Bridge mag international july, 2013 by Bridge Mag International

Published Monthly in Chicago, USA and distributed simultaneously to major cities of USA, Canada, UK and Pakistan

Published by Bridge Publications USA, Inc Publisher Jawaid Riaz

7331 N Kolmar Ave Suite G, Lincolnwood, Illinois 60712 Ph # 773 828 5126 cell # 973 517 5586 E:Mail: info@bridgepublicationsusa.com

EDITORIAL

ontents

Nawaz’s China visit lauded

Abbottabad Commission report

Pakistani stocks end higher, rupee weakens Anything that goes against Balochistan will not be accepted: Abdul Malik Pakistan condemns attack on holy sites in Syria

CCI meeting ends inconclusively

10 12

14 16 18

PTI to contest presidential election: Imran

ANP puts weight behind Raza Rabbani for presidential election Maximize the last 10 days of Ramadan Egypt interim presidency “ saddened” by Cairo clashes

20 Showbiz 23

11 13

PTI finds fault with deal for LNG import from Qatar

Altaf Hussain interrogation carried out as per UK law, govt kept informed: Nisar MQM to remain firm in face of conspiracies: Altaf Hussain

Sports

Iftari distribution campaign

EDITORIAL BOARD

Jawaid Riaz, Editor

The latest controversy is the proof that some forces behind the curtain do not want the friendly relations between the two neighbors, current reports published in Indian media being the proof. As per the reports published in Delhi news papers, an Indian home ministry former officer has disclosed that a member of the secret service team has accused incumbent governments of “orchestrating” the terror attack on Parliament and the 26/11 carnage in Mumbai. According to Indian media, R V S Mani, who as home ministry under-secretary signed the affidavits submit-

21 Money Gram

Nikkah Ceremony of Sheeroz Kamran

Relations between India and Pakistan are key in establishing an agreement that ensures fairness, security and stability in the two countries. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has announced his plan to negotiate relations with Pakistan’s immediate neighbor India, his first priority. In past, his government has laid excellent grounds for a relationship with India unfortunately India has not dealt with Pakistan in the same manner

PPP announces ted in court in the Ishrat Jahan encounter case, has said that Satish Verma, until recently a part of the CBI-SIT boycott of probe team, told him that both the terror attacks were set up “with the objective of strengthening the counterpresidential terror legislation (sic)”. election

Eid Mubarak 17 2013

Trust and faith among the leadership of the political parties of India and Pakistan

Armughan Asar, Queens, NY Mashood Ahsan, Saint Louis, MO Najeeb Ali Kidwai, Canada Rashid khan, Springfield, MA Shahid Alam, Dallas, TX Shahid Khan, London, UK Suhail Ahmed, Houston, TX Zafar Khursheed, Denville, NJ Zulikha Wahid Washington, DC

Mani has said that Verma “...narrated that the 13.12. 2001 (attack on Parliament) was followed by POTA (Prevention of Terrorist Activities Act) and 26/11 2008 (terrorists’ siege of Mumbai) was followed by amendment to the UAPA (Unlawful Activities Prevention Act).”

The official has alleged Verma leveled the damaging charge while debunking IB’s inputs labeling the three killed with Ishrat in the June 2004 encounter as Lashkar terrorists. Contacted by TOI, Verma refused to comment. “I don’t know what the complaint is, made when and to whom. Nor am I interested in knowing. I cannot speak to the media on such matters. Ask the CBI,” said the Gujarat cadre IPS officer who after being relieved from the SIT is working as principal of the Junagadh Police Training College. It must be noted that Afzal Guru and Ajmal Kasab have already been hanged in parliament and 26/11 cases respectively. In my opinion Pakistani leadership must insist on talks with the Indian leadership on the pertinent issues which must be resolved. For example the fair distribution of water, as the time passes the Pakistani land is drying and the governments need to reach a settlement that’s based on fair redistribution. Kashmir and Sachin issues are the major burning problems which need to be resolved immediately through the peace negotiations and not by war or protecting army action from India or militancy from Pakistan. Immediate major cut in the defense budgets. Trade and friendly relationship needs to be addressed as soon as possible and issuance of the visa policy needs to be relaxed. Furthermore if the trade and frequently visiting between both countries will be bring the friendship and harmony. The first step is both establishments should stop the blame game and accusing each other for travesties and tragedies, before it is too late. This is a time when we are all a living in is the atomic energy time and nobody can afford a nuclear war. Trust and faith among the leadership of the political parties of India and Pakistan will lay the foundation for a secure and sturdy agreement for the two nations. Jawaid riaz

PUBLICATION COMMITTEE

Abid Ali Syed Andleeb Jawaid Baseer Naveed Madah Jawaid Dr.Naseem Shekhani Dr.Naveen Aman Dr. Tanveer Imam Tariq Khawaja SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT FROM PAKISTAN Syed Tariq Abrar

For Advertisement Reports, Features, Community Events Please Call Jawaid Riaz @ 773 828 5126 Cell 973 517 5586 E:Mail: info@bridgepublicationsusa.com

ADVISORY BOARD

Abdul Aziz Memmon, Karachi, Pakistan Abdul Waheed Jamal, Karachi, Pakistan Dr. Azfar Malik, St. Louis, MO Ghulam Mustafa Majeed, Bahrain Dr. Hadi Zadi, St. Louis, MO Hassan Mahmood Jafri, Karachi, Pakistan Mark Asim, New York City, NY Mubbashir Aslam, Canada Dr. Naseem Shekhani, St. Louis, MO Dr. Naveen Aman, Chicago, IL Syed Ashiq Raza, Karachi, Pakistan Syed Mazhar Alam, Naperville, IL Tariq Khawaja Dr. Tausif Ahmed Khan, Karachi, Pakistan Art Director Syed Tariq Abrar Design by: Seema Niazi (Pakistan) 011 + 92 + 333 3270755

4 JULY - 2013

NEWS

Nawaz’s China visit lauded

Secondly, the ministry would recommend setting up of tended by Altaf Hus500-1000mmcfd capable new sain Gohar, Sheikh terminal for which bidding should Naseer, Kashif Hussain be held or any selective party Gohar, Sheikh Raza, from a friendly country be involved Zahid Rashid, Talat through government to governButt, Khawaja Yaqoob, ment deal. Umar Qudoosi, Latif Gujjar, Khawaja Azhar He said the ECC would be reand many others here quested to approve one-time exMonday at his office. emption from application of Public Procurement Rules to run through Abuzar Ghaffari said various stages of bidding so as to that economy-related shorten the overall bidding schedule. memorandums of understanding signed However, these recommendations with China, including have not gone well with the Ogra. ML-N Trade Wing Senior Vice Gwadar to Kashgar corridor, LaPresident Abuzar Ghaffari has hore to Karachi bullet train, wind The sources said the Ogra insaid the recent visit of Prime Minisenergy projects, Nandipur power formed the Petroleum Ministry ter Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief project, metro and underground that Ogra rules required a licence Minister Shahbaz Sharif to China bus service in Punjab’s five cities, for LNG terminal operator before will prove to be a milestone in the would not only mitigate power cri- it is allowed to set up LNG hanhistory of Pakistan. sis in the country but also become dling facilities while in the instant He said that in the coming days, catalyst to run all commercial, in- case, neither the SSGC, nor Enthe country would not only get rid dustrial and export-oriented mega gro’s storage facility had such a licenced provision for LNG import. of loadshedding but also become projects at their optimal level. successful in generating over He said that Prime Minister Nawaz In fact, the Ogra also pointed 20,000MW electricity. Sharif’s visit to China was a com- out that even though Engro was He said this while addressing a mendable effort as China had among the three applicants who meeting of traders which was at- helped Pakistan in its difficult times. had been given licences for LNG import at a separate point which could not be used for retrofitting of SSGC-Engro storage facilities.

Aziz plans to visit Kabul

gro and SSGC through which gas imports could begin in six to seven months to resolve the energy crisis by mid-winter.

SLAMABAD: Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs and National Security Sartaj Aziz will go to Kabul on Saturday on a daylong ice-breaking trip. Mr Aziz disclosed his plans to travel to Afghanistan for delivering an invitation to President Hamid Karzai from Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to visit Pakistan, at a press conference along with British Foreign Secretary William Hague after their talks.

