GOVT ‘BULLDOZES’
M I A N A B R A R
TH E National Assembly passed six bills on Monday including the one that aims to increase the number of Supreme Court judges and another concerning the extension of the tenures of armed services chiefs, amid loud protests from the opposition A few hours later, the Senate also passed the amendment bills With Acting President Yousaf Raza Gilani signing the bills into laws the changes including to length of tenure (five years instead of three) as well as period of extension and reappointment (five years instead of three) would apply to all current armed forces chiefs
The first bill presented by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar proposes raising the number of Supreme Court judges to 34 He stated, This amendment will help clear the backlog of cases and ensure we have enough judges to form constitutional benches after the 26th Amendment ” He added that the bar associations including the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) have long advocated for this change to alleviate the thousands of
Plight
pending cases in the court registries in Karachi, Quetta, Peshawar, and Lahore Following Tarar ’s presentation, the national assembly proceeded with the vote on the bill despite fierce opposition protests The PTI lawmakers encircled the Speaker s desk and lodged strong protest Amendments to Armed Forces Acts
The National Assembly also passed amendments to the Pakistan Army, Air Force and Navy Acts extending the tenures of service chiefs Defense Minister Khawaja Asif introduced these amendments under the Pakistan (Army/Air Force/Navy) Act Amendment, 2024
The government introduced all the bills through a supplementary agenda According to the Army Act Amendment Bill of 1952 the retirement rules for generals will not apply to the army chief allowing for continued service upon appointment reappointment, or extension The House approved the Pakistan Air Force Act, 1953, and the Pakistan Navy Amendment Bill 1961 by majority vote
The statement of objects and reasons for the amendments indicates that the goal is to align the Pakistan Army Act 1952, the Pakistan Navy Ordinance, 1961, and the Pakistan Air Force Act,
Training Centre (IAPTC) According to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Gen Munir, in a keynote address to the gathering, emphasised that global peace today was confronted with ever-evolving threats and challenges Despite the numerous peacekeeping endeavours underway by the UN and
and rector of the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) were also in attendance Speaking during the conference, Lacroix acknowledged Pakistan’s contributions to UN Peacekeeping Operations and appreciated the country for hosting the 28th IAPTC Annual Conference Earlier on arrival the COAS was received by Inspector General
g Defence Minister introduces amendments extending ser vice chiefs ’ tenures
Court (Practice
Categorically rejecting the fresh bills bulldozed through the National Assembly and the Senate Pakistan Tehreeke-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan on Monday accused the government of turning parliament into a rubber-stamp Talking to journalists outside the Parliament House, the PTI chairman said: “Pakistan’s parliament is being made rubber-stamp [Opposition’s] voice in the House is being silenced This monarchy cannot be the fate of the Pakistani nation His remarks came after the lower house of parliament passed six bills including “The Supreme Court Number of Judges (Amendment) Bill 2024 with the majority vote following a detailed clause-by-clause review Other bills include the Supreme
1953, with the maximum tenures for the chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, ensuring uniformity across these laws The proposed Pakistan Army (Amendment) Act 2024 seeks to extend the Chief of Army Staff s tenure from three to five years The amendment specifies that in Section 8A, three (03) will be replaced with five (05) This section currently states that the President, on the advice of the Prime Minister, appoints a General as the Chief of the Army Staff for a tenure of three years Similarly Section 8B aims to extend the maximum period for reappointment or tenure extension to five years instead of the previous three years
Referring to the pace of approval by the parliament Barrister Gohar said that he
An amendment to Section 8C addresses the retirement age and service limits of service chiefs, removing the age limit of 64 years during their tenure This section states that retirement rules for a General do not apply to the Chief of the Army Staff while in office ensuring continued service without age restrictions
After the bills were passed, the Speaker adjourned the National Assembly until 11 AM the following day PTI denounces passage of bills
Following the passage of the bills, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan expressed his discontent on social media stating, Today, democracy has been transformed into a monarchy ”
Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who reaffirmed Qatar ’s commitment to economic cooperation Qatar is accelerating a previously announced $3 billion investment, with the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) preparing to send a delegation to Pakistan this month to explore opportunities in the IT and mineral sectors The Qatari emir also revealed plans for an IT park in Pakistan further strengthening bilateral tech relations Information Minister Ataullah Tarar announced on Friday that Qatar ’s $3 billion investment across various sectors is poised to significantly impact Pakistan s economy and benefit its citizens A Qatari delegation is expected to visit Pakistan soon to finalize these investment commitments, underscoring the substantial economic advancements achieved during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif s recent visits to Saudi Arabia and Qatar
PAKISTAN’S COTTON PRODUCTION PLUMMETS
37% AMID CLIMATE, FUNDING CHALLENGES
Finance ministr y orders SOEs to implement standard regulations for IMF compliance
