul Ghafoor.

Explosive materials, equipment, mobile phones and cash were also recovered from the terrorists, the CTD spokesperson said.

Nine cases have been registered against the terrorists while further investigation is being carried out.

According to the officials, eight suspects have been arrested during 153 combing operations this week while 7751 people have been interrogated.



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ACE unearths Rs 1.4b corruption in LDA scandal

ACE, corruption, LDA

LAHORE: Anti-corruption establishment (ACE) has unearthed Rs1.4 billion in corruption in Lahore Development Authority (LDA) scandal, ARY News reported.

According to the spokesperson, the allotment of 27 plots in Johar town Lahore worth Rs1.4 billion on illegal documents has been suspended.

The ACE has registered cases against the LDA officers who were involved in the corruption. A person named Shahid Munir used his influence to buy these plots on fake documents and then transferred them to Zaheer Ahmed.

Earlier in a similar scandal, massive corruption and irregularities have been unearthed in the sale of expensive KMC in Karachi’s Baldia West in which 4-acre land was sold via ‘fake challan’.

The irregularities were unearthed in the sale of KMC land in Orangi’s Gulshan-e-Zia. The four-acre land of a workshop and nursery was sold via fake challan with the nexus of a project director.

Sources told ARY News that the land was used to bury the offal and waste of animals from 2004 to 2016. The land came under the administration of KMC Baldia West section after the enforcement of the Town Municipal system in 2002.

The market value of the said KMC land is more than Rs1 billion which was allegedly sold at extremely low prices via fake challan with the nexus of a project director.



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Sunday, June 25, 2023

Sacrificial cow stolen within seconds in Karachi

sacrificial cow stolen karachi

KARACHI: An unidentified man stole a sacrificial cow within seconds in Karachi, the video of the incident is going viral on social media, ARY News reported.

As per details, the stealing of sacrificial cow in Ancholi in Karachi’s Federal B Area, was caught on CCTV camera. The man can we seeing coming out of an expensive car in the street to steal the cow.

The man can be seen taking away the sacrificial cow after untying it within 10 seconds. The thief can be seen walking towards the vehicle parked on the corner of the street.

Read more: Man along with family caught stealing sacrificial goats in Karachi

Earlier it was learnt that more than 60 sacrificial animals were stolen and snatched in Karachi ahead of Eidul Azha in a few days.

In the North Karachi Sector 7-A area, 40 goats were stolen from an empty plot. In the Yaseenabad area, thieves broke the shutter of a shop and stole two goats, whereas, a cow was stolen from an apartment near Frere police station.



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Teenage girl raped murdered in Okara

Teenage girl, rape, murder,

OKARA: A teenage girl was rapped and then murdered in the premises of Saddar, Okara, ARY News reported.

As per details, the brother of the 17-year-old rape victim said that several boys of the village abducted her from the home.

He claimed that the boys then raped her before they murdered her and hanged her dead body from a tree.

Furthermore, police took the dead body in their custody and carrying out further investigation.

Earlier, a TikToker girl was allegedly gang raped by three men in the Matiari district of Sindh. 

Read more: TikToker girl allegedly gang raped in Sindh

As per details, a TikToker girl was called by some men to New Saeedabad tehsil of Sindh’s Matiari district where they gang raped her. The girl alleged that Waqas Mallah along with his friend raped her.

Police lodged a case against the suspects, however, no arrest was made so far. The victim girl complained about police inaction to arrest the nominated persons. She said that she is receiving threats from the accused.

In a separate incident, another girl from Lahore had been ‘gang-raped’ by three men including her ‘friend’ which whom she came into contact through the popular TikTok video-sharing app.

In her police complaint, the girl stated that she befriended a boy, Shiraz, through the TikTok app 20 days ago and later she reached the Samanabad area after being called by him. She added that Shiraz asked her to sit in his car where two men were also sitting there. The girl claimed that she was gang-raped by all three men at gunpoint inside the vehicle.



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JI chief demands govt to publicise details of IMF agreement

JI chief, Sirajul Haq, IMF agreement

LAHORE: Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Ameer Sirajul Haq has demanded the federal government to publicise the details of the new agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), ARY News reported on Sunday.

Sirajul Haq said in a statement that a tsunami of inflation will hit the country after the IMF agreement. He demanded the government to publicise the details of the IMF agreement.

