N E A R LY 2 3 0 PA L E S T I N I A N S K I L L E D I N I S R A E L I A I R B L I TZ O N G A Z A
pakistan c alls for immediate ceasefire in israel-palestine conflic t
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Foreign Office has issued a statement expressing deep concern over the recent escalation of hostilities between Israel and Palestinians in the Middle East The statement released on Saturday underscores the urgent need for a ceasefire and a return to peaceful negotiations
UN agencies ‘ready’ to suppor t Pakistan in registration, managing Afghan refugees
ISLAMABAD
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) stand ready to provide support in registering and managing Afghan nationals, the agencies said on Saturday
The statement comes amidst the government s crackdown on illegal immigrants residing across the country Earlier this week the government gave an ultimatum to all undocumented immigrants, including Afghan nationals, to leave Pakistan by October 31, or else risk imprisonment and deportation to their respective countries
GAZA/JERUSALEM
A
AT least 230 people lost their lives and another 1 610 wounded in Palestinian enclave of Gaza as Israeli forces retaliated following a deadly multi-pronged attack by Hamas forces into Israeli territory on Saturday
This alarming surge in casualties on Saturday came in the wake of an audacious and large-scale attack launched by the Palestinian group governing the Gaza Strip This marked the most substantial offensive against Israel in years, as Hamas fighters infiltrated southern Israeli areas The attack followed a barrage of thousands of rockets fired from within the besieged Gaza territory
At least 40 Israelis were fatally shot as Hamas resistance fighters executed an unprecedented multi-front assault on Israel at daybreak The attack involved the launching of thousands of rockets with dozens of Hamas fighters infiltrating the heavily fortified Israeli border through air land and sea routes The attack caught the country off-guard on a major holiday
In response to the attack, Israel’s military conducted air raids on Gaza
later on Saturday
The Israeli military released a statement saying Dozens of [Israeli military] fighter jets are currently striking a number of targets belonging to the Hamas terrorist organisation in the Gaza Strip ”
Meanwhile Mohammed Deif a senior Hamas military commander announced earlier that the rocket fire marked the commencement of Operation
Al-Aqsa Flood He called on Palestinians worldwide to join the fight against the Israeli occupation
“We’ve decided to say enough is enough ” Deif declared urging all Palestinians to stand up to Israel In an audio message he proclaimed This is the day of the greatest battle to end the last occupation on Earth Israel said the group had declared war as its army confirmed fighting with Hamas fighters in several Israeli towns and military bases near Gaza and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to retaliate
Our enemy will pay a price the type of which it has never known, he said “We are in a war and we will win it ”
At least 40 Israelis were killed in the attack so far with more than 250 wounded Israel s ambulance service said but added that the toll was expected to rise
The Israeli military said it had
We are closely monitoring the unfolding situation in the Middle East and the eruption of hostilities between Israel and Palestinians We are concerned about the human cost of the escalating situation,” the statement read Pakistan’s stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict has been consistent advocating for a two-state solution as the key to enduring peace in the region The foreign office emphasised the importance of a just comprehensive and lasting solution to the Palestinian question anchored in international law and in line with relevant United Nations and OIC (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) resolutions ‘ME violence underscores urgent need to address ‘Palestine Question’ Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar on Saturday said that he was heartbroken by the escalating violence in the Middle East which underscored the urgent need for addressing ‘the Palestine Question’ In a post on X the prime minister said
We urge restraint and protection of civilians Enduring peace in the Middle East lies in a two-state solution with a viable contiguous sovereign State of Palestine founded on pre-1967 borders, with Al Quds Al-Sharif at its heart Pakistan s position is that a viable, sovereign, and contiguous State of Palestine should be established on the basis of pre-1967 borders, with Al Quds Al-Sharif (Jerusalem) as its capital This stance aligns with the international community’s efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the long-standing conflict
launched air strikes into Gaza where witnesses reported hearing heavy explosions, with at least two dead Israeli media reported gunbattles between bands of Palestinian fighters and security forces in towns in southern Israel Israel s police chief said there were 21 active scenes in southern Israel indicating the extent of the attack Saturday s incident marked an unprecedented infiltration by Hamas fighters into Israel from Gaza, and was the most serious escalation since Israel and Hamas fought a 10-day war in 2021
Israeli media reported gunbattles between bands of Palestinian fighters and Israeli security forces in towns in southern Israel In Gaza, people rushed to buy supplies in anticipation of days of conflict ahead Hamas military commander Mohammad Deif announced the start of the
operation in a broadcast on Hamas media, calling on Palestinians everywhere to fight
“This is the day of the greatest battle to end the last occupation on earth,” he said adding that 5 000 rockets had been launched The Lebanese group Hezbollah said the operation was a decisive response to Israel s continued occupation and a message to those seeking normalisation with Israel”
An adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei congratulated Palestinian fighters for the attack
The Israeli military said its forces were operating inside Gaza but gave no details Israeli Defence Minister Gallant said Hamas had “launched a war against the State of Israel” Israeli “troops are fighting against the enemy at every location” he said
The decision was taken in an apex committee meeting headed by Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar and attended by Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir among others
The committee had decided that movement across the border would be subject to passports and visas, while electronic Afghan identity cards (or e-tazkiras) would only be accepted until Oct 31
After the passage of the deadline the authorities will kick-start an operation targeting illegal properties and businesses owned by immigrants or those being run in collaboration with Pakistani nationals
The move had drawn a response from Afghan authorities with Afghan Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid terming it “unacceptable” while urging authorities to revisit the policy
In a joint statement today both UN agencies stated they had a longstanding and strong collaboration with Pakistan and stood ready to provide support in developing a comprehensive and sustainable mechanism to register and manage Afghan nationals including those who may be in need of international protection It added that the UNHCR and IOM said they were appealing to Pakistan to continue its protection of all vulnerable Afghans who have sought safety in the country and could be at imminent risk if forced to return” The UN agencies urged all countries to “suspend forcible returns of Afghan nationals and ensure any possible returns to the country take place in a safe dignified and voluntary manner
They highlighted that Afghanistan was going through a severe humanitarian crisis with several human rights challenges, particularly for women and girls “Such plans would have serious implications for all who have been forced to leave the country and may face serious protection risks upon return ” the aid organisations noted They also acknowledged the government s sovereign prerogative over domestic policies, its need to manage populations on its territory, and its obligations to ensure public safety and security Appreciating “Pakistan’s generous hospitality towards Afghan nationals for over four decades, despite challenges” the UN agencies repeated the “call for all returns to be voluntary safe and dignified without any pressure to ensure protection for those seeking safety
320 dead, hundreds wounded in two 6.3 magnitude quakes in Afghanistan
ISLAMABAD
M I A N A B R A R
At least 320 were reported dead and another 1,000 wounded in Afghanistan earthquake, according to disaster management authority spokesman Two 6 3 magnitude earthquakes hit western Afghanistan on Saturday, the country’s national disaster authority told media
The body of child taken out from the rubble of a collapsed house in today s devastating earthquake causing casualties and financial losses in Herat and Badghis provinces of Afghanistan
The United Nations gave a preliminary figure
the USGS website indicates seven earthquakes in the area At least five powerful earthquakes struck the city around noon, Herat city resident Abdul Shakor
Samadi said All people are out of their homes, Samadi said Houses, offices and shops are all empty and there are fears of more earthquakes My family and I were inside our home I felt the quake ” His family began shouting and ran outside afraid to return indoors The World Health Organization in Afghanistan said it dispatched 12 ambulance cars to Zenda Jan to evacuate casualties to hospitals
“As deaths & casualties from the earthquake continue to be reported teams are in hospitals assisting treatment of wounded & assessing additional needs the U N agency said on X formerly known as Twitter WHOsupported ambulances are transporting those affected, most of them women and children
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TA F F R E P O R T
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U S S E N AT O R S , C O N G R E S S M E N R E A F F I R M
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O M M I T M E
ISLAMABAD
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MANY key US senators and congressmen have reaffirmed their commitment to further cement the Pakistan-US ties and expanding the scope of existing cooperation to trade and investment, renewable energy, climate change and regional security
In their meetings with Pakistan Ambassador to the United States Masood Khan during the past week the US lawmakers discussed ways to further
N T T O F U R T H E R T I E S W I T H PA K I S TA N
strengthen the bilateral relations with focus on cementing ties in trade and investment, energy and counter-terrorism
The US lawmakers included Senator Bill Hagerty Senator Jon Ossoff Representative Jim Banks Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur
Representative Jason Crow according to a statement released by the Press Information Department here Ambassador Khan has also written letters to number of US lawmakers, thanking them for their resolute support during the recent vote in the House that rejected a proposed amendment to prohibit assistance to Pakistan under the State Foreign
No countr y allows stay of illegal immigrants: Solangi
