Jirga fines Sindh police cops for Saddam Lashari’s ‘fake encounter’

KARACHI: A local jirga has imposed heavy fines on Sindh police officials found of killing activist Saddam Lashari in a “fake encounter”, ARY News reported, citing sources.

The illegal jirga, presided over by Lak Bijarani and Sardar Zulfikar Sarki, found the Jacobabad police of killing the activist in a fake police encounter and imposed Rs20.2 million fine on the police officials involved in the operation, sources said.

Lashari was killed in an alleged police encounter in Thul town of Jacobabad district in Sindh.

The jirga in its verdict directed the two Station House Officers (SHOs) along with four policemen to pay Rs20.2 million to Saddam Lashari’s family in fines.

The police officials paid Rs1 million following the jirga’s verduct while each of the policemen will pay Rs1 million to the victim’s family every month.

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Cheating in Matric exams: Punjab education minister makes startling revelations

LAHORE: Punjab School Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat on Sunday castigated the cheating culture during examination, alleging that Chairman Lahore Board and Controller Examination were involved in illicit practices along with cheating mafia, ARY News reported.

In a statement, the Punjab education minister said that Chairman Lahore Board and Controller Examination – who are now suspended – were facilitating the cheating mafia in Lahore.

“The Controller had given permission to employ private persons to complete strength of invigilators,” Rana said, alleging that he was threatened by the cheating mafia for exposing them.

Furthermore, the minister claimed that private school mafia bribed board to get specific centres for exams. “The examination centres were being sold for Rs80,000,” he alleged, adding that they have evidence in this regard.

He further said that acquiring a paper full of answers costs Rs4,000 to Rs7,000 to students, adding that invigilators had posted messages on social media about the cost.

Rana Sikandar vowed not to let Punjab become Sindh and Karachi, saying that he would continue exposing the cheating mafia. “So far, 30 accused have been arrested while big faces will be exposed soon,” he added.

The ongoing matric annual examinations under the Board of Intermediate of Secondary Education (BISE), Lahore, have been marred by widespread cheating.

Seven examination centres across the city were sealed and papers of hundreds of students were canceled after inspection teams caught red-handed superintendents, invigilators and students doing cheating.

The scandal unfolded at the examination centres in various areas, including Sanda, Mozang, Sabzazar, Model Town and Civil Lines.

Read more: Eight arrested for facilitating cheating at exam centers

The inspection teams apprehended those involved in facilitating cheating during the exams. A number of students were caught attempting to cheat while superintendents and invigilators were facilitating the malpractice after taking bribes.

Punjab Minister for School Education Rana Sikander Hayat personally led the inspection and conducted surprise visits at examination centres. His surprise visits to examination centers exposed the extent of cheating.

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‘Ishaq Dar to return as finance minister’

KARACHI: Former Sindh governor and disgruntled Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Muhammad Zubair said that Ishaq Dar, who is currently serving as foreign minister, will likely get “finance ministry” again, ARY News reported.

The minister revealed this while speaking on ARY News Aitraz Ye Hai show on Saturday.

The four-time former finance minister Ishaq Dar was appointed as Pakistan’s foreign minister for the first time by PM Shehbaz Sharif, who was elected to his second term as PM last month.

Sharif appointed Muhammad Aurangzeb, the CEO of Pakistan’s largest bank, to look after the finance ministry.

Zubair said that PM has included foreign minister Ishaq Dar in committees where finance minister should have been included. “Including Dar in finance related committee, the PML-N has given clear message that the Ishaq Dar will be consulted in decision making related to economic matters.”

“Ishaq Dar might be reappointed as finance minister again as PM has already included him in CCI,” Zuabir added.

It is pertinent to mention here that the foreign minister had been included in the Council of Common Interests (CCI) while the finance minister was excluded.

According to a notification from the CCI Secretariat, dated March 25, President Asif Ali Zardari constituted the council on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s advice with effect from March 21.

The newly constituted council includes the premier, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Minister of States and Frontier Regions Amir Muqam, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti.

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Zulfi Bukhari withdraws senate candidacy

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Zulfi Bukhari has withdrawn his candidacy for the upcoming Senate elections.

Bukhari alleged that his nomination faced “false and illegal hurdles,” despite possessing the necessary legal documentation.

“Challenging the notifications of my party candidates could create internal friction within the party,” Bukhari explained. “My loyalty to PTI is unwavering, and the party’s unity remains paramount.”

Withdrawing his candidacy, Bukhari extended his congratulations to Allama Nasir Abbas, who will now fill the Senate seat.

At least 18 candidates have been elected unopposed as senators out of a total of 147 aspirants who submitted their nomination papers for the 48 vacant Senate seats.

The final list of candidates from Returning Officers shows that out of 18 elected unopposed, seven are from Punjab’s general seats.

Seven candidates for Senate’s general seats from Punjab have elected unopposed including Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz’s Ahad Cheema, Pervaiz Rashid, Nasir Mehmood, Talal Chaudhry, had been elected unopposed.

Sunni Ittehad Council’s Hamid Khan and Raja Nasir Abbas was also elected on the Senate’s general seats.

Similarly, in Balochistan, senators for seven general seats, two women seats, and two Ulema/technocrat seats have won without any opposition.

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam’s Ahmed Khan and ANP’s Aimal Wali Khan, National Party’s Jan Buledi, People’s Party’s Umar Gorgej, PML-N’s Shahzeb Durrani and Syedal Khan Nasir have been elected unopposed as members of the Senate.

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Burns Road residents protest against restaurants, encroachments

KARACHI: The residents near famous downtown ‘Food Street’ on Karachi’s Burns Road staged a protest against restaurants and encroachments, occupying the entire roads, sidewalks and even by-lanes.

A large number of residents blocked the main artery of Burns Road and demanded the removal of encroachments. They said that these encroachments in the name of “Food Street” had made their lives miserable.

They used to be confined to their homes after 7pm because encroachments would pop up and occupy the entire roads, sidewalks and even by-lanes. They added that fights and brawls would often break out between local residents and food stalls owners.

The residents alleged that Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) and the district administration used to take bribes from the restaurant owners for installing encroachments, adding that the K-Electric staff also provides illegal connections to the stalls.

Meanwhile, Assistant Commissioner Aram Bagh reached the spot and assured the residents of removing the illegal encroachments.