The Ministry of Finance has mandated all state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to implement standardized regulations covering operations, financial audits, board appointments, and business plans in a move to meet International Monetary Fund (IMF) conditions and reduce fiscal risks
The Central Monitoring Unit (CMU) within the ministry issued these directives on October 31 the IMF s deadline instructing ministries and divisions to ensure SOEs comply with the SOEs (Governance and Operations) Act 2023 and SOE Ownership and Management Policy 2023
The new guidelines, designed to standardize SOE operations include “Business Plan and Statement of Corporate Intent (SCI) Guidelines ” which outline key components such as strategic objectives environmental analysis, and monitoring frameworks Additionally, the CMU has introduced Public Sector Obligations (PSOs) Costing Guidelines,” detailing activity-based standard and marginal costing methods for SOEs fulfilling PSOs A central requirement is for SOEs to adopt standard Regulations on Audit Committee Risk Management, and Internal Controls Audit committees are now tasked with implementing a risk management framework to address financial, operational, and compliance risks, with internal controls to enhance transparency and accountability Under the $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) agreed upon with the IMF the government committed to having 15 major commercial SOEs adopt business plans and publish SCIs by the end of October, along with IFRS-compliant, externally audited financial statements by December These top SOEs based on asset size must also
MoST pushes for new
The government is developing an electronic database to streamline reporting, with the CMU aiming to meet all SOE Act reporting requirements by June 2025 A December 2024 report will assess SOE performance against financial and
PM approves 20 trade and investment officer posts in China to boost expor ts These officers will be stationed at the Pakistan Embassy in Beijing, consulates in Chengdu, Hong Kong, Guangzhou, and Shanghai PR
ISLAMABAD
Despite prior objections from the federal government’s right-sizing committee the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) is pressing ahead with the creation of a new Cosmetics Authority This unexpected development, recently celebrated within the ministry, raises concerns about redundancy and inefficiency as the right-sizing committee had earlier expressed concerns over the MoST’s capacity to manage its current organizations
The government s broader effort to streamline its operations could be undermined by this move which appears to duplicate the mandate of the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA)
PSQCA already oversees standards and quality control across various sectors, including cosmetics Industry stakeholders worry that this additional authority will create trade barriers increase the potential for corruption and confuse the business community By duplicating responsibilities already managed by PSQCA, the new authority risks creating overlapping roles, adding complexity to the regulatory landscape, and increasing operational confusion for businesses
This redundancy is expected to drive up compliance costs extend approval times and potentially impact competitiveness Moreover the establishment of a separate authority introduces new opportunities for corruption including bribery favoritism, delays, and red tape, while reducing transparency and accountability In addition, this decision appears to conflict with Pakistan’s obligations under the World Trade Organization’s (WTO)
Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Agreement which emphasizes transparency in regulatory processes the elimination of redundant standards and streamlined assessment procedures The new authority will also impose extra financial burdens on the government by requiring additional infrastructure, personnel, and support for an overlapping bureaucracy
To address these concerns the government is urged to conduct a thorough review of the current regulatory framework clarify the roles among existing authorities enhance coordination across ministries and ensure compliance with WTO agreements Such actions would foster a more efficient, trade-friendly environment, reduce financial strain, and promote a transparent, corruption-free regulatory system
The business community and stakeholders are encouraged to voice their concerns and advocate for a streamlined effective regulatory approach urging the government to reconsider this decision in favor of a WTO-aligned, simplified framework free from duplication and corruption
S audi Aramco opens second fuel station in
Tremember that a five year service chief tenure is nothing new for Pakistanis, especially not when it comes to the army Of the past three army chiefs two have been given an extra tenure and served six years in the post instead of three An extension was also hotly anticipated when General Raheel Sharif was retiring Each time
H o o l i g a n i s m o r p o l i t i c s
IN a democratic dispensation political parties are an indispensable part of the system wherein they vie for winning the franchise of people to rule the country It is done by presenting their plans and strategies in the form of their manifestos designed to promote socio-economic development and well-being of the people The party or the coalition of parties which manages to secure more seats or votes forms the government while others assume the role of an opposition The party or parties running the affairs of the country and the opposition are said to be two sides of
threats at the police officers and even hanging them with his own hands After his exit from power his tone and tenor became even more venomous and he openly spoke of making an example of those who defected from his party, even suggesting social repercussions for their families He also started denigrating state institutions particularly ECP and the Chief Election Commissioner by using abusive and derogatory language against his person The outgoing CJ Qazi Faez Isa was also targeted continuously and even accused of playing a role in alleged rigging of elections The social media warriors of his party taking cue from him have been relentlessly cultivating a culture in which the harassment of opponents is not only condoned but is emphatically justified The ugly scenes outside the residence of Nawaz Sharif in London heckling of visiting Pakistani dignitaries including a judge who awarded punishment to Imran Khan have been a common sight This kind of bullying and harassment of opponents and government functionaries is absolutely unacceptable and unjustified no matter what the grievances are What transpired outside London s Middle Temple when the former CJ went to participate in its annual event after having been elevated as Callee is the most shameful