“Youth are committing suicides due to unemployment and the rulers are proving that the country is seized by the elites and mafias. Economic, political and social terrorism on the rise in the country now.”

READ: National Assembly passes Finance Bill 2023-24

The JI Ameer asked Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government to present its performance before the nation.

Sirajul Haq has strongly criticised the statement of the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that the Indian premier would not have the courage to give such kind of statements if the Islamic governance system is established in the country.

Earlier in the day, it emerged that Pakistan hinted at addressing the concerns put forward by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in the federal budget for FY2023-24.

READ: Marriyum lashes out at PTI for demanding Ishaq Dar’s resignation

Pakistan’s efforts are underway to restore the stalled loan programme with the IMF and the breakthrough is likely within two days.

According to sources, Pakistan has decided to address the IMF’s concerns in the budget.

Sources claimed that Pakistan has started changes upon the demands of the IMF and changes are being made in the budget speech. Pakistan has once again provided working to the IMF on $6 billion in external financing.

Sources say the IMF’s demand for collecting more than Rs215 billion from the people has been accepted by the federal government.

The IMF has asked Pakistan to abolish subsidies for the textile sector and increase electricity tariffs, the sources said.

According to sources, the IMF had also demanded an increase in the petroleum levy, suggesting that the authority to increase the petroleum levy should be given to the Cabinet instead of the Parliament.

In addition, the IMF had demanded a reduction in subsidies and further reduction in federal government expenses, as well as a limitation on electricity subsidies.



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Finance Bill: Govt hikes duty on registration of vehicles

Finance Bill, registration of vehicles,

ISLAMABAD: Federal government has hiked the excise duty on the registration of vehicles over 2000 CC in the finance bill, ARY News reported.

As per details, a six percent fixed tax has been imposed on the value of 2001CC and 2500CC vehicles whereas the tax for the filers on the 2001CC and 2005CC was Rs 0.25 million.

The government has imposed an eight percent fixed tax on the registration of 2501CC and 3000CC vehicles, the tax for the filers was earlier Rs 0.2 million and 0.4 million for the non-filers. Furthermore, ten percent fixed taz has been imposed on the registration of 3000CC vehicles.

Read more: National Assembly passes Finance Bill 2023-24

Earlier, the National Assembly passed the Finance Bill 2023-2024, giving the go-ahead to the budgetary proposals for the upcoming financial year. The bill with a total outlay of Rs14,480 billion was moved by Finance Minister Ishaq Dar in the house.

The House passed the federal budget with the revised targets to appease the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for the revival of the stalled loan program. According to the amendments, the target for tax collection has been revised to Rs 9,415 billion from 9,200 billion.

Rupees Rs801 billion have been allocated for the payments of pension against the earlier allocation of Rs761 billion.



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Lightning strike kills four people in Narowal

Lightning strike, Narowal

NAROWAL: A lightning strike killed four persons and injured four others in a suburban village of Punjab’s Narowal city, ARY News reported on Sunday.

Amid heavy rainfall in different parts of the country, lightning strike killed four persons including a five-year-old boy Saqlain Shah, 18-year-old Bilal and a 71-year-old elderly man in Shakargarh – Narowal today.

Four persons got injured in the lightning strike who have been shifted to the District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital.

READ: Lightning kills two brothers in Sukkur

Different parts of the country are receiving pre-monsoon rainfall including Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB).

Rainfall with thunderstorm was also predicted in Balochistan, South Punjab and Sindh from June 26 to 29.

Climate Change Minister Sherry Rehman warned of urban flooding in major cities, while showers could cause flash flooding in Punjab and trigger landslides in the hilly areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Duststorms/wind-thunderstorms and heavy falls might cause damage to lose structures such as electrical poles, solar panels, hoardings, trees, and under-construction buildings. “People should stay away from electrical poles,” the minister advised.



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Pakistan agrees to IMFs demands for revival of loan programme

Pakistan IMF demands

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has hinted at addressing the concerns put forward by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in the federal budget for FY2023-24, ARY News reported, citing sources. 

Pakistan’s efforts are underway to restore the stalled loan programme with the IMF and the breakthrough is likely within two days. 

According to sources, Pakistan has decided to address the IMF’s concerns in the budget.

Sources claimed that Pakistan has started changes upon the demands of the IMF and changes are being made in the budget speech. Pakistan has once again provided working to the IMF on $6 billion in external financing.

Sources say the IMF’s demand for collecting more than Rs215 billion from the people has been accepted by the federal government.

