Epaper_23-10-1 ISB

BUGTI SAYS RAW INVOLVED IN TERROR ATTACKS IN BALOCHISTAN

VOWS TO PURSUE TERRORISTS TO THEIR ‘ DENS ’ , SAYING POLICY OF APPEA SEMENT NOT TO WORK ANYMORE

Hangu which targeted a police station s mosque in the city Five people were killed, and 12 were injured as the mosque s roof collapsed in the explosion’s impact

Speaking to the media on Saturday Bugti vowed to pursue terrorists to their dens and that the policy of appeasement would not happen anymore

What we know is that these appeasement policies adhered to what we saw in the past two to three years there is no tolerance for that ”

He added that the state knew where the terrorists were operating from and asserted We will go to their dens where they are nurtured and which are their safe havens, and we will go against them

Forces of evil to continue facing full might of state: COAS

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir on Saturday said that the forces of evil will continue to face full might of the state and security forces backed by a resilient nation General Syed Asim Munir NI(M) Chief of Army Staff (COAS) made these remarks during a visit to Quetta where he was briefed on recent terrorist attacks in Mastung and Zhob

of 55 people, including a police officer

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far However the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) re-

sponsible for some of the bloodiest attacks in Pakistan, denied its involvement

The caretaker government of Balochistan announced three days of mourning in the wake of the attack

A second bomb attack took place yesterday in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa s

Noting that at times an attack would be conducted by one organisation and another would claim its responsibility the interior minister said the recent attacks were being investigated

Petrol price slashed by Rs8, diesel Rs11 per litre

The caretaker government on Saturday slashed the price of petrol by Rs8 per litre and that of high-speed diesel by Rs11 per litre for the next fortnight According to a notification from the Ministry of Finance the new price of petrol is Rs323 38 and Rs318 18 for HSD

It said the price revision was due to the variations in the international prices of petroleum products and the improvement in the exchange rate

Previously, the prices of HSD and petrol were estimated to be reduced by about Rs15-19 per litre for the Oct 1-15 period mainly because of the rupee’s appreciation

The Pakistani rupee appreciated throughout the outgoing week seeing an improvement of 1 4 per cent against the USD in the interbank market, and is on track to be the best-performing currency this month

Last week, Caretaker Commerce and Industries Minister Gohar Ejaz had said he was hopeful that the nation would receive “good news” regarding petrol prices on October 1 The prices of the two essential fuels were last

cut in mid-July when petrol was reduced by Rs9 per litre to Rs253 and diesel by Rs7 per litre to Rs253 50

Between Aug 15 and Sept 15 petrol and high-speed diesel prices jumped by Rs58 43 and Rs55 83 per litre respectively At present the GST is zero on all petroleum products, but the government is charging Rs60 per litre petroleum development levy on petrol and Rs50 per litre each on HSD and high-octane blending component and 95 RON (Research Octane Number) petrol The government is also charging about Rs22-23 per litre customs duty on petrol and HSD

The briefing was also attended by Federal Minister of Interior, Chief Minister Balochistan and key Provincial Ministers alongwith senior civil and military officials The participants offered Fateha for the Shuhadas of Mastung Hangu and Zhob incidents COAS paid rich tribute to the Shuhada and remarked Such incidents of Terrorism on 12 Rabi al-Awwal depicts the ill intent of the Khawarij who have the backing of State Sponsors of Terrorism These terrorists and their facilitators, having no link with religion and ideology, are proxies of the enemies of Pakistan and its people ” “These forces of evil will continue to face full might of the state and security forces backed by a resilient nation Our operation against terrorists would continue unabated and the Armed Forces Intelligence and Law Enforcement Agencies shall not rest till the menace of terrorism is rooted out from the country, he added COAS emphasised, “the people of Pakistan have rejected terrorists’ pseudo ideology and propaganda of their backers and they are fully committed to peace economic progress and human development which indeed is causing lot of distress to forces of evil in and outside of Pakistan

H O W D I D H U B C O E A R N H I G H E S T- E V E R P R O F I T ?

PR OFIT da n i ya l a h m a d

THE Hub Power Company (HUBCO) recently unfurled its annual report for the culmination of the fiscal year 2023 The outcome? The company notched up its highest ever profit at a whopping Rs 62 billion, a meteoric rise of over 100% from the Rs 30 billion it amassed in the preceding year

This financial windfall was propelled by a trifecta of factors In addition to extraordinary incomes from its associated enterprises, HUBCO saw fresh revenue streams gushing from its two Thar-based power plants springing into operation At the same time the depreciation of the Pakistani Rupee against the United States Dollar enabled the company to rake in a higher turnover from capacity payments All this transpired while the company generated merely half the electricity it did in the previous year

“Power companies have their tariffs pegged in USD terms Consequently when the Rs depreciates the profits may remain steady in USD terms but they skyrocket in Rs terms expounds Yousuf Farooq Director Research at Chase Securities

While the assertion is correct there is a larger context to this HUBCO saw its earnings from capacity payments (CPP) skyrocket to an all-time high at Rs 62 billion This offset the Rs 12 billion dip in revenues from energy sales to the Government of Pakistan (EPP) as HUBCO’s energy generation dwindled from 9 265 gigawatt hours (GWh) in 2022 to a mere 4 728 GWh However this doesn t account for the additional Rs 32 billion that

Farhat Asif becomes first Pakistani to receive IWF Leadership Fellowship

ISLAMABAD S ta f f R e p o R t

Dr Farhat Asif the President of the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS) & CoFounder of the Diplomatic Insight Group has achieved an unprecedented milestone by becoming the first Pakistani woman to be selected for the prestigious 2023-2024 International Women s Forum (IWF) Leadership Fellows class Selection of Dr Farhat Asif as a member of the 2023-2024 IWF Leadership Fellows class is a momentous achievement a testament to her exceptional accomplishments and her unwavering commitment to the cause of women s leadership a news release said Dr Farhat Asif s extraordinary journey as a peace advocate, diplomat, and scholar has earned her this prestigious recognition Her tireless efforts in promoting diplomacy gender equality and peace building have transcended borders leaving an indelible mark on countless lives As she embarks on this new chapter the world eagerly anticipates the profound impact she will undoubtedly make on the global stage With a career spanning more than 15 years in the domains of diplomacy, foreign policy, public diplomacy, development, and diplomatic studies Farhat recently launched Global Women Insight a digital platform that conducts live conversations to spotlight the remarkable stories of women who have made notable contributions to global development In its inaugural season, she has interviewed 20 senators, members of parliament, members of the Canadian and European Parliament, and ambassadors from various countries including Ambassador Swanee Hunt and the Nobel Peace Laureate Ms Leymah Gbowee as well as the President of Kosovo Dr Farhat Asif s commitment to positive change has garnered her prestigious accolades, including the N-Peace Award in 2017 under the category of “Campaign for Action” by UNDP Asia Pacific the Government of Canada and the Institute for Inclusive Security in Washington DC USA In 2018 she was honored with the Fellowship of the Global Change Leaders Program from the Coady International Institute at St Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Canada Furthermore, Dr Farhat Asif has been bestowed with the esteemed “Public Diplomat” Award by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Republic of Uzbekistan Her academic prowess is underscored by her Ph D in Public Diplomacy from Quaid-I-Azam University with research areas encompassing foreign policy, international relations, security, and strategic studies The International Women’s Forum (IWF) is an exclusive global network that brings together the world’s most accomplished women from diverse fields including Presidents Prime Ministers Ambassadors CEOs Olympians and leaders in various sectors Established in 1974 in New York City, the IWF s mission is to foster connections among women leaders, provide mutual support, and collectively advance women’s leadership and global equality With a membership of over 8 000 preeminent women leaders from 33 countries and 76 local Forums the IWF serves as a dynamic platform to catalyze positive change on a global scale

w a s p r i m a r i l y d u e t o H U B C O r e c e i v i n g Rs 28 billion from its stakes in the China P o w e r H u b G e n e r a t i o n C

This m i l e s t o n e f r e e d H U B C O f r o m i t s o b l i g a t i o n t o m a i n t a i n a $ 1 5 0 m i l l i o n s t a n d b y l e t t e r o f c r e d i t f o r

C P H G C H o w e v e r, H U B C O h a s n o t p r o v i d e d further clarification on this matter

The Thar Energy plant along with its associated Thal Nova plant have consistently ranked in the top five of the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority s merit order since their inception The only exception was a brief two-week period in May when Thar Energy slipped to the sixth position

This ranking provides a partial hedge for HUBCO against potential reductions in energy purchases by the Government of P a k i s t a n f r o m p o w e r c o m p a n i e s , s h o u l d d e m a n d d e c r e a s e E v e n a m i n i m a l d e m a n d f o r e l e c t r i c i t y e n s u r e s t h a t HUBCO’s Thar Plant and ThalNova can s e l l e l e c t r i c i t y d u e t o t h e i r f a v o u r a b l e placement in the merit order

Moreover PIOGCL s acquisition of ENI s assets provides HUBCO with an opportunity to reap additional benefits from potential fuel exploration activities HUBCO is also poised to profit from potential expansions in Thar Block-II through its 8% share in the mines

However the most significant benefits for the company could arise from developments entirely beyond its control

“The power sector ’s major issue has been the persistent problem of circular debt ” Farooq begins “where payments to power generation companies are uncertain

OGRA jacks up LPG price by Rs21 per KG for Oc tober

947 effective from October 1st 2023

ISLAMABAD a h m a d a h m a da n i

The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has increased the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) by Rs 21 per Kilogram for the month of October, 203 and issued a notification in this regard

According

S ta f f R e p o R t

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) spokesperson came down hard on the caretaker Prime Minister for his oftrepeated shameful analogies and senseless statements that not only caused further division within the country but also became a source of distorting the image of the country globally

PTI spokesperson strongly reacted to the caretaker PM’s shameful remarks that he was seeing the current country’s environment as a contest between Imran Khan versus the state and for equating the issue of enforced disappearances in Balochistan with that of Indian Illegally

Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK)

PTI spokesperson called Kakar ’s statements as shameful examples of ignorance misunderstanding stupidity and irresponsibility

PTI spokesperson warned that the

Punjab

S ta f f R e p o R t

Inaugural ceremony of Friends of Police/Volunteers in Police programs held at Alhamra Hall organized by the Lahore Police in which students of various educational institutions teachers civil society representatives

eminent anchor persons and columnists

participated

On the occasion, IG Police Dr Usman Anwar pinned badges of Friends of Police and Volunteers in Police to the students and citizens

Talking about objectives of Friends of Police and Volunteers of Police program Dr Usman said that the Punjab Police Department is rapidly moving towards citizen centric police and Friends of Police and Volunteers in Police are latest initiatives that will prove to be a milestone towards community policing He said that under these programs young students are being made ambassadors of Punjab Police, which will strengthen relationship between the police and the youth The IG Police said that Friends of Police and Volunteers in Police will be given study tours and visits to Special Initiative Police Stations Khidmat centers Tahaffuz Marakaz and Meesaq centers, where they will understand police working, public service delivery and the challenges faced by the police in the society after

caretaker PM through his stupid and senseless rhetoric was further igniting the internal crisis and causing irreparable damage to Pakistan s image in the world

He urged that Kakar should better to focus on his constitutional duty of ensuring holding of free and fair polls within the stipulated time limit of 90 days instead of talking of issues which were beyond his mandate and creating unnecessary fuss in the country PTI spokesperson recalled that the caretaker PM should bear in mind that PTI Chairman Imran Khan was the only national leader who cultivated the seed of national cohesion harmony constitutional supremacy institutional independence and public empowerment besides taking various steps to restore the image of the country in the comity of nations, which was badly dented by the previous crooked and self-centered rulers PTI Chairman was even the only leader at the present circumstance who

The new pricing structure in accordance with the policy guidelines of the federal government indicates a notable surge in LPG rates impacting both producers and consumers

According to the latest determination, the notified LPG producer prices have seen a considerable hike In September 2023, the price of LPG was Rs 198,826 33 per ton which has now risen to Rs 219 686 69/ton in October 2023 This increase of Rs 20 860 36 per ton (Rs 246 15 per 11 8 kg cylinder) reflects a substantial 8 7% rise in prices