is taken as a fundamental right of the individuals and political parties But that has to be done in conformity with internationally r
without any element of violence or heaping insults at the opponents or insulting the public figures or government functionaries about whom it is felt that they have not treated them fairly The best forum for such agitation and protests is the parliament or the media We have seen bitter political rivalry between PML (N) and PPP in the nineties and even during fifties but none of those parties resorted to violence against its opponents, heckled, insulted or attacked leaders of each other But it is regrettable to note that ever since the advent of PTI on the political landscape of the country a culture of violence has crept into politics more so since ouster of Imran Khan from power through a constitutional process He was the one who standing on the container during sit-in used to hurl
What is worrying is that none of the PTI leaders has condemned these incidents which provide a ranting testimony to the fact that these are not random happenings but are pre-planned moves with the blessings of the party leadership. PTI therefore needs serious rethinking regarding its antics if it wants to remain relevant to the political landscape of the country The Callees include Isa, Professor Adrian Briggs, Isabel Hitching KC and Nikki Singla KC They will be called to the bench before dinner and asked to take their place at the high table.
From shadows to success: How non-formal education transforms lives
Asystems They offer flexible schedules and community-based learning that is tailored to fit the needs of these groups making education achievable for those who might otherwise be left behind Similarly HANDS Pakistan and Muslim Hands operate non-formal education centers in some of the country s most deprived areas They address not only basic literacy but also essential skills, such as tailoring and embroidery, that allow participants especially women to generate income and uplift their families
Non-formal education is more than a pathway to literacy; it is a means to economic and social empowerment Care International working in Sindh s drought-affected regions, combines literacy programs with practical training in sustainable agriculture and water management skills critical for survival in these harsh climates By aligning education with the specific economic and environmental needs of these communities Care International demonstrates how NFE can lead to selfsufficiency and resilience In these ways, nonformal education does what formal schooling often cannot: it meets people where they are, providing them with skills that directly improve their lives and their communities Despite these successes the scale of the problem in Pakistan is vast Millions remain without access to quality education, and the efforts of NGOs, while impactful, cannot replace a robust, government-led approach To bridge this gap the government must increase funding for non-formal education and form stronger partnerships with organizations like SPARC HANDS and Muslim Hands These partnerships would allow for a more coordinated, widespread impact, creating a safety net for those who fall through the cracks of the formal education system
The benefits of non-formal education extend beyond literacy and job skills In places like Thatta and Sujawal where cultural norms and early marriages often prevent girls from attending school, non-formal education offers a critical alternative Programs led by HANDS and Muslim Hands in these areas have transformed lives teaching girls not only to read and write but also to gain vocational skills that allow them to support their families This shift from dependence to empowerment breaks cycles of poverty and illiteracy, creating a ripple effect that benefits entire communities International agencies have recognized the power of non-formal education to drive sustainable development UNICEF for example has emphasized the need for flexible context-specific educational approaches in regions affected by poverty and conflict By supporting non-formal education programs in Pakistan, UNICEF and other global agencies are contributing to a future
where education is accessible to all regardless of socioeconomic status This global support reinforces the importance of non-formal education as a legitimate, powerful tool for change
In Sindh, where poverty, illiteracy, and climate vulnerability intersect, non-formal education could be a transformative force If the government increased its support and investment in this sector millions of lives could be improved The Sindh Education Foundation (SEF) has made some efforts to expand nonformal education, but its reach is limited By leveraging the expertise and grassroots presence of NGOs like SPARC and Care International the government could create a more cohesive strategy that addresses the region s unique needs