Read more: SBP lifts all restrictions on imports to fulfil IMF condition

The IMF has asked Pakistan to abolish subsidies for the textile sector and increase electricity tariffs, the sources said. 

According to sources, the IMF had also demanded an increase in the petroleum levy, suggesting that the authority to increase the petroleum levy should be given to the Cabinet instead of the Parliament.

In addition, the IMF had demanded a reduction in subsidies and further reduction in federal government expenses, as well as a limitation on electricity subsidies.



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Saturday, June 24, 2023

Nawabshah: Collision between two buses leaves six dead

Nawabshah collision six dead

NAWABSHAH: At least six persons were killed and over 60 others were injured in a road accident in Sindh’s province of Shaheed Benazirabad in the wee hours of Sunday night.

According to police, the incident occurred near Balochpur Stop in Nawabshah, when two passenger buses collided, leaving six persons dead on the spot and over 60 injured including children and kids.

The injured have been shifted to the People’s Medical University Hospital.

Police further say that one bus was travelling from Karachi to Punjab whereas the other was going to Punjab from Karachi.

Read more: 10 killed in bus accident on M-2 motorway

Last week, at least 13 people, including five women, were killed and 31 others injured when a bus veered off the Islamabad-Lahore Motorway and overturned near Kallar Kahar.

The police, in a statement said, driver lost control over the steering apparently due to a ‘brake failure’.  It was around 3.30pm when the Jhang-bound bus (BBA452) was passing through Kallar Kahar and its driver lost control over the steering due to ‘brake failure’.



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SBP seeks explanation over glitch in cheque-clearance system

SBP cheque clearance NIFT fault

KARACHI: The system of cheque-clearance institution, the National Institutional Facilitation Technologies (NIFT) remains non-functional as cyber attackers managed to breach its security and force the banking system to resort to a manual system despite the prevalence of digital technology.

Even after seven days since the cyberattack occurred last week, NIFT is still in the process of fully restoring its normal operations. Cheques are being cleared manually nationwide, and digital payment services remain halted.

Last Friday (June 16), the attack forced the national institution to shut down both its data centres in Islamabad and Karachi.

Read more: SBP lifts all restrictions on imports to fulfil IMF condition

The private banks said their cheque-clearance operation is badly affected as they are going for manual clearance and due to staff shortage, it is taking more time for clearance of cheques, which were earlier being cleared in seconds through NIFT.

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has sought an explanation from the NIFT.

Currently, Pakistani banks hold deposits worth around Rs23 trillion with 67.5 million bank accounts. NIFT processes nearly 150,000 to 160,000 cheques through its online system every day.



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Khawaja Asif says PTI chief was mastermind of May 9 violence

Khawaja Asif, May 9 violence, mastermind, PTI chief

SIALKOT: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief was the mastermind of May 9 violence, ARY News reported.

As per details, senior leader of Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) Khawaja Asif said that they could not serve the people as they should have. 

He lambasted the PTI chief, saying that he has challenged the state for his power thirst and his entire family is in London. The PTI chief sisters were present when the May 9 violence was taking place and he was taking updates on the incidents, Khawaja Asif added.

The defence minister further said that the PTI chief was behind the May 9 violence but he is not standing behind his workers. The PTI chief never talked to politicians about solving the country’s problems. 

The PTI chief is paying the price for his wrong decisions and if he did not dissolve the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab assemblies, it would have been a political nightmare for us, he added. 

Furthermore, he maintained that a solution to the political crisis is possible. He said that in the past Nawaz Sharif was removed from Prime Minister office three times, and Benazir Bhutto and Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto were also removed from power.

May 9 events

Violent clashes broke out across Pakistan after the former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Imran Khan were arrested at the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday.

The protests were held in remote and major cities of Balochistan, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Islamabad summoning the armed forces to ensure law and order.

Army installations and Corps Commander’s house in Lahore came under attack during a protest by PTI workers. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Operations Ali Nasir Rizvi sustained severe injuries while clearing.



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Pakistan summons Indian envoy to protest LoC ceasefire violations

Indian Charge d’ Affaires, Pakistan, Indian forces, LoC ceasefire violations

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Saturday summoned Indian Charge d’ Affaires to the Foreign Office (FO) to register strong protest over the ceasefire violation committed by the Indian forces in Satwal Sector of the Line of Control (LoC), ARY News reported.