Unravelling of Islamabad-Kabul ties has impeded international efforts for peace in Afghanistan and world leaders have been enThe terminal licences are issued couraging both countries to mend with specific place, technology, fences. quantity and quality that could not “Good relations between Pakistan be used as an umbrella permisand Afghanistan are fundamental sion to start importing any product to the security of the region,” Mr make arrangements for provid- somewhere else, the Ogra is re- Hague said and added that the UK ing 500mmcfd of LNG through its ported to have put on record. was ready to help the two counown ships provided Pakistan had The ECC in its recent meeting had tries bridge their gulf. facilities to offload these quantities cancelled the two bidding rounds The British foreign secretary’s visit at Karachi port. of 400mmcfd of LNG import and comes two and half weeks after “Qatar will provide LNG and the authorised the Petroleum Ministry Prime Minister David Cameron ship, but could not make terminal to engage with the Qatar govern- travelled to Pakistan and Afghaniarrangements for regasification, ment for a government to govern- stan to persuade their leaders to unloading and onward transporta- ment deal. develop a cooperative relationship. tion,” said the official. A ministerial team that recently vis- During his Kabul visit, Mr Aziz will He said the Ministry of Petroleum ited Qatar had been offered to pro- try to address some of the contenwas taking a summary to the Eco- vide LNG and a ship for its trans- tious issues that have tended to nomic Coordination Committee portation up to Karachi port by the sour bilateral ties in recent months. (ECC) of the Cabinet in its forth- Qatari side. He will also talk about trade and coming meeting with two options economy with his Afghan interloc– one for short- term and one for LNG imports are facing various utors even though the otherwise long-term LNG supply arrange- hitches for more than 10 years important issues look peripheral ment to be implemented in three now as gas shortages increased given the acrimonious phase of beyond 2000mmcfd during peak relationship through which the two to five years. winter season. countries are currently passing. He said given the fact that no other options, except the LNG, was Various governments have been Afghan leaders have unleashed a possible in the short term, the making failed attempts to import running diatribe against Pakistan ECC was being requested to allow at least 500mmcfd to generation as their relationship dips to new retrofitting of LPG storages of En- about 4000mw of electricity. lows. As Mr Aziz’s visit to Kabul

Plan to import 500 mmcfd LNG from Qatar

meeting, presided over by petroleum minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and attended by top management of the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra), the Planning Commission, gas companies and bulk cargo handlers of liquefied gas, discussed at length an offer from the Qatari government to provide 500mmcfd of LNG at port.

A senior official told that the Qatar government had offered to

continued....

5 JULY - 2013

NEWS

was finalised, his Afghan counterpart Rangin Dadfar Spanta fired yet another salvo in a radio interview saying Pakistan was a bigger threat to peace than Al Qaeda.

pressed the hope that the difficult patch in the Doha process would be overcome and discussions between the Taliban and the US would start soon. He was, however, unsure when the Taliban and The anger against Pakistan in Ka- Afghan High Peace Council — the bul’s power echelons is out of fear Afghan body that coordinates recthat Islamabad could be trying to onciliation process — would meet bring the Taliban back to power. and said that Pakistan, the UK and the US were all working towards Mr Aziz would in Kabul, one of his aides said, reiterate Pakistan’s that end. commitment to a peaceful and Mr Aziz’s meeting with Afghan united Afghanistan, and offer help Ambassador Umar Daudzai over a to revive the Doha process which fortnight ago, in which the Afghan collapsed because of controversy side claimed he (Mr Aziz) had proover the name of office and raising posed to the Afghan government of flag. to share power with the Taliban, At the press briefing, Mr Aziz ex- sparked a serious diplomatic row.

Abbottabad Commission report: Overhaul of spy outfits proposed

joint strategic directive modality is a reflection of the military hegemony over the formulation of the National Security Policy (in unwritten form) which despite token civilian bureaucratic inputs, excludes serious civilian input.”

SLAMABAD: The Abbottabad Commission has recommended restructuring and overhauling civil and military intelligence agencies through a parliamentary oversight and proposed a well-defined national security policy to ensure effective counter-terrorism performance.

While the government plans to convene an all-party conference to chalk out a consensus-based national security policy, the commission noted that despite the fact that Pakistan was the main victim of terrorism, there was no national security policy in the country to combat the menace. The classified report was leaked to AlJazeera news network– a copy of which is available on its website. “The excessive powers and nonaccountability of Pakistani intelligence establishment have posed the greatest threat of state failure to Pakistan,” the commission noted in its findings, adding, “The current defence policy and the

The violation of this democratic procedure was one reason for exclusive vigilance towards a border from where a developing threat was palpable, if not certain. As a result, no effective ‘pro-active’ policy planning took place and “we were left in our usual reactive policy mode in which policy options in a crisis are close to zero”.

Need for a National Security Council

A senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said although officially the report was not made public, the conclusions of the commission were nothing new. The official admitted that there was a ‘systematic failure’ at all levels. He said the findings had made it clear that the slain al Qaeda kingpin Osama bin Laden had no institutional support from within Pakistan during his nine-year stay in the country.

The commission said a prop- When asked, he said the military erly constituted National Security would give its formal reaction once Council was necessary. the report was officially made public.

Nawaz meets British FM; Pakistan’s role against terror lauded

“Just as there is no national security policy, there is no NSC in the country. The Defence Committee of the Cabinet is not a substitute for a NSC. The NSC primarily should be a body that collects, collates and coordinates information and intelligence related to national security and submits regular policy paper and recommendations to the chief executive, i.e. the prime minister. These papers and recommendations should address long term, short term and immediate national security issues including crisis situations.”

It recommended that the core of the NSC will need to be a secretariat headed by a national security adviser of acknowledged analytical ability, having a deep understanding of the internal, regional Analysts say the govern- and international situations and ment might use the find- their trends. ings of the Abbottabad Commission to assert civilian au- The Abbottabad Commission thority on matters of national secu- recommended that the National Counter-Terrorism Authority needrity in the upcoming APC. ed to be made into a real rather The leaked report states that the than fictional body. National Assembly should set up an expert committee to look into Corp commanders discuss implithe performance and mandate of cations of report the various civilian and military inAlso on Tuesday, the top military telligence agencies. commanders informally discussed “In particular, the failure of the intel- the likely implications of the leaked ligence community with respect to report of the Abbottabad Comdevelopments preceding and fol- mission. lowing the May 2 [2011] incident [Osama bin Laden raid] needs Chaired by Chief of Army Staff to be thoroughly looked into,” it General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, the meeting was held at the General reads. Headquarters in Rawalpindi. The expert committee, the report says, should assess intelligence An Inter-Services Public Relations agencies work, culture, achieve- statement said the routine corps ments and failure, their mandate commanders meeting undertook and organisation, accountability, a comprehensive review of the parliamentary oversight, among prevalent internal and external seother things, and make appropri- curity situation of the country. ate recommendations consistent However, sources confirmed that with civilian control and national the top brass also discussed the security. findings of the commission.

SLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif met with British Foreign Minister William Hague in Islamabad on Thursday and discussed bilateral relations and regional situation, DawnNews reported.

Nawaz Sharif said that “Pakistan is with the international community to bring peace and stability in Afghanistan”. William Hague said that Pakistan’s efforts for peace in Afghanistan were commendable and Pakistan has an important role in the fight against terrorism. Moreover, in the meeting they also exchanged views to enhanced cooperation to fight against terrorism.

6 JULY - 2013

NEWS

Pakistani stocks

end higher, rupee weakens 0.52 percent or 120.25 points at 23,114.97.

Govt to spend Rs7.5 billion on medicines: Minister H

ealth Minister Khalil Tahir Sindhu on Wednesday said free Pakistan State Oil Company Ltd medicines worth Rs7.53 billion rose 2.31 percent to 339.98 ru- would be provided free of charge to patients. Sindhu said the main pees while Maple Leaf Cement at government hospitals. purpose of spending billions on Factory Ltd was up 4.98 percent upgrading the health sector was The health minister said compared to 27.21 rupees. to improve the quality of services to the previous year, allocation of In the currency market, the rupee health services 19 percent greater. available to the people. He urged the Health Department, hospital ended weaker at 100.70/100.75 against the dollar, compared He said that the prime responsibil- administrations and doctors to ARACHI: Pakistan’s main with Wednesday’s close of ity of the administrations of gov- work together. ernment hospitals was to utilise stock exchange closed higher 100.42/100.49. Health Secretary Hassan Iqbal the funds efficiently. on Thursday, buoyed by buying in said for the first time the Health Overnight rates in the money cement and oil stocks. Department had created 2,897 market rose to 8.90 percent from He directed the Health Department jobs for house officers in governThe benchmark 100-share index Wednesday’s close of 6.50 per- to create a monitoring system for the provision of free medicines ment hospitals. of the Karachi Stock Exchange up cent.

Legislation: Pakistan’s forex reserves Shahbaz Sharif

fall to10.502 billion

approves draft of new local

government law

hief Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Thursday approved the draft for a new local government system.

Minister for Local Government and Law Rana Sanaullah Khan, Minister for Agriculture Farrukh Javed, Minister for Education Rana MashARACHI: Pakistan’s foreign hood Ahmad Khan, MNA Hamza exchange reserves dropped Shahbaz, the chief secretary and to $10.502 billion in the week secretaries of law and local govending July 12, from $10.543 bil- ernment departments were preslion the previous week, the central ent in the meeting. bank said. The law minister told the meetRemittances from Pakistanis ing that government needed five abroad rose 5.56 percent to months to conduct local body $13.92 billion in the 2012/13 fis- elections. cal year, from $13.18 billion during the same period last year. The fis- The chief minister said the government wanted to hold local eleccal year runs from July to June. tions as soon as possible. He said The monthly average remittances the approved draft of the Punjab for JulyJune 2013 period come Local Government Bill would be out to $1,160 billion compared to placed before the standing com$1,098 billion during the last fiscal mittee of the Assembly. The chief year. minister said transparency had been the top priority in the new An amount of $1,164 billion was system. remitted by overseas Pakistani in June, compared with $1,117 bil- He said separate authorities would lion in the same month year earlier. be established for education and

Students visit German university L

AHORE POSITION-holder students who are on a study tour of Europe visited Potsdam University Germany.

health sectors and reconciliation councils would be formed to re- According to a handout issued solve disputes at local levels. here Monday, Director Department for International Admissions welHe said a proposal to introduce comed the position-holders and panchayat system in villages briefed them on social and politiwould also be considered. Sharif cal history of Germany. said the proposal for municipal police in cities was also being considered. She appreciated the decision of sending position-holder students He said an efficient local governon a study tour of European uniment system was essential for versities and lauded the services solving people’s problems at the of Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz local level. At the same time, he Sharif. The students visited differsaid, a system of check and balent sections of the university. ance was also essential. They were informed that there are Sanaullah told the meeting that 21,000 students on roll in the unithe government had sent a sumversity and staff strength 2,500. mary for convening the assembly The university has faculties of law, session. arts, human sciences, economics He said the bill would be intro- and social sciences while the deduced to the Punjab Assembly partments of earth sciences and next week. He was hopeful that public policy and management are the bill would be passed within a of special importance. month. Top position-holder for Lahore Earlier, the Supreme Court had or- Board Sarmad Waqar thanked the dered all provincial governments administration of the university on to hold local body elections by behalf of the visiting students and Punjab government. September.