As it stands the gap between formal and non-formal education is stark While formal education often serves the privileged few, nonformal education provides a lifeline to those excluded from traditional schools It is time for policymakers to recognize this gap and to invest in NFE as a complementary and necessary part of the educational landscape With the right support non-formal education could become a cornerstone of Pakistan s development strategy, ensuring that every citizen has the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to society The road to transforming Pakistan’s educational system is not easy but the impact of non-formal education in communities across the country proves that change is possible By working alongside NGOs and international agencies, the government has an opportunity to create a future where education is a right for all, not a privilege for the few Non-formal education has the potential to break the chains of poverty empower marginalized populations and pave the way for sustainable progress In Pakistan where challenges abound it is these alternative pathways that hold the promise of transformation From shadows to success, non-formal education has the power to uplift entire communities bringing hope to those who have been left behind for far too long (Please prioritize the publication of this article as it addresses the urgent need for nonformal education in marginalized communities Your support in bringing this important issue to light is greatly appreciated ) The writer is a freelance columnist
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sharing practices and identify reliable sources It is our collective duty to promote a better-informed society free from the propagation of misleading information AMAL SHAHID KARACHI
A quar ter-centur y of discontent
A quarter of a century ago, on Oct 12, 1999, the then army chief, General Pervez Musharraf ousted the civilian government and took control of the country The takeover was one of the key turning points in the country’s history The unlawful dismissal of an elected government reshaped the tricky civil-military dynamics in the country, the implications of which are still relevant
The replacement of Gen Musharraf with Gen Ziauddin Butt as the army chief during the former s tour abroad led to the government’s dismissal and the imposition of emergency in the country after the control of state institutions including the headquarters of Pakistan Television in Islamabad (as can be seen in the image above) was captured by troops This highlighted how personal grudges among powerful individuals could erode democracy and the rule of law in Pakistan
In his address to the nation a few days later (Oct 17) Gen Musharraf said he believed in democracy, but wondered if the variety of democracy in the country was the “democracy our Quaid-i-Azam had envisaged” However the Quaid’s vision on the matter was utterly unambiguous Speaking at the Army Command and Staff College in Quetta on June 14 1948 the Quaid said: “Do not forget that the armed forces are the servants of the people You do
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and the history of
Majid Nabi burfat
Malik MuhaMMad ashraf
Element of impatience in Pakistani politics
Ithe United States in 1860 His leadership during the Civil War and
dedication to ending slavery demonstrated how waiting for the right moment and remaining true to one’s values can lead to profound historical impact
Margaret Thatcher s rise to the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom is another testament to strategic patience Known as the Iron Lady, Thatcher climbed the ranks of the Conservative Party, holding various positions before becoming its leader in 1975 Her tenure as Prime Minister from 1979 to 1990 was characterized by significant economic reforms and a strong stance on international issues
Thatcher s patience in cultivating her political career and her strategic approach to leadership were crucial to her success and lasting legacy
Turning to Pakistan, the political landscape has often been marked by volatility and rapid changes in power A significant factor in this instability is the pervasive impatience that influences decision-making and shapes the outcomes of various political events Imran Khan s political journey underscores the risks associated with impatience in Pakistani politics His rapid rise to prominence in 2018 marked by promises of reform and anti-corruption highlighted his impatience with the established political order Khan s administration aggressively pursued reforms and adopted a confrontational stance toward opposition groups, fostering a polarized atmosphere His impatience with complex governance issues and inability to effectively manage dissent led to a loss of parliamentary confidence and his ousting in 2022 This example illustrates how hasty political maneuvers can lead to significant setbacks and a loss of political capital Pakistan’s election cycles often reveal the impatience of political parties and leaders eager for quick electoral victories This impatience drives them to make grand promises and resort to populist tactics seeking immediate voter approval rather than sustainable policy solutions Such a focus on quick wins frequently results in policies that are poorly vetted or impractical, leading to implementation challenges and disillusionment among the electorate The cycle of making promises and failing to deliver fosters political instability and erodes trust in democratic institutions The formation and dissolution of political alliances in Pakistan are often driven by leaders’ impatience for immediate political gain Alliances are frequently created and broken based on shifting dynamics and the desire for a quick advantage in legislative or electoral contests These short-term coalitions can lead to unstable governance and frequent changes in government, undermining effective administration The absence of longterm strategic planning contributes to fragmented policies and weakened institutional continuity