Police launch initiatives to rope in youth

examining the office working these students will play their role as police ambassadors in society In his address, IG Punjab said that all 735 police stations of Punjab are being upgraded to Special Initiative Police Stations in Faisalabad Rawalpindi Gujranwala and Multan Punjab Police is building modern safe city projects with its own resources These projects will speed up the process of changing the traditional police station culture and policing & will improve service delivery services will be provided to citizens in an optimal environment using modern technology In the ceremony, CCPO Lahore Bilal Siddique Kamyana, Additional IG Operations Punjab Shahzada Sultan and DIG Operations Lahore Ali Nasir Rizvi talked about the aims and objectives of friends of police and volunteers in Police The speakers said that Friends of Police Program is a oneday interaction with Punjab Police, In one day, the youth selected as Friends of police will get information about

could keep the nation united he added

Moreover PTI spokesperson went on to say that PTI was the only federal and largest political force that guarded the interests of the state, adding that PTI Chairman effectively countered the serious threats to the state arising out from linguistic regionalism sectarianism and internal division with his political philosophy He said that Imran Khan provided solid foundations for democracy in the state by mobilizing all sections of the society, especially by bringing the youth and women into mainstream of politics PTI spokesperson said that Imran Khan as the Prime Minister saved the state from the danger of class division by making the poorest class of the society a shareholder in the state resources, besides putting the country on the path of selfreliance and self-sufficiency by bringing about much-needed reforms in the country s economic structure

i c e h i k e i s t h e l i n k a g e b e t w e e n t h e L P G p r o d u c e r p r i c e a n d t h e S a u d i A r a m c o - C P a s w e l l a s t h e U S d o l l a r e x c h a n g e r a t e I n c o m p a r i s o n t o t h e p r e v i o u s m o n t h t h e S a u d i A r a m c o - C P h a s e s c a l a t e d b y 9 5 3 % a n d t h e a v e r a g e D o l l a r e x c h a n g e r a t e h a s r i s e n b y 1 1 5 % T h e s e f a c t o r s h a v e r e s u l t e d i n t h e c o n s u m e r p r i c e o f L P G s u rg i n g b y R s 2 4 6 1 5 p e r 11 8 k g c y l i n d e r, t r a n s l a t i n g t o a n 8 7 % i n c r e a s e

prices have also experienced a sharp uptick From Rs 240,126 33 per ton in September 2023 the price of LPG has climbed to Rs 260 986 69/ton in October 2023 This increase amounting to Rs 20 860 36 per ton (Rs 246 15 per 11 8 kg cylinder) signifies an 8 7% surge I t i s p e r t i n e n t t o m e n t i o n t h a t t h e d r i v i n g f o r c e b e h i n d t h i s n o t a b l e p r

Sar faranga Cold Deser t Rally 2023: Where adventure meets responsibilit y

ISLAMABAD

G h u l a m a b b a S

police working, public service delivery, the procedure for obtaining them, the rights and duties of citizens and the services available for public, and they will play the role of police ambassador in the society after having one day interaction with Police they will also be given special Friends of Police badges

On the occasion, ASPs of Lahore Police gave a presentation on the interaction with the first batch of Friends of Police and Volunteers in Police programs ASP Sidra Shehar Bano Saad Afridi Salman and other officers including ASP Shahrukh gave a briefing about the program starting from police lines Qila Gujar Singh DIG Kamran Adil, DIG Capt (r) Liaqat Ali DIG Imran Kishwar SSP Operations and other officers of Lahore Police were attended the launch ceremony in which a large number of students from various educational institutions participated and joined the Punjab Police as Friends of Police and Volunteers in Police

Pakistan’s enchanting northern region of Skardu is gearing up to host the 5th edition of the Sarfaranga Cold Desert Rally promising an adrenaline-pumping experience from October 6 to 8 2023 This announcement was made amidst fervor during a media briefing and the launch of the rally s theme song in the heart of Islamabad on Saturday Asifullah Khan, the passionate Secretary of Tourism and Sports in Gilgit Baltistan spoke eloquently about this unique event emphasizing that the rally would not just unveil the mesmerizing beauty of Baltistan but also beckon local and international enthusiasts, even in the winter chill Beyond the allure of the rugged terrain, the Sarfaranga Cold Desert Rally represents more than just a thrilling ride; it’s a gateway to a world of adventure thrill and excitement The chosen terrain Sarfaranga desert stands tall as one of Earth s highest and most challenging cold deserts making it an ideal playground for extreme sports aficionados Asifullah Khan underlined that this rally is more than an adventure; it’s an opportunity for youth to break free from the monotony of daily life and engage in healthy adventurous pursuits It serves as a platform for the youth to rediscover and explore their untapped potentials and energy Amidst the vast cold desert, participants can expect to navigate bumpy roads, leading them to the heart of an unparalleled excitement However, what truly sets the Sarfaranga Cold Desert Rally apart is its unwavering commitment to preserving the natural environment Asifullah Khan unveiled the rally s environmental policy emphasizing their dedication to minimizing the event s ecological footprint The policy revolves around responsible actions and commitments to ensure the rally’s impact on the environment is as minimal as possible

SARFARANGA’S ENVIRONMENTAL

POLICY ACTION PLAN:

Continual Monitoring: Rigorous tracking of carbon emissions to gauge and reduce the event s carbon footprint Climate Adaptation Strategy: Development of a comprehensive strategy to adapt to climate change and minimize environmental impact Travel

He reminded the caretaker PM of PTI Chairman s unprecedented struggles and efforts for constitutional supremacy rule of law and judicial independence in the country PTI spokesperson underlined that the unconstitutional and anti-democracy forces were serious threats to the state today as PTI was the only political force that is standing firm to safeguard and protect the state in the prevailing challenging situation He stated that the real threat to the state was from the violators of the constitution and law, undemocratic forces and the poor decisions coupled with the ignorant and senseless opt-repeated statements by those imposed on the nation PTI spokesperson said that the caretaker PM put a stamp on his ignorance and the confused thinking of the government by comparing between a permanent province of the state and an occupied and internationally disputed region which was very alarming

LAHORE

CHINESE VISION OF GLOBAL INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT ONLY ACCEPTABLE WAY FORWARD: MUSHAHID

ISLAMABAD

S ta f f R e p o R t

CHAIRMAN Senate Standing Committee on Defence Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed termed the Chinese vision of global and inclusive development the only acceptable way forward, saying that 21st century could not bear the brunt of a new cold war

Speaking as Chief Guest at the All Pakistan China Overseas Youth Federation (APCOYF) special ceremony held in connection with 74th National Day of People s Republic of China he said that the world was witnessing a great transformation, whereas the great poet of the East Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal 90 years ago predicted the rise of the Asian century and China

Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed said

Allama in his poetry talked of springs of hope from the Himalayas and Chinese rising from slumber Today the balance of economic, cultural and political power is shifting from the West to the East and we welcome that but I want to warn that many forces are talking of dispute division and a new cold war and we reject it as Asia cannot afford a new cold war We reject any talk of dispute containment and division of Asia

He underlined that China s worldview is on promoting inclusivity and it did not impose its values and hegemony on others but rather advocates for a win-win situation for all nations He added that China a decade back invested in Pakistan some $26 billion in the massive China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project that resulted in 8000 MW of power generation capacity, 200,000 jobs creation, and the development of 800 km of new transmission lines China,

he said had invested in Pakistan when no country even the Muslim countries was not ready to invest capital due to terrorism “We have seen Thar women driving dumper trucks, coal power projects, local community development through CPEC ” he

added Women and children (youth) would lead the future as both the leaderships of China and Pakistan namely Chairman Mao and Quaid-e-Azam shared the same thoughts, he said Shedding light on the history of China the

IT minister and Huawei Pak istan CEO discuss ‘digital financial revolution’

ISLAMABAD G h u l a m a b b a S

In a stride toward advancing financial access and embracing transformative opportunities Ethan Sun CEO of Huawei Pakistan held a pivotal meeting with the Federal Minister for IT & Telecom Dr Umer Saif

and communications

information

infrastructure and smart devices

technology (ICT)

They specialize in four key domains: telecom networks, IT, smart devices, and cloud services Huawei Pakistan, as an extension, plays a key role in Pakistan’s telecom infrastructure In the recent past, Huawei has built its reputation as a digital financial service provider providing these services to more than 300 million people worldwide The meeting indicates Huawei s intentions to be a part of the digital financial revolution in Pakistan

In their meeting with the interim technology minister, the Huawei delegation stressed the importance of key stakeholders such as banks microfinance institutions fintech companies and telecom entities in driving this digital financial progress Mr Ravenscroft emphasized the necessity for regulatory support to foster innovation, drawing attention to successful fintech models in countries like Kenya and Ethiopia Minister Dr Umer Saif, expressed his unwavering commitment to establishing a secure and efficient digital payment ecosystem in Pakistan during his

global provider of

Chairman Senate Body said on October 1

1949 at Tiananmen square Chairman Mao announced the liberation of China adding Chairman Mao said today Chinese people have stood up , and that was the start of the journey of Chinese progress The Chinese, he said went through a great struggle from cultural social and economic progress to come out of feudalism and western hegemony China had a strategic culture he said with three key ingredients namely it s peaceful rise as it is the only country that has risen without occupation, colonialization and bloodshed Secondly, the Silk Route that was started from China 2 000 years ago and connected Asia Middle East with Europe which was the first instance of globalization through culture and commerce Holy Prophet (P B U H) some 1 400 years ago said that seek knowledge if you have to go to China It was a developed civilization then,” he added Thirdly, he said the Great Wall of China that symbolizes strong defence and resistance to threats against China The long march in 1934-35 was participated by 100 000 people with Chairman Mao and only 25 000 survived that showed China s never give up philosophy, patience and perseverance

remaining stay in the office

He commended Huawei s substantial contribution to Pakistan s ICT infrastructure, hailing it as a promising step toward a digitally connected future Dr Saif underscored the significance of enhancing Pakistan’s digital economy, particularly emphasizing the transition toward a cashless financial system

The Minister assured the Huawei delegation of his determination to champion the cause of digitizing the economy He pledged to engage with relevant ministries and departments responsible for regulating the banking sector, fintech, and telecommunications He said that these efforts are crucial in propelling the nation forward in the digital realm

A p p r e c i a t i n g H u a w e i ’s t e c h n o l o g i c a l a d v a n c e m e n t s i n m o b i l e m o n e y a n d f i n t e c h s o l u t i o n s t h e M i n i s t e r e m p h a s i z e d t h a t d i g i t i z a t i o n h o l d s t h e k e y t o e x t e n d i n g t h e b e n e f i t s o f b a n k i n g a n d f i n a n c i a l e m p o w e r m e n t t o r e m o t e a r e a s a n d v u l n e r a b l e c o m m u n i t i e s H e r e c o g n i z e d t h a t o n l y t h r o u g h c o m p r e h e n s i v e d i g i t i z a t i o n c a n t h e n a t i o n b r i d g e t h e g a p a n d e n s u r e f i n a n c i a l i n c l u s i v i t y f o r a l l

Fafen c alls into question population variation in ECP ’s preliminar y delimitation

The monitoring group Free and Fair Election Network (Fafen) on Saturday raised an issue with the Election Commission of Pakistan s (ECP) list of preliminary delimitations issued this week saying that over one-fifth of the constituencies exceeded the 10 per cent population variation

The ECP had published the list on Wednesday, rearranging electoral districts across the country in light of the 2023 digital census, clubbing dozens of districts to rationalise the population of constituencies as well as reshuffling the number of national and provincial assembly seats allocated to various districts The ECP decision was termed as a significant step towards the conduct of general elections, likely to be held in the first month of the next year

The delimitation of constituencies follows recent amendments to the

Elections Act, 2017, including the insertion of a new proviso to Section 20(3), which now does not require the ECP to “strictly adhere” to the existing district boundaries if doing so causes the variance in the population of constituencies of an assembly to surpass 10pc, to ensure fairer elections

According to Fafen, the difference among constituency populations can be calculated and pointed out by comparing a constituency’s population with the average population per seat of an assembly or quota per seat Fafen said the quota is calculated by dividing a province s population, as determined by the last officially published census, by the number of seats of that province in the national or provincial assemblies as provided in the Constitution Fafen had urged the electoral watchdog last month to strictly ensure each constituency had roughly the same number of residents

In a press release issued today, Fafen said as many as 180 constituencies of the

National and provincial assemblies did not meet the legal preferability of a 10pc variation in the population, thus undermining the “principle of equal suffrage that was otherwise upheld by Parliament through the latest amendments in the Elections Act According to the amendments enacted on August 4, 2023, after parliamentary approval, the ECP was expected to disregard district boundaries to ensure that the variation among the population of an assembly’s constituencies does not ordinarily exceed 10pc

The monitoring group said the quota for each National Assembly (NA) constituency for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was calculated at 907,913, 787,954 for the Islamabad Capital Territory, 905,595 for Punjab 913 052 for Sindh and 930 900 for Balochistan

Similarly the provincial assembly (PA) seat quota for KP was established at 355,270, 429,929 for Punjab, 428,432 for Sindh and 292,047 for Balochistan

“An analysis of the preliminary

Justice Ir fan Saadat appointed acting SHC CJ

KARACHI S ta f f R e p o R t

report of delimitation 2023 and draft lists of constituencies reflects that the parliamentary emphasis on minimising the population variation was not extensively used to ensure the equality of votes in constituencies of an assembly the press release reads It added that the Election Act change was only used in delimiting 11 NA constituencies six in KP, three in Punjab and two in Sindh and one Punjab Assembly constituency “As a result the number of constituencies with more than 10pc variation in population went up from 170 82 NA and 88 PAs in 2022 delimitation to 180 83 NA and 97 PAs in the 2023 draft lists of constituencies

“This means that more than one-fifth of the total constituencies demarcated do not comply with Section 20(3) of the Elections Act 2017 The proposed NA constituencies with more than 10pc population variation included 35 constituencies in Punjab, 22 in Sindh, 21 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and five in Balochistan

Bugti says RAW invol ved in terror attacks in

CONTINUD FROM PAGE 01

“Whether it is Daesh or TTP or anyone else anyone committing violence under any banner violence will only be exercised by the state, Bugti said while vowing to hunt terrorists

Recalling an attack earlier this month that left Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) leader Hafiz Hamdullah injured the minister stated that the mastermind of that attack was killed later

He also lamented past occurrences of the state switching to an appeasement policy when dealing with terrorist elements