“The Indian Charge d’ Affaires was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, today, to register Pakistan’s strong protest over the ceasefire violation committed by the Indian forces in Satwal Sector of the Line of Control (LoC),” the Foreign Office (FO) said in a statement.

Condemning the deplorable targeting of innocent civilians by the Indian forces, the foreign office said it was also conveyed to the envoy that such senseless acts are in clear violation of the 2003 Ceasefire Understanding, reaffirmed in February 2021.

“It was further underscored that targeting of civilians is contrary to human dignity and international human rights and humanitarian laws,” it added.

The statement added that the Indian side was urged to respect the Ceasefire Understanding, investigate the incident, and maintain peace along the Line of Control (LoC).

Earlier in the day, two civilians embraced martyrdom and another was injured when Indian troops resorted to unprovoked firing onto a group of shepherds in the Sattwal Sector across the Line of Control (LoC).

The ISPR in a statement said, “Today, at 11:55 hours, Indian Army, in a display of its usual inhumane approach towards innocent Kashmiris, opened indiscriminate fire onto a group of shepherds in Sattwal Sector.

The statement further said: “Driven by a newfound geo-political patronage, Indian forces have embarked on a plan to take innocent lives to satiate their false narratives and concocted allegations.

“While a strong protest is being launched with the Indian side, Pakistan reserves the right to respond back in manner of its choosing to protect Kashmiri lives in the LoC,” it added.

In February 2021, both countries had recommitted themselves to the 2003 ceasefire agreement and agreed to address the “core issues” that could undermine peace and stability.

Pakistan and India had in November 2003 agreed to cease fire along the LoC and the Working Boundary. The agreement held for a few years, but regular violations have occurred since 2008.

 



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Friday, June 23, 2023

PPP to decide whether to contest polls in alliance or separately

PPP, general polls, PDM, Qamar Zaman Kaira

MULTAN: Prime Minister’s Advisor on Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan and PPP’s senior leader Qamar Zaman Kaira said on Friday that the party would decide whether to contest the next general polls in alliance with the PDM or separately.

Talking to newsmen at the residence of a trader Sheikh Akram Hanif, Kaira said that the Assemblies would complete their term in August 2023 and elections would be held within 60 or 90 days adding that everything would be done in accordance with the constitution.

To a question on Karachi Mayor elections and Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) protest, the PPP leader said that Jamat Islami has received a clear response from all, adding that the election process has been completed.

He said that no party had a clear majority in Karachi Mayor elections but added that PPP emerged as the single largest party, reported the state news agency.

Kaira said that they (JI) cannot get what they desire by using pressure tactics.

So many days have passed since the mayor elections but not a single person emerged with a complaint of having faced pressure and negative tactics for not appearing on election day, he added.

The PM’s adviser brushed aside allegations of rigging in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) elections.

He said that people of the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) were keeping the Kashmir issue alive by rendering sacrifices adding, “We observe Kashmir Day to highlight the issue at international level.”

He said, PTI government did nothing for the Kashmir cause and remained silent even when India was trying to bring demographic changes in the IIOJK.

To a question whether PPP would be able to get the support of the people in Punjab, Kaira said that it was up to the people which party they would support adding that they have witnessed all three parties serving the people in Punjab.

He said that people know which party better protect the interests of all segments of society.

Whether PPP would get majority voters’ support on the basis of performance, would be decided in the next general elections.

Senior PPP leader Khawaja Rizwan Alam, Sheikh Umair Akram, Sheikh Awais, Rao Sajid Ali, Sheikh Amjad Hanif, and Omar Gujjar were also present.



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Pakistan Germany agree to enhance bilateral cooperation in diverse fields

PM Shehbaz Sharif, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Pakistan Germany, New Global Financing Pact Summit

PARIS: Pakistan and Germany on Friday agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in multiple fields including trade, investment and energy.

The bilateral ties were discussed in the meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, on the sidelines of the New Global Financing Pact Summit held here.

PM Shehbaz Sharif thanked Germany for its support to the flood-hit people of Pakistan, besides providing economic support of 163 million euros to the country.

The prime minister said that the additional 27 million euros for Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) were spent on assistance to the flood victims and the provision of food to them.

Lauding the development model of Germany, the prime minister said the progress achieved by the country was an inspiration for developing countries. I am personally impressed by the development of Germany as a country and the hard work and resilience of the German nation, he added.