The District South administration, led by the assistant commissioner, carried out an operation to clear the roads, alleyways, and sidewalks which were encroached upon by footstalls.

Billboards put up by the restaurateurs in front of their outlets were also demolished, while tables, chairs, and other furniture were removed.

Following the operation, the residents ended the protest.

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Six SHOs suspended for ‘failing’ to control crimes in Karachi

KARACHI: At least six Station House Officers (SHOs) posted at different police stations of Karachi have been suspended during the last month over a surge in crimes in their respective jurisdictions, ARY News reported.

As per the details, SHO Shahrah Faisal Raja Tariq, SHO Bilal Colony Shahzada Salim, SHO Korangi Industrial Area Faraz and SHO Surjani Town Rao Nazim are among the suspended police officers over deteriorated law and order in their respective jurisdictions.

SHO Zaman Town Rao Rafiq has been suspended over his alleged involvement in the robbery incident. SHO Orangi Town Rizwan Patel was also removed from the post for poor performance.

Read More: Karachi: At least 45 killed over robbery resistance so far this year

It is pertinent to mention here that at least 46 Karachi citizens have been killed so far in 2024 over resisting robberies with February recording the highest number of 20 killings.

Month-wise data showed that February recorded the most killings with 20 citizens losing their lives to the robbers.

In January, as many as 13 people were killed by robbers while around 13 city dwellers were murdered by the dacoits in March so far.

In the latest tragic incident, another young man was killed by armed robbers for resisting robbery in the port city.

The incident occurred at Rashid Minhas Road when armed robbers gunned down a man identified as Syed Rehbar. Following the incident, citizens caught the robber and beaten him to death when the robber tried to flee.

Moreover, the Sindh Home Minister took notice of the incident and ordered to suspend SHO Shahrah-e-Faisal Police station

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SBCA asked to take action against illegal constructions in Karachi

KARACHI: Sindh Local Government Minister Saeed Ghani asked the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) to show no compromise on the issue of illegal constructions in Karachi.

During his first visit to the office of SBCA after assuming charge of his ministerial position, Saeed Ghani directed the SBCA officials to ensure ‘indiscriminate and uncompromising’ action against those involved in illegal construction in the city.

He said the area additional director of the SBCA would be held responsible if, from now on, any unauthorised construction takes place in any locality in Karachi.

The local government minister directed all building inspectors, senior building inspectors, and additional building inspectors to submit reports monthly regarding illegal construction in their respective jurisdictions.

Saeed Ghani said the SBCA’s rules of business should clearly define the procedure for fixing responsibility for illegal construction in the city.

He also directed the SBCA officials to launch a public awareness campaign to inform people about unauthorised constructions in the city to prevent them from purchasing such properties for their accommodation.

The local government minister said that relevant laws and rules should be amended wherever necessary to ensure stern lawful action against builders involved in unauthorised construction.

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Eidul Fitr 2024 likely to fall on THIS date in Pakistan

Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Chairman Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad has said that Eidul Fitr 2024 is likely to fall on Wednesday, April 10 in Pakistan, ARY News reported.

Maulana Azad revealed that scientific observations revealed that the Shawwal crescent moon will likely be sighted on the 29th of Ramadan this year.

He also hinted at taking help from scientific observations and forecasts to sight the Eidul Fitr moon.

Recalling his dealings with former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry, Maulana Azad said that he had told the minister that the Ruet-e-Hilal committee accepts and recognises scientific findings.

However, he said that the final decision regarding the Eidul Fitr moon will be taken based on Islamic principles and testimonies.

Read more: Ramadan moon sighted, holy month to begin from tomorrow

It is pertinent to mention that Pakistanis will have a 29-day Ramadan in 2024 and will celebrate Eidul Fitr on April 10 if the crescent moon is sighted on April 9.

The first of the holy month fell on March 12 after the Ramadan moon was sighted a day earlier in Pakistan.

The announcement was made following a meeting of the central and zonal Ruet-e-Hilal committees for sighting the crescent of the Islamic month in Peshawar.

Several countries in the Middle East, Europe and other parts of the world had also announced March 12 as the first day of Ramadan.

Australia, Malaysia, Phili­ppines, Brunei and Oman announced to observe the beginning of the holy month on March 12, as there was no sighting of the crescent moon on Sunday evening.

Ramadan-ul-Mubarak, the month of fasting, is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar.

During the fast, Muslims must abstain from eating, drinking, gossiping and cursing, and are encouraged to focus on meditative practices like prayers, reading the Holy Quran and giving charity.

The government announced the Nisab-i-Zakat at Rs. 135,179 for Zakat Year 1444-45 A.H, the minimum amount in bank accounts be deducted on the eve of the first Ramadan.

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Punjab to distribute 50,000 solar kits

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Tuesday unveiled plan to distribute 50,000 solar systems across the province through “Chief Minister Roshan Gharana” programme.

Chairing a review meeting on Solar home solution, here on Tuesday, the CM directed to initiate immediate steps for the installation of one kilowatt solar systems. She also directed to bring in solar systems of the latest technology.

With the budget outlay of Rs 12.6 billion, 50,000 protected consumers using 100 units monthly will be given solar systems through balloting In Phase-I.

Gradually home based solar systems will be provided to other consumers of Punjab. A solar system will include advanced solar plate, inverter, battery and other allied accessories.

Provincial Information Minister Azma Zahid Bukhari, Former Senator Pervaiz  Rashid, MPA Sania Ashiq, Chief Secretary, Chairman Planning and Development, Secretaries Energy, Finance, Chief Executive Officer Punjab Power Development Company (PPDCL), Managing Director Punjab Power Development Board (PPDB) and other relevant officers attended the meeting.

Read More: Maryam Nawaz unveils plan for power consumers of 300 or below units

In his first address after becoming Punjab Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz unveiled her vision for the next five years, with vowing to chalk out plan for consumers using less than 300 units of electricity.

Maryam Nawaz stated that the PML-N’s key objectives during her tenure would be the provision of employment, education and healthcare.

“I am working on a plan to provide solar panels in instalments to the consumers using up to 300 or below units of electricity,” she noted.

 

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Pleas seeking MPAs-elect oath fixed for hearing

PESHAWAR: The Peshawar High Court (PHC) fixed for hearing the petitions filed by opposition parties, seeking the court’s directives for oath-taking of newly notified members of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly before the upcoming Senate elections, ARY News reported.