He stated: “I am honestly telling you that our issue is that we reach a certain level against terrorists whether it is terrorism under the name of nationalism or religion we reach a certain position of strength and then all of a sudden, our state switches to an appeasement policy and we reduce our [action] ” Responding to reporters’ queries, he said the provincial Information Minister Jan Achakzai could tell in detail about the matter of suspending DCs (district commissioners) and SPs (superintendents of police) and asserted that a thorough investigation will be conducted

The minister highlighted that yesterday s blast was the “first ever in Balochistan regarding [the occasion of] 12th Rabiul Awwal” and noted that in the past the Hazara community and Muharram processions were targeted

Speaking about the matter of footballers abducted earlier this month from the Dera Bugti district, Bugti confirmed that four of them have returned

When asked by a reporter if they had been recovered or were released by the abductors Bugti said Four have come

[back] and the remaining two will also be recovered, God-willingly FIRs of Mastung blast and Hangu attack

registered

Meanwhile the Balochistan Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) said it has registered a first information report (FIR) of the Mastung attack that claimed the lives of 55 people, including a police officer, yesterday

In a statement issued today, the CTD said an FIR with murder charges and terrorism offences has been filed against an unidentified attacker

It added that the investigation into the incident was ongoing and no arrests have been made so far

The CTD said the deadly attack resulted in the loss of at least 55 lives and left more than 60 people injured

The national flag was lowered to halfmast on government buildings including the Balochistan Assembly Chief Minister House Governor House and the Balochistan High Court

Similarly, police in KhyberPakhtunkhwa also registered a case regarding the suicide blast in Hangu’s police lines against unknown terrorists based on the complaint filed by SHO Doaba The charges include provisions related to terrorism murder and attempted murder

The FIR stated that two unidentified motorcyclists opened fire on the policemen and the police station gate as soon as they arrived The on-duty officers returned fire and a police official kill one of the attackers

It added that one of the attackers detonated his suicide vest after gaining entry Police have also recovered body parts of the bomber, which have been sent for DNA testing Twin blasts in Mastung and Hangu claimed at least 57 lives on Friday In

Balochistan s Mastung a suicide bomber targeted a religious procession and killed 53 people including a senior police official

In Hangu, at least five people, including a policeman were killed and 12 others were injured when a suicide bomber exploded inside a mosque

The mosque situated inside the Doaba Police Lines, was targeted by two suicide attackers, said DPO Nisar Ahmed The first one was killed at the gate of the police lines while trying to gain entry and the second attacker managed to enter the mosque and blew himself up inside

CCTV FOOTAGE OF HANGU BLAST

CCTV footage of the blast at a mosque inside the Doaba Police Lines Hangu emerged Saturday

The footage show suspected bombers moving towards the police lines on a motorbike

At least five people were martyred while five sustained injuries during an explosion inside a mosque located in the Doaba police u on Friday

The incident took place within the parameters of Police Station Doaba during Friday sermon said police The roof of the mosque caved in due to the impact of the blast the police official stated adding that nearly 30 to 40 people were reported to be stuck under the rubble

Two suicide bombers are involved in the attack,” said police official, adding that one bomber targeted the gate of the police station and the other blew himself up inside the mosque said police officials

The KP government has imposed an emergency in hospitals across Hangu and Kohat, DPO Ahmed confirmed Balochistan caretaker Information Minister Jan Achakzai said the entire region

Justice Irfan Saadat Khan has been appointed as acting Chief Justice of the Sindh High Court according to a report on Saturday After the approval of President Dr Arif Alvi the Ministry of Law has issued a notification of the appointment of the senior most judge of the Sindh High Court, Justice Irfan Saadat Khan as acting Chief Justice According to the notification, Justice Irfan will continue to perform as acting SHC Chief Justice till the appointment of a permanent Chief Justice The incumbent Chief Justice of Sindh High Court Justice Ahmad Ali M Sheikh will retire from the post on October 2

Forces of evil to continue facing full might of state: COAS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

COAS visited CMH Quetta where he met the injured and families of Mastung incident who are being provided full medical care by Pakistan Army He also lauded the bravery and resilience of Balochistan Police and Law Enforcement personnel He assured full cooperation and support to the families of shuhada and assured them that terrorists their abettors and facilitators will not be spared Earlier on arrival COAS was received by Chief Minister Balochistan and Commander Balochistan Corps

Balochistan

of Mastung was engulfed in sorrow He added that despite the heartbreak, the courageous administration and security institutions are making efforts to restore a sense of normalcy as they and the families lay the martyrs to rest”

He stressed that the government remains resolute in its determination to combat terrorism and ensure the safety and security of its citizens

INJURED PEOPLE BEING TREATED

IN SEVERAL HOSPITALS

In an official statement the provincial government said the injured people were currently undergoing treatment at several hospitals including the Civil Hospital Trauma Center, Combined Military Hospital (CMH), Nawab Ghaus Bakhsh Raisani Hospital, and Mastung District Headquarters (DHQ)

Furthermore over 15 injured individuals were transported to CMH yesterday following the directives of Quetta Corps Commander Lt Gen Asif Ghafoor

Yesterday, Balochistan interim

Information Minister Jan Achakzai had said that the “enemy” wanted to destroy religious tolerance and peace in Balochistan with foreign blessings

In a subsequent press conference the minister had said the death toll in the blast is immensely unfortunate He had revealed that a number of families had buried their loved ones without bringing them to the hospital adding that the government had not included these people in the official death

toll

SENATE CHAIRMAN VISITS

MASTUNG ATTACK VICTIMS

Also today, Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani visited the Civil Hospital to inquire about the condition of those who were

injured in the Mastung blast yesterday

Senators Naseebullah Bazai, Prince Ahmed Umer Ahmedzai and Rukhsana Zuberi also accompanied him

He urged Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar and the Balochistan chief minister to announce packages worth Rs20 million for those martyred in yesterday s attack, and worth Rs10m for those injured

Hoping that they would do so, Sanjrani expressed his sympathy towards the blast victims and asserted that the government would not allow the peace process to be sabotaged

INTERNATIONAL CONDEMNATIONS

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the terrorist attacks that took place a day ago, calling for bringing the perpetrators behind them to justice

“It is abhorrent that these attacks targeted people during peaceful religious ceremonies he said in a post on social media site X (formerly Twitter)

Speaking at the regular briefing at UN Headquarters in New York, his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric also condemned the terrorist attacks state-run Radio Pakistan reported Separately UN Security Council President Ferit Hoxha also strongly condemned the terror incidents in a press statement, the report said It added that the UNSC members expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy and full recovery to those injured

Radio Pakistan further said the UNSC reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and

A Global Tale of Oppression and Deprivation

B lasts show terrorist danger still unchecked

HE two blasts in Mastung, Balochistan, and Hangu, KP, on Eid Miladun Nabi, indicate that the terrorist threat to Pakistan that escalated since the Taliban takeover of Kabul two years ago has increased rather than been brought under control The Mastung blast was much worse, for 54 people were killed, including the DSP Mastung while four were killed in the Hangu blast However though both blasts took place in mosques, unusually filled because Friday coincided with Eid Miladun Nabi, the police may well have been targeted in both attacks with the DSP Mastung among those killed in Mastung and the Hangu attack taking place after an attack on a nearby police station was foiled The Tehrik Taliban Pakistan has issued denials, which leaves the Islamic State another suspect IS had considered the Taliban ‘soft’ and TTP factions which wanted a more forward policy gravitated to the IS This is the first example of intra-Sunni terrorism for some time, after the attacks on Khushal Khan Khattak’s tomb in 2017

Does this indicate that there will be further attacks in the future on religious holidays? The Eids are a few months away, and Ashura will be after that, but all three will be coming inevitably The only means of protecting peaceful worshippers is to eliminate the terrorist menace

The track record of the responsible agencies so far shows that they have not been very good at their job The challenge from Afghanistan will not be easy to control for to begin with any terrorists coming from there will be able to mingle with the population, if necessary for a long time Further, apart from those IS recruits in Pakistan, the flow from Afghanistan is likely to have increased as the Taliban put pressure on it, and members decide to get away to safer havens Pakistan can only deal with the situation through an elected government which is allowed to handle the situation, and not brushed aside by those who assume they know better, even though their record has been one of incompetence and failure Also, the blasts took place as a result of intelligence failures Less emphasis on political manipulation and more on anti-terorism would yield better results Unfortunately, with election season approaching, there will be more motivation to focus on the polls Add in the opportunities offered by large gatherings, and also that the sectarian terrorists are also against election in principle, and you have a recipe for disaster

Dedicated to the legac y of late Hameed Nizami

Arif Nizami (Late)

Founding Editor

Yousaf Nizami Editor

M A Niazi Joint Editor Umar Aziz Executive Editor

MARTIN Luther King once articulated the enduring truth that "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere "

This assertion underscores the grave implications of injustice an insidious game of oppression human rights deprivation and the systematic maltreatment of vulnerable ethnic groups, thereby stripping them of life's most fundamental necessities

A poignant example of such injustice can be discerned in the case of the Palestinians an ancient ethnic group with a history spanning millennia yet now mired in perpetual insecurity and aggression The ignoble occupation of Palestine by the Jewish forces, facilitated by global powers in 1948, continues unabated, manifesting a wanton disregard for the right to life and a conspicuous absence of conscience

Regrettably such reprehensible occurrences are not confined to one corner of the globe but are pervasive worldwide The aspiration of Palestinians to establish an independent nation was met with hostility from the authorities in what is purportedly a democratic Spain Elected leaders, including Catalonia's president, speaker, and cabinet members, were apprehended and the special constitutional privileges of the Catalonians were arbitrarily revoked

This egregious violation of democratic norms raises a disconcerting question: Why should external forces interfere in the internal affairs of a civilization that has endured for a thousand years? The turn of the 21st century witnessed a grave transgression of international law when the USA under the pretext of a purported nuclear threat together with British Prime Minister Tony Blair perpetrated a disastrous invasion of Iraq

This audacious act of illegal occupation and catastrophic devastation inflicted upon a sovereign nation exposed the frailty of the global order

It subsequently emerged that the pretext for this operation was entirely unfounded, leading the British Prime Minister to publicly acknowledge his culpability and offer an apology However this apology offers little solace to Iraq as the damage inflicted upon the once-prosperous nation over the span of 500 years is irreparable The irrationality that permeates our world becomes ever more pronounced Egypt, a nation

I s I n d i a a R o g u e S t a t e ?

THE term rogue state is used to describe a country that is perceived as acting in a way that is contrary to international norms and established rules of behaviour Typically, a rogue state is accused of engaging in actions or policies that are seen as destabilizing, threatening, or aggressive, both domestically and internationally As Realists say survival is the primary objective of any state At the same time there are a few states which have been working to expand their nationalistic approach to accomplish politically motivated goals

India is one of the countries, working to interfere in other countries’ domestic affairs by indulging in illegitimate activities We have seen many precedents where Indian paid agents have been caught involved in illegal activities in other countries This is not the first time There is a long list of Indian illegitimate actions across the world, not only in Pakistan and Afghanistan

The Indian security establishment has been actively working with intelligence agencies in order to accomplish its security-driven objectives The Canadian government s allegations have proved that India is involved in extrajudicial killings abroad while challenging the sovereignty of other states

Likewise, Pakistan has been facing similar Indian illegitimate actions Islamabad has apprised the world many times regarding Indian involvement in terrorism and extremism in the country It repeatedly urged the international community to take stringent actions and keep check on Indian activities which are jeopardizing regional as well as global peace

These incidents often result in casualties and displacement, raising human rights concerns. Likewise, global human rights watchdogs have been raising concerns about the freedom of expression in India, including restrictions on the media and cases of journalists facing threats and attacks

For example, Kulbhushan Jadhav an Indian national was arrested by Pakistani authorities in March 2016 Pakistan claimed that Jadhav was a serving officer in the Indian Navy and alleged that he was involved in espionage and terrorist activities in Pakistan The case of Kulbhushan Jadhav has been a source of significant tension between India and Pakistan, and it has been the subject of international legal proceedings

Similarly after the conclusion of the G20

summit in India, Canadian PM Justin Trudeau said that Canadian intelligence had credible allegations that Indian agents were involved in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar a Sikh separatist shot dead in a Vancouver suburb in June So, the Indian activities are not a new thing for Pakistan The killing of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil is a matter of grave concern and an eye-opener for the international community The USA the UK and Australia have rightly described the killing as a serious issue But it needs more On the other hand, few countries are viewing China through the prism of the economic market India is also becoming one of the USA’s most important foreign partners as a bulwark against China The USA has invested heavily in bolstering relations with New Delhi as part of its broader strategy of enhancing relationships in the Indo-Pacific region

The push has accelerated this year, with partnerships spanning areas from defence and high-tech manufacturing to artificial intelligence US President Joe Biden granted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi the high diplomatic honour of a state dinner at the White House in June

If the India-Canada imbroglio continues to escalate, then we could see western nations begin to choose sides, and it is likely to be Ottawa that wins, placing New Delhi’s partnerships with countries like the USA, Australia,

steeped in an 8 000-year-old civilization saw a brief flicker of democratic hope when Mohamed Morsi was democratically elected President in 2012