ISLAMABAD S ta f f R e p o R t C a r e t a k e r M i n i s t e r f o r I n f o r m a t i o n a n d B r o a d c a s t i n g M u r t a z a S o l a n g i r e i t e r a t e d o n S a t u r d a y s a i d t h a t n o g o v e r n m e n t w o u l d p e r m i t t h e s t a y o f i l l e g a l i m m i g r a n t s i n t h e i r c o u n t r y Ta l k i n g t o a p r i v a t e T V c h a n n e l , t h e m i n i s t e r c l a r i f i e d t h a t i n d i v i d u a l s w i t h l e g a l r i g h t s c o u l d o n l y r e s i d e i n P a k i s t a n H e m e n t i o n e d t h r e e c a t e g o r i e s o f A f g h a n r e s i d e n t s r e s i d i n g i n P a k i s t a n c u r r e n t l y T h e f i r s t g r o u p c o m p r i s e d o f i n d i v i d u a l s w h o a r r i v e d i n P a k i s t a n i n 1 9 7 8 a n d h a d P r o o f o f R e g i s t r a t i o n c a r d s W h i l e t h e s e c o n d c a t e g o r y i n c l u d e d t h o s e A f g h a n s w h o h a d b e e n i n P a k i s t a n s i n c e 2 0 1 6 a n d h a d A f g h a n c i t i z e n c a r d s v e r i f i e d b y t h e p r e v i o u s g o v e r n m e n t o f A f g h a n i s t a n T h e t h i r d g r o u p t o t a l l i n g a p p r o x i m a t e l y 1 7 m i l l i o n p e o p l e e n t e r e d P a k i s t a n a f t e r A u g u s t 1 5 2 0 2 1 h e s a i d a d d i n g a m o n g t h e m s o m e p o s s e s s e d e x p i r e d v i s a s , w h i l e o t h e r s h a d e n t e r e d t h e c o u n t r y i l l e g a l l y To a q u e r y, h e s a i d m o s t o f t h e i l l e g a l i m m i g r a n t s i n P a k i s t a n w e r e f r o m A f g h a n i s t a n S o l a n g i e m p h a s i s e d t h a t t h e i l l e g a l i m m i g r a n t s m u s t v o l u n t a r i l y l e a v e P a k i s t a n b y O c t o b e r 3 1 a s t h e c a r e t a k e r g o v e r n m e n t w a s c o m m i t t e d t o i m p l e m e n t i n g t h e l a w H e s t r e s s e d t h a t t h e n a t i o n a l i n t e r e s t c o u l d n o t b e c o m p r o m i s e d f o r t h e s a k e o f b i l a t e r a l r e l a t i o n s , u n d e r s c o r i n g t h a t a c t i o n w o u l d b e t a k e n i n d i s c r i m i n a t e l y a g a i n s t i l l e g a l a c t i v i t i e s T h e m i n i s t e r s a i d a r e c o v e r y a m o u n t i n g t o R s 1 6 b i l l i o n w a s m a d e i n t h e g o v e r n m e n t s c r a c k d o w n a g a i n s t e l e c t r i c i t y t h e f t H e a l s o h i g h l i g h t e d t h e p o s i t i v e i m p a c t o f a d m i n i s t r a t i v e a c t i o n s , l e a d i n g t o a s i g n i f i c a n t r e d u c t i o n i n t h e p r i c e s o f e s s e n t i a l c o m m o d i t i e s s u c h a s o i l , s u g a r, w h e a t f l o u r, a n d f e r t i l i s e r S o l a n g i r e a s s u r e d t h e p u b l i c t h a t t h e c a r e t a k e r g o v e r n m e n t w a s d e d i c a t e d t o t h e b e t t e r m e n t o f t h e c o u n t r y a n d a ff i r m e d t h e i r r e s p o n s i b i l i t y t o c o n t i n u e t a k i n g n e c e s s a r y a c t i o n s I n r e s p o n s e t o a n o t h e r q u e r y a b o u t t h e u p c o m i n g e l e c t i o n s , t h e m i n i s t e r s a i d t h a t t h e E l e c t i o n C o m m i s s i o n o f P a k i s t a n b o r e t h e r e s p o n s i b i l i t y f o r c o n d u c t i n g f r e e , f a i r, a n d t r a n s p a r e n t e l e c t i o n s i n t h e c o u n t r y
Interim health minister to represent Pakistan at WHO Regional Committee in Cairo
ISLAMABAD S ta f f R e p o R t
Caretaker Federal Minister for Health Dr Nadeem Jan will represent Pakistan at the 70th session of the World Health Organization s (WHO) Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean Region, said a press release The assembly is scheduled for October 9 in Cairo
The international health forum holds substantial significance as it convenes 22 nations spanning the Eastern Mediterranean Region ranging from Pakistan in South Asia to Mauritania in North Africa During the conference, Dr Jan aims to share insights regarding Pakistan’s healthcare initiatives, and the challenges the nation faces, and present comprehensive future action plans He will also present an annual performance report to the health ministers of the EMRO region during the conference The annual conference will revolve around topics such as universal health coverage, health emergencies, and the challenges that come with them One of the key items on the conference agenda is the election of the regional director for WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office (EMRO) Prior to his departure for Cairo Dr Jan plans to hold bilateral meetings with health ministers from friendly nations These discussions aim to foster enhanced cooperation, particularly in the domain of technology transfer for vaccine production within Pakistan Furthermore
Pakistan is in contention to host the first-ever Global Health Security Summit in Islamabad in December later this year and the health minister will advocate for Pakistan s candidacy during the conference
Operations and Related Programs
Appropriations (SFOFS) Act 2024
During the meeting with Senator Hagerty, the two sides discussed ways to further strengthen the Pakistan-US relations with a focus on cementing ties in trade and investment energy and counter-terrorism the statement said
In the meeting with Ossoff from Georgia, matters relating to sister-province relations between Georgia and Sindh were discussed In the meeting with Congressman Banks the co-chair of the Pakistan Congressional Caucus Khan thanked him for his leadership in the Caucus and his
support for Pakistan Khan also met with Congresswoman Kaptur a ranking member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development and discussed Pakistan-US cooperation in defence, science and technology, education, renewable energy, climate change, and people-topeople contacts After the meeting with the Pakistani ambassador Congressman Crow tweeted that they discussed strengthening cooperation on regional security, Afghanistan, and economic development Khan also tweeted after the meeting, saying:
“Sought Congressional support for cementing bilateral ties ” Separately the ambassador thanked Congressman Mike McCaul Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee
Congressman Dean Phillips, Congresswoman Barbara Lee Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury and Congressman Lance Gooden for their strong support to Pakistan in foiling a move aimed at prohibiting assistance to Pakistan under the SFOPS Act
The ambassador said in his letter that the assistance earmarked under SFOPS would go to critical areas of cooperation including economic support counter-narcotics counter-terrorism, military education training and health programmes
“In the years to come, we would work harder to promote parliamentary exchanges and strengthen bilateral ties between our two nations In this endeavor we would always work with you closely stated the ambassador
Pak-UK to work jointly to empower Pak istani women: Mushaal
ISLAMABAD
I N p
Special Assistant to Prime Minister (SAPM) on Human Rights and Women Empowerment Mushaal Hussein
Mullick and Afzal Khan MP Labour Party Shadow Minister UK Parliament on Saturday agreed to work together in adopting sustained policy initiatives for Pakistani economic women empowerment and growth in the work sector
During the meeting, they discussed adopting sustained policy initiatives to empower Pakistani women in detail said a press release
The SAPM on HR and Women Empowerment and MP Labour Party Shadow Minister UK Parliament agreed that there was not only a dire need to start skill
development programs for Pakistani women but also to give them funds in order to enable them so they could play their role alongside male colleagues for the betterment and uplift of the country
Mushaal also discussed the plight of women in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) with Afzal Khan She said that fascist Narendra Modiled Indian army had been criminally involved in human rights violations as they were not only involved in gangraping over 11000 women but also rendering around 22 963 women widows during the last few years
She informed the Shadow Minister UK Parliament that the Modi regime hatched numerous conspiracies to change the demography of the occupied valley in sheer violation of UN resolutions and international laws She reiterated that the resolution of the Kashmir dispute was
SSGC organizes a captivating Mehfil- e -Milaadun Nabi (SAWW )
KARACHI S ta f f R e p o R t
Living up to its long tradition SSGC organized Mehfil-eMilaad-un-Nabi (PBUH) an indispensable feature of the blessed month of Rabi-Al-Awwal that marks the birth of Almighty Allah s final Messenger Prophet Mohammad (PBUH)
A large number of SSGC employees attended this mehfil that was held at the Company’s Head Office auditorium The event was organized by the Company’s Corporate Communication Department with requisite support from few Company departments
Reputed Islamic scholar Allama Hakeem Mohammad Akbar Dars was the distinguished speaker at the event In his thought-provoking talk, the learned scholar reiterated that there are so many precious and beautiful aspects of the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that one can easily benefit from for this life and hereafter Allama saheb underscored the point that Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) is the ultimate epitome of perfection chosen for us by Allah (SWT) and it is incumbent on each one of us to follow his teachings of righteousness and virtue
The event was also marked by heart rending naat renditions by renowned Sanaa khuwaans Qari Asad-ul-Haq and Mohammad Faisal Hassan Naqshbandi besides a few Company employees Sanaa khuwaans presented their renditions in praise of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) with tremendous passion and gusto
The learned speaker Allama Mohammad Dars concluded the proceedings with a comprehensive dua
The Milaad was aptly hosted by a reputed religious program compere and former SSGC Chief Manager Mohammad Ali Gohar Another former SSGC executive Qari
imperative not only for durable peace in India and Pakistan but also for the entire world because unresolved Kashmir issues would remain a constant threat to world peace Mushaal asked international organizations, including the UK government to build pressure on the Indian notorious government to release the unlawfully incarcerated Kashmiri leaders including her husband Yasin Malik She said that Yasin Malik was being implicated in false fabricated and politically motivated cases in a bid to silent him because he was the most powerful voice of the Kashmir peaceful struggle
The British MP on the occasion held out assurance to SAPM on HR and Women Empowerment that he would take up the issue of the Indian atrocities and human right violations in UK parliament
Uplifting countr y’s economy to be great challenge: Fazl
PESHAWAR S ta f f R e p o R t
Rais Ahmed recited verses from the Holy Quran to begin the proceedings Salman A Siddiqui Head of Corporate Communications thanked Allama Sahab for eloquently presenting before the audience many facets of the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) He also thanked the Sanaa Khuwaans for their soulful naat renditions Mr Siddiqui also thanked the guests and the audience for their presence in large numbers At the conclusion of the mehfil he presented bouquets and giveaways to the guests
D ua Foundation provides free educ ation to exceptionally talented orphans
ISLAMABAD I N p
In a heartwarming and significant event held at the prestigious Jinnah Institute Rawalpindi the Dua Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing free education to exceptionally talented orphans, took a giant stride towards realizing its mission
The event witnessed the presentation of scholarship certificates to orphaned students enabling them to pursue their studies in various fields thus igniting the flame of hope and knowledge in their lives
The event was graced by distinguished personalities with Zamurd Khan, the patron-in-chief of Sweet Homes, and Rahat Quddusi, the Chief Operating Officer of Jinnah Institute of Rawalpindi Law College, serving as the esteemed chief guests
Their presence underscored the significance of the occasion and highlighted the collaborative efforts needed to uplift the less fortunate in society
Expressing his admiration for the event and its organizers, Zamurd Khan emphasized the crucial importance of such initiatives in a country like Pakistan, where access to education is considered the birthright of every individual
He passionately articulated "I truly believe that orphans should not be neglected in this race for education These students I am confident will shine brightly in the future bringing honor and glory to Pakistan through their remarkable achievements Mr Dawood, owner of Dua Foundation, shared the organization s journey and objectives He noted that Dua Foundation initially began its noble work in collaboration with Faizul Islam in 2012 providing scholarships to its students However five years ago the foundation expanded its horizons by embracing students from diverse backgrounds and fields The primary focus was to address a critical gap: many orphanage institutions offer scholarships only up to the matriculation level Dua Foundation's mission