The PHC bench comprising Justice SM Ateeq Shah and Justice Shakeel Ahmed would hear the pleas filed by the newly notified MPAs belonging to Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), Pakistan People’s Party and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) on Wednesday.

The PPP and PML-N jointly approached the PHC while the JUI-F filed a separate petition.

The petitioners pleaded the PHC to declare that the refusal to administer the oath to them is “illegal, unlawful, and unconstitutional.”

It was argued in the petition that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governor summoned the provincial assembly session on March 22 while using constitutional powers under Article 109 for oath-taking of MPAs who were declared successful on reserved seats by the Election Commission of Pakistan.

The petitioners added that the speaker Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly and his deputy ‘disregarded’ their constitutional duties because of ‘political rivalry” and declined to administer the oath to them.

Read More: ECP allocates reserved seats claimed by SIC to other parties

Earlier on March 5, the ECP notified the allocation of reserved seats for women and minorities, which were claimed by PTI-backed Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), to other political parties.

In the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly – according to a notification, the ECP allocated reserved seats for women and minorities to Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam Pakistan, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP).

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Pakistan welcomes UNSC resolution on ceasefire in Gaza

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Monday welcomed the adoption of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution, demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza for the holy month of Ramadan.

In a statement, the Foreign Office Spokesperson said, “We also welcome the Security Council’s call for allowing free flow of humanitarian assistance to Gaza, lifting of all barriers to the provision of humanitarian assistance, and ensuring protection of civilians in the entire Gaza Strip.”

“Over the course of past six months, Pakistan has repeatedly expressed its strong and unequivocal condemnation of the indiscriminate use of force by Israel, calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian assistance to the besieged people of Gaza, return of the displaced Palestinians, and ensuring accountability for the crimes being committed by Israel with impunity.”

She said, “We call for expeditious implementation of the Security Council resolution adopted today, hoping that it will serve as a first step towards ending Israel’s brutal onslaught, ensuring a permanent ceasefire, and helping address the prevailing grave humanitarian situation in Gaza.”

“Pakistan will continue to voice its support for a just, comprehensive and durable solution through the establishment of a secure, viable, contiguous and sovereign State of Palestine on the basis of the pre-June 1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital,” the Spokesperson added.

Read More: Netanyahu cancels Israeli delegation to US over UN Gaza vote

Earlier in the day, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) demanded an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian fighters Hamas and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages after the United States abstained from the vote.

The remaining 14 council members voted for the resolution, which was proposed by the 10 elected members of the body.

Washington had been averse to the word ceasefire earlier in the nearly six-month-old war in the Gaza Strip and had used its veto power to shield U.S. ally Israel as it retaliated against Hamas for an Oct. 7 attack that Israel says killed 1,200 people.

But amid growing global pressure for a truce in the war that has killed more than 32,000 Palestinians, the U.S. abstained from the vote on Monday to allow the Security Council to demand an immediate ceasefire for the month of Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, which ends in two weeks.

It also demands the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. Israel says Hamas took 253 hostages during its Oct. 7 attack.

 

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PCB names 29 players for fitness camp in Kakul

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday named 29 players for fitness camp in military camp Kakul, Abbottabad, ARY News reported.

As per details, the Cricket Board (PCB) today announced that 29 players will undergo a fitness camp in Kakul.

The camp, organised in collaboration with the Pakistan Army, is strategically designed to prepare the players for the upcoming series and tournaments, including the home T20I series against New Zealand, the away T20I series against Ireland and England, and the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup in USA and West Indies.

The camp is scheduled to commence on March 26 and will conclude on April 8. The players will report to the camp later today.

Read more: PCB forms seven-member selection committee sans a chairman

The camp will focus on team building and aims to enhance the physical and mental strength of the players, ensuring they are in the best condition to face the challenges ahead.

Under the guidance of experienced trainers and coaches, the players will undergo a comprehensive training regime tailored to elevate their fitness levels, agility, leadership and strategic thinking and overall performance on the field.

Players list:

Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Sahibzada Farhan, Haseebullah, Saud Shakeel, Usman Khan, Mohammad Haris, Salman Ali Agha, Azam Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Irfan Khan Niazi, Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim, Usama Mir, Mohammad Nawaz, Mehran Mumtaz, Abrar Ahmed, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Hasan Ali, Mohammad Ali, Zaman Khan, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Aamir Jamal, Haris Rauf and Mohammad Amir

Related: ‘Still dream to play for Pakistan’: Mohammad Amir comes out of retirement

It is peritinent to mention here that a day after all-rounder Imad Wasim reversed his decision to retire from Twenty20 international (T20I) cricket, left-arm pacer Mohammad Amir also announced taking his retirement back from international cricket and declared himself available for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

“I still dream to play for Pakistan! life brings us to the points where at times we have to reconsider our decisions,” posted Amir.

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Gwadar Port attack: Sister confesses her ‘missing’ brother was BLA terrorist

QUETTA: The Sister of alleged terrorist Kareem Jan, confessed that her brother who was killed along with seven others by security forces in Gwadar Port Authority (GPA) Complex attack, was Baloch Liberation Army member, ARY News reported.

Security forces thwarted an attempted attack on the Gwadar Port Authority (GPA) Complex and killed all eight terrorists belonging to the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA).

As per details, the sister of the alleged BLA member identified the dead body of her brother and filed the application for handing over the dead body to the family.

She said that Kareem Jan was also on the list of Baloch Solidarity Council’s missing persons list.

According to the concerned authorities, the alleged BLA terrorist Kareem Jan, resident of Turbat went missing on May 25. 2022.

Related: ‘8 BLA terrorists’ killed as attack on Gwadar Port Authority Complex thwarted

According to sources, the BLA militants tried to enter the GPA complex to carry out terrorism but they were intercepted by security personnel. Security personnel cordoned off the area around the GPA complex to protect occupants and secure the property.

There was a fierce gunfight between the security forces and terrorists that left all eight BLA attackers dead.

During the intense exchange of fire, two brave soldiers also embraced martyrdom. Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that Sepoy Bahar Khan,35, and 28-year-old Sepoy Imran Ali had fought gallantly, sacrificed their lives, and embraced Shahadat.

The ISPR said that  a group of eight terrorists attempted to enter Port Authority Colony in Gwadar on Wednesday, which was successfully thwarted by the security forces personnel.