7 JULY - 2013

CCI meeting ends inconclusively

NEWS

Failure to address grievances:

it-based system. The Prime Minister said low cost energy would be produced by using coal and hydel power for power generation.

The extraction of coal and develhe meeting was attended by all members of the council includ- opment of the infrastructure for power production will be carried ing the provincial chief ministers. out simultaneously to save time. Originally six points were to be discussed during the meeting He said coal will be imported till it however due to the reservations is available locally for power conof provinces only two points came sumption. under debate. He said run of the river projects During the meeting Prime Minister were being initiated to overcome Nawaz Sharif said that his govern- short term demands while large ment planned to completely end dams including Bunji dam and electricity loadshedding within Bhasha dam would be constructthree to four years and through a ed over a period of time to overmulti-pronged strategy. He added come irrigation needs and power that the price of electricity would shortage. be brought down to less than Other topics discussed during the Rs10 per unit. meeting included implementation of the new energy policy, gas theft The strategy will include low cost energy, tariff restructuring, efficient and recovery issues, and punishtechnology transparency and mer- ment for those stealing electricity.

Govt to replace PPP’s flagship programme for Balochistan

Ch Nisar arrives in Karachi to

review law and order situation

ARACHI: Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Said Monday that the law and order situation in Karachi had not improved even after the new government had taken over.

Speaking to the media upon his arrival at the Jinnah International Airport, Nisar added that he plans to hold meetings with Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah, Governor Sindh Dr Ishratul Ebad Khan as well as the heads of security institutions to better understand the law and order situation in Karachi. Nisar further added that unrest in Karachi affects the entire country and it is important to take control of the deteriorating law and order situation and that order cannot be established without taking the matter seriously.

ISLAMABAD:

he Pakistan Muslim LeagueNawaz’s government is planning to replace its predecessor’s flagship programme for Balochistan with a new policy after it failed to resolve the festering problems of the troubled province.

“We intend to introduce a new policy … We believe a vibrant economic policy can heal the wounds of the people of the violencewrecked province,” Minister for States and Frontier Regions (SAFRON) Lt-Gen (retd) Abdul Qadir Baloch told Press. The previous Pakistan Peoples Party-led government had introduced the Aghaz-e-Haqooq-eBalochistan (AHB) package with much fanfare in 2009 as part of its efforts to stabilise the situation in the province.

The wide-ranging package – which was aimed at eliminating the sense of deprivation among the people – comprised six constitutional, five political, 16 administrative and 34 economic proposals. However, Nisar revealed that he will be meet- the government could implement ing Pir Sahib Pagara to discuss just 43 of the 61 proposals by the the upcoming presidential election end of its five-year constitutional and the names of candidates will tenure. be announced in the coming days. The incumbent government’s new Responding to a question regard- Balochistan policy will focus on ing Dr Imran Farooq’s murder in- the 18 non-implemented proposvestigation, Chaudhry Nisar said als of the AHB package, officials the British government has not preparing the draft told The Press. contacted the Pakistani governIts prime focus, according to them, ment regarding the issue. will be Balochistan’s share in gas This is Nisar’s first visit to Karachi royalties from the Iran-Pakistan since the PML-N came into power pipeline agreement – under the a month ago. Chaudhry Nisar Ali $1.4 billion pact, Islamabad inKhan is scheduled to meet the po- tends to import 750mmcfd of gas litical leadership of Sindh and will from Tehran. The new policy will be briefed on the law and order allocate a third (250mmcfd) of the situation in Karachi by heads of gas imported under the agreement to Balochistan. the security institutions.

It also proposes admitting around 5,000 youths from Balochistan in vocational training institutes and sending another 5,000 skilled workers abroad for better employment opportunities. The policy also focuses on the revival of the Pakistan Railways service from Quetta to Zhob, and later to Dera Ismail Khan and Bhakkar. A study on this aspect has already been completed and the project’s proposal will be presented before the finance ministry soon, according to the officials. Other proposals include setting up an electricity transmission line from Dera Ismail Khan to Zhob, and providing television boosters to all 32 districts of the province. It prioritises the completion of 100 delay-action dams currently under construction in Balochistan, and the construction of four small to medium dams to fulfill the agricultural needs of the province. The new policy also includes a development package worth Rs4.1 billion for Dera Bugti and its adjacent areas, and initiatives worth Rs1.63 billion for Kohlu district. These will include schools, water supply schemes, hospital and roads for the respective areas, said the officials. In addition to the economic aspects of the government’s new Balochistan policy, the interior ministry will include a portion related to security in order to overhaul the province’s policing structure, officials from the ministry told Press. Under the security policy for Balochistan, Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan will decide the fate of the judicial inquiry into the killings of Baloch political workers, they revealed.

continued....

8 JULY - 2013 Nisar will also make a decision on constituting a judicial commission to probe the killing of Jamhoori Wattan Party chief Nawab Akbar Bugti and look into the judicial inquiry into the controversial allotment of hundreds of acres of land in Gwadar. When contacted, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s Political Secretary Asif Kirmani said a meeting to review all policies pertaining to Balochistan will take place soon. “The Balochistan issue is being taken seriously by the prime minister,” he added.

Anything that goes against Balochistan

will not be accepted: Abdul Malik

NEWS

Ending the unmanned War:

PM asked to drop plans to seek US drone tech

ISLAMABAD: As the government looks for alternatives to convince the US to call off its drone campaign in the tribal areas, the foreign ministry has asked Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to drop his plan to ask Washington for the transfer of drone technology from his list of options citing ‘legal implications’.

he government was planning to formally request the US for drone technology during the upcoming visit of US Secretary of State John Kerry as part of efforts to end the impasse over the controversial programme. However, senior foreign ministry officials recently briefed the government on the likely implications of such a policy.

QUETTA: Anything that would go against Balochistan and its people is unacceptable, Balochistan Chief Minister Abdul Malik told media on Thursday.

e said that the Balochistan government would continue to think for the benefit of the Balochistan people, be it a mega project or any other project, as it has done so in the past. He said that the government was looking at all projects in detail.

“We have to take a principled stand against drone use. Seeking drone technology shows a contradiction in our policy,” argued a foreign ministry official, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the issue. “Killing people without due process of law through drones is illegal. If Pakistan acquires this technology, should it kill people without due process as well?” he said.

The government of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif publicly condemns drone attacks and has urged the Malik said that the federal governUS to stop such unilateral strikes. ment has been asked to complete two electricity lines, one from Dera In a recent background briefing, Ghazi Khan and the other from one senior government official told Dadu to Khuzdar, within one year. journalists that Islamabad would These will add 600-700 mega- seek drone technology from the watts of electricity, he said. US to deal with the terror threat. The Balochistan chief minister said that the federal government has also been asked to complete the four roads in Balochistan within two years.

“The foreign office has conveyed its position to the government on the issue. It is now up to them to take the final decision,” said another official. The official recalled that when the head of the UN team investigating the civilian impact of drone use travelled to Pakistan in March this year, Islamabad sought a ban on the unilateral use of drones against sovereign countries. He said Pakistan was engaged in efforts to create consensus for declaring drone use in counter-terrorism operations illegal.

e said Afghanistan will hold negotiations with the Taliban, while Pakistan will provide its fullUN special rapporteur on human est cooperation in this regard.Durrights and counter-terrorism Ben ing his day-long visit, Sartaj Aziz Emerson is due to present his re- held talks with Afghan President port on the legality of drone use Hamid Karzai and Foreign Minister before the annual session of world Dr Zalmai Rassoul. The two sides body in September. discussed ways to further promote bilateral relations and prosPakistan expects that the final UN pects for peace in Afghanistan. report will help develop consensus against use of drones as weapons. Addressing a press conference with Zalmai Rassoul, Sartaj Aziz A recent survey conducted by said Pakistan was ready to help Washington-based Pew Research in holding intra-Afghan talks for Center revealed that the US policy peace and stability in Afghanistan, of drone use in places such as if the Afghan leaders asked for it. Pakistan, Yemen and Somalia is facing broad opposition around He said Pakistan has been trying the world. The survey conducted to help jump start the peace proon the issue in 39 countries, found cess as a stable Afghanistan is in that more than half of the respon- Pakistan’s own interest.However, dents in 31 of these countries he said, any peace talks must be disapproved of US drone attacks Afghan-owned and Afghan-led. against extremist groups. The re- He said Pakistan would take every port noted that in most of the na- step to bring peace in Afghanistan. tions polled, there continues to be extensive opposition to the Ameri- Sartaj Aziz, who was on his first viscan drone campaign against ex- it to Kabul after assuming charge tremist leaders and organizations. as adviser to the PM on foreign affairs and national security, said: “The PML-N government wants to expand relations with Afghanistan.”