is to provide unwavering support to orphaned students in their pursuit of higher education From humble beginnings with four students, Dua Foundation has now grown to support 30 students, all of whom receive free education The foundation directly pays the educational fees of its beneficiaries to the institutes they attend ensuring transparency and efficiency in its operations However what set Dua Foundation apart is its exceptional mentors, who serve as elder siblings to the students The organization boasts a cadre of professors and scholars from various esteemed institutions, including Sargodha PAF College and Punjab University who voluntarily dedicate their time and expertise to mentor and guide these bright young minds
As a testament to the outstanding performance of its students, Dua Foundation is extending its education funding program to cover graduation-level studies
The organization's first student to benefit from this expansion is already on their journey toward higher education with plans to further widen its reach in the future The Dua Foundation s relentless commitment to fostering education and nurturing the talents of orphaned students is indeed a beacon of hope and promise for a brighter future This noble endeavor exemplifies the power of collective compassion and dedication toward shaping
Chief of his own faction of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F), Maulana Fazlur Rehman has said that uplifting the economy of country will be a great challenge While addressing a ceremony in Peshawar on Saturday, he did not want to see his opponents his jail and desires that every politician should be out of jail Referring to statement of one of the ambassadors raising concerns over arrest of chairman Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Fazlur Rehman said that he had remarked that what s your opinion about sending other leader who remained three times country’s premier behind the bars He made it clear that the party was not having any personal tussle with any stakeholder However there are differences in ideology The JUI-F chief bemoaned that the traders are facing severe economic hardships, adding that the people were staging protests against the inflated power bills He lashed out at the interim government, saying, “The interim government has nothing to do ” Meanwhile while addressing a press conference in Faisalabad Fazlur Rehman said that his party will welcome Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif on his return He said: We have made no contacts on the return of Nawaz Sharif to the country Nawaz Sharif has the right to return and do politics “The PML-N knows that Nawaz Sharif will return to the country with an organised plan he added Speaking about the merger of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata), Rehman said: No benefits have been reaped for the people with the merger of Fata ” “No single candidate can run the election campaign in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan ”
Atif flays police as 86 PTI leaders booked for par ticipating in Mardan Workers’ Convention
MARDAN
S ta f f R e p o R t
Former senior provincial minister and PTI Peshawar Region president Atif Khan has condemned the caretaker Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government for lodging a case against 86 leaders and workers of the party for participating in Mardan Workers Convention Neither there was any vandalism nor roadblock during or due to the convention and it was held inside a private compound But regrettably, the KP government did not allow the PTI to hold the convention,” he said “While all the other parties are busy in rallies and election campaigns the PTI is being targeted by the government Khan said He said that the PTI workers were booked under the AntiTerrorism Act (ATA) for simply participating in a peaceful gathering This is a clear violation of the constitution and fundamental rights of the people ” Atif Khan said He demanded the KP government withdraw the case against the PTI workers and allow the party to hold its rallies and conventions peacefully The FIR against the PTI workers was registered at the Chota Lahore police station in Mardan on October 6, 2023 The FIR alleges that the PTI workers caused damage to public property and blocked roads during the convention However Khan has denied these allegations saying that the convention was held peacefully and that no damage was caused to public property
Su day 8 Octobe 2023 | KARACHI 02 NeWS
ta f f R e p o R
t
a better tomorrow
g I n m e e t i n g w i t h A m b a s s a d o r M a s o o d , k e y l a w m a k e r s d i s c u s s e x p a n d i n g s c o p e o f e x i s t i n g c o o p e r a t i o n
‘NOW OUT OF POWER’: BIL AWAL ASSURES TO FACILITATE FLOOD VICTIMS OF SINDH, PUNJAB
JACOBABAD s ta f f r e p o r t
AFTER his party’s ouster from power Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari
Saturday assured of facilitating the flood victims of Sindh and Punjab
Talking about recent flood during his visit to Jacobabad on Saturday, he said that climate change was a big challenge for Pakistan and the country was being affected
by climate change Bilawal Bhuto that he would fulfill the promises made to the flood victims and mentioned that the PPP was buildings houses for the flood victims estimated to be around 2 1 million The PPP’s chief said that he will start the ‘Apna Ghar ’ scheme for the flood victims of Punjab as well due to the massive destruction there also
He highlighted that as foreign minister he represented Palestine in every forum and the people of Pakistan always supported the Palestinian people because it a problem of
the Muslim Ummah
He said that democratic politicians see the solution of every problem in the elections The PPP is always ready for the election and it wants the polls to be held soon so that it can serve the people,” he reiterated
“Whoever is a democratic politician will say that elections should be held at their time as democratic politicians see the solution of every problem in elections he said while answering the question about Maulana Fazlur Rehman s views about polls
Recovery of electricity dues from defaulter continues in
KP
PESHAWAR I N p
Under the supervision of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Task Force for Energy the recovery of electricity bills from the users of defaulter feeders in various districts of the province continued
Strict directives have been issued to district administrations and police officers across the province to ensure the implementation of SOPs before registration of FIRs against electricity consumers
Under the supervision of KP Task F o r c e f o r E n e rg y, m o r e t h a n 2 0 6 4 5 connections involved in Kunda culture have been disconnected while in terms of fines and arrears more than Rs 1 43 b i l l i o n a m o u n t h a v e b e e n r e c o v e r e d a n d R s 11 0 m i l l i o n h a v e b e e n r e c o v e r e d f r o m t h e e l e c t r i c i t y consumers involved in the heinous act
It was told in the meeting that from
September
5 more than 10 406 raids were conducted in various districts of the province jointly by PESCO district administration and police in streets neighborhoods and bazaars, where large commercial hubs and factories involved in illegal use of electricity were raided
More than 20645 connections of Kunda mafia including consumers were cut while cases were registered
Elections to be held in Februar y 2023, says Raja Riaz
ISLAMABAD s ta f f r e p o r t P a k i s t a n M u s l i m L e a g u e ( P M L - N ) l e a d e r R a j a R i a z s a i d t h a t e l e c t i o n s a r e l i k e l y t o b e h e l d i n F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 3 I n h i s i n t e r v i e w t o A RY N e w s p r o g r a m m e S a w a l y e h h a i , t h e P M L - N l e a d e r s a i d t h e u p c o m i n g g e n e r a l e l e c t i o n s w i l l b e h e l d a r o u n d F e b r u a r y 1 5 , 2 0 2 3 , w i t h o u t a n y d e l a y H e l a m b a s t e d P P P s a y i n g t h a t t h e y a r e t r y i n g t o d i s t a n c e t h e m s e l v e s f r o m t h e o u t c o m e s o f 1 6 - m o n t h P D M g o v e r n m e n t t e n u r e R a j a R i a z s a i d t h a t t h e c a r e t a k e r g o v e r n m e n t h a s n o m e m b e r s w h o h a v e a n a s s o c i a t i o n w i t h t h e P M L - N T h e E l e c t i o n C o m m i s s i o n o f P a k i s t a n ( E C P ) e a r l i e r a n n o u n c e d t h a t g e n e r a l e l e c t i o n s w o u l d b e h e l d i n t h e l a s t w e e k o f J a n u a r y 2 0 2 4 I n a s t a t e m e n t , t h e E C P s a i d t h a t i t r e v i e w e d w o r k o n d e l i m i t i n g c o n s t i t u e n c i e s a n d d e c i d e d t h a t t h e i n i t i a l l i s t f o r t h e d e l i m i t a t i o n o f c o n s t i t u e n c i e s w o u l d b e p u b l i s h e d o n S e p t e m b e r 2 7 T h e f i n a l d e l i m i t a t i o n l i s t w i l l b e p u b l i s h e d o n N o v e m b e r 3 0 , s a i d E C P, a d d i n g t h a t g e n e r a l e l e c t i o n s w i l l b e h e l d i n t h e l a s t w e e k o f J a n u a r y 2 0 2 4 f o l l o w i n g t h e 5 4 - d a y e l e c t i o n s c h e d u l e T h e e l e c t o r a l b o d y w a s u n d e r i m m e n s e p r e s s u r e f r o m t h e p o l i t i c a l p a r t i e s r e g a r d i n g t h e a n n o u n c e m e n t o f t h e e l e c t i o n d a t e T h e a n n o u n c e m e n t c o m e s a d a y a f t e r t h e E C P s a i d i t h a d s c h e d u l e d a m e e t i n g w i t h p o l i t i c a l p a r t i e s n e x t m o n t h t o d i s c u s s t h e c o d e o f c o n d u c t f o r g e n e r a l e l e c t i o n s
Palestine-Israel situation requires restraint to avoid fur ther bloodshed: President
commercial customers are involved in
power theft Recovery campaigns against consumers in Bannu, Kohat, Dera Ismail Khan and Mardan divisions should be done at the level of feeders and it was emphasized to speed up the ongoing
against more than 7080 accused by local police amongst them 479 accused were also arrested
Moreover the Chairman Task Force Muhammad Abid Majeed emphasized that strict action should be taken against such housing colonies which have been established without government permission where the customers have arrears of billions of rupees and big
PPP writes to ECP on contradic tion in draf t amends to Elec tion Rules 2017
ISLAMABAD s ta f f r e p o r t
Pakistan People s Party Secretary General Syed Nayyer Hussain Bokhari on Saturday expressed reservations over the draft amendments to the Elections Rules 2017 published by the commission on September 22 2023
The ECP had asked for suggestions and objections on the amendments by October 7, 2023
In a letter addressed to the Election Commission of Pakistan
(ECP) Secretary Bokhari has expressed serious concern about a condition imposed in the proposed Form-68 that requires the contesting candidates to provide the total election expenses under campaign finance (under section 211(2) of the Elections Act 2017) made by a party
He also observed that sub-rule (3) of rule 161 requires the political parties to submit the details of election expenses within sixty days of the publication of the names of
returned candidates in the official gazette but Form-68 requires the contesting candidates to provide the total election expenses under campaign finance (under section 211(2) of the Elections Act, 2017) made by a party within 10 days of polling day (in case of returned candidate) and within thirty days (in case of all other contesting candidates) as per sections 98, 124 & 134 of the Act
Bokhari wrote that this is a contradiction and an impossibility as the contesting candidates cannot provide the information that is not yet available from their respective parties
He requested the ECP to omit the column in Form-68 that requires Total election expenses under campaign finance (under section 211(2) of the Elections Act, 2017) made by a party
Nearly 230 Palestinians killed in Israeli air blitz on G aza
CONTINUED FORM PAGE 01
A number of terrorists have infiltrated into Israeli territory from the Gaza Strip, the Israeli military said in a statement, adding that residents in the area surrounding the Gaza Strip had been told to stay in their homes Israeli media claimed that gunmen had opened fire on passers-by in the town of Sderot, in southern Israel, and footage circulating on social media appeared to show clashes in city streets as well as gunmen in jeeps roaming the countryside
We were told there are terrorists inside the kibbutz we can hear gunfire a young woman named Dvir from Beeri Kibbutz, told Israeli Army Radio from her bomb shelter Reports of Israelis taken captive:
Hamas media displayed videos of what it said were bodies of Israeli soldiers brought into Gaza by fighters, and Palestinian gunmen inside Israeli homes and touring an Israeli town in jeeps reportedly been driven into Israel by the attackers Palestinian media also reported that a number of Israelis had been taken captive by fighters and Hamas media circulated video footage apparently showing a destroyed Israeli tank
The Israeli military was aware of reports of captives a security source said but provided no further details In a briefing with reporters an Israeli military spokesman declined to comment Netanyahu’s office said he would meet top security officials in the coming hours and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant authorised the call-up of reservists
In Gaza the roar of rocket launches could be heard and residents reported
armed clashes along the separation fence with Israel, near the southern town of Khan Younis, and said they had seen significant movement of armed fighters Israel s ambulance service said teams had been dispatched to areas in southern Israel near Gaza and residents were warned to stay inside A group representing military reservists who had planned to refuse to attend training over their objections to the government’s plans to overhaul the judiciary called on reservists to report for duty
The Palestinian Islamic Jihad group said its fighters were joining Hamas in the attack We are part of this battle, our fighters are side-by-side with their brothers in the Qassam Brigades until victory is achieved ” said Islamic Jihad armed wing spokesman Abu Hamza on a post on Telegram Palestinians in Gaza expressed
m a k e P a k i s t a n a d e v e l o p e d a n d prosperous countries T h e r e f o r e , t h e y s t a t e d t h a t t h e s e v i d e o r e c o r d e d s t a t e m e n t s o n o a t h s s h o u l d b e k e p t s a f e a n d p r e s e n t e d b e f o r e t h e c o u r t s a s a p r o o f T h e P T I l e a d e r s d e c l a r e d t h a t i n c a s e o f t h e i r a n y o t h e r v i d e o s t a t e m e n t c o n t r a r y t o t h e r e c o r d e d o n e s u r f a c e d i t w o u l d b e f a k e b e c a u s e u n d e r n e w t r e n d P T I l e a d e r s a n d s u p p o r t e r s w e r e b e i n g a b d u c t e d a n d r e c o r d e d s t a t e m e n t s o f t h e i r c h o i c e u n d e r d u r e s s a n d c o e r c i o n
t o t h e p r e s s r e l e
disbelief at the infiltration into Israel It is like a dream I still can’t believe it, fighters inside our occupied land?” said one Gaza shopkeeper The escalation comes against a backdrop of surging violence between Israel and Palestinian fighters in the West Bank, which together with the Gaza Strip is part of the territories – currently occupied by Israel – where Palestinians have long sought to establish a state
It also comes at a time of political upheaval in Israel which has been riven by deep divisions over moves to overhaul the judiciary and as Washington works to strike a deal that would normalise ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia
The attack came a day after Israel marked the 50th anniversary of the 1973 war that brought the country to the verge of catastrophic defeat in a surprise attack by Syria and Egypt
t h a m p e r i n g a p p o i n t m e n t o f t h e h e a d o f a n y s t a t e
CNIC mandator y for goods sale, purchase at scrapyards
Sindh Police make
s ta f f r e p o r t T h e S i n d h P o l i c e o n S a t u r d a y m a d e i t m a n d a t o r y f o r o r d i n a r y c i t i z e n s t o s h o w C o m p u t e r i s e d N a t i o n a l I d e n t i t y C a r d ( C N I C ) f o r s a l e o r p u r c h a s e o f g o o d s a t s c r a p y a r d s A c c o r d i n g t o d e t a i l s t h e S i n d h p o l i c e m a d e t h e d e c i s i o n i n a n e ff o r t t o p r e v e n t t h e s a l e a n d p u r c h a s e o f s t o l e n g o o d s M o r e o v e r, a c t i o n w i l l b e t a k e n a g a i n s t s c r a p e r s w h o f a i l e d t o p r o v i d e t h e i r n a t i o n a l i d e n t i t y c a r d s S a l e a n d p u r c h a s e o f g o o d s a t s c r a p y a r d s w i t h o u t C N I C w i l l b e c o n s i d e r e d t h e f t t h e p o l i c e s a i d M e a n w h i l e t h e p o l i c e a l s o c o n d u c t e d a t a rg e t e d o p e r a t i o n a t R a n c h o r e L i n e s c r a p m a r k e t a n d c h e c k e d t h e r e c o r d s o f g o o d s b e i n g b o u g h t a n d s o l d i n t h e m a r k e t T h e p o l i c e a l s o u s e d Ta l a a s h a p p t o c h e c k t h e m o t o r c y c l e e n g i n e b e i n g s o l d i n t h e m a r k e t A d a y e a r l i e r i t w a s r e p o r t e d t h a t t h e S i n d h a p e x c o m m i s s i o n d e c i d e d i n p r i n c i p l e t o r e p a t r i a t e i l l e g a l A f g h a n i m m i g r a n t s T h e S i n d h a p e x c o m m i t t e e s s e s s i o n w a s h e l d u n d e r t h e c h a i r o f t h e c a r e t a k e r C M M a q b o o l B a q a r i n w h i c h t h e N a t i o n a l A c t i o n P l a n ( N A P ) , k a t c h a o p e r a t i o n a n d o v e r a l l s e c u r i t y s i t u a t i o n w e r e r e v i e w e d I G S i n d h g a v e a b r i e f i n g o n t h e o v e r a l l s e c u r i t y s i t u a t i o n T h e m e e t i n g w a s a l s o a t t e n d e d b y C h i e f o f A r m y S t a ff ( C O A S ) G e n e r a l S y e d A s i m M u n i r a n d h i g h - u p s o f t h e l a w e n f o r c e m e n t a g e n c i e s ( L E A s ) I t h a s b e e n d e c i d e d t o c o n t i n u e t h e j o i n t o p e r a t i o n o f p o l i c e a n d R a n g e r s i n t h e k a t c h a a r e a s o f S i n d h A r e p o r t w a s a l s o p r e s e n t e d o n t h e i l l e g a l l y r e s i d i n g A f g h a n i m m i g r a n t s a n d t h e i r a l l e g e d i n v o l v e m e n t i n s e r i o u s c r i m e s 7 8 2 A f g h a n a r r e s t e d f o r i l l e g a l l y s t a y i n g i n K a r a c h i P o l i c e d e p a r t m e n t i n v a r i o u s o p e r a t i o n s i n K a r a c h i s e i g h t d i s t r i c t s f r o m S e p t e m b e r 0 9 t o O c t 0 2 a r r e s t e d 7 8 2 A f g h a n s i l l e g a l l y s t a y i n g i n t h e c i t y, o ff i c i a l s s a i d M o s t o f t h e i l l e g a l i m m i g r a n t s w e r e a r r e s t e d i n M a l i r, K o r a n g i a n d E a s t d i s t r i c t s P o l i c e a r r e s t e d 2 0 4 i l l e g a l i m m i g r a n t s i n E a s t d i s t r i c t 1 3 5 i n M a l i r a n d 11 4 i n K o r a n g i d i s t r i c t s M o r e o v e r 1 2 6 A f g h a n s a r r e s t e d f r o m K e a m a r i 9 0 f r o m C e n t r a l a n d 5 8 f r o m K a r a c h i We s t d i s t r i c t o ff i c i a l s s a i d P o l i c e a l s o a r r e s t e d 3 5 A f g h a n s f r o m t h e C i t y p o l i c e d i s t r i c t a n d 2 0 f r o m S o u t h d i s t r i c t , a c c o r d i n g t o t h e p o l i c e A d d r e s s i n g a p r e s s c o n f e r e n c e i n I s l a m a b a d f o l l o w i n g t h e a p e x c o m m i t t e e m e e t i n g t h e c a r e t a k e r i n t e r i o r m i n i s t e r S a r f r a z B u g t i s a i d t h a t t h e i m m i g r a n t s h a v e b e e n g i v e n a d e a d l i n e o f N o v e m b e r 0 1 t o l e a v e t h e c o u n t r y B u g t i f u r t h e r s a i d t h a t a t a s k f o r c e h a s a l s o b e e n c o n s t i t u t e d w h i c h w i l l t a k e a c t i o n a g a i n s t i l l e g a l i m m i g r a n t s
institution I am recording this statement
u n d e r o a t h t o d a y t h a t I m r a n K h a n n e v e r o r d e r e d u s t o t a k e a n y v i o l e n t a c t i o n s o r t o a t t a c k m i l i t a r y i n s t a l l a t i o n s ”
G a n d a p u r a d d e d PTI KP President categorically stated that he also never ever issued orders to anyone to commit violence or vandalise state or private properties “I am recording my statement for the courts, institutions and people of Pakistan,” Gandapur maintained Similarly PTI Islamabad President Ali
Awan also issued his recorded video statement and clearly stated that PTI Chairman believed in supremacy of law and constitution who never supported violent act,
which was evident from his lifelong struggle He went on to say that PTI staged sit-ins and took out protest rallies and marches but they did not harm anything adding that Imran Khan always exercised restraints despite facing great hardship because he did not believe in the politics of confrontation with state institutions T h e r e f o r e , t h e P T I I s l a m a b a d P r e s i d e n t s t a t e d t h a t h e w a s r e c o r d e d h i s s t a t e m e n t o n o a t h a s a p r o o f a n d i n c a s e a n y o t h e r s t a t e m e n t r e c o r d e d u n d e r c o e r c i o n w o u l d h a v e n o l e g a l s t a n d i n g b e c a u s e h e w a s i s a n d w i l l b e s t a n d i n g f i r m l y w i t h I m r a n K h a n a n d P T I c o m e w h a t m a y
03 NEWS S nday 8 October 2023 | KARACHI
targets he added At the end the Senior Joint Secretary Power Division Arshad Majeed, while issuing instructions to PESCO Chief, said that the procedure of collecting dues from defaulting customers in instalments and the process of motorization should be accelerated and all company s officers should spend all their energies in achieving the recovery targets He expressed satisfaction with the p e r f o r m a n c e o f P E S C O a n d p a i d tribute to the administration of all the d i s t r i c t s i n c l u d i n g t h e h e a d o f t h e p r o v i n c i a l t a s k f o r c e f o r e s t a b l i s h i n g e x c e l l e n t p e r f o r m a n c e a n d coordination on the issue
ISLAMABAD a p p President Dr Arif Alvi on Saturday said that the situation called for an immediate ceasefire as the hostility and confrontation between Palestine and Israel would further increase the sufferings of the people The president in a post on X said, I am deeply disturbed over the escalation of violence in Palestine and Israel There should be maximum restraint to prevent further bloodshed and loss of human lives ” He further urged the international community to play its active role to prevent both sides from further escalating the conflict and work for a long overdue peaceful resolution of the dispute in accordance with the relevant UN resolutions and international law
KARACHI
PTI leaders say K han never ordered to attack, vandalize state installations ISLAMABAD s ta f f r e p o r t Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) senior leadership including Secretary General Omar Ayub Khan recorded on oath video statements as proof that former prime minister and PTI Chairman Imran Khan never ever gave them any instructions before or after May 9 to attack and vandalize any state institutions buildings and installations A c c o r d i n g
a
e
P T I l e a d e r s h i p i n t h e i r s e p a r a t e s v i d e o recorded statements made it clear that the s o l e a g e n d a o f P T I C h a i r m a n a n d i t s leadership as well as the workers was to
PTI Secretary General said: In case of my Enforced Disappearance or arrest please keep this statement of mine on oath as proof that PTI Chairman Imran Khan never ever gave any instructions to harm any government or state institutions buildings He said PTI members are patriotic Pakistanis who want 'Rule of Law in Pakistan and want to see Pakistan as a prosperous country In his recorded video statement PTI Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) President Ali Amin Gandapur stated that he was recording this video statement on oath to clear the dust that PTI Chairman never gave him order to hatch any kind of conspiracy or commit any act of violence against Pakistan army institutions or police He stated that PTI never staged sit-ins o r h o l d p r o t e s t s a i m e d a
s
,
WORLD REACTS TO SURPRISE ATTACK BY HAMAS ON ISRAEL
TH E Palestinian Islamist group Hamas launched the biggest attack on Israel in years on Saturday in a surprise assault that combined gunmen crossing into several Israeli towns with a heavy barrage of rockets fired from the Gaza Strip Israel said it was on a war footing and began its own strikes against Hamas targets in Gaza with Israeli media reporting gunbattles between bands of Palestinian fighters and security forces in southern Israel
Here is reaction to the attack from around the world
GERMAN CHANCELLOR OLAF