“Own troops employed for security responded immediately and effectively engaged the terrorists, and in ensuing fire exchange, all eight terrorists were sent to hell. A large quantity of arms, ammunition and explosives was also recovered from the killed terrorists,” the military’s media wing added.

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Shahid Khaqan announces to launch new political party

ISLAMABAD: Former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Sunday announced to launch a new political party within two months.

During his appearance on ARY News Programme “Sawaal Yeh Hai” , Shahid Khaqan Abbasi said that discussion is underway with like-minded people for launching a political party.

“We are also consulting on the ideology of the party and hopefully it will be formed within two months,” he added. The former prime minister said that the current three major political parties cannot resolve the issues being faced by the people.

Shahid Khaqan Abbasi said that there is space for both a new political party and a “new way of thinking” in the current political environment. 

He said that the economic issues of Pakistan cannot be resolved without political stability in the country. “The government and the opposition should sit together and move towards constitutional amendments,” Shahid Khaqan Abbasi added.

Read More: Shahid Khaqan hints at launching his new political party soon

The former prime minister said that the government itself looks ‘scared and unhappy’ with its mandate. “There is also an element of shame in the government. It is feared that politics would be on one side and national affairs on the other,” he added.

Earlier on March 19, the former prime minister hinted at launching a new political party soon.

“We are holding consultations and groundwork in progress for a new political party,” he said while talking to media representatives outside the Accountability Court . “The country needed a new political party,” he said.

To a question, estranged PML-N leader said that having no contact with Nawaz Sharif, “I am ready to meet him, when he will summon”, he added.

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PCB dissolves national selection committee

LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dissolved the current National Cricket Selection Committee, ARY News reported on Sunday.

As per details, the cricket board has dissolved the National Cricket Selection Committee and the new committee will be announced soon.

The Pakistan Cricket Board spokesperson said that the new selection committee will be free to use its powers in the selection process of the national cricket team.

The development came after sources revealed on March 18 that Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) will further empower the National Cricket Selection Committee with full authority.

Sources claimed that the PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi urged that the selection committee should be granted complete authority, expressing his commitment to refrain from interfering in matters related to the selection committee.

READ: PCB no longer under IPC’s domain

Sources revealed that the selection committee will be responsible for the selection of the national team and the captain, adding that the empowered departments, including the selection committee, will be accountable for their decisions.

Meanwhile, sources have asserted that the decision regarding the other selectors, including Chief Selector Wahab Riaz, will be made within a week.

Additionally, the board has set a target of one week for finalizing decisions regarding coaches as the board remains optimistic about appointing foreign coaches for the national cricket team.

It is pertinent to mention here that Mohsin Naqvi, former caretaker chief minister of Punjab was elected unopposed as Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman.

The elections were held at the National Cricket Academy, Lahore, where Punjab’s caretaker CM Mohsin Naqvi was elected unopposed as the 37th chief of the PCB. Naqvi will serve as Pakistan Cricket Board chairman for three years.

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Good news for overseas Pakistanis

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government on Saturday announced an online facility for overseas Pakistanis for renewal of driving licence, ARY News reported.

According to details, the Pakistani expatriates will be able to send their applications via email to renew their driving licence.

In this regard, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has sent a summary to the foreign ministry to inform Pakistani missions set up across the globe.

KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur said that KP became the first among all four provinces to introduce such a measure after the Pakistani expatriates demanded the facility for their ease.

Read more: Overseas Pakistanis get tax concession on mobile phones

Terming the Pakistani expatriates working in foreign countries an asset to the country, CM Gandapur expressed resolve to introduce more measures to facilitate overseas Pakistanis.

The move received praise from the foreign missions that is likely to help overseas Pakistanis in processing and renewing their licences without the need to return to Pakistan.

According to the new rules, the authorities will scrutinise and approve the copies of papers sent by overseas Pakistanis and will hand over the licence to the individual nominated by the applicant.

 

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Pakistan Day: Mobile services to be suspended tomorrow

ISLAMABAD: The interior ministry has decided to “temporarily suspend mobile services” tomorrow in parts of Islamabad and Rawalpindi on account of Pakistan Day (March 23rd), ARY News reported on Friday, citing sources.

Sources told ARY News that the ministry has taken the decision in light of the “deteriorating security situation”.

The mobile services will be temporarily suspended in the areas adjacent to the parade ground in Shakar Parian and some parts of Rawalpindi. “Phone services will remain suspended from 6am to 2pm,” sources claimed.

The nation celebrates Pakistan Day tomorrow with renewed pledge to work hard for the progress and stability of the country.

The day marks adoption of historic Lahore Resolution this day in 1940 that provided a framework for realization of the goal of a separate homeland for Muslims of South Asia.

The Day will dawn with 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salute in provincial capitals.

Special prayers will be offered in mosques after Fajr prayers for the progress, prosperity and solidarity of the country. National flag will be hoisted on major government buildings.

The main feature of the day will be the grand military parade in Islamabad where contingents of the three armed forces and other security forces will conduct march past while fighter planes will present aerobatic maneuvers.

An investiture ceremony will be held at Aiwan-e-Sadr in the afternoon where President Asif Ali Zardari would confer awards and medals to personalities for their outstanding contribution in different fields.

 

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PM constitutes various committees to revamp country’s economy

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday constituted various Cabinet Committees aimed at revamping the country’s fragile economy.

According to the cabinet division, the committees are on Energy, Chinese Investment Projects, Privatization, State-Owned Enterprises, and disposal of Legislative Cases.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will himself head these committees, while ministers for Economic Affairs, Finance, Petroleum, Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, and Power will be their members.

The committee on energy will ensure the smooth implementation of energy projects particularly falling under the umbrella of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and remove bottlenecks in the expeditious implementation of these projects.

Meanwhile, the committee on Chinese Investment projects will oversee the progress of investment projects executed by Chinese companies and to expeditiously resolve issues faced by the Chinese investors with different government entities.

The Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet will review from time to time country’s import policy and its effect on production and Investment and determine the future pattern of growth of agriculture and industries.

The committee on Privatization is to review and monitor the progress of privatization.

The task of Cabinet Committee for Disposal of Legislative Cases is to examine whether a fresh legislation or amendments in the existing laws are in line with the Constitutional scheme, not in violation of any existing law, and falls within the mandate of Parliament.