Afghans to negotiate with

Taliban: Sartaj

He said his visit brought a message of peace and cooperation from Pakistan. The PM’s adviser said Pakistan wanted to remove all barriers in the way of trade between both the countries. He said expansion in trade would bring prosperity to the people of the two countries, besides improving the economy.

Sartaj Aziz denied perceptions held by many in Afghanistan that Pakistan controls the Taliban, given that its leaders have apparently taken sanctuary in Pakistan, and KABUL: Adviser to Prime Minister insisted Islamabad could only help on Foreign Affairs and National bring about a deal and not impose Security Sartaj Aziz on Sunday as- one. However, the foreign office strong- sured the Afghan leadership that “We have some contacts with the ly believes that acquiring drone Pakistan would extend full support Taliban because of the past but we technology would weaken Paki- and cooperation in holding intra- don’t control them,” he told the stan’s case against the illegal use Afghan talks for peace and stabil- news conference.He said Pakistan ity in Afghanistan. of unmanned aerial vehicles. had eased the movement of Tali-

continued....

9 JULY - 2013 ban negotiators and released 26 Taliban detainees at the request of the Afghan government. “In the future, if to this extent we are requested, we can play the same role but at the appropriate time and in consultation with other interested parties,” he said. In an unusually blunt remark, Afghan Foreign Minister Zalmai Rassoul said that efforts on both sides to strengthen relations, fight terrorism and ignite peace talks “have not been successful”.“I hope the new government of Pakistan will open a new chapter in PakistanAfghan relations,” he said. Earlier, Sartaj Aziz invited President Hamid Karzai to Islamabad to strengthen bilateral relations and to improve strained relations and help peace efforts with the Taliban. “The main purpose of my visit is to convey a formal invitation from Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to President Karzai to visit Pakistan.” “We wish Afghanistan a success for those two important milestones.”

PTI finds fault

with deal for LNG import from Qatar

ISLAMABAD: Another project initiated by the PML-N government in the energy sector has attracted criticism for its staggering price tag.

n a detailed critique, the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf challenged on Monday the government’s plan to import LNG from Qatar, which it said would cost the national exchequer Rs18 billion every year for 20 years. Last week, the government was criticised for an upward revision of the Nandipur power project’s cost from Rs22 billion to Rs57bn and Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had ordered an investigation into the matter.

Terming the LNG import deal a

NEWS

Committee set up to restore

APC delays: PTI

refutes allegations against Imran Khan. blames govt mega scam, PTI’s information secretary Dr Shireen Mazari alleged that the ministry of petroleum and natural resources, through a hurriedly drafted summary for the spokesperson of Pakistan TehEconomic Coordination Commitreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Friday retee of the cabinet, had managed futed the allegations levied against to benefit a particular business party chairman Imran Khan for degroup. laying the all parties’ conference (APC) by leaving for UK. The ECC approved on July 18 the summary for the import of LNG In an official statement, the from Qatar by using Engro’s existspokesperson reiterated that Iming terminal at Port Qasim. ran’s visit to UK which was on ac“The LNG will be procured from count of medical reasons, did not Conoco Phillips (CP), and not hinder PTI’s presentation for APC from Qatar on a government- as they were fully prepared. to-government basis, as is be“It is the government who is still in ing falsely claimed. The so-called the process of drafting a presengovernment-to-government deal tation on national security policy,” with Qatar will be through the CP, the statement continued. a private US energy company. So why lie to the nation that the deal Citing government’s ill-preparedis with the state of Qatar,” ques- ness for APC as the main reason tioned Dr Mazari. for the delay, the spokesperson stated that PTI chairman had Substantiating her claim, the PTI waited for two months for the govinformation secretary said the ernment to call on a meeting on base cost of LNG from CP was counter-terrorism and had already $16.99/mmbtu (million British postponed an immediately needthermal unit) plus additional cost ed medical trip earlier. of about $2.50/mmbtu to be paid to Engro, resulting in a re-gasified The spokesperson said that ImLNG cost of $19.49/mmbtu com- ran’s ill health meant that it was pared to the open market price of impossible for him to postpone his $17.707/mmbtu. “This is clearly a medical consultation and he had mega scam to rob the people of never said that he was going to Pakistan by about $180 million, or postpone his UK trip. Rs18 billion, a year,” she said. The party leaders were told of the Dr Mazari said the most damag- meeting only a few days in ading part of the deal was that CP/ vance and Imran was not directly Qatari proposal would not allow contacted at all, the party spokesany change in the price over the person added. 20-year duration of the contract, whereas prices were expected to The statement said the PTI chairgo down sharply over 5 to 7 years. man could not be blamed for the delay of APC, since he had nomiAccording to the deal, Pakistan nated party representatives to will have to “take or pay” for the attend the conference in his abcommitted LNG irrespective of the sence. country’s ability to lift or not. They have already indicated that they The APC which was earlier schedwill not allow resale of any cargo uled to be held on July12 was postponed to ensure attendance to a third party. from all political parties. A new She said the manipulation by the date for the conference has yet to ministry of petroleum and natural be finalized. resources that only Engro could provide facilities on a fast-track The PTI Chairman was criticized basis for LNG storage and its re- on social media for new photos of gasification was an attempt to fool him attending a party thrown by Prince Charles. the ECC.

Ziarat residency

QUETTA: The Balochistan government has constituted a committee to undertake work on the restoration of the historic Quaid-i-Azam Residency in Ziarat.

spokesman for the provincial government has said the committee is headed by former chief secretary Mirza Qamar Baig.

Well-known architects, engineers and experts like Nayyar Ali Dada, Yasmin Lari and Kamil Khan Mumtaz are members of the committee. They have volunteered their services. Mr Dada and Mr Mumtaz visited Ziarat recently and gave suggestions for the restoration of the residency and the provincial government has started steps in light of their recommendations. The spokesman said the committee had invited prequalification bids from contractors from across the country. He said the government would restore the residency to its original shape through its own resources. He said that an impression created in a section of the press that renowned businessman Sadaruddin Hashwani would do the job was wrong. However, the spokesman said the provincial government appreciated Mr Hashwani’s offer to restore the national monument.

10 JULY - 2013

Pakistan condemns attack on holy sites in Syria

NEWS

SC orders presidential election on July 30

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court on Wednesday directed the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to hold the presidential election on July 30 with a new schedule.

three-member bench of the apex court, headed by Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry and comprising Justice Jawwad S Khawaja and Justice Sheikh Azmat Seeed, heard the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) petition, seeking a change of date for the presidential election on July 30 instead of August 6. The court directed the ECP to change its earlier schedule and hold the presidential election on July 30 instead of August 6 after the Federation supported the petition.

ISLAMABAD: The Government of Pakistan strongly condemns the deliberate and wanton attack on the holy sites in Syria, including the 19th July attack on Sayyeda Bibi Zainab’s (R.A) shrine, according to a statement issued by the Foreign Office on Monday.

The court ruled that the holding of election of the office of the president of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan is one of the most important constitutional activities, which has to be undertaken by the ECP.

ment House, Islamabad.

He submitted that whatever order is passed by the apex court keeping this requirement in view will be complied with in letter and spirit. Meanwhile, the court disposed of the petition.After the court verdict, the Election Commission issued new schedule for the presidential election.

2. The provincial assembly build- Raza Rabbani unhappy ing, Lahore. change in polls schedule

over

3. The provincial assembly build- ISLAMABAD: Senator Mian Raza ing, Karachi. Rabbani, who is Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) candidate for 4. The provincial assembly build- upcoming presidential elections ing, Peshawar. has expressed concerns over apex court’s decision to change 5. The provincial assembly buildthe election schedule. Rabbani ing, Quetta. said that change will dent election Earlier, during the hearing, Attor- campaign of the candidates. He ney General Munir A Malik while said that it is not possible for canappearing before the court on no- didates to go to provincial headtice appraised the court that the quarters and ask legislators for federal government supports the support. Addressing a crowded petition, adding that it was the press conference in Federal Capita constitutional right of every mem- today he said that Supreme Court ber of the parliament to vote in the has issued order after listening to one side only. He was of the view presidential election. that court should have listened to The chief justice asked the AG as all the candidates instead of govto whether there existed any con- ernment only. Senor PPP leaders stitutional hurdle for rescheduling senator Aitzaz Ahsan, Makhdoom the election. The attorney gen- Amin Fahim and opposition leader eral confirmed that there exists no Syed Khurshid Shah were also constitutional bar in holding the present in the press conference. presidential election on July 30.