SCHOLZ: “Terrifying news reaches us today from #Israel We are deeply shocked by the rocket fire from Gaza and the escalating violence Germany condemns these attacks by Hamas and stands by Israel, Scholz said on social media
FRENCH PRESIDENT EM-
MANUEL MACRON: Macron said on Saturday that he strongly condemned the terrorist attacks against Israel I express my full solidarity with the victims and their families and those close to them, Macron wrote on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter
SAUDI ARABIA’S FOREIGN MIN-
ISTRY: The ministry called for an “immediate cessation of violence” between Israel and the Palestinians the state news agency reported
We are following the unprecedented developments between a number of Palestinian factions and Israel occupation forces which has led to a high
level of violence on a number of fronts”
EGYPTIAN FOREIGN MINISTRY: Egypt warned of grave consequences from an escalation in tensions between Israel and the Palestinians in a statement from the foreign ministry carried by the state news agency t called for “exercising maximum restraint and avoiding exposing civilians to further danger”
BRITISH FOREIGN MINISTER
JAMES CLEVERLY: The UK unequivocally condemns the horrific attacks by Hamas on Israeli civilians The UK will always support Israel’s right to defend itself,” Foreign Minister James Cleverly said in a social media post
VON DER LEYEN, PRES-
URSULA
IDENT OF THE EUROPEAN COM-
MISSION:
I unequivocally condemn the attack carried out by Hamas terrorists against Israel
It is terrorism in its most despicable form Israel has the right to defend itself against such heinous at-
Washington expels two Russian diplomats
WASHINGTON A G E N C I E S
The United States said it was expelling two Russian diplomats, a retaliatory step after Moscow kicked out two Americans last month
“In response to the Russian Federation’s specious expulsion of two US embassy Moscow diplomats the State Department reciprocated by declaring persona non grata two Russian embassy officials operating in the United States a State Department spokesperson said Russia said last month that it was expelling two US diplomats for liaising with Robert Shonov, a Russian citizen who had formerly worked at the US consulate in the Far Eastern city of Vladivostok
After a previous reduction of diplomats Shonov started working as a contractor and the United States says he was hired for routine monitoring of publicly available Russian media Russia arrested him in August on charges of passing along what it called confidential information on Ukraine The State Department “will not tolerate the Russian government’s pattern of harassment of our diplomats” the spokesperson said The Department s actions send a clear message that unacceptable actions against our embassy personnel in Moscow will have consequences Relations between the United States and Russia have deteriorated sharply since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine last year
The United States has said it sees no point in seniorlevel talks except on isolated issues such as arranging swaps of prisoners Even before the war the US diplomatic presence in Russia had been sharply reduced after a decree by President Vladimir Putin limiting the hiring of local staff, with Russians seeking US visas often obliged to go to embassies in third countries
tacks,” she posted on X
EUROPEAN UNION FOREIGN POLICY CHIEF JOSEP BORRELL: We follow with anguish the news coming from #Israel We unequivocally condemn the attacks by Hamas This horrific violence must stop immediately Terrorism and violence solve nothing,” Borrell posted on X
TURKISH PRESIDENT TAYYIP ER-
DOGAN: We call for restraint from all parties Erdogan said at a congress for his ruling AK Party in Ankara They must refrain from aggressive acts, he said
DUTCH PRIME MINISTER MARK
RUTTE: “Just spoke with Prime Minister @netanyahu about the unprecedented attack by Hamas on Israel I told him that the Netherlands unequivocally condemns this terrorist violence and fully supports Israel s right to defend itself, Rutte said on social media
RUSSIAN DEPUTY FOREIGN MIN-
ISTER MIKHAIL BOGDANOV: Rus-
sia is in contact with Israel, the Palestinians and Arab countries in connection with the escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict the Interfax news agency reported citing Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov
It goes without saying that we always call for restraint, he said
HEZBOLLAH: The Iran-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah, an arch foe of Israel, issued a statement on Saturday saying it was closely following the situation in Gaza and was in direct contact with the leadership of the Palestinian resistance
Following events involving Gaza militants who fired a barrage of rockets into Israel, the statement added that it was a “decisive response to Israel’s continued occupation and a message to those seeking normalisation with Israel
UKRAINIAN FOREIGN MIN-
ISTRY: Ukraine strongly condemns the ongoing terrorist attacks against Israel, including rocket attacks against the civilian population in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv ” the ministry said on X
We express our support for Israel in its right to defend itself and its people
POLISH FOREIGN MINISTER
ZBIGNIEW RAU: I strongly condemn Hamas ongoing attacks on Israel
This baseless aggression and acts of violence especially against civilians are unacceptable Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by these terrible events Rau wrote on X
CZECH PRESIDENT PETR PAVEL: The attack conducted from the Gaza Strip is a deplorable act of terrorism against the State of Israel and the civilian population ” Pavel said in a statement
India receives threat to blow up Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad
DELHI
NEW
A G E N C I E S
An email threatening to kill Indian Prime Minister Modi and blow up the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad was received by Mumbai police on Thursday in the midst of the ICC Men s World Cup that India is currently hosting
The email demanded the Indian government to pay 5 billion Indian rupees and release notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi who is now detained in Delhi s Mandoli jail according to Hindustan Times
The email continued to reveal that the group that sent the email had already organised people to carry out the assaults
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) who reportedly received the threat letter from Europe
subsequently alerted the Mumbai police according to the police
“We have received the email from the NIA which has alerted all concerned agencies in other places as well We also got the email ID from which the NIA got the email and are trying to trace that as well and prima facie it seems that the mail has come from Europe a police officer said
The police officer noted that they have initiated a manhunt for the sender and will review and step up security at all cricket events, if necessary He also suspected the message to be a prank or malicious play by someone sitting in a foreign nation the report added
The police officer added that the message appears to be a hoax or mischief played by someone sitting in a foreign country, but they
Frequent US-China high-level interactions rekindle hopes but uncer tainties remain
With more frequent high-level interactions between the US and China taking place and a bipartisan US Senate delegation planning to vist China in the coming days some Chinese experts said on Friday that whether US-China relations will truly warm up due to the recent communications and exchanges between officials of different levels and across various fields requires continued observation
This also shows that current US-China ties are still in an uncertain status but positive factors are increasing they noted
In a press briefing on Thursday local time, the White House expressed its support for a planned visit by a bipartisan congressional delegation led by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to China Japan and South Korea next week
Asked about the upcoming trip White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre said that we support certainly their engagement in the region Schumer has repeatedly urged the US to take a harder line on China, and urged lawmakers earlier this year to begin new legislation aimed at addressing concerns about the world’s second biggest economy Reuters reported on Tuesday The trip will follow visits by a series of Biden administration officials including Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo in August
have still launched the manhunt for the sender and the security of all cricket matches will be reviewed and beefed up if required
The email sent to the NIA read: We will blow up Narendra Modi and the Narendra Modi stadium as well if the government fails to pay us ₹500 crore and release Lawrence Bishnoi
Everything sells in Hindustan so we too have bought something No matter how much you secure, you won t be able to remain safe from us If you wish to talk, do so on this email ”
A case has been already registered against Khalistani leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun who had threatened to attack the World Cup matches He had even threatened to take revenge for Shaheed Nijar s assassination three weeks ago
The Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that China welcomes Schumer s visit to China, hoping that it will contribute to a more objective understanding of China in the US Congress increase dialogue and communication between the legislatures of the two countries and add positive factors to the growth of China-US relations
I believe that both sides will make some progress in the legislative exchanges that have been troubling their relationship, as many of the restrictive measures in the US policy toward China originate from US legislation,” Li Haidong a professor at the China Foreign Affairs University told the Global Times on Friday
Therefore close communication and exchanges between the top legislative bodies of the two countries can help avoid a situation where the foundational stability of the bilateral relationship is substantially undermined, Li said Schumer ’s trip to China will be the first congressional vist to the country in four years which also reflects some new characteristics in the latest high-level interactions between the two countries said some experts, who believe that the US Congress has been following in the steps of the Biden administration in enhancing interactions with China
“Not only will more US officials visit China for dialogue and exchanges more Chinese officials will also make visits to the US to enhance communication Wu Xinbo director of the Center for American Studies at Fudan University told the Global Times on Friday
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is expected to visit Washington later this month to pave the way for a potential leaders’ meeting during the upcoming APEC summit US news outlet Foreign Policy reported on Tuesday citing three US and East Asian diplomats familiar with the matter
KOLKATA
A G E N C I E S
Indian rescue teams are finding it difficult to reach flood-hit areas in the north-eastern state of Sikkim where more than 140 people are missing because the region is still experiencing bouts of heavy rain officials said on Saturday The Lhonak Lake burst its banks on Wednesday after a cloudburst triggered torrential rains and an apparent avalanche, causing major flooding in the Teesta river
“We are waiting for weather conditions to improve as only then air force and other rescue teams could venture into the flood-hit areas ” said VBPathak the state s chief secretary
The death toll has risen to 44 up by 2 from Friday according to a government official overseeing rescue operations from Gangtok, the state s capital
Hundreds of search and rescue personnel have
been deployed across Sikkim and in the northern parts of the neighbouring West Bengal state Areas near the river remain on high alert Fifteen army personnel are among those reported missing About 2 000 tourists clustered in the Lachung Lachen and Chungthung areas in north Sikkim were reported to be safe and the army has provided satellite phones so they can communicate with their families said another official
At least 13 bridges were washed away, hampering rescue operations All bridges downstream of NHPC hydropower station Teesta-V have either been submerged or washed away