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Pakistan Navy seizes liquor worth Rs145m in Arabian Sea

Pakistan Navy, in a joint intelligence-based operation with the law enforcement agencies, seized liquor worth Rs145.6 million in the North Arabian Sea.

“A joint intelligence-based operation, coordinated through Joint Maritime Information and Coordination Centre, was conducted by Pakistan Navy, Pakistan Maritime Security Agency and Pakistan Customs Intelligence in North Arabian Sea, in which 4104 bottles of Liquor were recovered.

“The seized liquor has been handed over to the Customs for further legal proceedings, read the statement issued by navy spokesperson.

“PN, PMSA, and Customs are vigilant and remain committed to preventing the use of Pakistani waters and land for any unlawful act.”

The successful joint operation by PN, PMSA and Customs intelligence resulting in the seizure of liquor is a testament to the fact that despite the prevailing maritime situation in which the criminals are active for their nefarious designs and leaving no opportunity to defame Pakistan, the spokesperson added.

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FM Ishaq Dar hails IAEA for ‘peaceful’ use of nuclear technology

BRUSSELS: Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Thursday heaped praise on the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) role in enhancing the peaceful use of nuclear technology and organizing the first-ever Nuclear Energy Summit, ARY News reported.

In a meeting with IAEA Director General (DG) Rafael Mariano Grossi on the sidelines of the Nuclear Energy Summit in Brussels, Ishaq Dar also emphasized that the Agency’s work was very important to Pakistan as a founding member.

He said that as a founding member, Pakistan attached great importance to the Agency’s work.

The foreign minister also highlighted the importance of nuclear energy in combatting climate change and Pakistan’s desire to enhance the share of nuclear energy in the energy mix.

Ishaq Dar further emphasized the significance of the Agency’s technical cooperation efforts, to which Pakistan also contributes significantly. 

 The foreign minister said that for developing nations to meet their energy demands and reach their zero emissions targets, banks, and international financial institutions should assist nuclear energy projects in those countries.

He asked the IAEA to keep spreading awareness about the value of nuclear energy as a clean energy source throughout the world. 

 Pakistan’s cooperation with the IAEA was praised by the agency’s director general. Rafael Mariano Grossi went on to say Pakistan is playing a key role in sharing experience and expertise with developing countries.

He agreed that financing of nuclear projects was an issue and that he would soon engage with International Financial Institutions to resolve the issue.

The IAEA’s director general reminisced with pleasure about his trip to Pakistan over the previous year, during which he saw the country’s advancements in the peaceful uses of nuclear technology firsthand and visited its facilities.

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Security forces kill eight terrorists as attack on GPA complex foiled

GWADAR: Security forces thwarted an attack on the Gwadar Port Authority (GPA) Complex, killing all eight terrorists, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Wednesday. 

“Own troops employed for security responded immediately and effectively engaged the terrorists, and in ensuing fire exchange, all eight terrorists were sent to hell. A large quantity of arms, ammunition and explosives was also recovered from the killed terrorists,” the military’s media wing added.

سیکیورٹی فورسز نے دہشتگرد گروہ کی گوادر پورٹ اتھارٹی میں داخل ہونے کی کوشش ناکام بنادی، بروقت کاروائی سے 8 دہشت گرد مارے گئے۔ آئی ایس پی آر#ARYNews #ISPR pic.twitter.com/n3AaFUMc6q

— ARY NEWS (@ARYNEWSOFFICIAL) March 20, 2024

The ISPR said two brave soldiers — Sepoy Bahar Khan (age 35 years, resident of district DG Khan) and Sepoy Imran Ali (age 28 years, resident of district Khairpur) —  having fought gallantly, sacrificed their lives and embraced Shahadat during the exchange of fire.

The ISPR said that security forces of Pakistan, in step with the nation remain determined to thwart attempts of sabotaging peace and stability of Balochistan, and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve against terrorism.

Earlier, in a post on social media platform X, Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti said eight militants were “neutralised by security forces”, adding: “The message is loud & clear. Whosoever chooses to use violence will see no mercy from the state.”

Located at the center of the city, GPA Complex has several offices related to the Gwadar Port Authority, law enforcement agencies, and staff houses.

GPA develops commercial structures like Bank Branches, Stevedores, Agency Offices, Cargo Storage Sheds, Marine Repair Workshop etc. to facilitate the investors as well as for revenue generation on a 69 acres of land. GPA initiated the construction of the following infrastructures with an estimated cost of Rs. 2381.884 million.

Read more: Pakistan will not tolerate cross-border terror attacks: PM

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that Pakistan will not tolerate any more cross-border terror attacks on its soil.

Chairing the federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad today, PM Shehbaz Sharif said security of the geographical frontiers of Pakistan is a redline.

Pakistan desires to have cordial relations with the neighboring fraternal countries to promote trade and economic relations. However, it is not acceptable that the land of the neighboring country is used for terrorism in Pakistan, he added.

Nacta to be ‘restructured on modern lines’ 

Meanwhile, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said on Wednesday that the National Counter Terrorism Authority (Nacta) will be restructured on modern lines.

The minister announced this while presiding over a meeting during his visit to NACTA headquarters in Islamabad today.

Naqvi underscored the need to widely promote Pakistan’s national narrative against the extremist ideology of terrorists.

He emphasized full implementation of the National Action Plan and a comprehensive strategy to counter extremism and terrorism.

“It is more important to take pre-emptive action against terrorists and their facilitators than taking action after the incident of terrorism,” Naqvi said.

He also sought a detailed report on the efficiency of all provincial Counter Terrorism Departments and called a meeting of the Coordination Committee of the National Action Plan next week.

Moreover, a comprehensive strategy would be formulated to uproot terrorism, and extremism, besides ensuring “full implementation” on the National Action Plan — an action plan established by the federal government in December 2014 to boost anti-terrorist offensive following deadly Army Public School (APS) Peshawar attack.

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Pakistan’s first IT city to be built in THIS city

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Tuesday announced the establishment of Pakistan’s first IT city in Lahore, ARY News reported.

She announced this while chairing third cabinet meeting on Tuesday. The meeting was also attended by provincial ministers, chief secretary and IGP.

In the meeting, the chief minister also approved annual and supplementary budget grants for 2023-24.