“Therefore, keeping in view the reasons/grounds put forward and also to ensure that the ECP may discharge its functions, we accordingly direct the ECP to change its schedule,” the court ruled in its The chief justice said there was he statement also noted that short order. no bar in holding the presidential the trend of desecration of holy election on July 30, adding that sites has hurt the sentiments of The court directed the ECP to hold the ECP should facilitate the proMuslims in Pakistan, as indeed the the presidential election with a cess. world over. Such violations, which changed scheduled i.e. also fuel sectarian strife, are most (a) Filling of nomination papers with During the hearing, Sher Afghan, reprehensible. the presiding officers at Islamabad Additional Secretary ECP, told the It said: “Pakistan calls upon the and with each of presiding officers court that the Election CommisGovernment of Syria to ensure at Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar and sion has to complete procedural formalities after publication of the safety and security of all holy Quetta on July 24. list of the validly nominated canshrines and buildings in Syria. (b) Scrutiny of nominationpapers didates, therefore, the polling day Pakistan also calls upon all parties by the returning officer at Islamand time has been fixed on 6th of to the conflict in Syria to observe abad on July 26 at 10:00am. August. international humanitarian law and help protect the common heritage (c) Withdrawal of candidature beWhen the court pointed out to him of mankind respecting the sanctity fore the returning officer at Islamthe reasons on account of which of the holy buildings and places of abad on July 27 up to 12:00 noon. the request has been made for anworship”. tedating the polling as incorporat(d) Publication of the list of validly The statement adds, that the nominated candidates on July 27 ed in the petition, he sought time to seek instructions from the ECP. Charge d’ Affairs of Syria in Islam- at 5:00 pm. abad has been called to the ForLater on he filed a statement beeign Office to convey the concerns (e) Polling day and polling time July fore the court for consideration of the Government and people of 30 from 10:00am to 3:00pm. stating that the Election CommisPakistan on the desecration of the sion has considered the matter holy shrine of Sayyeda Bibi Zainab. (f) Place of the poll 1. The Parlia-

regarding change of presidential election schedule.He submitted that the commission feels that it shall require three clear days between withdrawal-day and pollday to complete all necessary arrangements for conduct of election.

PPP says SC decision on presidential

poll date one-sided

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan People’s Party has criticised the Supreme Court’s decision to allow the government to hold the presidential election on July 30 instead of August 6, saying it was evaluating whether it should contest the election.

continued....

11 JULY - 2013

e are consulting our partners to boycott the presidential election and if we and our partners boycotted, then this election would become a meaningless exercise,” said the opposition leader in the Senate Aitzaz Ahsan while addressing a press conference along with PPPP president Makhdoom Amin Faheem, opposition leader in the National Assembly Syed Khursheed Shah and PPP’s presidential candidate Mian Raza Rabbani here on Wednesday.

Aitzaz Ahsan said the decision had been given without hearing the other candidates. Speaking on the occasion, Mian Raza Rabbani said a change in the presidential poll date would affect his campaign. “I am a presidential candidate but I was not served any notice pertaining to hearing the plea seeking a change in the poll date,” he said.

NEWS Syed Khursheed Shah said it was not possible to go to the voters in four cities in two days. He said the PPP had sought the cooperation of all the four major political parties, which shows its seriousness. “The PML-N is afraid of Mian Raza Rabbani and is complicating the issue,” he added.

PPP announces

boycott of presidential election

Aitzaz Ahsan said the Supreme Court, Election Commission of Pakistan and the PML-N had decided the matter without hearing the other parties. “The Supreme Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) anCourt has dictated the election nounced Friday it would boycott schedule to the Election Commisnext week’s presidential election sion,” he added. to protest against the vote being Aitzaz Ahsan said the PML-N was brought forward without consultation. afraid of the election campaign of he Supreme Court ruled Mian Raza Rabbani and had taken Wednesday that the ballot such measures to avoid defeat. would be held on July 30 instead He said the decision of the Su- of August 6 after the main ruling preme Court, as per the desire of party complained that the original the PML-N, creates doubts, as on date clashed with the end of Rathe very first hearing the decision madan. was announced without hearing Many lawmakers tasked with the four provincial election comelecting a replacement for Presimissioners. “I have never seen dent Asif Ali Zardari will be on pilsuch a decision in my 45-yeargrimage or offering special prayers long legal career,” he added. at the tail end of the holy fasting Raza Rabbani wondered how he month, the court said. would run his election campaign Twenty-four candidates applied as he belonged to the middle to stand in the vote, although the class and the opposition benches. election of Mamnoon Hussain, the “I cannot go to Karachi, Quetta, Lacandidate for the ruling Pakistan hore and Peshawar in two days. I Muslim League-N party is considhave no government machinery ered a foregone conclusion. to benefit from.” He said his opponent, being a part of the ruling “We have been left with no alternaparty, had all the government re- tive, but to boycott the election,” sources to reach the voters wheth- said Senator Raza Rabbani, the er in Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar or presidential candidate for the opQuetta. “I will be restricted to Is- position Pakistan People’s Party lamabad as scrutiny of the nomi- (PPP). nation papers will be held on July “The Supreme Court did not issue 26,” he said. us any notices, nor did they hear Rabbani said the Supreme Court, us or provide us an opportunity to on the petition of the N-League, present our point of view... a unigave a one-sided decision without lateral decision was made,” Rabhearing the other parties. ‘The Subani said. preme Court even gave the schedule of the presidential election,” he “We see it is part of moves to imadded. pose the centre’s rule again.”

Pakistan’s new president will be elected by members of the upper and lower houses of parliament and of four regional assemblies. Rabbani said that the Supreme Court decision made it difficult for him and other opposition candidates to campaign in four provincial capitals and the federal capital Islamabad in just two days.

litical party in Karachi, to join them in the PML-N-led federal coalition government. Thanking the PML-N for the invitation, Siddiqi said the offer would be discussed with the party’s senior leadership.

The PML-N delegation, comprising the finance minister, presidential candidate Mamnoon Hussain, Zardari was elected after the PPP and Information Minister Pervez won elections in 2008 following Rasheed, first called on Governor the assassination of his wife, for- Sindh Dr Ishratul Ibad at the Governor House in Karachi. mer premier Benazir Bhutto. The PPP served a full five-year term in office, but lost heavily in May general elections won by a PML-N landslide. Constitutional amendments brought in by the last PPP government mean that the president is a largely ceremonial role, though Zardari was seen as a sharp political operator behind the scenes.

MQM pledges ‘unconditional support’ for PML - N presidential nominee

KARACHI: The Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) on Friday officially announced its “unconditional support” for ruling party Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz (PML-N) candidate in the upcoming presidential elections.

he leader of the party, Altaf Hussain, has announced unconditional support to Mamnoon Hussain, the PML-N’s nominee for the presidential election,” MQM leader Khalid Maqbool Siddiqi told a press conference at the party’s ‘Nine-Zero’ headquarters at Azizabad.

Sources said that the Sindh governor spoke with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif over telephone. The PML-N delegation later visited ‘Nine-Zero’ where they met with members of the party’s Rabita Committee (central coordination committee). “If elected, I will try to ensure that I do not serve as the president of the PML-N, but a president for all political parties,” Mamnoon Hussain told a press conference following the meeting. “I will also pay special attention to Karachi for a viable solution to the problems of the city.” Meanwhile, the ruling party in Sindh province, the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has announced that it will boycott the presidential elections, set to take place on July 30 following the announcement of final candidates by the Election Commission on July 27. PPP candidate Raza Rabbani pulled out of the race at the last minute in protest of the revision of the election date from Aug 6 to July 30, following a decision by the Supreme Court on a petition by the ruling party. The nomination papers of Mamnoon Hussain and Iqbal Zafar Jhagra of PML-N and Justice (Retd) Wajihuddin Ahmad of Pakistan Tehrik-i-Insaf (PTI) were accepted on Friday. According to the Constitution, the president will be chosen for five years by an electoral college of 706 lawmakers, including 104 senators and 342 members of the National Assembly and 260 of the provincial assemblies.

50 seats of the national and provincial assemblies are currently Accompanied by a delegation of vacant, by-polls for which are the PML-N in Karachi, Finance scheduled for August 22, almost a Minister Ishaq Dar also formally month after the election of the new invited the MQM, the largest po- president.

12 JULY - 2013

NEWS

PTI to contest Karachi unrest: Unrest in Supreme Court Karachi: presidential Zardari gives election: Imran annoyed over Rangers report law-enforcers

a dressing down

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Chief Imran Khan said that his party candidate Justice (retd) Wa- KARACHI: The Supreme Court jihuddin Ahmed would contest the on Monday expressed anger over presidential elections. a report produced by the Sindh Rangers over Karachi unrest. Speaking in a press conference here, Khan said that his party An apex court bench was hearing would not boycott the elections the Karachi law and order case at but does not agree with the SC’s the Karachi Resgistry of the Sudecision on the change in dates of preme Court. presidential elections. The court expressed anger after the report was presented before it Imran Khan said that the PTI without the signatures of the DG would not leave the field open for Rangers. the PML-N. Justice Amir Hani Muslim asked He said the verdict of the Supreme the Rangers to resubmit the report Court for advancing the date of with DG’s signatures. presidential election was within During the hearing Justice Khilji the constitutional framework. Arif Hussain said the court might The time given to run the campaign summon DG Rangers if the need for presidential elections was not arose. enough, he said. The court inquired as to how moImran Khan thanked Jamaat-e- bile phones were brought in a KaIslami for its support for the PTI rachi jail and what action was takcandidate. en against the responsible officials. IG Jails told that the court that six ‘Rigging in the 11th May polls was officers were suspended over the the worst example one gets in hisissue. tory’ he said. The apex court also took notice PTI’s presidential candidate reof the recent escape of prisoners tired Justice Wajihuddin Ahmad from courts around the city and said the judgment of the Supreme has summoned a report and the Court had no constitutional‚ legal Chief Secretary on July 17. or moral blemish.