PM Sharif expressed the hope that Germany would raise the voice of the developing world on the issues like climate change and financial stress.

He said that releasing the economic burden from the developing states would help uplift their people.

The prime minister appreciated the services of German firms and NGOs operating in Pakistan.

Expressing his pleasure to meet the prime minister, the German chancellor conveyed good wishes for the government and the people of Pakistan.



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SBP lifts all restrictions on imports to fulfil IMF condition

SBP, import restrictions, IMF

KARACHI: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has lifted all restrictions on imports to fulfil one more condition of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), ARY News reported on Friday.

The central bank issued a circular to end all restrictions on imports in order to fulfil another IMF condition.

The federal government granted permission to banks for providing remittances to release more than 6,000 containers. The SBP stated in the circular that remittances will be provided for all imports after the enforcement of the latest order.

The authorised dealers have been given instructions to provide remittances following the recommendations of the stakeholders, said the central bank.

Yesterday, it was learnt that Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) are facing challenges in reviving a loan program, leading to conflicts between the IMF and the Ministry of Finance.

READ: In last-ditch effort, PM Shehbaz Sharif meets IMF MD in Paris

Sources revealed that the plan to bridge the external financing gap included the funds received from the donor conference held in Geneva.

The conference aimed to gather support and contributions for Pakistan’s financial needs. As part of the plan, the IMF was given a target to secure $500 million by June through the Geneva Donor Conference.

However, efforts to obtain funds for the Ministry of Planning and Treasury have been met with obstacles. The Ministry has struggled to make progress on contracts and agreements under the Donor Conference, which has further hindered the financing process.

Sources from the Ministry of Finance report that, only $150 million has been received through the Geneva Donor Conference, falling short of the expected amount. This has led to dissatisfaction on the part of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which has expressed concerns over the lack of financial support obtained through the conference.

Despite these challenges, the funds received under the Donor Conference will be allocated towards crucial recovery and rehabilitation projects in areas affected by floods. The aim is to address the needs of these communities and support their restoration efforts.



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ECC allows mills to export 32000 tonnes of sugar

ECC, sugar mills, sugar export

ISLAMABAD: The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has allowed the mills in Sindh to exports 32,000 tonnes of sugar till August 12 ‘under the verdict of the Sindh High Court (SHC)’, ARY News reported on Friday.

Finance Minister Senator Ishaq Dar chaired the ECC session and took major decisions today.

The ECC also approved a Rs2.5 billion grant for the Pakistan Railways, Rs3.6 billion grant for the housing ministry and Rs1.2 billion for its 16 schemes and Rs1.2 billion for Reko Diq project.

Earlier, the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet approved a surcharge of Rs.1.52/unit to be recovered from K-Electric (KE) consumers in 12 months.

The cabinet committee meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, according to press statement issued by finance ministry.

Ministry of Energy (Power Division) submitted a summary regarding Quarterly Tariff Adjustments of K-Electric and informed that as per National Electricity Policy 2021, the government may maintain a uniform consumer-end tariff for K-Electric and state owned distribution companies.

Read More: Nepra announces reduction in power tariff for KE consumers

Accordingly, KE applicable uniform variable charge is required to be modified to maintain the uniform tariff across the country.

The ECC approved a surcharge of Rs1.52/unit to be recovered from K-Electric Consumers in 12 months. The ECC further allowed release and utilization of available budget of Rs76 billion as payment of arrears under different heads.

The ECC considered another summary of Ministry of Energy (Power Division) regarding implementation of revised circular debt management plan and utilization of Rs20.726 billion to government owned power plants.

The committee after discussion authorized Power Division to utilize one-time full amount out of assignment account in relaxation of limit of using Rs4 billion per month during June 2023 for the next five months and to ensure that there will be no more payment liability to IPPs for the period July 2023 to Nov, 2023.

The ECC also considered and approved another summary of Power Division regarding release of Rs. 56 billion as approved under revised CDMP against the AJ&K receivables.

The committee approved Rs1,914.83 million technical supplementary grants for various ministries and divisions.



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Military court trials: Justice Isas note removed from SC website

Military court trials Justice Isa, Justice Isa note, SC website

ISLAMABAD: A note of Justice Qazi Faez Isa, the senior puisne judge of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, over the bench hearing petitions against trials of civilians in military courts has been removed from the website of Supreme Court (SC), ARY News reported on Friday.