The chief minister further instructed to hand over the Lahore Knowledge Park to the Punjab Central Business District Authority.

Speaking on the occasion, she said that IT city would be completed within a year. All the major universities of the world would be invited to establish their campuses, she added.

The chief minister also approved the project of giving 20,000 electric bikes to students on soft installments. The distribution of bikes would be started from May this year.

She also highlighted the need for starting the air ambulance project on a trial basis in order to assist patients who reside in remote parts of the province.

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Sindh govt plans to launch crackdown against drugs

KARACHI: The Sindh government on Tuesday announced preparations for a comprehensive crackdown against the scourge of drugs across the province, ARY News reported.

Sindh Minister for Excise, Taxation, and Narcotics Control Sharjeel Inam Memon chaired a high-level meeting in Karachi on Tuesday to spearhead move aimed at curbing the scourge of drugs.

During the meeting, the provincial minister stressed the need to tackle the drug epidemic head-on. He outlined plans to form teams comprising efficient officers dedicated to executing the crackdown effectively.

“A massive crackdown targeting drugs and its traffickers would be launched imminently,” Memon said, emphasizing that the young generation must be liberated from the clutches of drug dealers.

He also announced that officers demonstrating exceptional performance would be duly recognised and rewarded with awards and honours as a testament to their dedication and commitment to the cause.

Sharjeel Memon noted that actions would be taken on a daily basis to ensure the eradication of drugs from every nook and corner of the province. Moreover, he emphasised the significance of raising awareness among the youth in parallel with the crackdown on drug peddlers.

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Punjab presents ‘mini-budget’ worth Rs4,480bn

Punjab finance minister Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman on Monday presented the provincial budget for fiscal year 2023-24 worth Rs4480 Billion was tabled during the Punjab Assembly session in Lahore.

While presenting three three-month budget for the year 2023-24 in Punjab Assembly, he said that in last 21 days, Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz had started 28 big projects.

He said this three-month budget was aimed at progress and prosperity of people of the province.

He said that ‘Ramazan Nigheban package’ was being implemented successfully with a cost of Rs 30 billion.

He said the Punjab government had made price control system fully active and prices and supply of essential items were also being monitored.

The Punjab Finance Minister said that zero tolerance policy had been adopted to overcome hoarding, adulteration and illegal profiteering.

Demand and supply of agricultural and essential items were also being improved, Mujtaba Shuja, added.

He said that funds had been allocated for 28 big projects, adding that these projects included setting up of Nawaz Sharif IT City in Lahore at a cost of Rs 10 billion, IT Infrastructure Investment Programme, Punjab IT Graduates Internship Programme, Global IT Certification Programme, Punjab Chief Minister Helpline, Provincial Database Authority, Free Wi-Fi in Punjab, Punjab Dastak Programme, Overhauling of Rural Health Centres and Basic Health Centres, Health Sector Development Programme, Ambulance Service on Motorways, Air Ambulance, Nawaz Sharif Institute of Cancer Treatment and Research Hospital in Lahore, Nawaz Sharif Institute of Cardiology Hospital in Sargodha, Punjab Education Programme, Free Laptops for Students, CM Internship Programme, CM ‘Hunarmandi Programme’, Punjab Agriculture Transformation Programme, Model Agriculture Malls, Aquaculture Shrimp Farming Programme, Construction and Maintenance of 82 roads, Punjab Road Infrastructure Programme, ‘Apni Chhat Apna Ghar Programme’, Smog Free Punjab, Electric Buses and Electric Bikes and etc.

He said that total volume of three months budget for the year 2023-24 is Rs 4480.7 billion. The total income was estimated at 3331 billion 70 crore rupees. As many as 2706 billion 40 crore rupees would be obtained for Punjab from the distributable income of the federation under the NFC award.

While the provincial revenue had been estimated at 625.30 billion rupees with an increase of 25 percent from last year in which 240 billion rupees were expected to be collected from the Punjab Revenue Authority with a 26 percent increase, 99.20 billion rupees from the Board of Revenue with a 4 percent increase and 45.50 billion rupees from the Excise Department with a 5 percent increase, he added.

He said that the non-tax revenue had been estimated at 231.80 billion rupees with an increase of 42 percent. In the current financial year, 513.73 billion rupees for salaries, 392.10 billion rupees for pensions and 627.70 billion rupees had been allocated for local governments.

The development budget for the financial year 2023-24 was estimated at 655 billion rupees, while the amount allocated for projects / programs / grants supported by foreign aid was 113.2 billion rupees. 36 percent of the development budget consisted of social sector, 39 percent infrastructure, 8 percent production sector and 4 percent services sector, he added.

Similarly, he said, 13 percent of the development budget had been allocated for various programs and public welfare special initiatives. He said social security measures were estimated at 20 billion rupees, the rate of increase in salaries and pensions of provincial employees was 35 percent in the basic pay scale for grades 1 to 16.

Whereas, according to the basic pay scale of grades 17 to 22, the salaries had been increased by 30 percent and the pension had been increased by 17 percent, he added.

He said that a provincial database authority would be established with Rs 50 crore to have accurate data for various sectors.

A total of Rs 473.62 billion had been earmarked for the health sector. The provincial government would start four programs for complete overhauling of rural health centers and primary health centers with 40 billion rupees so that no citizen was deprived of the right to health, he said and added that Nawaz Sharif Institute of Cancer Treatment and Research would be constructed in Lahore with 30 billion rupees for which an initial amount of Rs 50 crore had been kept in the development budget of the last three months of the current financial year.

He said that 45 billion rupees had been set aside for the public-friendly and poor-promoting health insurance program in the current financial year. New day care centers for working women would be established across Punjab with one billion rupees.

The minister said that an amount of 1.40 billion rupees had been allocated in the development budget for the welfare of minorities. He said that a total of 79.12 billion rupees had been allocated for the development of the agriculture sector.

A total amount of 25.75 billion rupees had been allocated in the transport sector for travel facilities, he said and added that a journalist endowment fund of one billion rupees would be established so that media works could be provided with the best medical treatment as well as support for the families of martyred or deceased media works. Along with this, he said, a big program of construction and repair of 82 roads and highways was being started with 320 billion rupees, through which 2659 km long roads would be repaired. He further said that Rs 5 billion would be spent on the project of “Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar” program, Rs. 2 billion will be spent on selected buses and Rs. 1 billion on the project of electric bikes for smog-free Punjab.