KARACHI: Growing impatient with law enforcers’ inability to control the law and order situation in Karachi, President Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday sought ‘deadline’ from police and Rangers officials to restore peace in the metropolis.

receive a different excuse from you every time … let me know when I can see peace in Karachi,” he said while chairing a meeting on law and order at Bilawal House.

Talking to reporters following the meeting, former interior minister Rehman Malik said action would be taken against criminals, regardless of their political affiliations. He added that more police and Rangers pickets would also be set up in sensitive areas of the city. Malik said Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan’s statement about taking Karachi under his control was also discussed at the meeting. “He is a federal minister … no one has stopped him from visiting Karachi and giving his input … but the Sindh government is doing its utmost to deal with the situation,” he said.

Sindh Chief Minister Qaim Ali Shah and Governor Dr Ishratul Ebad attended the meeting, along with the provincial chief secretary, additional home secretary, IGP, Rangers director general and other senior officials. According to Malik, the president Sources privy to the meeting told has also asked the Sindh governThe Express Tribune that President ment to install more CCTV camerZardari severely criticised the per- as in Karachi. “The provincial govformance of law enforcers in Ka- ernment has assured President rachi. “Some have asked me to Zardari that 3,000 cameras will be impose governor’s rule in Sindh set up by the end of this year.” and are questioning the competency of law-enforcers … Enough is enough,” sources quoted President Zardari as telling the officials of law-enforcement agencies. “Police and Rangers have been given a free hand in Karachi, but they still haven’t proven to be competent … If you need any assistance, tell me now … but I want to see peace in Karachi,” he said.

He revealed the Sindh government has also planned to convene an all-party conference on the Karachi issue.

Unrest in Lyari The meeting also focused on the situation in Lyari, which has seen clashes between the Baloch and Kutchi communities over the past few days.

The president was briefed by some Pakistan Peoples Party leaders from Lyari. According to sources, the leaders said that there was no dispute between the Baloch and Kutchi communities. They claimed a ‘third force’ was trying to crenation committee has condemned ate a rift in the area. The meeting the activities of the gangsters. In decided that stakeholders in Lyari a statement issued on Friday, the The meeting also decided to revive would be invited to a ‘peace conparty said Kutchis, Kathiawaris, the old intelligence network within ference’ in order to resolve the Memon and other peaceful com- police stations by seeking the help situation amicably. The date for munities in Lyari need protection. of notable people in different lo- the conference will be announced calities. soon. The ‘terrorists’ belonging to the Peoples Amn Committee are sub- “Sub-division (mohalla) committees Negotiations with MQM jecting people to torture while the comprising notable people from law enforcement agencies watch a certain area will be revived and President Zardari once again silently, the statement added. The more policemen would be recruit- asked the chief minister to develop KARACHI: Concerned about the committee demanded the gover- ed,” a senior police official said a good working relationship with ongoing violence in Lyari, the Mut- nor and chief minister take imme- while talking about the meeting’s the Muttahida Qaumi Movement. Opposition leader in the National tahida Qaumi Movement’s coordi- diate action. decision.

MQM concerned about Kutchis, other communities

Following the dressing down, law enforcement officials asked President Zardari to hand over operational control of 40 sensitive police stations to Rangers and suggested bringing in police reinforcements from rural Sindh for a targeted operation in the city.

continued....

13 JULY - 2013 Assembly Khursheed Shah and Rehman Malik will accompany the chief minister during negotiations with the MQM, which will begin within a few days. According to party sources, Malik will also contact Altaf Hussain prior to the start of the negotiations.

Mastermind of terrorist attack on Justice Maqbool aqar arrested

NEWS

Altaf Hussain interrogation carried out as per UK law, govt kept informed: Nisar

London Police say Altaf Hussain under investigation: Report

‘Zulfiqar Mirza has no intention to record statement against MQM’

LONDON: London Metropolitan Police said that an investigation Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar is being carried out against MutAli Khan said in a statement, on tahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) Thursday, that Muttahida Qaumi Chief Altaf Hussain on charges of Movement (MQM) Chief Altaf Hus- money laundering and provocasain’s interrogation is being carried tion to torture, BBC Urdu reported out according to UK laws. on Thursday.

A Criminal Investigation Department (CID) team on Wednesday night carried out a raid in Manghopir area of the city and arrested four terrorists involved in the attack on Chief Justice Sindh High Court (SHC) Justice Maqbool Baqar.

he mastermind of the attack was also among the arrested, the sources said. According to sources, the CID team arrested the accused associated with a banned organisation in a raid in the wee hours of Wednesday and shifted them to an undisclosed location. During interrogation by a joint investigation team, it was revealed that two of the accused were involved in the attack on the SHC judge.

The four terrorists were also involved in several other terror attacks in the city, where explosiveladen motorcycles were used in the attacks. The police also recovered weapons, ammunition and explosive material from the custody of the accused. At least nine people including eight security personnel were killed in the attack on Justice Baqar’s convoy on June 26 as it was passing through Burns Road in Karachi. Justice Baqar and 14 others were injured in the attack.

KARACHI: Former Sindh Home Minister and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Zulfiqar Mirza’s visit to London has led to speculation that he would help the Scotland Yard investigation ecently, on June 20, as part of ondon Police wrote a response against Muttahida Qaumi Movetheir investigation on the Imto BBC Urdu Service verifying ment (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain for ran Farooq murder case, Scotland the raids on Altaf Hussain’s resi- money laundering and instigating Yard had raided Hussain’s London dence and office. They also ac- violence in Karachi. house and some material was ceded that huge sums of money hen contacted, one of Mirseized from his residence. were seized from his home and za’s close aides said that the PPP leader was on a personal visit Following this Altaf Hussain re- office. signed as party head on June 30, The investigation has started but to London. voluntarily handing over party’s au- no arrests have been made as yet, “Mirza has gone with his family. thority and responsibilities to the police said. He has no intentions to record a Rabita Committee, only to take Furthermore, during a reports prestatement against the MQM chief,” back the decision of resignation pared by BBC show News Night, PPP MNA Kamal Chang from Bafew hours later on request of his the police told a BBC correspondin said. party workers. dent that the investigation into forThe interrogation is being carried mer MQM leader Imran Farooq’s Local media reported that President Asif Ali Zardari, who is also out in London and not in Pakistan murder was also underway. in London, telephoned Mirza and but the Pakistani government is Earlier in June, as part of their inrequested him to not meet with being kept informed, Chaudhry vestigation into the Imran Farooq the British investigators. The latNisar added. murder case, Scotland Yard raided ter, however, allegedly refused to abide by the president’s advice. Commenting on other issues Altaf Hussain’s house in London. faced by the country, Nisar said The search operation continued for Mirza is said to be the arch rival of to resolve the matters concerning over 55 hours. MQM chief Altaf Hussain. namaloom afrad, Aafia Siddiqui Later in July, a spokesperson for and terrorism three task forces will He had resigned from the ministry submit their reports in two weeks. the Metropolitan Police in London and a senior position in the PPP had told, that a significant amount of money was seized in the raid about two years ago after criticizIn June, British police arrested 52-year-old Iftikhar Hussain at from the house of the MQM chief. ing Altaf Hussain and the MQM for Heathrow Airport and took him to However, the spokesperson did being involved in creating havoc in the West London police station as not disclose whether the politician Karachi. Mirza later went to London and had announced he would is being questioned over it. part of the investigation process. lodge a complaint with Scotland He also expressed concern over Another spokesperson said that if Yard with evidence against the the situation in Egypt and said that a money laundering case is estab- MQM, but the PPP — that was Egyptian people should be given a lished, then it would be treated as a coalition partner in the governchance to choose their own gov- a financial case, separate from the ment — had asked him to refrain murder case of Dr Imran Farooq. from doing so. ernment.

14 JULY - 2013

ANP puts weight

NEWS

BBC Two, in its investigative report on the MQM during its programme Newsnight, had raised several questions about allegations of money-laundering, murder of Dr Imran Farooq,incitement According to the spokesperson of violence through hate speech, for Bilawal House, the allegations and the MQM’s overall image of were only meant to malign the deviolence. Host Jeremy Paxman voted party worker. Soon after the Awami National Party (ANP) on termed the party one of the most blast took place, President Zardari Thursday announced its support feared parties in the country. asked the Sindh IG for a report on for PPP-nominated presidential candidate Senator Raza Rabbani. der to hold presidential elections the people involved in the incident, Federal lawmaker Ali Raza Abidi on July 30, instead of August 6 as saying “I want to find out as soon while talking to Media said the reSenator Rabbani held a meeting earlier announced by the Election as possible who killed Bilal and the port was biased and ignored the with ANP Chief Asfandyar Wali other people.” targeting of MQM by the Taliban. Commission. Khan to discuss the upcoming “MQM is the only remaining sane presidential elections scheduled He said although his party has de- The party has termed the incident voice against terrorism, but sadly on July 30 and the situation that cided to support the candidature as a terrorist attack, alleging the the BBC did not highlight that.” arose after the Supreme Court of Senator Rabbani, a decision people who killed their leaders, injudgment on the issue. to boycott the election in protest cluding Benazir Bhutto, were also MQM’s Rabita Committee member Wasay Jalil, who is currently ANP leader expressed reserva- against Supreme Court judgment involved in this “cowardly act”. in London, said on Twitter that the will be taken later in the evening. tions over the Supreme Court orShaikh leaves behind four children report was aimed to tarnish the and a widow. His will be laid to rest image of their leader, and the proin the Liaquatabad graveyard. paganda was not new.