According to details, the note of Justice Qazi Faez Isa – who was formally named the next Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) – was related to nine-member bench constituted to hear the petitions against trials of civilians in military courts.

The note of SC judge consists of 30 pages. A copy of the reply submitted by the inquiry commission to the Supreme Court was also attached with the note. Justice Isa had also attached a letter dated May 17 to the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial regarding his separation from the bench.

In the note, Justice Isa highlighted the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Bill 2023, saying: “Under this law, benches are constituted after holding a meeting.”

He said that he was “surprised” to see his name included in the bench hearing the case when the cause list was issued last night. He said that an order he issued as part of a three-member bench was superseded by a “circular”.

Referring to the March 29 order, he said that there were no laws for determining cases under Article 184(3) and they should be postponed. Justice Isa noted that at this point neither the bill regulating the CJP’s powers nor the law had existed.

Read More: Military courts trial: SC likely to announce verdict on Tuesday

“I was surprised and shocked when the SC registrar issued a circular [disregarding the order],” he said. He said that his order on suo motu matters was later withdrawn by a larger bench, questioning whether this was the respect of a SC order.

He stated that his colleagues were more capable than him but he would take a decision in accordance with his conscience.

Dissolution of 9-member bench

A nine-member larger bench headed by CJP Bandial had taken up the pleas on Thursday. However, the bench was dissolved after two members, Justice Qazi Faez Isa and Justice Tariq Masood, object to it.

Justice Qazi Faez said he was surprised after seeing his name in the cause list last night. The senior-most judge after CJP remarked the SC Practices and Procedure Bill was suspended by an eight-member bench of the apex court even before letting it become law.

Justice Qazi Faez Isa said he cannot remain part of the bench as he does not consider it a ‘bench’. I will not be part of any bench until the decision is reached on the Supreme Court Practices and Procedure Bill, he added.



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Thursday, June 22, 2023

Senior SBCA officers arrested under extortion charges

Senior SBCA officers, arrested, extortion charges

KARACHI: Three senior officers of Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) have been arrested on charges of extortion, while one officer remains at large, ARY News reported on Friday. 

According to the police officials, the four suspects have allegedly demanded a bribe of Rs 4 million from a builder, after which three out of four senior SBCA officers have been arrested, while one officer remains at large.

The police stated that the case has been registered under ATA (Anti-Terrorism Act) Section 7 and instances of extortion against the suspects at the Preedy Police Station, meanwhile the investigations have been initiated.

Last year, the Sindh High Court (SHC) ordered to register FIRs against the builder, plot owner and the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) officials in a case related to illegal constructions in Karachi’s North Nazimabad Block C.

At the outset of the hearing, the bench showed resentment over desealing the sealed plot in North Nazimabad Block C.

Justice Zafar Ahmed Rajput asked the SBCA deputy director that what action has been taken to raze illegal structures in the area?

“It is impossible to build illegal structures without the help of the concerned department,” Justice Zafar remarked.



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Over 2000 Pakistanis detained in Libyan jails

Pakistanis detained, Libya, Libyan jails

Over two thousand Pakistanis who were attempting to move to Italy illegally have been detained in Libyan jails, ARY News reported 

Speaking to ARY News, Ihsan Ullah whose brother is arrested in a Libyan jail, said huge number of Pakistani nationals have tried to move to Italy illegally recently.

He said that his brother Aman Ullah has been arrested for more than a month. The agent named Usman who belongs to Hafizabad has also fled Pakistan.

Last week, an Italy-bound fishing trawler reportedly carrying at least 800 people — including hundreds of Pakistanis — capsized off Greece. Only 104 people are known to have survived and the chance of finding more survivors was seen as virtually nil.

Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah has assured that the government would take strict action against Greece boat tragedy and an investigation report would be submitted within a week by duly fixing responsibility on those involved in negligence.

In response to the Greek ship accident, a committee had been constituted under strict directives of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif commenced its investigation, he said while talking to a private news channel.

“The investigation committee will present its report in a week and further action will be taken by the federal government”, Rana Sanaullah added.

He said the committee will ascertain facts of the Greece boat tragedy besides identifying loopholes and lapses in the legal mechanism in Pakistan that exposed precious human lives to the vagaries of human trafficking in this particular case and similar incidents in the past.



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Security forces kill 12 terrorists in two KP, Balochistan IBOs: ISPR

RAWALPINDI: Security forces gunned down 12 terrorists in two separate intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in Balochistan’s Kech and Khyber...