The media landscape in Pakistan has intensified the impatience in politics The 24/7 news cycle and social media platforms encourage instant reactions and quick decisions over thoughtful deliberation This environment pressures politicians to respond rapidly to crises or controversies often resulting in hasty choices that lack depth The emphasis on immediate media coverage can detract from long-term policy planning and effective governance In their pursuit of political power many politicians resort to questionable tactics to gain popularity and influence public opinion These tactics, which range from manipulating perceptions to undermining democratic institutions, often compromise the integrity of political systems The use of unfair means in politics is not confined to any one country or era; it is a troubling global phenomenon One prevalent tactic is the spread of misinformation and disinformation with politicians often exploiting social media to circulate false or misleading information This can involve exaggerating achievements, distorting facts or fabricating narratives to damage opponents For example during election campaigns political entities may spread unfounded rumors or use doctored images to create negative perceptions of their rivals Such strategies undermine informed decision-making and manipulate public opinion based on falsehoods Additionally populist rhetoric is often employed to gain popularity at the expense of reasoned discourse with politicians using emotionally charged language exploiting societal divisions, and making grand promises that resonate with the masses This approach can create a superficial sense of connection with voters concealing a lack of meaningful policy proposals or practical solutions While populism can garner support by exploiting fears and biases it often results in polarized societies and unrealistic expectations Political patronage, where politicians exchange jobs, contracts, or other benefits for support, is a
public accountability Politicians often manipulate identity politics leveraging race religion ethnicity or nationality to rally support By emphasizing divisive issues and appealing to specific demographic groups, they foster a sense of solidarity among their base while sidelining others This strategy not only deepens social divides but also shifts the focus from policy matters to identity-based loyalties which can harm social cohesion and national unity Electoral manipulation such as vote tampering, and voter roll manipulation is another tactic employed to gain and retain power By altering electoral boundaries or manipulating the voting process politicians can skew results in their favor These practices undermine election fairness and erode public trust in the democratic process raising questions about the legitimacy of elected representatives In the context of Imran Khan, leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and former Prime Minister of Pakistan it’s evident that he has used a range of tactics throughout his political career to boost his popularity and consolidate power His strategies reflect a
How Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya’s shrine became a pilgrimage site
Iran’s nuclear program can’t be bombed away
or religious discrimination
like a large
so that Allah’s creation the vast multitude of human beings may find rest and solace beneath your shadow Saying this Khwaja Fariduddin Ganjshakar better known as Baba Farid removed the turban that he had received from his own Sufi master, Khwaja Bakhtiyar Kaki, and placed it on the head of young Nizamuddin who knelt before him to seek his blessings “My son, the spark has been lit,” he said “You have completed your task and pleased Allah I now give the wilayat (guardianship) of Hindustan to you Devote yourself single-mindedly to this great mission Summoning all his disciples he announced Today I give the taj (crown) of the Sufis to Nizamuddin May Allah help him always It was the highest honour! The young Shaikh bowed his head in humility and wept Every year, Shaikh Nizamuddin would travel from Delhi, where he lived all the way to Ajodhan (now Pakpattan Sharif in Pakistan) to be with his master during the holy month of Ramadan Baba Farid had initiated him into the well-known Chishti order of the Sufis giving him the most intense spiritual training As soon as he was in Ajodhan, Nizamuddin would serve him with utmost devotion, and spend much of his time in chanting, prayer and meditation He would then return home to practise all that he had learnt With time, he had mastered the teachings of the Sufi tradition and the way to self-purification and spiritual perfection Nizamuddin visited his master three times This would be his last visit Baba Farid knew When he reached Delhi Nizamuddin received the news of his master s death
Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya of Delhi was now the new master of the Chishti Sufi order! People of all faiths thronged to meet him and seek his blessings He welcomed many new disciples into the order and sent them far and wide to spread the word of Allah After a while he longed for solitude He was inspired by a divine voice to move away from the noisy vicinity of the Qutb Minar where he lived to Ghiyaspur a quiet settlement on the outskirts of Delhi, around 1266 CE Here, by the banks of the River Yamuna, he built a rough shed with a straw
to the time of his death in 1325 CE, at the age of eighty-seven The village of Ghiyaspur came to be renamed Nizamuddin after the revered saint, and people converged here for his blessing After his death Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya’s dargah his final resting place across the road became one of the most venerated shrines in Delhi The baoli is still in use fed by an underwater spring and its waters are considered sacred Many later monarchs wished to be buried near his grave as well Humayun s Tomb borders Nizamuddin s shrine Princess Jahanara, the beloved daughter of Shah Jahan, is buried within the dargah in an openair chamber as is the less-known later Mughal king Muhammad Shah “Rangila” in an adjoining enclosure The Sufi saint also left behind several well-known disciples including his successor Nasiruddin Chiragh-e-Dehlavi and the acclaimed mystic poet Amir Khusro who is buried at his feet
The elegant residential area of Nizamuddin in central Delhi, just off Mathura Road, is a popular tourist and pilgrimage destination today Across the road from the majestic Humayun’s Tomb, people of all religions from far and wide gather to see the shrine and baoli of the revered mystic Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya
Devotional songs or qawwali were an important feature in the lives of the Sufi mystics and to this day qawwali singers perform here after the evening prayers, filling the air with music and song
A favourite qawwali sung here is Amir Khusro s Dama Dam Mast
Qalandar in praise of the revered Sufi saint Shahbaaz Qalandar:
Oh the red-robed one please protect me always Jhulelaal
The friend of Sindh and Sehwan Shahbaaz Qalandar
My breath is for the God-intoxicated saint Glory be to you!