behind

Raza Rabbani

Reports of allegations against him surfaced during his career and he was implicated in a few cases as well but the court acquitted him on all charges.

for presidential election

Bilal Sheikh was killed at the same location as Benazir’s security officer KARACHI:

he venue where the chief security officer of Benazir Bhutto, Munawar Suharwardy, was killed on June 17, 2004, witnessed the death of the personal security officer of President Asif Ali Zardari, Bilal Sheikh, nine years later – a suicide bomb blast near Gurumandir on Wednesday claimed the life of the 43-year-old jiyala along with killing three other people, including the alleged bomber. Less than a month ago, the Pakistan Peoples Party’s workers commemorated the death anniversary of Suharwardy, demanding the government to re-investigate the murder of their leader and expose the assassins. But before the government could meet their demand, PPP lost another activist, Bilal Sheikh, on the same spot where Suharwardy lost his life. Shaikh, born in Haji Mureed Goth,

MQM trashes BBC programme, considers lawsuit

Meanwhile, speaking on condition of anonymity, a MQM member stated that the party was considering filing a defamation suit against the BBC. In the programme, Paxman put up a series of questions including if Britain was providing sanctuary to an organisation which threatens and persecutes others? Will Britain put Altaf Hussain on trial? And why does the government keep doors open for the MQM? In the report, Owen Bennett Jones, showed Altaf’s house where the Scotland Yard conducted a raid in June and according to the BBC seized hundreds of thousands of pounds. The programme also carried interviews of eyewitnesses and reported on threatening speeches by Altaf Hussain, including the one in which he threatened the UK government against hatching conspiracies against the party.

KARACHI: Key leaders of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) Nazimabad, started his political on Thursday heaped scorn at career by joining Peoples Student the British Broadcasting CorpoFederation (PSF), student wing of PPP, in 1986. Being an active ration (BBC) for running a vilificaworker, he was appointed as the tion campaign against its Londonvice-president PPP’s central dis- based chief Altaf Hussain and trict. He also served as president raising questions about their party’s alleged involvement in money of PS 107. After the report, Paxman grilled laundering. MQM leader Farooq Sattar live, When Benazir Bhutto was returnhe party’s leaders lashed out at asking him how much money was ing to Pakistan after her self-imthe BBC Two report on Thurs- seized, what it was for and where posed exile in 2007, Shaikh acted it come from. as the leader of Janisaran-e-Bena- day, calling it propaganda and part zir Bhutto and managed her secu- of a defamation campaign. Responding to the scathing critirity. MQM deputy convener Khalid cism, Sattar said that the matHe survived two attacks in 2006 Maqbool Siddiqui at a press con- ter was “under investigation” and and 2007, only sustaining injuries ference said such programmes should not be made subject of in one. When President Zardari strengthen the bond between media trial. took over the office, Shaikh was their leader and party workers. He “BBC is a very reputable organisaappointed as his personal security said that they reserve the right to tion. But after seeing the report, it protest peacefully, and would do officer. against such programmes. “We seems that there has been an inHis duties took him wherever the have full confidence in our chief. fluence of pro-Taliban and radical president went – within the coun- His statements were taken out of forces,” blurted out a visibly disturbed Sattar. context.” try and abroad.

continued....

15 JULY - 2013 A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed to Media on Thursday that the incitement probe was under way. “Investigations started in May when we received a series of complaints,” he said; referring to the Pakistan Tehreek-e Insaf (PTI) activists who complained to Scotland Yard against Altaf, when during one of his speeches he threatened them by alluding to the three swords of Clifton.

NEWS

Trend continues: Girls outshine boys, bag top positions

KARACHI: In keeping with tradition, girls outshone boys and bagged the top three positions in the annual Secondary School Certificate Part-II (General Group) examinations conducted under the aegis of Board of Secondary Education Karachi (BISEK).

MQM to remain firm in face of H conspiracies: Altaf Hussain

afiza Hafsa Binte Qamar and Hafiza Ayesha Ilyas of Iqra Haffaz Girls Secondary School, North Nazimabad, finished first and second respectively while Tooba Imran of Mama Baby Care, Kinder Garden primary and secondary school, Guru Mandir, came in third.

Haifza Hafsa, who secured 776 marks out of 850 (91.92 per cent), told Media she was unfazed by the load-shedding as she learnt how to work around the issue. “I made a plan so that I didn’t waste my time when the lights were out,” she said. “I used to revise what I had already memorised during LONDON: Muttahida Qaumi load-shedding hours.” She attribMovement (MQM) will remain uted her success to her parent’s steadfast in face of the latest inter- prayers and said that her career national conspiracies against the ambition is to become a teacher. party, said MQM chief Altaf Hus- She plans to continue her studies at the same school, she added. sain on Friday.

Pleasantly surprised over finishing second, Hafiza Ayesha said that although she was hopeful of securing 90 per cent marks, she didn’t expect a position in the board. Ayesha, who obtained 765 marks (90 per cent), however, said that load-shedding, especially during the night, gave her a tough Today, the MQM chief said that time. She too wants to be associhe will not disappoint his work- ated with the teaching profession. ers, adding that such conspiracies were hatched in the past but noth- For Tooba Imran, success came as a result of consistent hard work. ing was proven. “I used to put in eight hours of work Hussain added that anti-MQM el- every day and regular study of text ements will soon face disappoint- books was the key to my sucment. cess along with encouragement from parents and school teachers.” On June 2, the London police Tooba, who bagged 756 marks raided Hussain’s house in the city (88.94 per cent), is not interested and seized many items in relation in conventional fields for women to their investigations of Farooq’s and wants to be a banker. “I was murder. very good at Economics and want Recently, the BBC also ran a doc- to become a banker.” ussain made this statement in response to the recent probe going on in London against him. The investigations are reportedly related to allegations of moneylaundering, murder of Dr Imran Farooq and incitement of violence through hate speech.

umentary about the investigations carried out in London. MQM leaders lashed out at the report, calling it a propaganda and defamation campaign.

BISEK controller of examinations Noman Ahsan told Media that a ceremony would be arranged to honour the position holders after the Science Group result was announced.

16 JULY - 2013

NEWS

Maximize the last 10 days of Ramadan Laylatul Qadr (the Night of Power) is described in the Quran as, “better than a thousand months” (97:3). Any action done on this night such as reciting the Quran, remembering Allah, etc. is better than acting for one thousand months which do not contain the night of Qadr.

2. Do I’tikaf.

Abu Huraira narrated that the Messenger said: Whoever stands (in It was a practice of the Prophet to prayer) in Laylatul Qadr while nourspend the last ten days and nights ishing his faith with self-evaluation, of Ramadan in the masjid for I’tikaf. expecting reward from Allah, will Those in I’tikaf stay in the masjid all have all of his previous sins forgivthis time, performing various forms en. [Bukhari and Muslim). of zikr (the remembrance of Allah), Don’t just pray using the shorter like doing extra Salat, recitation Surahs that you know. Try to make and study of the Quran. They do your prayers longer, deeper and Allah’s Messenger used to not go outside the masjid except meaningful. If you are familiar with exert himself in devotion in case of emergencies, there- longer Surahs, read the transladuring the last ten nights fore, they sleep in the masjid. Their tion and explanation and then pray to a greater extent than at families or the masjid administra- reciting these Surahs, carefully reany other time.” (Muslim). tion takes care of their food needs. flecting on the meaning while you Allah’s peace and bless- I’tikaf of a shorter period of time, pray. ings be upon our beloved like one night, a day or a couple of days is encouraged as well. Even if you are only familiar with Prophet. the shorter Surahs, read the transAisha, may Allah be 3. Make this special Dua. lation and explanation beforehand, pleased with her, related Aisha, may Allah be pleased with and then pray reflecting on the that the Prophet said: Look her, said: I asked the Messenger message of the Surahs. for Laylatul Qadr on an of Allah: ‘O Messenger of Allah, if odd-numbered night dur- I know what night is the night of This is a good way to develop the ing the last ten nights of Qadr, what should I say during it?’ habit of concentration, even in regular prayers, where many of Ramadan (Bukhari). He said: ‘Say: O Allah, You are us tend to be fidgety and/or easily The Prophet said: “Whoev- pardoning and You love to pardon, distracted. er prays during the night of so pardon me.’ “(Ahmad, Ibn Ma7. Make a personal Dua list. Qadr with faith and hoping jah, and Tirmidhi).

for its reward will have all of The transliteration of this Dua his previous sins forgiven.” is “Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun (Bukhari and Muslim re- tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘annee” corded from Abu Huraira). 4. Recite the Quran. Here are some tips of things we can do on the Perhaps you can choose Surahs Night of Power and the or passages from the Quran, time before and after it. which you have heard in Tarawih this past Ramadan to recite. 1. Take a vacation for Allah. If you attend a class where the We take a break from our recitation of the Quran is taught, jobs for almost everything this is a great time to put your in life. Why not this time to knowledge into practice. focus on worshiping and thanking our Creator. 5. Reflect on the meaning of the Quran. If this is not possible at least take a few days off Choose the latest Surah or Surahs if you can. This can make you’ve heard in Tarawih and read it easier to stay awake at their translation and Tafseer. Then night to do extra Ibadah, think deeply about their meaning not having to worry about and how it affects you on a pergetting to work the next sonal level. day. It will also facilitate do6. Get your sins wiped out. ing Itikaf.