A key highway that linked Sikkim with Siliguri in West Bengal also collapsed due to the floods
Local lawmakers were looking at whether trekking routes could be used to reach disaster-hit areas, said Bandana Chettri, a spokeswoman for the state’s tourism ministry
The Washington Post also reported on Thursday that the White House is making plans for a face-to-face meeting between US and Chinese top leaders in San Francisco next month as the two countries seek to stabilize troubled relations
The Biden administration is releasing these messages to boost scores on its diplomatic performance and to show its willingness to improve relations with China as a responsible major country, Li said He noted that if such a meeting does not take place, Washington could exploit the narrative and shift the blame to Beijing
Some Chinese experts said the recent adjustments of the Biden administration s China policy have been largely tactical
They have strengthened communication and dialogue, aiming to address specific issues within the bilateral relationship,” Wu said “However, the fundamental direction and design of his China policy remains unchanged ”
ISLAMABAD
The 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, will come to an end on Sunday So far there have been 15 world records broken according to the organizing committee which held a summary press conference on Saturday morning
A total of 11,830 athletes from 45 countries and regions have come to China to participate in the competitions of 481 events across 61 disciplines in 40 sports including nine non-Olympic sports In addition to the 15 world records, the athletes also set 28 Asian records and 150 Asian Games records by Friday night (October 6) The Asian Games in Hangzhou includes the most
events, the most participants and went through the most complicated organizing work in Asian Games history ” Zhu Qi’nan a spokesperson for the organizing committee said at the press conference It may also be one of the most complicated multi-sport events in the world ”
“Both the Mid-Autumn Festival and the National Day of China are being celebrated during the
Asian Games, another spokesperson, Mao Genhong, said “The two holidays bring more attention to the Asian Games ”
By Saturday (October 7)
3 05 million tickets have been sold for the Asian Games, leading to a revenue of 610 million yuan (about $84 8 million) and an attendance rate of 92 percent The highest attendance reached 290 000 on October 1
As one of the most distinguishing features of this year ’s Asian Games the digital igniting of the flame which was done via the app Smart Hangzhou 2022 drew over 130 million registrations and some 5 9 billion clicks Mao said that Hangzhou will benefit from the long tail of the Asian Games as most of the over60 authorized item manufacturing enterprises and the over-130 authorized item sales companies for the Asian Games are from the private sector Five of the 11 partner enterprises are based locally in Zhejiang Two of the four sponsors are private companies Mao told reporters that from December to the coming years Hangzhou will host a series of international sports events, which will facilitate the development of the sports industry in China
S d y 8 O t b 2023 | K AR ACHI 06 NEWS
ISLAMABAD S TA F F C O R R E S P O N D E N T
S TA F F C O R R E S P O N D E N T
N E W S D E S K
ISLAMABAD
I n d i a n re s c u e r s s t ru g g l e to re a c h fl o o d - h i t a re a s w h e re ove r 1 0 0 g o m i s s i n g
A s i a n G a m e s p r o d u ce s 1 5 wo r l d r e co r d s, $ 8 4 m i l l i o n i n t i c ke t r e ve n u e
WORLD CUP 2023
I
CORPORATE CORNER PAKISTAN REITERATES COMMITMENT TO PEACEFUL , STABLE SOUTH ASIA DESPITE THREATS
RUDA/CBD CEO pledges to set up state-of-art Mass Transit System in Lahore
LAHORE: Minister of transport Mr Ibrahim Hassan Murad, visited the CBD headquarters and held extensive discussions on matters related to connectivity of Punjab mass transit system with the transit plans of RUDA and CBD He appreciated the transport and transit plans of both the authorities He further stated that due to hyper inflation price hikes, petroleum price variations and an overall dip in economic activity the solution to public mobility is affordable and people friendly mass transit systems During briefing session the contours of RUDA transit plan basing on nine precincts with extensive primary secondary and tertiary roads network with 300 feet right of way at main nodes was elaborately explained with inclusions of transport technology, transport corridors, expected corridor densities and the rider stipulations PR
Indian SC ’s verdic t on status of K ashmir to have no consequences on its disputed nature: IPS forum
A D: The burning Kashmir issue should be seen as an international armed conflict and a matter of illegal occupation annexation and settler colonialism and all unilateral actions by the Indian government or court verdict to legitimize them have no legal standing in the eyes of the UN, the world community and international law This was discussed during the 22nd meeting of the Institute of Policy Studies’ Working Group on Kashmir (IPS-WGK) a body of experts and opinion leaders on Kashmir affairs under the title Article 370 in the Indian Supreme Court: Arguments, Outcomes & the Way Forward The hybrid session, chaired by Khalid Rahman, chairman IPS, was addressed by Ambassador (r) Syed Abrar Hussain, vice chairman IPS, Sheikh Abdul Mateen special representative of All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) chairman Masarrat Alam Bhat Dr Asma Shakir Khawaja executive director Centre of International Studies (CISS) Muzaffarabad, AJK, Iftikhar Gillani, senior Kashmiri journalist based in Ankara, Ambassador (r) Ishtiaq Hussain Andrabi, Advocate Imran Shafiq international law expert Advocate Nasir Qadri executive director Legal Forum for Kashmir (LFK) Dr Sheikh Waleed Rasool
Kashmiri academician and activist Dr Khurram Abbas, director, India Study Centre, Institute of Strategic Studies, Islamabad (ISSI), Reema Shoukat, communication strategist, Institute of Regional Studies (IRS), among others, and moderated by Farzana Yaqoob former AJ&K minister and general secretary IPS-WGK PR
ICCI c alls for better development of Blue Area to boost trade ac tivities
I S L A M A B A D: Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, President Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) said that Blue Area is the largest commercial centre of Islamabad which plays an important role in the development of the economy and stressed that the CDA should focus on its better development to facilitate the growth of trade activities He said this while talking to a delegation of Traders Welfare Association Blue Area Islamabad that visited ICCI led by its President Raja Hassan Akhtar and congratulated ICCI Office Bearers for one year s extension in their tenure
Ahsan Bakhtawari said that parking is the most serious issue of the Blue Area and CDA should allow parking of vehicles on the green area of Fazal Haq Road till the construction of a parking plaza is materialized He said that ICCI intends to organize a mega shopping festival in the Blue Area in collaboration with TWA Blue Area to boost trade activities and enable customers to get a chance of shopping at affordable rates Raja Hassan Akhtar, President, Traders Welfare Association Blue Area highlighted the important issues of traders of his market He said that the non-availability of parking the old sewage system and non-functional street lights are the main issues of the Blue Area and stressed that the CDA should address them on an urgent basis He stressed that CDA should set up a flower market in Blue Area besides pruning trees He demanded that the CDA should set up a food street in the Blue Area, which is the need of the hour for the traders and citizens PR
AT the United Nations Pakistan has reaffirmed that despite continuing threats it remains committed to the goal of a peaceful and stable South Asia
Pakistan’s permanent representative to UN offices in Geneva, Khalil Hashmi expressed the resolve while speaking at the General Assembly s First Committee that deals with disarmament and international security matters
He said over the past quarter century, Pakistan has proposed a number of initiatives to promote peace and security and prevent the emergence of nuclear weapons in South Asia
Referring to the situation in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Khalil Hashmi warned that India’s continued repression of Kashmiris right to self-determination in defiance of the Security Council resolutions poses a grave threat to regional and international peace and security
He said strategic stability is also threatened by India as it continues to receive abundant supply of conventional and nonconventional weaponry as well as new sensitive technologies and platforms
The Pakistani envoy reaffirmed the need for equitable and balanced disarmament measures that ensure each State’s right to security, with no individual State or group of States gaining advantages over others
People of all faiths enjoy complete religious freedom in Pakistan: Aneeq Ahmed
PESHAWAR
A P P
Caretaker Minister for Religious Affairs and Inter faith harmony, Aneeq Ahmed here Saturday that there was a complete religious freedom in Pakistan and followers of all schools of faiths were free to perform religious obligations as per their beliefs
He said Islam was a religion of peace, brotherhood and strongly prohibit bloodshed, extremism and terrorism
The Minister was addressing Religious Interfaith Harmony Conference here at a local hotel attended by KP Caretaker Religious Minister Justice (r) Arshad Hussain, Khateeb Masjid Mohabat Khan Tayyab Qureshi leaders of different faiths including Islam
Hindu Sikh Christian and others
Caretaker Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Aneeq Ahmed said the conference was an important event where representatives and leaders of different schools of thoughts came together to promote and broader understanding about mutual coexistence peace tolerance and cooper-
ation for the benefit of people
He said the leaders of all faiths have already announced that there was no room for terrorism and militancy in Pakistan and have strongly condemned Mastung Hangu and others terrorists attacks
The people of Pakistan have strongly rejected terrorism in all forms and manifestation and all institutions were working together to wipe out menace of terrorism
The Minister said great responsibilities rest on shoulders of religious scholars to promote message of brotherhood, unity, interfaith harmony, compassion and mutual coexistence imperative for a prosperous society
H e s a i d t h e H o l y P r o p h e t Muhammad (PBUH) was sent as R e h m a t u l L i l A a l a m i n a n d H i s life was a beacon of light for entire humanity
He said youth are future of Pakistan and urged ulema and religious scholars to educate them about the teaching of holy Quran and Seerah of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in its true perspectives
Aneeq Ahmed said he was standing before participants of the
confernce today with a deep sense of gratitude and hope as we were gathered here to work with unity for progress and prosperity of Pakistan
It is a privilege to witness the unity and diversity that define the world s religious landscape Pakistan give equal rights to all minorities and they are living peacefully here As the world that often seems divided conferences like these serve as beacon of hope said the minister
The minister reminded that despite differences in beliefs, rituals, and practices, there is a commonality of kindness, empathy and respect that binds us together
He said each religion has its unique teachings and traditions offering a pathway to a meaningful life and a deeper connection with the divine but all are against terrorism and condemn terrorists attacks in Pakistan
However it is essential to acknowledge that sometimes these differences have led to misunderstandings and conflicts Therefore it is our moral duty as leaders and representatives of differnt faiths to work towards interfaith harmony and mutual coexistence
Isolated heav y fall expec ted in K ashmir, Pothohar region, Mansehra, Abbottabad
ISLAMABAD A P P Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has indicated chances of isolated heavy fall in Kashmir Pothohar region, Mansehra and Abbottabad during the next 24 hours