If Israel tried to denuclearize Iran by force, it would convince Tehran the only way to be truly sec ure is to acquire a nuclear arsenal
TH E Middle East is on the brink of full-scale regional war Israel recently launched retaliatory strikes against Iran While Israel avoided targeting Iran s nuclear and oil facilities, there is still a risk that Israel s and Iran s back-and-forth missile strikes will drag the United States into yet another war in the Middle East An array of individuals such as former prime minister Naftali Bennett and John Bolton have encouraged and continue to encourage Israel s military to attack Iran s nuclear capabilities With the JCPOA dead in the water, hawks argue that Israel s only option for stopping Iran from getting a nuclear weapon is war However the arguments in favor of a strike against Iran’s nuclear capabilities are misplaced An attack would not set the program back dramatically and would likely convince Iran that it needs nuclear weapons to be secure At the end of the day, while Iran acquiring nuclear capabilities is not ideal, it would not spell disaster for Israel or the United States Supporters of preemptively striking Iran grossly overestimate Israel s ability to destroy all of Iran s nuclear capabilities Military intelligence is always imperfect, making it unlikely that Israel could know where all of Iran’s nuclear capabilities are located For instance Iran has likely dispersed its nuclear research technology and centers across the country to make targeting more difficult Though Iran only has two enrichment sites capable of enriching its uranium to levels needed to possess a nuclear weapon, Iran has hardened its nuclear facilities with at least one buried so deep underground that even U S airstrikes would be unlikely to destroy it This makes detecting and destroying these nuclear capabilities more difficult for Israel and would require U S participation to have a higher chance of destroying them Even in the highly unlikely scenario that Israel destroyed all of Iran’s nuclear capabilities Iran would
S L I M V O T
with community-focused development replacing the region’s nomadic lifestyle Unlike the grand cities of Egypt or Mesopotamia al-Natah s lay-
He notes that while racism is pervasive the priority is backing candidates who genuinely support Muslims Amir Gilani stated that Trump s presence could bring some improvement He believes the current administration deserves repercussions for its treatment of Muslims and that Trump’s policies could be more effective for the US Imran Ahmed sees Trump s term as more peaceful with less emphasis on war He feels the recent Democratic term has led to conflicts in regions like Palestine Ahmed believes Trump’s victory could bring positive changes to both the US and its economy Siraj Kochenwala considers Trump better for the economy even if it might bring some rise in racism Formerly a Democrat supporter he now plans to vote for the Republican party A Pakistani Muslim woman said she voted for a third-party candidate, believing Republicans will win Texas regardless She feels neither Trump nor Harris would significantly impact Muslims lives Anees
out adapted to the desert, focusing on small-scale urban organization Located in the volcanic Harrat Khaybar field, al-Natah lies at a crossroads of three valleys in an arid landscape with its ruins preserved beneath basalt rock for thousands of years A 14 5-kilometre wall surrounded the town suggesting it was built for protection from nomadic incursions Researchers have identified residential zones, communal areas, and a necropolis indicating a well-organized community structure Satellite images and excavations at al-
Natah reveal extensive planning, with house foundations and pathways pointing to a structured layout Stone foundations capable of supporting multi-story structures suggest that buildings likely served diverse purposes including housing crop storage and animal husbandry Artifacts recovered from the site including pottery, grinding stones, and metal tools, provide a glimpse into the lives of al-Natah’s residents The presence of stepped tower tombs in the necropolis hints at metalworking skills and possible trade links extending beyond Khaybar
The study suggests that al-Natah and similar oases may have helped establish early trade routes connecting the Arabian Peninsula to distant markets Archaeologists speculate that the town could have been part of the Arabian incense route, which transported goods like frankincense across the region Al-Natah appears to have been abandoned between 1500 and 1300 BC possibly due to environmental shifts or declining resources The exact reasons remain unclear leaving the site with an enduring sense of mystery Historians have praised the discovery, noting its importance for understanding early urbanization in northwest Arabia Historian Juan Manuel Tebes highlighted the Khaybar project s role in reconstructing social evolution timelines in the region, while Qatar Museums archaeologist Robert Andrew Carter emphasized its unique perspective on the Arabian Bronze Age Despite its modest scale compared to ancient Levantine or Mesopotamian cities al-Natah offers a rare view of early desert societies adapting to urban life Excavations at the site will continue as researchers seek to uncover more details about the community’s customs, daily lives and ultimate fate
Honda Exhibited its 30 Years Legac y at Pakistan Auto Par ts S how 2024