However, his tenure was cut short within a year when he was ousted by General Abdul Fattah Al-Sisi Morsi met a tragic end and despite the presence of international bodies like the United Nations the Arab League and the OIC no meaningful objection was raised Consequently, an illegal military junta continues to govern Egypt, stifling any opposition, and subverting the principles of democracy

The plight of Alexei Navalny, a prominent Russian opposition figure serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of democracy in certain regions In a democracy the Leader of the Opposition traditionally assumes the role of head of the shadow cabinet However, in Russia, Navalny is systematically marginalized, declared "ineligible" when he seeks election, and subjected to harassment, imprisonment, poisoning and physical abuse These actions are incongruent with the treatment one would expect in a civilized society

Moreover Russia s occupation of Chechnya through the use of force remains an unresolved issue, prompting questions about the effectiveness of international organizations like the United Nations

A recent example of vindictiveness is exemplified by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko who has clung to power for nearly three decades In the most recent election, marred by electoral fraud

Lukashenko declared himself president igniting protests across the nation Thousands of civilians, including opposition leaders, were forcibly expelled to evade torture Roman a young journalist fled into exile in Italy only to be apprehended when a false bomb threat on his plane was invoked by the Belarusian authorities His "crime" was the publication of critical reports on Lukashenko's authoritarian regime underscoring the depths to which retribution can stoop The Uighurs in China s Xinjiang province represent another oppressed ethnic group that has garnered global attention due to their persecution The efforts of activists like Rabia Qaderi have shed light on the plight of the Uighurs with the United Nations estimating that one million Uighur Muslims are held in concentration camps in an attempt to suppress their religious activities

natural beauty and historical significance

It is incumbent upon us, as global citizens, to pause and reflect upon the lengths to which we are willing to go in our pursuit of justice and human rights Do we truly possess dominion over the world that justifies such fervent tampering? History has demonstrated that even the mightiest empires, akin to Nimrod and the Pharaohs of yore, eventually met their downfall Let us tread carefully, mindful of the consequences of our actions, and strive for a world where justice prevails over vengeance

The tragic transformation of this once-idyllic land into a militarized zone marked by violence and repression stems from the unilateral decision of the Hindu Dogra king to align with India, despite the express desire of the predominantly Muslim population for independence In 1947, the United Nations adopted a resolution stipulating a referendum to determine Kashmir's fate, a commitment India initially accepted However the promise of a referendum remains unfulfilled, as time has passed and circumstances have changed, with Article 370 granting special status to Kashmir ultimately being abrogated by the Indian government These instances serve as stark reminders of the pervasive violation of human rights and the erosion of democratic principles worldwide In regions such as Myanmar Thailand Yemen Libya Syria Lebanon Ethiopia, and Sudan, chaos and human rights abuses continue unabated It is incumbent upon us as global citizens to pause and reflect upon the lengths to which we are willing to go in our pursuit of justice and human rights Do we truly possess dominion over the world that justifies such fervent tampering? History has demonstrated that even the mightiest empires akin to Nimrod and the Pharaohs of yore, eventually met their downfall Let us tread carefully, mindful of the consequences of our actions, and strive for a world where justice prevails over vengeance

Finally we come to the egregious violation of human rights in Kashmir a region of unparalleled

The writer has a PhD in Political Science and can be reached at akramzaheer86@yahoo com

E d i t o r ’ s m a i l

Send your letters to: Letters to Editor Pakistan Today, 4-Shaarey Fatima Jinnah Lahore Pakistan E-mail: letters@pakistantoday com pk Letters should be addressed to Pakistan Today exclusively

Thefts at school

THE KB Contractor Government Girls School in Maula Dad Village of Old Golimar area in Karachi is a much better educational facility than what one generally thinks about government schools in terms of academics

However it is caught in several problems for the last few decades

and the UK in greater jeopardy Ties with India were already frayed before this week’s bust-up Trudeau had been a relative rarity among G20 leaders willing to openly criticize the Modi government s policies as he did during the 2020 protests in which farmers, many of them from Punjab, torpedoed the prime minister s planned agricultural reforms

This is high time for the international community not to ignore security and human rights threats emanating from India They should immediately stop viewing India through the prism of the economic market and raise their voices to press the Indian government to stop pursuing its Hindutva-driven objectives and hold the leaders involved in the extrajudicial killings and human rights violations accountable India like many countries around the world has faced allegations of human rights violations and extra-judicial killings at various points in the recent past The ongoing conflict in IndianOccupied Kashmir has been a source of concern Allegations of human rights violations, including arbitrary detentions use of excessive force by security forces and restrictions on civil liberties have been made by various human rights organizations

The Modi government s response to the Naxalite insurgency, which has been active in several states, has also faced scrutiny There have been reports of both state and Naxalite violence leading to concerns about human rights abuses Communal and ethnic violence particularly between Hindus and Muslims has also been a recurring issue

These incidents often result in casualties and displacement, raising human rights concerns Likewise, global human rights watchdogs have been raising concerns about the freedom of expression in India including restrictions on the media and cases of journalists facing threats and attacks

The writer is Islamabad based expert of Indian affairs and can be reached at asadmalik2008@gmail com

In 2019, after the retirement of the science teacher, the management informed the students of classes IX and X that science subjects would no longer be taught at the school, and they should go to some other school if they wanted to further pursue those subjects After a long struggle by the residents the school got a science teacher in 2021 The area residents had hardly heaved a sigh of relief when another problem cropped up Various items started disappearing from the school premises Incidents of theft at the school have now become a common matter Quite a few times, the culprits have been caught red-handed, but no action could be taken against them The school administration has repeatedly requested the relevant officials in writing to provide a watchman, but there has been no progress The situation has gone worse as now there is a serious dearth of chairs and other important supplies that should be available to the students Area representatives have visited the school making promises right left and centre but practically speaking nothing has changed on the ground

ALINA KHAN KARACHI

Peace in Gilgit

THE recent serious unrest in Gilgit really makes one think why people seem to put such issues ahead of everyday problems like inflation, unemployment and corruption that affect them directly This is alarming and needs serious scrutiny by us all What is even more curious is the timing of the recent conflict as it took place just 10 days after the Jaranwala incident Are these events coordinated? It is a question worth investigating thoroughly And let us not forget that while international media covers such incidents, Pakistani media houses do not give them much attention We should encourage local media to not only report these issues, but remain objective while doing so To bring some harmony, we need to open dialogue among various groups and we must also prioritise issues like inflation and unemployment Respon-sible reporting by the media is key to maintaining transparency and trust Why is it that when everything is going well the guardians assert a sense of ownership but when things go wrong supposedly because of their own mishandlings no one wants to claim responsibility for it, let alone try to fix it?

RAKHSHANDA ABBAS GILGIT

Taxes and sur vival

THE government often laments that people are not willing to pay their taxes What it fails to understand is the simple fact that it is not the taxes that cause pain to the people; it is the dysfunctional government machinery which is the main factor spreading despondency We pay a significant amount in taxes just to know that the country has been racing backwards every day in the global economic race We come to know that the dollar has risen to record high The power tariff has gone up The prices of even lifesaving drugs are out of the reach of most people Construction in the country has decreased by 60 per cent The state-owned Pakistan State Oil (PSO) has posted a seriously massive decline in profit The infrastructure issues are not taken care of Healthcare is in the doldrums The education sector is nothing to write home about The law and order situation is unbearably bad The overall security environment is depressing And the national economy has all but tanked All this is what hurts the taxpayers; not the taxes It should worry us that India has reached the moon, while we, the miserable souls, are struggling to settle and survive on Earth The fact that such things do not worry us is what hurts the taxpayers; not the taxes

n i a n e s t a b l i s h m e n t d o n s R e f o r m A t t i r e

IRAN conservative president Ibrahim Raeesi along with his wife Dr Jamila Ilm ul Huda were in the USA a week ago in connection with the United Nation General Assembly session Unlike the low profile of spouses of heads of states during the last 45 years of the Islamic republic's existence, the President's wife granted many interviews to the American channels and she was in the headlines as much as her husband in the realm of geopolitics On the other front the conservative administration after having fruitless negotiations over revival of the JCPOA (the nuclear deal) found the way to trade funds for prisoners The two instances point to the Iranian establishment s adoption of what they had rejected as a reform agenda

The conservatives, backed by the establishment, contested the reform group at every available opportunity

In fact the incumbent President’s father-in-law Ilm ul Huda a senior cleric himself in fact acted as a parallel administration to the reformist governor of Khorasan north during much of the (2013 to 2017) period It may be recalled that at one time, the mystical music concerts approved by the Ministry of Irshad (the ministry at the heart of Hijab controversy) were opposed tooth and nail by the conservative cleric

The reformist camp was unlucky during its second tenure as it was further pushed under the bus when the succeeding Republican administration under Donald Trump unilaterally scrapped the JCPOA, depriving the reformist administration in Tehran of its winning chip in the next presidential elections due in 2021, rather in the context of Iranian politics too

The crippling sanctions as against the economic dividends of the JCPOA consequently created a backlash; which made it difficult for the reform camp sympathizers to defend it convincingly The results of the 2021 presidential elections were predictable Given the few options the system offers, the more viable option for the man on the Tehran Street was voting for the former caretaker of the Imam Reza shrine Ibrahim Raeesi

To answer the question as to how the reform group emerged in the otherwise regimented Iranian political discourse one needs to go through the trajectory of events after the Khomeini era The post-war calm and reconstruction under the stewardship of Khomeini were operational until his demise; Khamenei and Rafsanjani made ways for the common Iranian to review his lifestyle and wants The war years were times of highly regimented welfare state model with little room for democratic niceties and other freedom of expression

The period was punctuated with dullish art forms which were barely enough for the local audience; let alone for the international audience to review That situation prompted currents within the system and like-minded individuals joined hands to form a reform-oriented group, not formalized as such It may be pointed that a who-is-who of these persons included people known for their left of centre economic policies or radical record like being part of the US embassy takeover in 1979 or membership of pre-1979 guerilla organizations opposed to the pro-US monarchy of the Shah

The first shocker for the system was in the surprise victory of an unassuming cabinet member in the then Rafsanjani cabinet until 1997, Syed Muhammad Khatami, as the seventh President of the Islamic republic in the June 1997 presidential elections Nicknamed the Smiling

Syed his nickname was partly indicative as to why he was elected

The youth, tired of the stern administration of the system wanted a few freedoms which they thought; they could have if they voted for a reformist candidate For obvious reasons, people associated with the creative arts voted massively for the reformist

President It was not an unusual scene for many young actors of the budding Iranian industry to formalize their marriage ceremony through the recitation of verses by none other than the President

where Iran was increasingly visible in the open source software scene the established order in Iran was not ready to accord even that much of an image change The 2005 elections brought in yet another variant of radical politician, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad His reelection bid in 2009 in fact brought the reform movement and the establishment face to face Many in the reform camp wanted Khatami to run again for the presidency Yet the two-time president thought it opportune to leave the place for one time Prime Minister of war years Mir Husain Mosavi to contest

The June 2009 elections exposed the Iranian system to its most serious challenge ever from within The establishment found a clear divide uptil the IRGC, where many commanders were not happy with the way their own nominee Ahmadinejad dealt with the protest The showdown culminated in the indefinite house arrest of the losing reformist presidential candidate Mir Husain Mosavi, which continues until now

G i v e n t h e f a c t t h a t t h e s y s t e m b a r e l y c a m e o u t o f t h e c r i s i s l a s t y e a r ; t h e r e a l i t y t h a t a f t e r t h e l a m b a s t i n g o f t h e r e f o r m c a m p p o l i t i c a l l y b y t h e e s t a b l i s h m e n t i n I r a n , t h e o n l y o p t i o n a v a i l a b l e f o r t h e e s t a b l i s h e d o r d e r w a s t h e e l e c t i o n o f c o n s e r v a t i v e R a e e s i a n d t o g e t h i m t o d o t h e w o r k o f r e f o r m I t w a s i r o n i c t h a t a l l t h e w o r k , w h i c h w a s t o b e d o n e , w a s t h a t a d v o c a t e d a n d i m p l e m e n t e d b y t h e r e f o r m g r o u p w h e n i n p o w e r

However the clerical establishment thought it would be a compromise to its ideals without realizing that all the reformists were trying to do was to mellow down the republic to a level where it could compete and talk with the world outside For obvious reasons the 1997 to 2005 period was not punctuated not many reform initiatives #

Except for strides on the creative scene, where Iranian cinema made a place for itself and in the IT sector

Having recovered from the shock of 2009 the Iranian establishment still allowed the sense to prevail, when it allowed the reformist candidate Hasan Rouhani to win the presidential contest two times in 2013 and 2017 In 2017 it was Raeesi who was fielded as a conservative candidate A small episode during the campaign reported by the media in effect demonstrated that the conservative camp was not averse to a reform agenda as such, but was scared that anyone else might undertake it One renowned pop singer Amir Tatloo was invited during the election campaign by Raeesi to hold concert in Mashhad Though this did not materialize, the playing of the singer s songs from Raeesi campaign offices in fact showed that the conservatives were not averse to adopting the armoury of the reform camp if need arose With the reform camp torpedoed by the system

Th e ( B J P ) ’s M P R a m e s h B i d h u r i , c ro s s e d a l l l i m i t s o f b i g o t r y a n d h ate i n s i d e Pa r l i a m e n t d u r i n g a d e b ate a g a i n s t o p p o s i t i o n M u s l i m M P