Under Suthra Punjab, a program of 2 billion rupees for solid waste management, 5 billion rupees for repairing streets and sewers, and a project of CM Plant for Pakistan would be started with 1 billion rupees. He said that the Nawaz Sharif IT City in Lahore would be started with 10 billion rupees, the Global IT Certification Program with 1 billion rupees and the Punjab Dastak program with 25 crore rupees. By which people would be able to benefit from 43 government services sitting at home.

Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman said the Punjab government had allocated 236.37 billion rupees for important social sectors such as education, health, water supply and sanitation, women’s development, sports and youth affairs, population welfare and social security which was 36 percent of the current financial year’s development budget.

He said that a total of 595.8 billion rupees had been set aside for the education sector in the current financial year. Out of which 537.40 billion rupees had been kept under non-developmental budget which was 26 percent of the total non-development budget of the current financial year.

He said that 57.68 billion rupees had been allocated for the development budget of the education sector, which was 9 percent of the total development budget.

Out of the overall development budget allocated for the education sector, 44.41 billion rupees had been earmarked for school education, 9.36 billion rupees for higher education, 2.99 billion rupees for the literacy and non-formal education department, and 92 crore rupees for special education, he added.

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Multan Sultan faces Islamabad United in PSL 9 final

KARACHI: Multan Sultans scored 114 runs for the loss of four wickets after 15 overs against Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 9 Final here at National Bank Stadium on Monday.

Batting first after winning the Toss, Multan Sultans managed to put  111-4 runs on the scoreboard after 15 overs thanks to Usman Khan’s unbeaten fifty

Usman Khan* (57 off 39) and Khushdil Shah (9 off 11) are at the crease. Yasir Khan (6), David Willey (6), Captain Muhammad Rizwan (26) and Johnson Charles (4) are the batters to be dismissed so far.

For Islamabad United Imad Wasim took three wickets, giving away 20 runs in his three overs. Shadab Khan also picked up a wicket for 22 runs in his three overs

Alex Hales has been benched and Colin Munro is back in the side while Multan Sultans are unchanged.

Islamabad United: Colin Munro, Martin Guptill, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan (c), Azam Khan (wk), Haider Ali, Imad Wasim, Faheem Ashraf, Naseem Shah, Hunain Shah, Obed McCoy.

Multan Sultans: Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Yasir Khan, Usman Khan, Johnson Charles, Iftikhar Ahmed, Khushdil Shah, Chris Jordan, David Willey, Usama Mir, Mohammad Ali, Abbas Afridi.

HEAD TO HEAD

Matches 15, Islamabad United 7, Multan Sultans 8

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Karachi: Senate nomination papers scrutiny begins

KARACHI: The scrutiny of nomination papers for Senate election begins today (Monday) and will complete on March 19, ARY News reported.

Overall, 35 candidates including from the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), MQM-P and other parties’ as well as independents have filed nomination papers for 12 Senate seats of Sindh.

Returning Officer Sharifullah conducting scrutiny of the nomination papers of the candidates.

MQM-P’s Rauf Siddiqui and independent candidate Faisal Vawda reached the RO office for scrutiny of their nomination papers.

Twenty-one candidates have submitted nomination papers for general seats in upper house, six candidates file papers for women’s two reserved seats, while five candidates have been fielded for technocrats two seats and three candidates filed papers for the minorities reserved seat.

According to the election schedule appeals can be filed upto March 21 against approval or rejection of nomination papers. The election tribunals will decide appeals by March 25.

A revised list of candidates will be released on March 26. Candidates can withdraw their nomination papers till March 27.

The Senate election will be held in national and provincial assemblies will be held on April 02.

Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), the Sindh’s ruling party, has fielded its candidates on all vacant Senate seats from Sindh.

PPP has finalised the names of Sarmad Ali and Barrister Zameer Ghumro on the Technocrat seats.

Quratul Ain Marri and Rubina Qaimkhani will contest Senate elections on women’s reserved seats, while Poonjo Mall Bheel will be PPP’s candidate on the minority seat.

Similarly, Sarfaraz Rajjar, Ashraf Jatoi, Masroor Ahsan, Nadeem Bhutto, Dost Ali Jaiser and Kazim Shah will be the party’s candidates for general seats of the Senate.

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SC orders re-election in PB-50 Balochistan

ISLAMABAD: Supreme Court (SC) on Monday ordered to hold re-election in PB-50 Qalaabdullah, Balochistan, ARY News reported.

As per details, the top court heard the plea filed by Zamrik Khan, challenging the ECP order.

At the outset of the hearing, Supreme Court annulled the Election Commission of Pakistan’s recount order in PB-50 Balochistan.

The top court also directed the ECP to ensure transparent election as per the constitution of Pakistan.

Earlier, the Election Commission suspended the victory notification ANP candidate from Balochistan Assembly Constituency PB-50 Qila Abdullah and directed re-polling at 6 polling stations.

The ECP has directed that the victory notification of Zamrik Khan, candidate from PB-50, will remain suspended until the result of re-polling.

On February 20, a plea was filed with the Supreme Court (SC) against the alleged rigging during the 2024 general elections.

Read more: SC moved for judicial inquiry into Pakistan election ‘rigging’

As per details, the plea was moved by citizen Mian Shabbir Ahmed through his lawyer Azhar Siddique with the Supreme Court’s Lahore registry, seeking a judicial commission to probe the rigging allegations.

It contends that widespread ‘rigging’ occurred throughout the country during the recent general elections.

The petition emphasizes that an inquiry into the alleged fraud be conducted in light of upholding the fundamental rights of citizens.

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House roof collapse leaves six dead in South Waziristan

SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: At least six dead and four others sustained injuries when the roof of a house collapsed in Barmal Tehsil of South Waziristan, ARY News reported on Monday.

As per details, the incident occurred in the Ragzai area of Barmal Tehsil where a roof collapse claimed the lives of six including two children, a woman and three men.

The rescue sources said that four others of the family who got injured in the roof collapse have been shifted to the nearby hospital.

On March 4, at least seven people died and two others injured when the roof of their house collapsed in the Matta area of Swat district.

According to Rescue 1122, all bodies and injured were rescued from the rubble. The injured were to the nearby hospital.