LAHORE S TA F F R E P O R T Honda Atlas Cars (Pakistan) Limited (HACPL) participated in the Pakistan Auto Parts Show (PAPS), held from October 25-27, 2024, at the Lahore Expo Center, showcasing a strong presence in the SUV and Sedan sectors In line with their commitment to strengthening local manufacturing Honda displayed a range of locally sourced parts reinforcing their dedication to localization efforts and supporting
Pakistan’s automotive industry
This year s participation was especially momentous as Honda celebrated its 30-years legacy in Pakistan The event served as a reflection on Honda s three decades of innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, further demonstrating its strong presence in the market This milestone was accompanied by exciting announcements about the company s future particularly its transition towards hybrid technology with the introduction of the e:HEV
The announcement of advanced e:HEV Technology sparked considerable interest and enthusiasm among the visitors The audience eagerly anticipated the impact of these hybrid vehicles on Pakistan s automotive landscape especially considering the growing focus on sustainability and fuel efficiency The event positioned Honda as a key player in the era of eco-friendly, hybrid vehicles, creating a sense of the company’s anticipation in the automotive transition era in Pakistan Honda s participation in PAPS 2024 showcased its commitment to innovation and sustainability embodying the essence of its logo, "Honda How We Move You | Create > Transcend, Augment " This bold vision of mobility empowers people to create beyond limits building on The Power of Dreams and highlighting Honda s dedication to breaking barriers and enhancing human potential
Pak-Turk International Conference on Emerging Technologies, Uniting Exper ts from Across Globe
KARACHI S TA F F R E P O R T
Unity Foods Limited and Nutshell
Conferences Group are jointly organizing the 8th Edition of THE FUTURE SUMMIT (TFS) Pakistan’s largest corporate event in strategic partnership with Faysal Bank Limited and Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) The event will be held in the financial capital of Pakistan, Karachi on November 6-7 2024 THE FUTURE SUMMIT is a platform where industry experts thought leaders and innovators from across the globe unite to reshape economic dynamics and strategic landscapes Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, Federal Minister for Finance & Revenue; Muhammad Ali Minister of State for Power Government of Pakistan; Dr Bakheet Ateeq Al Rumaithi
Consul General of the United Arab Emirates; Augie K Fabela II, Founder & Chairman, Board of Directors, VEON; Kaan Terzioglu, Group Chief Executive Officer, VEON; and former Governors of State Bank of Pakistan Dr Ishrat Hussain Dr Shamshad Akhtar and Dr Reza Baqir along with other national and international speakers will be addressing the event Farrukh Amin, Chief Executive Officer Unity Foods Limited expressed his enthusiasm for the summit I am honored to be part of THE FUTURE SUMMIT 2024 as a co-Host with the Nutshell Conferences Group At this annual premier gathering we will explore strategies for a resilient and sustainable future Unity Foods is dedicated to driving positive change in Pakistan s food sector meeting modern dietary needs and building a robust agri-business foundation
that supports local communities The event will curate conversations on transforming Pakistan into a regional economic powerhouse and a globally competitive force The Summit serves as a catalyst for stakeholders to craft actionable strategies that will elevate Pakistan s market position strengthen its industrial capabilities, and accelerate its path to regional dominance Nutshell Conferences Group’s initiative to host business summits across different domains and sectors over the years has garnered significant acclaim from government bodies corporate entities, private and public sectors, and civil society With 1,000 delegates, alongside 25 global experts and corporate leaders, and 40 of the top public and private leaders from Pakistan ‘What Matters Now is promised to be a unifying effort to unravel the complexities of today s economic landscape and sculpt a resilient, prosperous future
VERDICT ON BAIL PLEAS OF IMRAN RESERVED AS BUSHRA BIBI BREAKS DOWN IN COURT
Seven Khwarij terrorists k illed in three separate
The Security Forces killed seven Khwarij terrorists in three separate intelligence-based operations (IBOs) conducted in general areas of Dosali North Waziristan District Khamrang South Waziristan Districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Nushki District on Sunday night During conduct of the operation the Army troops effectively engaged the khwarij s location resultantly one kharji Ahmed Shah alias Intizar was killed, said an Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) news release
In another incident, the movement of the Khwarij group who were trying to infiltrate through the Pakistan-Afghanistan international border was picked up by the Security Forces in the general area of Khamrang, South Waziristan District
The Army troops effectively engaged and thwarted their attempt to infiltrate Resultantly five khwarij were killed while three khwarij got injured it further said
In another incident a fire exchange took place between own troops and the terrorists in Nushki District of Balochistan Own troops effectively engaged terrorists’ location, and resultantly one terrorist was sent to hell Weapon and ammunition were also recovered from the killed terrorist Sanitization operation is being conducted to eliminate any other terrorist found in the area Security forces of Pakistan, in step with the nation, remain determined to thwart attempts at sabo-