The PMD also warned the risk of land sliding in Dir Swat Chitral Gilgit Baltistan and Kashmir
on Monday According to the synoptic situation, continental air was prevailing over most parts of the country A shallow westerly wave was present over northern areas of the country Dry weather is likely to prevail over most parts of the country while hot in southern areas
However partly cloudy weather with rain-wind/thunder-
storms is expected at isolated places in Gilgit Baltistan and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
During the last 24 hours, dry weather prevailed over most parts of the country and hot in southern parts
However 01 mm of rain was recorded in Balakot and Gupis
The highest temperatures recorded were Shaheed Benazirabad Sibbi 42 C and Turbat 41 C
HESCO recovers Rs1,879.3m from major cities during crackdown: S pokesman
HYDERABAD
I N P
The Hyderabad Electric Supply company (HESCO) has claimed to have collected an amount of 3 590 005 million rupees since the launch of the campaign against power theft and illegal connections in the region on September 7 2023 and out of which around 3 553 0032 million rupees were recovered from defaulters, while 41 8 million rupees were collected on account of penalties
According to Hesco spokesperson Saadik Kubar, significant amounts have also been collected from major cities of the region during this campaign amounting to a grand total of 1 879 3 million rupees
On Friday he added that collections of 81 million rupees were received from major cities of the region in-
Mehmoodur Rasheed, Ejaz Chaudhar y remanded in judicial c ustody
cluding 58 5 million from Hyderabad, 12 8 million from Nawabshah and 9 The spokesperson however disclosed that a total of 150 9 million rupees was recovered yesterday from the whole region 8 transformers were removed and power was disconnected from 38 transformers for the dues of 76 013 million rupees Kubar further informed that during this drive, 4 transformers were removed from the Hyderabad Circle, 1 from the Larkana Circle 1 from the Nawabshah Circle and 2 from Mirpur Khas Circle A total of 251 transformers have been removed and electricity has been disconnected from 1 110 transformers since the beginning Hesco authorities submitted 1,219 letters to relevant police stations against power thieves for registration of FIRs, apart from those 413 cases were registered leading to the arrest of 45 power thieves
LAHORE: An anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Saturday sent PTI leaders Mian Mehmood-ul-Rasheed and Ejaz Chaudhary on judicial remand in a case related to the burning of a container at Lahore Kalma Chowk The court approved 14 days judicial remand of PTI leaders and scheduled their next appearance for October 21 It is pertinent to mention here that violent clashes broke out across Pakistan after former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief was arrested from the premises of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on May 9 I N P
Police seize Iranian diesel from coach in S hahdadkot
SHAHDADKOT: Local police seized 1100 litres of Iranian diesel from a passenger coach here and arrested two accused Shahdadkot s A-Section police personnel seized 1100 litres of smuggled Iranian diesel from a passenger coach during checking at Qubo Road officials said
RDA seals eight illegal commercial proper ties in Civil Lines area
RAWALPINDI: Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) on the directives of the Director General (DG), Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA), Muhammad Saif Anwar Jappa here on Saturday carried out an operation against illegal and unauthorized commercial use of residential buildings and sealed eight properties in Civil
J. collaborates with Turkish ac tor Burak Ozcivit for launch of new fragrance ‘Ruler
’
K A R A C H I: J one of Pakistan s most prominent lifestyle brands launched a new fragrance in collaboration with international star Burak Ozcivit, best known for his leading role in the worldrenowned series “Kurulus: Osman” The event was star-studded set off by elaborate floral décor with Burak and the masterminds’ behinds J unveiling the new fragrance which has been named Ruler An exclusive crowd of guests attended the event eager to meet the popular star and get a first look at the exciting new fragrance J is a premium brand which was established in 2002 and has since then, expanded its reach across Pakistan as well as globally The brand’s more than 150 outlets in Pakistan alone are testament to its popularity and positioning as the country s largest retail brand Globally J at present has more than 30 outlets spread out across the US, UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Qatar PR
Capital police conduc t examination of promotion List A-1
Following the special orders of Islamabad Capital City Police Officer (ICCPO) Dr Akbar Nasir Khan, examination of promotion List A-1 was held at Police Line Headquarters a police public relations officer said He said that an examination board consisting of principal Capital Police College and other officers under the chairmanship of CPO Law and Order/Commandant Capital Police College conducted the examination A security program was issued and foolproof security arrangements were made on the inside and outside sides of the ground All the candidates were given a good environment arrangement for their seating DSP Capital Police College encouraged all the candidates before the commencement of the examination and addressed them and said that any kind of support material, mobile phone etc should be handed over to the administration immediately if any later If such a thing comes to notice strict legal action will be taken against the concerned A regular board has been constituted for the examination under the supervision of CPO Law and Order/Commandant Capital Police College, who will conduct all matters related to the examination while maintaining transparency PR
National Institute of Maritime Affairs convenes 8th special meeting of Advisor y Board
07 NEWS Sunday 8 October 2023 | K AR ACH ISLAMABAD S TA F F R E P O R T
I S L A M A B A D: Meeting of 8th (Special) Advisory Board of National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) was held at NIMA Head Office Islamabad The Special BoA was convened to bid farewell to the Chairman NIMA BoA Admiral Asif Sandila NI(M) the former Chief of the Naval Staff Director NIMA Cdre Bilal Abdul Nasir presented the overview of contributions and achievements made during the tenure of Admiral Sandila His strategic vision, foresight, and unparalleled contributions were acknowledged by all the members and special invitees in their votes of thanks The honorable members lauded Admiral s contributions towards the growth of NIMA and the maritime affairs of Pakistan Subsequently, Vice Admiral (Retd) Ahmed Saeed, DG NIMA also presented his acknowledgments to the Admiral’s immense support throughout his chairmanship PR
S L A M A B
A
Abdul
Khuzdar
The
launched a
smuggling of Iranian oil
smuggled into Pakistan on a massive scale N P
case has been registered against two suspects
Mutallib and Karim Brohi The accused have been natives of
in Balochistan, police said
government has
crackdown against
which is reported to be
According to the RDA spokesman,
Enforcement Squad
RDA
rules violators The properties constructed on plot number 8 plot number B-10 Dupilex plot number 11 Kamal Homeo Cure Centre plot number 39 plot number 17 and plot number 17-A Silver Oaks school, plot number 38 Sadeeqa s Learning System (SLS) School, plot number 24, plot number 25, Fauji Security Services, CIT Civil Lines were sealed He said that the Enforcement Squad including the Deputy Director of Building Control Assistant Director of Building Control/ Incharge Enforcement Squad I N P
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GOVT COMMITTED TO BOLSTERING DISASTER MANAGEMENT CAPABILITIES: PM K AK AR
R E TA K E R Prime Minister
Anwaarul Haq Kakar said that mindful of Pakistan s susceptibility to disasters and the grim specter of climate change while the government was resolutely committed to bolstering the disaster management capabilities enacting requisite legislation promoting governance that was attuned to risk, erecting resilient infrastructure, and above all, fostering adaptability
Disaster Management System in Pakistan was witnessing a transition from a reactive to a proactive approach which signified a crucial shift in how they collectively responded to unforeseen crises, the prime minister said in a message on the occasion of “National Resilience Day”, being observed on October 8
“I believe that the National Resilience Day will inspire the people of Pakistan to not only deepen their understanding of disaster risk management but also share the vital message of readiness, resilience, fortitude, and self-sufficiency,” he added
He said previously the focus was primarily on reacting to emergencies after they occurred often resulting in significant loss of life and property
However, with advancements in technology and a deeper understanding of natural phenomena, Pakistan was moving towards a proactive approach he said adding this involved establishment of a modern National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) at NDMA NEOC had the capacity to create common operating picture enabled by multiple satellite feeds, software, Artificial Intelligence tools that would strengthen digital risk assessment early warning systems and preparedness strategies he observed The caretaker prime minister further said Alhamdulillah, today, we have a robust institutional structure for disaster management in the form of NDMA and PDMAs
Employees working on KP developmental projects still await salaries
PESHAWAR A Z I Z B U N E R
Despite
Cop mar t yred, another injured in Buner IED blast
fires – exacting a toll on the precious lives as well as billions of dollars lost to infrastructure, the prime minister said On this day, he said, they aimed to raise awareness of the devastating impacts of climate change-induced disasters with a special focus on disaster resilience Last year once again he said Pakistan bore the brunt of a climate-induced catastrophe in the form of unprecedented floods
We now, need to strengthen the Disaster Management system at the district level to evolve as the actual implementing bodies of Disaster Risk Reduction policy and plans at the local level
He said National Resilience Day was marked on 8th October as a solemn tribute to the indomitable spirit of the people of Pakistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir, who had borne the brunt of harrowing disasters
“It serves as a stark reminder that we reside in a region profoundly susceptible to calamities Pakistan ranks as one of the most vulnerable countries declared by the Climate Risk Index We have witnessed a series of natural catastrophes in the shape of earthquakes, floods, GLOF events, scorching heatwaves and forest
The province of Sindh and parts of the province of Balochistan suffered the most One-third of the country was submerged with a toll staggering over 1700 precious lives lost 12867 injured and 33 million lives forever altered, he said, adding over a million valued livestock perished, and four million acres of vital crops lie ruined The communication grid lay in tatters The federal and provincial governments working in unionism marshaled every resource within grasp – financial, administrative, and organizational – for the rescue and relief of their affected citizens, the caretaker prime minister added “Let us move forward with determination resolve and a shared vision of a stronger more resilient Pakistan Together we shall not only weather this storm but emerge from it stronger and more united than even before Together, we shall not only endure, but prevail,” he emphasised
ATC grants bail to PTI’s Haleem Adil Sh, Raja A zhar in May 9 case
KARACHI
An Anti-Terrorism Court on Saturday granted bail to PTI leaders – Haleem Adil Shaikh and Raja Azhar in May 09 rioting incidents The court ordered two PTI leaders to submit surety bonds worth Rs100,000 each for availing the bail in rioting and arson incidents on May 09 in Ferozabad police station jurisdiction after arrest of PTI Chairman PTI