Read more: 7 killed in Swat roof collapse incident

More than 30 people died in rain-related incidents in Pakistan during days of heavy downpours, with thousands of schools closed.

In a separate indicident, two children were also killed when the roof of a house collapsed in Nazimabad village of Kalam, Swat.

According to the details, two children were killed, one injured after the roof of the house collapsed on them.

The rescue officials shifted the bodies and injured individuals to the hospital while indicating that the roof was deteriorated which caused its collapse.

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Ishaq Dar among four candidates vying for Islamabad Senate seats

ISLAMABAD: Four candidates including former finance minister Ishaq Dar are vying for the two vacant Senate seats from Islamabad.

According to the preliminary list of candidates, Ishaq Dar is competing for a technocrat seat as joint candidate of the ruling coalition.

Advocate Ansr Kayani represents the Sunni Ittehad Council as their candidate.

Rana Mahmoodul Hasan from the Peoples Party is vying for the general seat in Islamabad, while Farzand Hussain Shah is a candidate representing the Sunni Ittehad Council.

In the federal capital, National Assembly members will vote to elect Senate representatives, including one for the general seat and another for technocrats, including Ulema.

Members of the four provincial assemblies will elect senators for seven general seats, two women seats, and two seats for technocrats, including Ulema, from each province, along with one seat for non-Muslims from both Punjab and Sindh provinces.

The scrutiny of nomination papers for the elections on forty-eight vacant Senate seats is scheduled for Tuesday.

The updated candidate list will be released on the 26th of this month, and candidates will have until the 27th of this month to withdraw their nomination papers. Polling is scheduled to take place on the second day of the upcoming month.

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FM Ishaq Dar reaffirms resolve to bolster ties with Turkey

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Saturday reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve and commitment to closely work together with the leadership of Turkey to further solidify the bilateral relations.

In a post on X, he said, “I am pleased to receive a congratulatory call from my brother Hakan Fidan, FM of Turkey. Recalling close & fraternal ties between our two great nations, we reaffirmed our resolve & commitment to closely work together to further solidify our bilateral relations.”

Foreign Minister (FM) Ishaq Dar and his Afghanistan counterpart Amir Khan Muttaqi on Saturday agreed to continue working together in building on fraternal bilateral relations.

“Expanding cooperation in connectivity, trade, security, counter terrorism and people to people contacts is a top priority for Pakistan,” the foreign minister posted on X, after he received a congratulatory call from Afghan minister.

Meanwhile, a statement by the deputy spokesperson at the Afghan foreign ministry, Hafiz Zia Ahmad, said FM Amir Muttaqi hoped that Dar’s assumption of office would have a “positive and constructive role in strengthening the relations”.

The statement said that both sides emphasised bringing facilities for passengers, patients and commercial traffic on the Durand Line and eliminating existing problems.

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Boat accidents report: FIA plans to ‘rescue’ senior officials

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has prepared a strategy to rescue its senior officials after Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi sought reports in connection with the Greece and Libya shipwreck tragedies, ARY News reported on Saturday, citing sources.

Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi has sought a detailed report on the tragic boat accident near Greece and several other incidents in Libya. He directed the FIA Director General to submit a detailed report of all the actions taken so far in this regard.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has emphasised that the elements involved in heinous business of human trafficking do not deserve any concession.

He further said that The Greece boat tragedy was a very sad incident in which number of families lost their loved ones. He reiterated that the real culprits of Greece boat accident must be brought to justice.

Read More: Mohsin Naqvi seeks report of Greece, Libya boat incidents

The minister stressed that the elements involved in the business of illegall human trafficking must be sent to jail.

Sources told ARY News that the investigation authority laid the blame on junior officers for ‘ignoring’ the inquiry report. Meanwhile, at least 87 junior officers of federal investigation agency have been blacklisted.

Furthermore, a ban has been imposed on deployment of blacklist officers at immigration check posts and anti-human trafficking cell.

The blacklisted officers, which included inspectors, sub-inspectors and others, belong from Gujranwala, Multan, Islamabad, Kohat, Peshawar, Karachi, Lahore and Faisalabad.

Sources claimed that FIA senior officials were held responsible in the Libya inquiry report – which was prepared by BPS-21 officer Ahsan Sadiq.

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Senate elections: Deadline for filing nomination papers ends tomorrow

ISLAMABAD: Nomination papers for Senate elections on forty-eight vacant seats can be filed till tomorrow.

According to Election Commission of Pakistan, polling will be held on 2nd of next month.

The 19th of this month has been fixed for scrutiny of nomination papers.

Revised list of the candidates will be issued on 26th of this month whilst candidates can withdraw their nomination papers by 27th of this month.

It is pertinent to mention here that 52 seats in the upper house of parliament will fall vacant after the expiration of the 6-year term of the incumbent Senators on Tuesday.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) appointed polling officers for the Senate elections 2024 set to be held on April 2.

According to the sources, the ECP appointed seven polling officers each for the National Assembly and Punjab Assembly. The ECP appointed 6 polling officers each for the provincial assemblies of Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The election watchdog also appointed four polling for the Balochistan Assembly.

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Govt, military leadership discuss national security, regional stability

RAWALPINDI: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif along with his cabinet members, visited the General Headquarters (GHQ) Rawalpindi on Friday and laid a floral wreath at Yadgar-e-Shuhada to pay tribute to the martyrs, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.

According to the military’s media wing, the prime minister was received by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Syed Asim Munir. Shehbaz Sharif was also presented guard of honour.

The prime minister, cabinet members and the military leadership discussed matters of national security, regional stability and military preparedness.

“The prime minister and cabinet members were briefed on the current security environment, threat spectrum, response to the security threats and ongoing counter-terrorism operations,” the ISPR read.

Shehbaz Sharif also appreciated the professionalism, operational readiness, and sacrifices of the Pakistan Army in the war against terrorism and commended the dedication of the Pakistan Army to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity and ensuring peace and stability.

The prime minister assured that the government would provide all the resources required for ensuring the operational readiness of the Armed Forces.

The COAS thanked the prime minister for visiting and reposing confidence in the Army. General Syed Asim Munir affirmed that the Pakistan Army will continue to live up to the nation’s expectations and will resolutely support the government in addressing the security challenges facing Pakistan.

The visit concluded with civilian and military leadership reiterating their commitment to upholding national interests and working together for a prosperous and secure Pakistan.

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