D a n i s h A l i , c a l l i n g h i m a p i m p, e x t re m i s t, te r ro r i s t, M u l l a , K at wa a n d e ve n t h re ate n e d to s e e h i m o u t s i d e

MIDDLE EAST MONITOR b a da r k h a N S u r i

HATE is the chief ingredient of everyday discourse on the streets and the country s socio-political system to allow the Hindutva forces to continue to control the harvest In a historic moment, the new Parliament held its first session, debating the success of India’s moon mission, when a senior lawmaker from the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) sparked outrage and hurled Islamophobic profanities communal slurs and swear words

On Thursday 21 September The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) s MP from South Delhi, Ramesh Bidhuri, crossed all limits of bigotry and hate inside Parliament during a debate, setting a new low with his vile verbal Islamophobic attack against opposition Muslim MP Danish Ali calling him a pimp extremist terrorist Mulla Katwa and even threatened to see him outside Mulla is a pejorative word used against Muslims in India Katwa is a slur targeting circumcision in Muslims Ali responded:

“If this has happened to me in Parliament, imagine what is happening to ordinary Muslims all over the country

This is a common tale of Muslim life in India these days A Muslim MP is targeted in Parliament, on the street, vigilantes kill Muslims by lynching and police are busy providing extrajudicial action against Muslims by encounter killings and bulldozing properties The majority subscribing to the hate culture agreed with the BJP s verbal attack

Adding insult to injury two former Union C a b i n e t m i n i s t e r s s i t t i n g b e h i n d B i d h u r i l a u g h e d t h r o u g h o u t h i s h a t e s p e e c h U n i o n Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed reg r e t o v e r t h e c o m m e n t s , a l b e i t w i t h a n “ i f ” , s t a t i n g : “ I e x p r e s s r e g r e t i f t h e o p p o s i t i o n member is hurt by the remarks The BJP cannot even condemn it unequivocally The BJP just issued a show-cause notice to explain his unparliamentary language within 15 days Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla warned Bidhuri on F r i d a y o f “ s t r i c t a c t i o n ” i f h e r e p e a t e d s u c h behaviour in the future The speaker who suspends MPs on frivolous grounds or trivial issues has ignored this case

At least this triggered anger among the opposition parties and social media users and a demand for strict action was made The opposition wrote to the speaker that the matter should be sent to the Parliamentary Privilege Committee MP Mahua Moitra rightly said on the abuse of Muslims: The Other Backward Class (OBC) is an integral part of BJP culture most now see nothing wrong with it All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief and MP from Hyderabad, Asaduddin Owaisi, predicted: “The day is not far when there will be a mob lynching of a

Muslim in the Parliament of the country Congress MP Rahul Gandhi met with Ali to provide him with moral support and to cast the tide of hate aside by “nafrat ke bazaar mein mohabbat ki dukan ” meaning countering hate with love Later Gandhi asserted that all such tactics by the BJP were distraction tools for the upcoming elections

The BJP tried to frame a narrative that Ali provoked Bidhuri with unsavoury conduct and continuously heckled Bidhuri, instigating him to lose his calm and composure in the heat of the argument They added that Ali made an objectionable and blasphemous remark against Prime Minister Narendra Modi calling him Neech (a casteist slur) and this triggered MP Bidhuri: It was enough for any patriotic public representative to lose his calm and fall into his trap by speaking unsavoury remarks ”

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey submitted a written complaint about Ali using derogatory terms against the speaker Dubey also said that Ali Congress DMK and TMC are habitual offenders and make derogatory comments to provoke BJP MPs Another BJP MP Ravi Kishan Shukla also complained against Ali for having a habit of heckling and using unparliamentary language

The BJP s line of defence is that Ali used

casteist slurs against Modi provoking Bidhuri

Head of the BJP s IT Cell Amit Malyiya took to social media to defend Bidhuri by saying that his choice of words was in response to Ali, who called Modi “Neech” Ali also believes that the BJP now wants his lynching on the street: “They did my verbal lynching in the house Now they are trying to lynch me outside Modi who is fond of Mann ki Baat (talking from the heart), has decided to employ his stoic silence once again, as he did for the Manipur violence, Mewat violence, female wrestler molestation protests against BJP MP Brij

Bhushan Sharan Singh during his tenure as the president of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and many such occasions which he deems not worthy of his time

The BJP and its leadership know they are loved for their hate for Muslims Modi came to prominence after the 2002 anti-Muslim pogrom in Gujarat Indian Dalits have lived with this for millennia It’s a relationship between the powerful and the weak

IT’S NOT EASY TO BE A MUSLIM IN INDIA Muslims face slurs daily in every walk of life, whether at school or the office, the street or social media, the police station or any other state institution; it’s all the same The everyday life of Muslims is fragile and vulnerable Muslims face a torrent of abuses for their d i e t a r y a n d r e l i g i o u s p r a c t i c e s s u c h a s t h e hijab, namaz, azan or just for being Muslim

Putting despair in Muslims enthusiasm is also a tactic to deprive them of their political rights a n d m a k e t h e m p o l i t i c a l l y i m p o t e n t C o ns t a n t l y h u m i l i a t i n g t h e m r o b b i n g t h e m o f their self-respect and forcing them to accept it and be silent where will it lead if not into an implosion?

Targeted by manufactured hate and conspir-

acy theories Muslims are blamed for the population explosion, the pandemic spread, traitors conspiring against the state, engaging in Jihad against the socio-political and economics of the country and more Muslims face open calls for violence and socio-economic boycotts

At the service of politicians Hindu godmen are keeping Hindus charged with visceral hate towards Muslims in often conducted Dharma Sansad (religious assemblies) Sacred joy oozing out of sermons of hate is used as an opiate to manufacture hatred and capture power Hindu religious processions may not be complete without playing loud music abusing and creating a nuisance in front of a mosque or a Muslim neighbourhood Any response will meet with a counter-response of bulldozers, encounters and police atrocities

The top leadership sets the standards of political participation by setting examples to be followed In fact even at the top there is competition to be exemplary From Modi to Amit Shah to state leaders such as Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath, Assam CM Hemanta Biswa Sarma and many others, they all continue the hatred with their disparaging remarks

When hate as a policy comes from the top, it is easy for communal polarisation and political mobilisation Perpetrators know that they can do it with impunity That is how cow vigilantes work or the Institutionalised Riot System: through provocation, action and interpretation work

Eighty per cent of anti-Muslim hate speech in the first half of 2023 was delivered in BJPruled states and is made when an election is near according to a recent report by Washingtonbased monitoring group Hindutva Watch

This is the reason for cow vigilantes engaging in terrorising Muslim men in the cattle trade; security personnel killing Muslims on a train in the name of Modi and CM Yogi; a Hindu procession provoking Muslims in Mewat and leading to a riot near Delhi; a teacher in Muzaffar Nagar s village asking students to slap a fellow Muslim student; state administration extra-judicially bulldozing properties of Muslims; police killing men in encounters even more than before and the state passing discriminatory acts such as the Citizenship Amendment Act where all except Muslims are eligible When Muslims protested against it they were met with draconian state measures from incarceration to bulldozing their properties, with the media spewing venom for Muslims

All this is because of the state’s policy For this reason, the Genocide Watch group predicted a genocide of Muslims in a report published on 1 March 2022

In the name of democracy majoritarianism is unleashed More than two hundred million Muslims are caged into this system Is it justifiable to bypass basic rights and freedom to practice religion and live a life with dignity if majoritarianism in a democracy wishes to do so?

It was hinted that Bidhuri would be rewarded and after four days the BJP appointed him key poll duty for Tonk in the upcoming Rajasthan election These are symptoms of a larger malaise that no fig leaf can mask

within and from outside by the Trump Administration with the safety valve the system had in the form of reformists gone; the war between the supporters and opponents has had more clear dividing lines Gone were the arguments of adjustment within the system The Mahsa Amini issue was one such demonstration that if any situation is not controlled it can rapidly translate into the ‘now or never ’ scenario Given the fact that the system barely came out of the crisis last year; the reality that after the lambasting of the reform camp politically by the establishment in Iran, the only option available for the established order was the election of conservative Raeesi and to get him to do the work of reform It was ironic that all the work, which was to be done was that which was advocated and implemented by the reform group when in power

The supposed release of frozen funds by the USA in the form of multiple prisoner swaps all indicate that the conservatives with the backing of the clerical establishment are not shy to achieve or emulate the reformist camp agenda The current administration being soft on Hijab prisoner swapping a new form of JCPOA funds release trade promotion with the Arab world; an unbelievable opening with Egypt indicate a long list before the 2025 elections approach Iran seems to be losing its cutting edge at the altar of an angry public at home

That situation throws out two scenarios; either the Iranian system is too weak internally to take on the pressure without its safety valve reform camp; or else it is a strategic overhaul of the system aimed at correcting the system before the new administration is due for election Not to forget the revolution generation passes out if Khamenei exits the scene because of natural demise (he is 84, after all)

The writer is a freelance columnist

Although US talk about globalization was just a farce, it's still possible to build the real thing – and China claims to have the blueprint

ON Tuesday, China s government released a new white paper titled

A Global Community of Shared Future: China's Proposals and Actions ” The paper made an appeal to human unity, arguing that humanity faces common challenges to its survival and future and therefore must unite and cooperate

The paper drew a deliberate contrast to the actions of unnamed third parties which it condemned as bloc politics alliances and Cold War mentality It was quite explicitly a Chinese roadmap to its own foreign policy vision for the world, and as such, an alternative manifesto to American unipolarity

If the US is a contemporary opponent of globalization, China is its strongest advocate While America wants to reserve its privileges and kick away the ladder developing countries can use to rise and become prosperous China envisions openness as the only path to its own advancement and encourages other countries to join it These two contrasting visions form a critical juncture in the world s future path and ultimately the rise of China will be pivotal in whether a multipolar world can succeed, or the US will hold on to its dominance forever

THE US-LED WESTERN ORDER

For the past 400 years the international system has been shaped by an exclusive group of countries who have built an order designed to uphold their respective economic commercial technological and military privileges This order was built from European colonial empires and later handed over to the US by the middle of the 20th century It derives its power from exacerbating inequality and dominance over the states of the Global South, keeping access to capital conditional on ideological, military, and political subjugation In maintaining this system only states that have endorsed the order such as for example Japan or South Korea have been allowed to rise to prosperity while states that have opposed it have been deliberately isolated from key financial and technological markets The US sits atop the hierarchy with a network of vassals who maintain their privileges by being part of the system in particular the former empires of Britain, France, Germany and, as mentioned, Japan

THE RISE OF CHINA

However, the rise of China as an economic and technological power, which the US once believed would be “converted” to its way of life through the ideological impact of capitalism and free trade has posed a unique challenge to this system It has created a new global nexus of power that has surpassed the previous big challenger to the West-centric order the Soviet Union and is now giving a new avenue for the countries of the Global South to secure their own political and economic autonomy without having to vassalize themselves to former colonial powers This has led to an all-out campaign by the US to try and suppress the rise of China by various means including technological embargos military encirclement escalation of tensions and a negative publicity campaign

In doing so the US has begun to actively dismantle the system of globalization it once built, as a confident and victorious hegemon, in the bid to sustain its inherent privileges and shoehorn the global power distribution back into unipolarity This sends a message to the Global South that no country will be allowed to become wealthy or developed unless it signs up to US terms and conditions China on the other hand through its economic rise is the primary benefactor (ironically enough) of the once open system of US globalization

Thus China s primary foreign policy strategy is not to engage head on in a confrontational cold war with the US but rather to avert its impact by keeping the global system open China understands, as seen in Europe, that the primary strategy of the US is to incite division between countries in order to promote itself as a guarantor and savior and therefore in turn gain leverage over countries and profit through the military industrial complex In this case the US seeks to break up integration between countries such as for example by demanding Europe cut off Russian gas On the other hand China is promoting what it describes as win-win integration and openness between other countries, in order to fully utilize its economic potential and benefit from free trade In doing so, Beijing warns against the consequences of a divided world and advocates unity as the true human interest, as opposed to America’s binary and uncompromising emphasis on freedom democracy and conflict This gives us two deeply contrasting visions for world order and while countries such as Britain Canada and Japan clearly have chosen their side the countries in the middle have not and will ultimately have to decide their own fate

Hate against Muslims in India, whether on the streets or in Parliament , is the same

B e i j i n g reve a l s i t s

v i s i o n fo r t h e wo r l d

ISRAEL , SAUDI ARABIA MOVING TOWARDS ‘FRAMEWORK’ FOR DEAL: US

IS R A E L and Saudi Arabia are moving towards the outline of a historic US-brokered deal to normalize relations after decades of hostility, the White House said on Friday President Joe Biden is hoping to transform the Middle East and score an election-year diplomatic victory by securing recognition of the Jewish state by Saudi Arabia the guardian of Islam s two holiest sites

All sides have hammered out, I think, a basic framework for what, you know, what we might be able to drive at ” National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters

But as in any complex arrangement as this will inevitably be everybody is going to have to do something

And everybody is going to have to compromise on some things ”

The United States has urged its Middle East allies Israel and Saudi Arabia to normalize diplomatic relations following on from similar deals involving the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco Saudi Arabia s crown prince and de facto ruler, Mohammed bin Salman, recently said that the two sides were getting closer as did Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