The court also extended interim bail of another PTI leader Khurram Sher Zaman The police in its charge sheet alleged Haleem Adil Shaikh, the former leader of opposition in Sindh Assembly of rioting arson and other offences The ATC adjourned further hearing of the case till October 23 Haleem Adil has been on judicial remand in jail in a case registered in Mubeena Town police station Violent protests erupted across the country after arrest of PTI Chairman Imran Khan from Islamabad High Court by the paramilitary force Rangers in Al-Qadir Trust case on May 9
E P O R T
Admiral Naveed Ashraf assumed the role of the 23rd naval chief of staff during the change of command ceremony in Islamabad on Saturday
The outgoing service chief, Admiral Amjad Khan Niazi, formally handed over command to the new naval chief
In his farewell address the outgoing chief congratulated Admiral Ashraf for taking command and highlighted the admiral s distinguished career He expressed confidence that the admiral would prove to be a capable and worthy successor who would lead the Pakistan Navy to new heights
Niazi further added that the Pakistan Navy stands as a strong and vital component of the country’s armed forces, capable of safeguarding our maritime frontiers He stressed that Pakistan values collaboration in matters of maritime security
The outgoing naval chief also pointed out that as India transitions into Bharat, there will likely be “increased fundamentalism, extremism, and bigotry in our neighbourhood ” This implies a significant agenda focused on warmongering and expansion which will complicate security challenges in the future, he said Hence, the former chief believes in the need for preparedness, professionalism, and unwavering self-esteem in re-
sponding to these challenges
Admiral Ashraf received his commission in the operations branch of the Pakistan Navy in 1989 He is a graduate of the National Defense University in Islamabad the US Naval War College and the UK s Royal College of Defense Studies In recognition of his exceptional professional services and bravery, Ashraf has been awarded the Hilal-e-Imtiaz (Military) and Tamgha-i-Basalat
During these violent protests the protesters attacked and vandalized important state buildings including security installations
Securit y forces kill two terrorists in Kech District IBO
RAWALPINDI
S TA F F R E P O R T
Security forces killed two terrorists during an Intelligence-Based Operation (IBO) in Zerber Kech District of Balochistan Province military’s media wing ISPR said on Saturday
On reported presence of terrorists on night 6/7 October 2023, the ISPR handout said, the security forces conducted an intelligence based operation in general area Zerber, Kech District
“During conduct of operation, intense fire exchange took place between own troops and terrorists as a result of which two terrorists were sent to hell A large quantity of equipment and explosives has also been recovered The killed terrorists had been actively involved in multiple terrorist activities against the law enforcement agencies, the statement added “Sanitisation of the area is being carried out to eliminate any other terrorists found in the area Security forces of Pakistan are committed to thwart efforts of enemies of peace in the country the statement added
Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Pakistan Ameer Sirajul Haq on Saturday said that the two families have been dominating the country for a long time and they are now again maneuvering to grab the power, warning that Jamaat will hold those accountable who have stashed their wealth abroad after coming to come to power In a statement on Saturday the JI chief said that inflation and unemployment have increased due to the wrong policies made during the past five years He regretted that the situation got worst from bad as the caretaker government was still pursuing policies of the previous government He demanded that petroleum price be decreased to 150 rupees per liter after decrease in the value of dollar and oil prices in the global market Haq said that Jamaat-e-Islami was in the field
t o p r o t e c t t h e r i g h t s o f t h e p e o p l e s a y i n g t h e p r o t e s t m o v e m e n t a g a i n s t i n f l a t i o n a n d i n f l a t e d electricity bills will continue saying a sit-in will be staged in front of the Sindh Governor House in Karachi on October 8
Haq said that Jamaat-e-Islami was struggling to protect the rule of law and the rule of law in the country He said that we want a clean and transparent election and the Election Commission should give the date of the election and conduct the election in an impartial manner Haq said that Pakistan is the only country in the world that came into existence on the basis of an ideology
He said that the world colonial powers did not a c c e p t i t w h o l e h e a r t e d l y f r o m t h e b e g i n n i n g a n d made it the center of conspiracies Haq said that the economic depression unrest and explosions in the c o u n t r y a r e t h e r e s u l t o f t h e c o n s p i r a c i e s o f t h e colonial powers
He said that the ruling elite imposed on the country for years submitted to colonialism instead of the nation and protected the interests of financial institutions and also promoted personal interests Haq said that 30 million children are out of school in Pakistan
He said that the children of rulers are studying in higher institutions abroad and their businesses and families are also living in Europe and America Haq said that the Islamic system is the solution to all problems and only Jamaat-e-Islami can give the system of Quran and Sunnah to the nation He said that the experiences of the last 75 years have proved that martial law and dynasties cannot improve
Kh Asif optimistic about Nawaz Sharif’s becoming PM for 4th time
SIALKOT S TA F F R E P O R T
Senior leader of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and former defence minister Khawaja Asif was optimistic of Nawaz Sharif s becoming the prime minister of Pakistan for fourth time Addressing a press conference in Sialkot on Saturday, he said that the Nawaz Sharif will arrive in Pakistan on October 21 to resolve the issues being faced by the country Khawaja Asif further stated that when the PML-N supremo left the government in 2017 the per unit electricity cost was just 11 rupees and now it was 55 rupees per unit
All the prevailing crises of Pakistan would be resolved when the Nawaz Sharif would take oath as prime minister for the fourth time, he added
The former defence minister was of the view that the PML-N’s supremo wasn’t even named in the Panama Case but still he was disqualified
He informed the former PM would land in Pakistan after visiting a couple of foreign countries
We saved Pakistan from default during our coalition government of 16 months, Asif concluded
SECP issues warning against fraudulent investment schemes by Meilleuretech Services
referred the matter to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) for a thorough investigation Meilleuretech Services (SMC-Private)
Limited now finds its name on the List of Companies engaged in Unauthorised Activities,” accessible on the SECP’s website This list serves as a comprehensive warning to the public highlighting entities that are prohibited from accepting deposits or investments from individuals and groups
Munir and his entities
The regulatory body s actions include the deregistration and winding up of Meilleuretech Services (SMC-Private) Limited disqualifying Zeeshan Munir from holding the position of chief executive and director in any company and imposing substantial penalties Furthermore the SECP has
The SECP in its relentless pursuit of protecting investors and maintaining the integrity of the financial market, urges the public to exercise caution and conduct due diligence before investing in any scheme As the regulatory body continues its efforts to eradicate fraudulent activities it remains vigilant against unscrupulous entities ensuring a secure investment environment for all
Published by Asad Nizami at Plot No 66-C, 1st Floor, 21st Commercial Street, Phase-II (Extension), DHA Karachi and printed at Ibn-e-Hassan Printing Press, Hockey Stadium, Karachi, for PT Print (Pvt) Limited Ph: 021-35381208-9 Email: newsroom@pakistantoday com pk ISLAMABAD G H U L A M A B B A S In a recent development the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has raised a red flag against Meilleuretech Services a sole proprietorship concern owned by Zeeshan Munir The regulatory body issued a stern warning to the public, cautioning them against investing in the fraudulent schemes offered by this entity The SECP’s investigation revealed that Meilleuretech Services was illicitly accepting deposits from the public under the guise of advertisement watching packages These packages, promising unrealistically high daily and weekly returns, lured unsuspecting investors However, the entity, notably, did not possess any license to collect deposits from the public making its operations illegal from the start Numerous complaints poured in alleging that individuals who had invested with Meilleuretech Services did not receive the promised packages Instead, they were coerced into recruiting more investors or depositing additional funds to claim their earnings This deceptive modus operandi raised concerns among the investors and led them to report the fraudulent activities to the SECP Taking swift action the SECP initiated legal proceedings against Zeeshan
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months
fiscal year,
of employees working on developmental projects in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) are still awaiting their salaries Provincial Administrative departments are blaming the Finance Department and Planning & Development for the delay Due to the administrative crisis in KP, most employees working on developmental projects have been deprived of their salaries for a continuous three months While the provincial government has released funds for all developmental projects officials in administrative departments are dragging their feet when it comes to disbursing salaries leaving employees without compensation for the months of July, August, and September
budget for expenditure The decision was made to ensure that salaries for all employees working on developmental projects would be disbursed under this policy Accordingly funds for the salaries of employees working on developmental projects were issued, and these funds have been provided to administrative departments However, due to the uncertain situation in administrative offices, many projects employees are still awaiting their salaries for July August and September Furthermore several projects also have employees who have not received their salaries for May and June The provincial caretaker government has expressed concern over the delay in salary disbursements and has granted administrative secretaries the authority to disburse the funds Despite this directive the issue remains unresolved
passage
three
in the
majority
The KP government had approved a four-month
leaving employees without their due salaries Throughout the province numerous developmental projects have been initiated with employees who have not received their salaries The delay in salary disbursements has created financial hardships for these workers, and they continue to await resolution to this pressing issue
SWAT S Y E D S H A H A B U D D I N A
Officer (DPO) Shah Hassan Khan a vehicle of the Elum Police was targeted in the attack when it was heading towards Elum from Pirbaba The martyred person 42-year-old Amir Zada was a resident of Katlang area of Mardan District the police officer added The DPO said that further investigation was underway and that report by the Bomb Disposal Unit (BDU) would further clarify the nature of the blast He further said that after the explosion a heavy contingent of police and security forces rushed to the area
policeman was martyred and another sustained injuries when an improvised explosive device (IED) went off near a police mobile van in Elum mountainous area of Buner district here on Saturday, the police officials confirmed According to Buner District Police
S TA F F R E P O R T
PRAYER TIMINGS FA J R S U N R I S E Z U H R A S R M AG H R I B S H A 5:20 6:00 1 30 4:15 5:45 7:30 Sunday 8 October 2023 NEWS
S TA F F R
KARACHI
A d m i r a l N ave e d A s h r a f t a k e s c h a r g e a s n e w n av a l c h i e f ISLAMABAD S TA F F R E P O R T
CA
LAHORE S TA F F R E P O R T
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