taging peace stability and progress of Balochistan Pakistan has consistently been asking Interim Afghan Government to ensure effective border management on their side of the border Interim Afghan Government is expected to fulfil its obligations and deny the use of Afghan soil by Khwarij for perpetuating acts of terrorism against Pakistan Security Forces of Pakistan are determined and remain committed to secure its borders and eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country
Punjab govt rules out PIA purchase, considers own airline option
Airlines (PIA) Bokhari clarified that while there had been discussions about launching a separate airline for Punjab acquiring the national flag carrier was not under consideration Pakistan needs a reliable airline, she remarked, adding that overseas Pakistanis have expressed concerns to Mian Nawaz Sharif regarding issues faced when traveling with PIA The provinces have
the right to establish their own airlines,” she noted Commenting on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa s interest in purchasing PIA Bokhari questioned the feasibility of a debt-ridden provincial government considering such a move The KP government should settle its debts before showing interest in acquiring PIA ” she added The minister also praised Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif for initiating numerous development projects while keeping provincial spending in check
APHC condemns 1947 Jammu massacre, calls for global attention on Kashmir
SRINAGAR
S TA F F R E P O R T
The All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) in Indianadministered Jammu and Kashmir has described the 1947 Jammu massacre as one of the worst tragedies in human history marking it as a brutal chapter in the region’s history APHC spokesman Abdul Rashid Minhas in a statement from Srinagar paid tribute to the 1947 Jammu martyrs recalling that hundreds of thousands of Kashmiri Muslims were killed by forces under Dogra Maharaja Hari Singh, the Indian Army, and Hindutva groups, including the RSS and Jansang, while they were migrating to Pakistan in early November of that year
The APHC urged people to observe November 6 as Martyrs Day to honor those lost in the massacre and
Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawyer and party Founder Imran Khan s focal person Intizar Panjotha, whose recent disappearance sparked concern IHC Chief Justice Aamir Farooq disposed of the petition regarding the recovery of Panjotha and emphasized the need for accountability and action in such cases of disappearance The CJ told the Kohsar station house officer to record the statement of Intizar Panjotha and take action as per law “I saw [news] related to Panjotha on TV and I felt really bad ” he remarked calling it a matter of shame for the institution and all the people During the hearing Chief Justice Farooq also expressed disappointment over the rising incidents of missing persons and street crimes in Islamabad, likening the security situation in the capital to that of Karachi PTI lawyer Shoaib Shaheen taunted that robberies and crimes will increase when law enforcement will be preoccupied with terrorists like himself The attorney general made an effort, he is a law officer, there should be no negative campaign against him,” he added Chief Justice Farooq then instructed the
(IHC)
renew their commitment to the mission of the martyrs
The statement also condemned the 2019 abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir s special status by India, asserting that this move, taken on communal grounds, has led to the systematic disempowerment of Kashmiris Minhas stated that Indian leaders Narendra Modi and Amit Shah along with the RSS chief are implementing a divide-and-rule strategy reminiscent of British colonial policies to divide communities in the region He emphasized that Kashmiris have rejected this decision and continue to stand united against it
The APHC called on Kashmiris worldwide to commemorate the Jammu Martyrs’ Day, organizing protests, seminars and gatherings to remember the sacrifices made in the freedom struggle Minhas also alleged that non-Kashmiri individuals with RSS and BJP affiliations
Kohsar police station’s station house officer (SHO) to meet with Panjotha within the next two days to record his statement and proceed with further investigation in accordance with the law The SHO was also advised to consider Panjotha s mental and physical well-being following his recovery, as reported by his counsel, who noted that Panjotha was in poor condition upon release The police was advised to investigate the matter fully after a few days These things should be seen at this level This should not have happened, CJ Farooq remarked Panjotha s lawyer Ali Bukhari told the court that such incidents can happen to anyone tomorrow, so it should be looked into
are being granted domicile in the territory with Indian forces reportedly training and arming them He expressed concern over a recent grenade attack in Srinagar, questioning how such incidents could occur in heavily monitored areas Minhas suggested that Indian forces could be behind such attacks to create fear and delegitimize the Kashmiri freedom movement
The APHC appealed to the global community to intervene calling for international action to protect the people of Kashmir from human rights abuses Minhas expressed solidarity with those injured in the grenade blast and extended condolences over the passing of Mirwaiz Molvi Muhammad Ahmad Shah, praying for peace for the deceased and strength for the bereaved family
The Democratic Freedom Party in Srinagar also offered its condolences for Shah s death
ISLAMABAD