Saudi Arabia has been seeking security guarantees, including reportedly a treaty with the United States in return for normalizing with Israel

But the Palestinians have warned that they must be taken into account in any deal, saying there can be no peace in the Middle East without a two-state solution Earlier this week, at the UNGA, Netanyahu said he believed his country was on the cusp of peace with Saudi Arabia predicting it could be clinched by US President Joe Biden and reshape the Middle East

Yet, amid urging by Riyadh and Washington that the Palestinians be included in the diplomacy, Netanyahu told

Xi pays tribute to fallen national heroes on China’s Mar t yrs’ Day

BEIJING S TA F F C O R R E S P O N D E N T

Chinese President Xi Jinping and other leaders of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the state attended a ceremony at Tiananmen Square in Beijing on Saturday morning to present flower baskets to fallen national heroes

Veterans family members of martyrs and representatives from all walks of life gathered at the Monument to the People s Heroes in Tiananmen Square to mark the country s tenth Martyrs Day, which falls on September 30, a day ahead of China s National Day

The marble monument, the foundation of which was laid on September 30 1949 stood tall against a blue sky Eight carvings depicting major episodes in Chinese revolutionary history since the First Opium War (1840-1842) adorn the monument s pedestal

At 10 a m , all participants sang the national anthem, and thereafter paid a silent tribute to those who devoted their lives to the liberation of the Chinese people and the building of the People’s Republic of China which was founded on October 1 1949

Following a patriotic song by schoolchildren in white shirts and red scarves the uniform of the Chinese Young Pioneers, 18 honor guards laid nine baskets of flowers in front of the monument

The baskets, with ribbons reading “Eternal Glory to the People’s Heroes,” were presented in the name of the CPC Central Committee; the National People’s Congress Standing Committee; the State Council; the National Committee of the Chinese People s Political Consultative Conference; the Central Military Commission; non-Communist parties, the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce and patriots without party affiliations; people’s organizations and people from all walks of life; veterans retired senior cadres and the relatives of martyrs; and Chinese Young Pioneers Xi and other leaders walked up to the foot of the monument, where the Chinese president straightened the red ribbons on the baskets before leading other senior officials in a walk around the monument to pay their tributes Schoolchildren and other participants followed them and laid bouquets of chrysanthemums at the foot of the monument

M A RT Y R S R E M E M B E R E D: Martyrs as defined by the Chinese government are people who sacrificed their lives for national independence and prosperity, as well as the welfare of people in modern times, or after the First Opium War ”

India exploits FATF standards to target civil societ y: Amnest y

There s no question: The Abraham Accords heralded the dawn of a new age of peace, he said I believe we re on the cusp of a more dramatic breakthrough: A historic peace between Israel and Saudi Arabia ” Such a deal would likely require broad support among US lawmakers –a tall order with a presidential election in 2024

the UNGA in New York that Palestinians should not be allowed to veto the regional dealmaking Expectations that Israel might normalize relations with Saudi Arabia the home of Islam s two holiest shrines have been ratcheted up this week Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said a deal was getting closer by the day and Netanyahu and Biden held a longawaited meeting to discuss the prospects Netanyahu described as a precursor the 2020 normalization accords between Israel and the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, known as the Abraham Accords and sponsored by then-U S President Donald Trump

Israeli media outlets had cited Foreign Minister Eli Cohen as implying that “six or seven” Islamic nations were likely to normalise ties with Israel after Saudi Arabia s potential inclusion in the Abraham Accords, which the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco and Sudan have already signed According to media reports, the Israeli minister had claimed to have met with leaders from several Muslim countries which have not recognised Israel yet His statement has sparked a debate about which Muslim countries will establish relations with Israel However, Cohen did not mention the names of those seven countries due to the situation in Libya international affairs experts believe Jalil in response to the Israeli FM s assertion clarified that Cohen has not met with any Pakistani official in recent times

C hina’s economy stabilises, fac tor y ac tivity returns to expansion

PR OFIT

R E U T E R S

China s factory activity expanded for the first time in six months in September, an official survey showed on Saturday, adding to a run of indicators suggesting the world’s second-largest economy has begun to bottom out

The purchasing managers index (PMI) based on a survey of major manufacturers rose to 50 2 in September from 49 7, according to the National Bureau of Statistics, edging above the 50-point level demarcating contraction in activity from expansion The reading beat a forecast of 50 0

The PMI the first official statistics for September, adds to signs of stabilisation in the economy, which had sagged after an initial burst of momentum early in the year when China’s ultra-restrictive COVID-19 policies were lifted

Preliminary signs of improvement had emerged in August, with factory output and retail sales growth accelerating while declines of exports and imports narrowed and deflationary pressures eased Profits at industrial firms posted a surprise 17 2% jump in August reversing July s 6 7% decline The manufacturing PMI,

plus the good industrial profit figures, suggest that the economy is gradually bottoming out, said Zhou Hao, chief economist at Guotai Junan International China’s non-manufacturing PMI which incorporates sub-indexes for service sector activity and construction also rose coming in at 51 7 versus August s 51 0

The composite PMI, including manufacturing and non-manufacturing activity climbed to 52 0 in September from 51 3

Near-term data on the radar of economists include consumer spending for the longest public holiday this year Golden Week kicked off on Friday with the Mid-Autumn Festival, which will be followed by the National Day break through Oct 6 Passenger travel by rail on Friday reached 20 million trips a single-day record, state media reported on Saturday, in a bullish start to what authorities had forecast to be “the most popular Golden Week in history”

PROPERTY RISKS

More stable economic indicators will be welcomed by policymakers as they continue to grapple with a property sector debt crisis that has rattled global markets The authorities have announced a series of measures to

shore up the property market including cutting mortgage rates, although the sector is far from being out of the woods

New home prices fell the fastest in 10 months in August and property investment declined for an 18th straight month

China Evergrande Group (3333 HK), the world s most indebted property developer with more than $300 billion in liabilities said on Thursday its founder was being investigated over suspected illegal crimes

The Asian Development Bank last week trimmed its 2023 economic growth forecast for China to 4 9% from a July forecast of 5 0% due to the weakness in the property sector

Analysts say more policy support will be needed to ensure China s economy can hit the government s growth target of about 5% this year

“China’s economy stabilised partly driven by the loosening of property sector policies ” said Zhiwei Zhang chief economist of Pinpoint Asset Management

The key issue going forward is whether fiscal policy will become more supportive I think it will, but timing-wise the change of fiscal policy stance may happen next year instead of this year

The Indian authorities are exploiting the recommendations of a global terrorism financing and money laundering watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF), to target civil society groups and activists and deliberately hinder their work, Amnesty International said in its new briefing released to media “Weaponising counter-terrorism: India’s exploitation of terrorism financing assessments to target civil society revealed how the recommendations of the FATF a global body responsible for tackling terrorism financing and money laundering had been abused by the Indian authorities to bring in draconian laws in a coordinated campaign to stifle the non-profit sector

These laws are in turn used to bring terrorism-related charges and amongst other things to prevent organisations and activists from accessing essential funds Under the guise of combatting terrorism the Indian government has leveraged the Financial Action Task Force s recommendations to tighten its arsenal of financial and counter-terrorism laws which are routinely misused to target and silence critics

The FATF must hold the Indian authorities accountable for the persistent weaponisation of its recommendations said Aakar Patel chair of the board at Amnesty International India

By abusing these laws, the authorities in India have failed to comply with both FATF standards and international human rights law ”

Non-governmental organisations in India require a foreign contribution licence to access foreign funds as established by the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA)

The introduction of this bill in 2006 coincided with India becoming an observer state of the FATF Later in 2010, amendments were made to the act to improve India’s ‘non-compliant’ status

Since then however and specifically in the last ten years more than 20 600 NGOs have had their licences cancelled with nearly 6 000 of these cancellations occurring since the beginning of 2022

In a survey by Amnesty International, 11 out of 16 NGOs (working on issues relating to minorities, marginalised groups and climate change) confirmed the arbitrary renunciation of their foreign contribution licences through suspensions cancellations and nonrenewals The organisations said that the authorities provided only vague reasons including accusing them of bringing disrepute to public institutions , working against public or national interest or alluding to their human rights work

Most of the groups Amnesty International spoke to said they have had to reduce their staff by 50 to 80 per cent drastically affecting the scope of their work

Almost all our programmes have been shut down [We are] surviving just to fight the legal cases that have been filed against us, one activist said

The 2020 and earlier amendments to the FCRA, however, do not conform with FATF’s Recommendation 8 which requires that laws and regulations target only those Non-Profit Organisations that a country has identified – through a careful targeted risk-based analysis – as vulnerable to terrorism financing abuse

None of the NGOs Amnesty International spoke with were contacted for a “risk-assessment” by the Indian government despite FATF having specifically highlighted the lack of outreach in its 2010 and 2013 Mutual Evaluation Reports

Such actions also do not meet the guidelines laid down by the FATF s interpretative note on Recommendation 8 which aims to minimise the unintended consequences faced by the non-profit sector by calling for specific and targeted counter-terrorism measures The enactment of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act 2002 (PMLA) and the 2012 amendments to the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) India s main counter-terrorism law were among the pre-conditions to India becoming the 34th member of the FATF

KAZAN A G E N C I E S

A consultative meeting of Afghanistan s neighbours and other regional states, including China and India, has asked the Taliban government to prevent the country from being “a terrorism and instability hotspot” an endorsement of concerns Pakistan has been raising

The demand came in the declaration issued after the conclusion of the fifth meeting of the Moscow Format Consultations on Afghanistan at the level of special representatives and senior officials from China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan was held in the Russian city of Kazan

The meeting was also attended by Afghanistan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi Representatives of Saudi Arabia Qatar the United Arab Emirates and Türkiye were in attendance as guests of honour

In a statement released by the Russian Foreign Min-

BEIJING

China s official manufacturing purchasing managers index (PMI) for September came in at 50 2, its first time in positive territory since April, after a consecutive increase over the last four months, reads a National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) release on Saturday reflecting recovery momentum across the country s manufacturing sector

Manufacturing is a vital pillar in China s economy

thus the September manufacturing PMI signaled the recovery of the general macroeconomy, Li Changan, a professor from the Academy of China Open Economy

Studies of the University of International Business and Economics told the Global Times on Saturday

Zhao Qinghe a senior statistician from the NBS said that recovering market demand had accelerated business activities across the manufacturing sector In September, the production index came in at 52 7 percent, up 0 8 percentage point month-on-month; new order index recorded at 50 5 percent, up 0 3 percentage point month-on-month

Specifically PMI readings for equipment manufac-

istry, the parties noted with concern the difficult security situation in Afghanistan due to the intensification of the activities of terrorist groups primarily Daesh

While appreciating the current Afghan authorities for their serious fight against Daesh the participants urged them to do the same against all terrorist groups

They also called on the current Afghan authorities to take effective measures to dismantle, eliminate and prevent the placement of all sorts of terrorist groups based in Afghanistan and to prevent the country from being a terrorism and instability hotspot and spreading to the regional states

The meeting stressed the Taliban rulers to step up cooperation with the regional countries in the fight against the threats of terrorism and drug trafficking emanating from the Afghan territory a demand Pakistan has been making amid a sharp rise in militancy carried out by banned outfit Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)

Most participants stressed their opposition to the

turing hit 50 6 percent, high-tech manufacturing hit 50 1 percent and consumer goods manufacturing hit 51 3 percent, all returning to the expansion territory

However the increasing large commodities price and enterprises active purchasing lifted the general price index for the manufacturing sector NBS data showed that the index of raw material purchasing in September reached 59 4 percent, and index of producer price reached 53 5 percent, all hitting a high for 2023

support for terrorism in Afghanistan by external forces,” the statement said

I N C L U S I V E G O V E R N M E N T: The countries regretted that there had been no progress in forming a truly inclusive government in Afghanistan reflecting the interests of all ethno-political groups of the country Despite the appointment of some individual representatives of various Afghan ethnicities to the Kabul administration, the parties observed no political pluralism in it

They urged the Kabul authorities to establish a practical outcome-oriented dialogue with the representatives of alternative ethnopolitical groups to complete the process of peaceful settlement and forge a balanced more broad-based, inclusive, accountable and responsible government in Afghanistan

In order to improve the welfare of the Afghan people, prevent their further migration and provide conditions for the return of the refugees the Taliban set-up was urged to provide the necessary conditions

Zhao noted that China s manufacturing sector recovery is still facing challenges from fierce competition, high cost and intensive financing, while various policy support measures will further push the momentum of overall economy recovery

The steady increase of manufacturing sector in recent months reflected that government s policy support measures targeting the sector are taking effect, and have been boosted by the government s focus on fostering advanced manufacturing technologies,” Li said

In August profit of China’s industrial enterprises above designated size bounced back from negative to positive territory recording a 17 2 percent year-on-year increase the NBS revealed on Wednesday

Observers said that PMI usually reflects market activities which will flow through to private sector profits

The NBS also revealed the PMI for non-manufacturing in September which stood at 51 7, up 0 7 percentage points from August The ongoing Golden Week holidays for the Mid-Autumn Festival and the National Day showed strong momentum across China s consumption market

As an important phase of the whole industrial chain domestic consumption which is under recovery will further advance a f manufacturing recovery, Li noted

CORPORATE CORNER SAMI

TDAP chief inaugurates largest- ever women entrepreneurs ’ exhibition WEXNET 23

SAEED REAFFIRMS PAKISTAN’S SUPPORT FOR A ZERBAIJAN’S TERRITORIAL INTEGRIT Y, SOVEREIGNT Y

ISLAMABAD S TA F F R E P O R T

in collaboration with the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) in Zangilan as part of the Azerbaijan Urban Week

The largest ever women entrepreneur s exhibition

WEXNET 23 was inaugurated by Chief Executive, Mr Zubair Motiwala in a colorful ceremony at Expo Center Lahore Mr S M Tanveer was also present at the occasion The event was also attended by Government officials diplomats members of trade and women entrepreneurs

The prominent dignitaries present were Deputy Head & Mission UAE Ms Ayesha Ali Naqbi, Commercial Counsellor , Saudi Arabia ,Mr

Mubasher Alshehri and Commercial Counsellor

Uzbekistan Mr Behram Yusuf The audience appreciated and enjoyed the colorful cultural show at the venue The exhibition spread over three days has diverse themes and activities such as shopping, culinary competition featuring chef Gulzar and a play area for children Importantly the exhibition also had sideline events that will assist in capacity building of the women entrepreneurs enabling them to adequately exploit opportunities present in creating a export market for goods P R

F B R ’s s y s t e m s f u n c t i o n i n g e f f i c i e n t l y t o e n s u r e s m o o t h r e t u r n f i l i n g

In a letter addressed to FBR the Karachi Tax Bar Association (KTBA) has raised certain issues which either are not related to the return filing for tax year 2023 or these have been already resolved FBR has been prompt in timely addressing/resolving issues raised by taxpayers and their representatives, including Karachi Tax Bar Association (KTBA) This fact has also been acknowledged in writing by the KTBA/PTBA in their various correspondence with the FBR It is further clarified that no issue related to system slow down or system outage has so far been reported by anyone this year This reflects the smooth functioning of return filing application on IRIS 2 0 which was ensured in order to avoid any need for extending the date of returns The detail of the issues raised by KTBA and their solutions thereof are also uploaded on FBR s website FBR is committed to providing maximum facilitation to taxpayers P R

CC P a p p r o ve s t wo m e r g e r s f a c i l i t at i n g F D I i n f l o w

I S L A M A B A D: The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has given the green light to two mergers, paving the way for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and the potential mitigation of Pakistan's gas shortage CCP has granted approval to a UAE-based company for the acquisition of two entities engaged in the establishment and operation of an LNG terminal as well as the import storage and distribution of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and Re-gasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG) in Pakistan CCP has processed the two mergers, approving the 100% acquisition of Tabeer Energy (Private) Limited and Tabeer Energy Marketing (Private) Limited (TEMPL) by the UAE-based Bison Energy FZCO CCP completed the Phase-1 competition assessments, conducted in accordance with Section 11 of the Competition Act, 2010 As the proposed transactions did not raise any competition concerns, the mergers were approved As a result of the merger transactions Bison Energy FZCO has acquired 100% shareholding of Tabeer Energy (Private) Limited and Tabeer Energy Marketing (Private) Limited from Diamond Gas International Japan Co Limited The transaction will result in foreign direct investment in Pakistan and help alleviate the gas shortage PR

Final dissemination workshop of BRACE Programme held at BRSP office

CA R E TA K E R Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives Muhammad Sami Saeed reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan while highlighting the importance of the long-standing economic cooperation and friendship between the two countries He remarked this while speaking to the media after the opening ceremony of the Second Azerbaijan National Urban Forum & Global Observance of World Habitat Day 2023 themed "Resilient cities as a driving force of economic development and fighting inequalities, organized by the State Committee on Urban Planning and Architecture of the Republic of Azerbaijan

“The Government of Pakistan and its people fully support the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Azerbaijani and expresses solidarity with Azerbaijan, said Sami Saeed while talking to the media after the opening ceremony of an event where President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev was the chief guest

The Key objective of the Forum was to discuss the Emerging Urban Challenges Collaborative Approaches for Regional Resilience & Sustainable Development, Resilience & Sustainable Development, Strategies action and International Collaboration and opportunities and others

It may be noted that last year the first National Urban Forum was held in Agh-

dam city of Azerbaijan which was also totally destroyed, and now there is also a big construction activity there The second forum is being held in Zangilan, which is now being totally reconstructed along with the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan

The Planning Minister appreciated the government of Azerbaijan for cond u c t i n g a s u c c e s s f u l S e c o n d N a t i o n a l Urban Forum which plays a vital role in the reconstruction of destroyed cities with the theme of “Resilient cities as a driving force of economic development and fighting inequalities He noted the positive trajectory of Pakistan-Azerbaij a n r e l a t i o n s a n d r e i t e r a t e d r e s o l v e t o further strengthen relations with focus on different fields like trade, connectivi t y, e n e rg y, t o u r i s m a n d I n f o r m a t i o n

Technology

During his visit the Planning Minister met with the Chairman State Commit-

Punjab Governor visits Jazz D igital Park, stresses need for digitalization of educ ation in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD

P R

Governor Punjab Muhammad Ba-

ligh Ur Rehman paid a visit to the Jazz Digital Park, Pakistan s largest Tier 3 certified data center, in Islamabad During the visit, he highlighted the vast potential for growth in Pakistan s IT sector besides the immense need for digitalization of the country s education sector

The Governor highlighted the significance of the IT industry, noting that expertise in IT and technology is essential for national development He commended the skills and talents of Pakistani youth in various fields and underscored the necessity of equipping them with modern IT skills to capitalize on global opportunities

Expressing his appreciation for Jazz's Digital Data Park the Governor said that the facility offers advanced IT facilities for freelancers firms and public and private institutions He lauded Jazz s proposal for an efficient learning management system (LMS) for the public universities in Punjab, pledging full support for addressing today s need for digitization and technological advancement in the education sector alongside saving costs for the government Jazz s proposed solution for the

digitalization of education offers a three-fold approach involving GSM Cloud (Garaj) and smartphones an example of which is already live in The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, setting a precedent for all other Public Universities in Punjab

Speaking on the occasion, Asif Aziz Chief Business Officer at Jazz said that the state-of-the-art cloud infrastructure of Garaj would serve as the backbone for this project The LMS powered by Jazz aims to simplify educational processes and improve engagement between teachers and students by offering functionalities like creating and managing resources alongside tracking student progress and fostering peer-to-peer learning

Asif added that Jazz is pioneering this initiative to digitally transform education in Pakistan while retaining

a significant $1 billion cloud revenue within the country besides ensuring data sovereignty

By establishing local data centers and cloud services we can break free from international platforms like Amazon, Google, and Cloud, he stressed Jazz's Digital Park is the largest Tier 3 certified data center in Pakistan Recognizing the importance of secure data storage for businesses of all sizes the Digital Park offers state-of-the-art facilities, 24hour backup, scalability options, and convenient pay-as-you-grow payment plans Governor Punjab Baligh Ur Rehman expressed his excitement at visiting the Jazz Digital Park acknowledging the strides made by Jazz in Pakistan s IT sector He lauded the transformative potential of Jazz's Digital Park in bolstering Pakistan's IT landscape

r s at M a d i n a h A i r p o r t

KARACHI P P I

The Pakistan International Airlines passengers intending to fly back to Karachi from Madinah airport felt great agony as their flight was delayed on Saturday

Reportedly PIA flight PK 744 which was supposed to fly to Karachi from Madinah airport was delayed for more than three hours

The travelers reached Madinah airport early in the morning today Seeing their flight was delated, they exchanged hot words with the airport administration

ISLAMABAD I N P

Caretaker Federal Minister for Health

Dr Nadeem Jan on Saturday said that for introducing modern technology in health sector the government has created a coherent and comprehensive strategy

This was stated by him while receiving a briefing from the District Health Officer about the health facilities in the federal capital According to a spokesperson of the Ministry of Health the minister

The PIA administration changed the flight of some of the passengers whose seats were even confirmed

According to PIA sources 60 passengers were off loaded when the administration changed the PIA flight PK 744 They said that now the offloaded passengers were booked on October 6 flight Sources said that Boeing 777 was supposed to bring the passengers from Madinah but now a small capacity plane - Airbus 320 - would be used instead to complete the PK 744 flight operation

The airlines sources said that the plane was changed as Boeing 777 developed some technical fault

was informed about the ongoing development projects

Dr Nadeem Jan directed to complete of the ongoing development projects of the health sector on a fast track He appreciated the excellent coverage of polio and immunization He said that the government is determined to strengthen the primary healthcare system

Until the primary health care system is strengthened, the burden of patients on the major hospitals will continue to increase ”

The minister said that the com-

tee on Urban Planning & Architecture of Azerbaijan, Anar Guliyev and discussed various avenues of collaboration between the two countries The Planning Minister highlighted the recently launched Resilient Recovery Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Framework (4RF) for Pakistan Floods 2022 He said that Pakistan was badly hit by the Flood-2022 affected 33 million people and this Framework will help in making a resilient infrastructure Sami Saeed also interacted with his counterparts from Kyrgyzstan and Cambodia and discussed matters of mutual interest The Minister also visited the Agali Smart Village and School in Zangilan, where he interacted with students The Minister was given briefing over the rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts after the Nagorno Karabakh conflict in this city

Former FIA DG Bashir Memon joins PML-N

KARACHI

P P I

Former Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) director general Bashir Memon has joined Muslim League-N it emerged Saturday

After joining the party PML-N Chief Organiser

Maryam Nawaz has appointed Bashir Memon as head of the Sindh welcome committee to receive former prime minister Mian Nawaz Sharif

The committee will include Muhammad Zubair Nihal Hashmi Kheal Das Kohistani Shah Muhammad Shah Ali Akbar Dr Darshan Jam Karam Ali and Zahida Bhind will also be part of the committee

According to notification, the committee will hold its first meeting in 48 hours and submit a report The team will prepare a plan for receiving elder Sharif and present it to the chief organiser

The committee will make arrangements to bring the workers from Sindh to Lahore on October 21 The committee will meet within 48 hours and formulate a plan The committee will make it sure that instructions of PML-N Chief Organizer Maryam Nawaz are implemented in letter and spirit

PIA’s five aircrafts grounded, flight operation disrupted

KARACHI

I N P

Five aircrafts of Pakistan International Airline (PIA) have been grounded creating disruption in the flight operations According to details, three Boeing 777 aircraft of the national airline were grounded for maintenance which two others were grounded on permanent basis due to lack of engine

Currently out of 12 PIA Boeing aircraft seven are operational as one aircraft is dysfunctional in Jeddah

The national airline needs $60 million for the maintenance of aircraft

Earlier, it was reported that due to the lack of maintenance and repair work, several Boeing 777 aircraft of the national flag carrier Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) developed technical faults during international flights

QUETTA: The six-year European Union funded Balochistan Rural Development and Community Empowerment (BRACE) Programme successfully concluded with a final dissemination workshop at the office of Balochistan Rural Support Programme BRACE has been the largest EU investment (Euro 45 Million) for community empowerment in Balochistan, directly working with 300,000 families in 10 districts of Balochistan namely Jhal Magsi, Kech, Khuzdar, Killa Abdullah, Chaman, Loralai Pishin Washuk Duki and Zhob The EUfunded programme was implemented by the Balochistan Rural Support Programme (BRSP) National Rural Support Programme (NRSP) and Rural Support Programmes Network (RSPN) encompassing one-third of Balochistan and employed a mix of transactional PR

munity health centre of Islamabad was being made a state-of-the-art centre while the Regional Health Center is also being upgraded He said that the primary healthcare system was being digitalized to provide the best medical facilities to the patients of rural areas

Nadeem Jan said that the government was striving to provide the best medical facilities to the patients of rural areas at their doorsteps He said that steps were being taken to increase the efficiency of hospitals in the federal capital

Due to the lack of maintenance and repair works by the airline s engineering department the technical faults in PIA aircraft are continuously rising The technical faults have not only increased the flight safety risks but they also caused difficulties for passengers and financial troubles for the airline

According to sources several Boeing 777 aircraft developed technical faults during Saudi Arabia flights and millions of dollars were spent on their repair

It is pertinent to mention here that in May this year, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) report revealed that a total of eight Pakistan International Airline (PIA) aircraft are grounded

As per details the report submitted to National Assembly Standing Committee stated that out of eight aircraft seven are repairable while one aircraft is not usable Three Boeing 777 two airbuses and three ATRs are grounded because of no service and one PIA aircraft is unusable

M i n i s t r y o f P D & S I d i s p e l s m i s g i v i n g s, m i s p e rce p t i o n s a b o u t C P E C ex p a n s i o n

ISLAMABAD

China and Pakistan are unequivocally dedicated to the expansion of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), and any reports in certain sections of the media suggesting China s reluctance to broaden the CPEC are inaccurate, stated the Ministry of Planning, Development and

Pa s s e n g e r s f u m e a s P I A f l i g h t d e l aye d fo r h o u

G ov t i n t r o d u c i n g m o d e r n t e c h n o l o g y i n h e a l t h s e c t o r : D r N a d e e m J a n

FINANCE MINISTER CONSULTS FINANCIAL MARKETS ABOUT BRINGING INVESTMENT THROUGH PRIVATE FUNDS

TE caretaker Federal Minister for Finance Revenue and Economic Affairs Dr

Shamshad Akhtar chaired a meeting with the chairman of the Securities Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), bankers and heads of development finance The meeting was held by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) to discuss proposals for establishing financial institutions backed by private funds In the meeting, she stated that capital market reforms are a critical component of the caretaker government’s economic revival program She said that the initiatives are aimed to promote growth and development by harnessing the potential of capital market institutions to diversify sources of fi-

nancing and exploiting innovative financing modalities Agreeing to the chair bankers and Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) agreed on the need for establishment of private equity and venture funds to serve as a catalyst for economic revival Chairman SECP reinforced the commitment to creating an enabling regulatory environment The finance minister appreciated SECPs active engagement and encouraged banks and DFIs to set the stage for this collaborative effort and fast track the setting up of the private funds to support industrial development Dr Shamshad Akhtar asked the fiscal and regulatory sides, including the Federal Board of Revenue, the State Bank of Pakistan, and the SECP, to extend complete support to the initiatives that sought investments from local fi-

nancial institutions institutional investors government DFIs and corporate entities with the potential to attract foreign capital Dr Shamshad suggested making efforts, particularly to attract climate and ESG-focused international institutional investors She stressed the urgency of implementing these initiatives to signal Pakistan s readiness for business and economic growth to the global market and foreign investors Habib Bank Limited, representing a consortium of banks, proposed the establishment of a Climate Resilience (CR) Fund under the SECP Private Fund Regulations 2015 The DFIs tabled the proposal for setting up a similar fund backed by DFIs Whereas, Bank Al Falah presented a promising proposal to create a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) under the Asset Backed Securitization Regulations 2022 to

PTI’s Sher Afzal Mar wat booked over brawl in talk show

ISLAMABAD

Following a brawl with PML-N Senator Afnan Ullah Khan on a television show, a case was registered against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawyer Sher

Afzal Marwat PTI Chairman Imran Khan’s lawyer Sher Afzal Khan Marwat and PML-N Senator Dr Afnan Ullah Khan were recently involved in a brawl on a television show

The lawyer and senator were having a heated argument that ended up using abusive language when all of a sudden Marwat attacked the senator

The FIR was filed at the Aabpara Police Station under Section 352 (Punishment for assault or criminal force otherwise than on grave provocation) and Section 506 (Punishment for criminal intimidation) of the Pakistan Penal Code

The case was registered after Senator Afnanullah sent a letter to Senior Superintendent Police (SSP) Operation Islamabad Malik Jamil Zaffar seeking the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against Marwat

He said Marwat “physically assaulted him slapped him three times and beat him while he was nearly unconscious on the floor Meanwhile Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf condemned the registration of unlawful and mala fide FIR against Senior member PTI legal team and spokesperson Mr Sher Afzal Khan Marwat

In a short statement issued on X formerly known as twitter the party spokesperson regretted that the repeated abuse of the process of law against members of the Imran Khan legal team are aimed to harass the lawyers It added: PTI believes the courts will deal the matter in a judicious manner Marwat also seeks FIR registration against PML-N senator Meanwhile, Marwat told Dawn com that he will apply for pre-arrest bail at the relevant court in the FIR registered against him Marwat said he also submitted a request to register an FIR against the senator at the Margalla police station under Sections 25D of the Telegraph Act and PPC 506 He added that he would refer to the courts if the report was not lodged by Sunday “First Afnan said he had hit me but in the FIR it was stated that he was hit and he fainted ” Marwat added saying that there were contradictory messages from the senator He also alleged that Afnan made the request on the official Senate letterhead He tried to influence the case He sent the Senate director to the police station ” Marwat accused the PML-N leader of abusing his office which was “unbecoming of any parliamentarian” I will refer to the Election Commission of Pakistan and constitutional courts pertaining to his disqualification according to Article 62, he concluded However, the senator rejected the allegation when talking to Dawn com, saying that he had submitted an ordinary application for an FIR instead of through the Senate letterhead Later Marwat posted on X that he had left Islamabad to avoid arrest

ISLAMABAD S TA F F R E P O R T Pakistan s security forces have experienced their highest casualties in eight years with at least 386 personnel losing their lives in the first nine months of 2023, according to a report released by the Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS)

The report covering the third quarter of 2023 also reveals a troubling 57% surge in violence nationwide

In the CRSS Security Report for Q3 2023, it is highlighted that among the 1,087 violence-related fatalities recorded this year, security forces accounted for 36% of the casualties marking an eight-year high This figure includes 137 army personnel and 208 police personnel

The rise in violence is particularly concentrated in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) and

securitize rupee denominated debt to dollar denomination

Finance minister appreciated these initiatives for seeking investments from local financial institutions, institutional investors, government DFIs, and corporates, with the potential to attract foreign capital particularly from climate and ESG-focused international institutional investors She emphasized that time is of the essence and hectic efforts should be made to bring these propositions to fruition She underscored that these ground-breaking initiatives will contribute to restoring market confidence and will send a clear message to the global market and foreign investors that Pakistan is open for business and poised for economic growth Moving forward collaboratively, there will be an effort to remove the impediments facing the establishment of these funds

PTI demands judicial probe as Imran, Qureshi nominated accused in cypher case

ISLAMABAD S A L E E M J A D O O N

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on Saturday submitted challan to the Special Official Secrets Act court in cypher case nominating Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)

Chairman Imran Khan and Vice Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi as accused while the PTI termed the challan ‘meaningless and bogus as cypher case ’

The FIA through the challan pleaded to the court for trial and conviction of the former prime minister Imran and former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi

The sources said that former minister and PTI leader Asad Umar has not been named in the list of the accused

Former principal secretary to the PM Azam Khan has become a strong witness in the FIA s case as his statement under 161 and 164, under Sections 161 and 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code has also been annexed with the challan according to sources

The challan highlights that the former prime minister had the cypher in his possession and allegedly misused classified state information He has been accused of not returning the copy of the cypher Furthermore the challan maintains that Qureshi delivered a speech on March 27 and assisted the PTI chairman

The transcript of the speeches given by Imran and Qureshi on March 27 have also been attached

to the challan submitted to the court along with a list of 28 witnesses, with statements of 27 of them

Among the witnesses listed in the special court’s challan are former foreign secretaries Asad Majeed and Sohail Mehmood Moreover Additional Foreign Secretary Faisal Niaz Timrizi has also been listed as another key witness by the FIA

Outlining the process of a diplomatic cypher reaching the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and landing into the hands of a prime minister the FIA has included as witnesses the entire chain of officials in the foreign ministry as well as the Prime Minister ’s Office

According to sources, copies of the challan in the cypher case are likely to be provided to the PTI chairman and Qureshi during the next court hearing

Subsequently, a date for indictment will be determined

A copy of Azam Khan’s statement under Section 164 has already been submitted to the court

UK Secretar y of State calls PM to condemn terrorist attacks, expresses solidarit y with Pakistan

ISLAMABAD

S TA F F R E P O R T

Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Saturday received a telephone call from Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom, James Cleverly

The UK foreign secretary condemned the terrorist attacks in Mastung and Hangu and condoled the loss of innocent lives PM Office Media Wing said in a press release He expressed solidarity with the families of the victims and hoped for the speedy recovery of those injured The prime minister thanked Secretary Cleverly and the United Kingdom for their expression of solidarity and reiterated his government’s firm resolve to bring those responsible to justice and wipe out the menace of terrorism

Terrorist ringleader killed, soldier mar t yred in separate IBOs in KP: ISPR

RAWALPINDI

S TA F F R E P O R T

Whether the court permits access to this statement to the defence or merely allows their legal representatives to read it remains at the court’s discretion

C A S E: Rejecting the challan submitted by Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Pakistan Tehreek-eInsaf (PTI) on Saturday demanded the formation of a judicial commission to investigate the cypher case In a statement issued on Saturday the PTI spokesperson said that the challan submitted against party chairman Imran Khan and vice chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi was ‘meaningless and bogus as cypher case”

Moreover the spokesperson maintained the cipher was still present in its original state in the Foreign Office Cypher s presence proves the allegations levelled against the former prime minister [Imran Khan] as baseless ” he added

Siraj terms countr y ’s deteriorating security situation matter of grave concern

PESHAWAR S TA F F R E P O R T

Ameer Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Siraj-ul-Haq has said that deteriorating security situation of the country particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan was matter of grave concerned He emphasised that ensuring a peaceful environment for the citizens was the primary constitutional responsibility of the government

Talking to media persons outside Lady Reading Hospital (LRH) Peshawar on Saturday he said that the sitting and the former administrations regrettably failed to fulfil the assigned responsibilities

Earlier, Sirajul Haq visited the hospital to inquire about the well-being of those injured in the Hangu blast incident He vehemently condemned the acts of terrorism that occurred in Mastung and Hangu urging a thorough investigation and the prompt apprehension of those responsible for these heinous acts He offered his prayers for the martyrs and a swift recovery for the injured, while demanding compensation to the affected families

He pointed out that inflation and a fragile security situation are progressing hand in hand casting a grim

Balochistan Over the past five years these regions have witnessed a consistent and alarming increase in violence, with 92% of all fatalities occurring in these two provinces in the first nine months of 2023, compared to 72% in 2019

In the third quarter of 2023 alone 445 lives were lost and 440 people were injured in 190 terror attacks and counter-terror operations K-P and Balochistan bore the brunt of this violence, accounting for nearly 94% of all fatalities and 89% of recorded attacks during this period The report also highlights a 57% surge in violence during Q3 2023 with fatalities increasing from 284 in Q2 to 445 Balochistan recorded a staggering 131% increase in violence, while K-P saw a 28% rise Conversely, Punjab reported a substantial 67% decrease in violence, while Sindh witnessed a 283% rise in incidents though the number

shadow over the lives of the people He emphasised that while Balochistan and KP grapple with terrorism, interior Sindh and southern Punjab are plagued by lawlessness Street crimes in major urban centers are escalating contributing to an atmosphere of fear he said

The JI chief called upon the government to prioritise security especially in light of upcoming elections so that citizens can venture out of their homes without fear and exercise their right to vote in the selection of future leadership He asserted that a transparent and peaceful electoral process would be a significant step towards achieving stability

In a separate address to party workers Sirajul Haq highlighted that the life of the Prophet (PBUH) serves as a comprehensive roadmap for the common man seeking success He expressed concern that the Muslim Ummah has strayed from the path outlined by the Quran and Sunnah, attributing this deviation as a reason for the nation’s decline

He noted that Pakistan was founded in the name of Islam but is yet to fully embrace its principles The Jamaat-e-Islami he affirmed is dedicated to the transformation of Pakistan into an Islamic welfare state guided by the principles of faith and justice

of fatalities in Sindh remained relatively low

The majority of casualties in Q3 2023 resulted from terrorism, with 141 terrorist attacks causing 318 fatalities and 381 injuries to civilians and security personnel However, security operations lagged significantly with only 49 operations conducted resulting in 127 outlaws killed and 59 injured

Civilians were the hardest-hit group during this quarter, accounting for nearly 58% of all casualties, followed by security personnel at nearly 23% The outlaws constituted only about 20% of all casualties during this period

According to the report the first nine months of 2023 have revealed alarming trends in the security forces losses with fatalities reaching an eight-year high, exceeding levels seen in 2016 and reaching the highest point since 2015

Percentage of security forces’ fatalities

Security forces killed a terrorist Ring leader in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Mardan whereas, a Pakistan Army soldier embraced martyrdom during an encounter with terrorists in the Parachinar area of Kurram District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province ISPR said on Friday

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement that two engagements took place between the security forces and the terrorists in KP province on the night of September 28 and 29

An intelligence-based operation (IBO) was conducted in the general area of Katalang, Mardan District, which resulted in the killing of a high-value target identified as terrorist ring leader Faisal The killed terrorist was actively involved in numerous terrorist activities and was highly wanted by law enforcement agencies Weapon and ammunition were also recovered from the killed terrorist In another encounter with terrorists in the general area of the Parachinar in the Kurram district, the army troops effectively engaged the terrorists’ location However Lance Naik Ghairat Khan (age 33 years resident of Kurram District) having fought gallantly embraced Shahadat (martyrdom) Security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve, the ISPR said

Cour t issues arrest warrants for Moonis Elahi in money laundering case

LAHORE

S TA F F R E P O R T

The Special Central Court Lahore on Saturday issued arrest warrants for former federal minister Moonis Elahi in a money-laundering case, registered by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) According to details the special court issued the former minister s arrest warrants on a petition filed by Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) due to his long non-appearance in the court Speaking during the hearing, FIA prosecutor said that Moonis Elahi did not attended the court hearings deliberately FIA sent court orders on Elahi’s addresses in Lahore, Gujrat, Spain and England ” the prosecutor said On July 22 the Lahore district court declared Moonis Elahi – son of PTI President Parvez Elahi – an absconder over his continued absence in the money laundering case Moonis is currently living in Spain

The FIA had pleaded to declare Elahi an absconder for not appearing before the investigation agency even after issuing a non-bailable arrest warrant against him The court also started to freeze his assets computerized national identity card passport and bank accounts

among all victims of violence this year has also hit an 11-year high, standing at nearly 36% Furthermore, the data since 2021 indi-

cates a consistent rise in security forces fatalities, raising concerns about the ongoing security challenges facing the nation