Ask yourself what you really want from Allah. Make a list of each and everything, no matter how small or how big it is, whether it deals with this world or not. Allah loves to hear from us. Once this list is ready, you can do three things: Ask Allah to give you those things Think about what actions you have taken to get those things Develop a work plan to get those things in future. 8. Evaluate yourself. Ask yourself those questions that need to be asked. Do an evaluation of where you are and where you are going. Let this evaluation lead you to feel happiness for the good you have done and remorse for the bad you have done. This latter feeling should make it easier to seek Allah’s sincere forgive-

ness when making the Dua mentioned in tip number one above. 9. Make long, sincere and deep Duas One of the best times to do this is during the last part of the night. Abu Huraira, may Allah be pleased with him, related that the Prophet said: When the last one-third of the night remains, our Lord, the Glorious One descends towards the heaven of the earth and proclaims: Who is that who supplicates for Me, and I grant his supplication? Who is that who begs Me for anything and I grant it to him? And who is that who seeks My forgiveness, and I forgive him? (Bukhari, Muslim). That means for instance, waking up one hour before Suhoor time to ask Allah for anything and everything you want that is Halal. This can be done using the Duas of the Sunnah, but also Dua in your own language, with sincerity and conviction. 10. Memorize a different Dua every night They don’t have to be long. They can be just one line. And be sure to know what they mean generally at least, even if you don’t know the exact translation in English. You can put them on index cards (or and keep them with you during the day, glancing at them during work, while driving, waiting in line, etc.) Then practice them at night in prayer.

17 JULY - 2013

NEWS

Pakistan’s first sect-free mosque calls for end to

discrimination

easy: At first, authorities refused to register it as a sect-free mosque. Under Capital Development Authority rules, every mosque has to declare its sect following, before being granted permission to build the mosque. The procedure involved some complicated maneuvering: To bypass the strict rules, he registered a trust, and then sub-registered the mosque under the trust’s banner: The Al-Kitaab Foundation Trust.

celebrate Eid Mubarak, on the day Eid Mubarak all Muslims wear new cloths specially Kurta Pajama or Jubba, and spray the perfumes and then going to the Masjid for doing of pray of Eid Mubarak.

After the completion of Namaz of Eid Mubarak all Muslims have to meet our families and friends and eat swain specailly.

allied print & copy DESIGN • PRINT • SIGNS

773.334.5200

We are waiting Eid Mubarak 2013, which is very important for me and also for all Muslims

id Mubarak 2013 is one of the great festival of Muslims, All Muslims do fast on the month of Ramadan 2013 and after completion of one month all Muslims are celebrating Eid Mubarak 2013. Ramadan was started from the date of 11th July 2013 and and end of Ramadan month on the date of 8th August 2013 and Eid Mubarak 2013 takes place on the date of 9th August 2013. Now all Muslims are waiting for Eid Mubarak 2013 because these day is celebrating day and one of the great day for all Muslims, Eid is one of the popular festival hole in the world. Muslims populations is very high so numbers of celebrating of Eid Mubarak 2013 is will be high, After completion of Roza all Muslims

• BUSINESS CARDS • FLYERS • BROCHURES • POSTERS • MENUS • MONTHLY MAGAZINES • NEWSLETTERS • BOOKLETS • LARGE FORMAT SIGNAGE • MAILING SERVICES & MUCH MORE

5640 N. Broadway, Chicago, IL 60660 Fax: 773.334.5757 info@alliedprintandcopy.com www.alliedprintandcopy.com

1000 BUSINESS CARDS $49 Full Color, 2 Sides, 16pt Cardstock

1000 POST6CARDS $109 4 X

Full Color, 2 Sides, 16pt Cardstock

1000 FLYERS 8½x11 $169 Full Color, 2 Sides, 100 lb. Gloss Text

• COLOR PRINTS • FAXES • SCANNING • BINDERY • GRAPHIC DESIGNS

1000

BROCHURES OR MENUS

$179

Full Color, 2 Sides, 8½x11, with folding

1000 DOOR Banner HANGERS $189 4ftx6ft 4x11 Full Color, 2 sided, cover stock

PRINT SPECIALS

Eid Mubarak 2013

Meanwhile, Iqbal has already found an Imam for the mosque – Qari Jehangir, who is currently doing his Master’s degree from the Islamic University. The coordinator ISLAMABAD: Darul Iman Jamia of the mosque is doing his MBA Masjid Qurtuba’s story is as dra- from Preston University. Both are matic as the sectarian history of young men in their twenties. The Pakistan. The newly-built mosque Imam and Khateeb are both from in Islamabad’s Margalla foothills is different sects – and the mosque calling upon its followers to stop administration says it will have discriminating along sectarian no problem if a Shia Imam leads lines and to start praying together – prayers. in whichever way they like – under There’s a simple philosophy behind the same roof. Iqbal’s revolutionary idea. For the ahid Iqbal is a local business- mosque’s administration, brandman who conceptualised the ing Islam along sectarian lines has idea of a sect-free mosque in damaged religion more than any 2010. He bought the mosque plot other reason. “By branding ourin the E-11 sector. But the road to selves on sectarian lines we have the realisation of his dream wasn’t even put non-believers to shame

$98

Full Color One Side on Vinyl Material

continued....

18 JULY - 2013

NEWS

through violence and unruly conduct,” the businessman said. He believes that mullahs have turned religion into business ventures for petty personal gains. Calling his prayer hall a ‘model mosque’, Iqbal added, “This is God’s house. Even non-Muslims are allowed to come and seek the light.” In addition, the mosque, located in the northern strip of the capital in the E-11/2 sector, not only invites all sects, but also has a separate section for women, and a library filled with religious books from all sects. With the support of other businessmen and overseas Pakistanis, the 2-kanal compound has been built at a cost of Rs30 million.

try, at least 72 people were killed after clashes erupted during a proMorsi sit-in, in Nasr city of Cairo on Saturday.

Controversy over naming of Muslim student to University of California board REUTERS

Muslim Brotherhood accused the security forces of using live ammunition on demonstrators during the mass rallies, which swept Egypt to condemn Morsi’s overthrow The mosque is also funding at by the army. However, the interior least ten students’ completion ministry denied the claims, saying of their Bachelor’s degree, which they could otherwise not have af- the forces only used tear gas to disperse the crowd. forded. So far, Iqbal is thrilled by the reaction he has received from people. “There has been individual criticism but overall a collective acceptance amongst the community is settling in,” he said, adding that people from different sects are already praying there together, although the number is not yet big enough to cover the 350-people prayer hall.

Egypt interim presidency “ saddened” by Cairo clashes

gypt’s interim presidency, though linking the killings to “terrorism,” has expressed its deep sorrow over the death of at least 72 people during Saturday clashes. “We are saddened by the spilling of blood on the 27th, but we cannot decouple this incident from the context of terrorism,” Mostafa Hegazy, an adviser to the new interim government, said on Sunday. According to Egypt’s health minis-

tioned the regents to deny Saifuddin a seat on the board. “An appropriate Muslim candidate could have ably served in this position. We don’t believe Sadia is that appropriate candidate,” he added. Despite the opposition, 25 university regents voted on Wednesday to confirm her appointment with one member, Richard Blum, abstaining from the vote. He cited concerns about Saifuddin’s divestment efforts. “I’m beyond blessed, and I’m very excited for this position,” Saifuddin said after the vote, wearing a floral Muslim headscarf and beaming as she walked through a largely supportive crowd to accept her seat. In her acceptance speech, Saifuddin said she hoped to make the university system accessible to more students. She could not later be reached for comment on controversies surrounding her nomination.

Hegazy further added that the interim government “would be taking a stance after investigation ends, regardless of whoever is found responsible.”

SAN FRANCISCO: The University of California appointed a Muslim American woman as a student member of its governing board on Wednesday in a move opposed by He also described Cairo’s Nasr Jewish groups that objected to her Saifuddin’s supporters said she City, where the protests had oc- pro-Palestinian activism. was an exemplary student who curred, as a “terror-originating adia Saifuddin, a 21-year-old cared about students of all faiths spot,” saying, “There is a wave of social welfare major at the and has worked to benefit the systerror and we will break this wave.” prestigious University of California tem as a senator in the Association of Students of the University “The government is exhausting ev- at Berkeley, will become the first of California and a member of the ery single channel to find a solu- Muslim student member of the Muslim Student Association. tion to save blood and save face,” 26-person board of regents for a year-long term starting in 2014. Hegazy concluded. “Sadia is a remarkable young womThe Egyptian interim interior min- Jewish groups including the prom- an. She is committed to supportister said on July 27 that the sit-in inent Simon Wiesenthal Center ing all of UC students, and to this protests in the capital Cairo by the strongly objected to her nomi- university and this country which supporters of ousted President nation, citing her involvement in she loves,” said Regent Bonnie Mohamed Morsi will be “brought to a campaign to divest university Reiss, who chaired the student rean end soon and in a legal manner.” funds from companies with busi- gent selection committee. ness connections to the Israeli Reiss, who is Jewish, said the Muslim Brotherhood activists and military. committee would not have selecttheir supporters have been staging sit-in protests at Nasr City They also objected to her spon- ed Saifuddin to be a student reand al-Nahda Square in Cairo soring a student senate resolution gent if they thought she was antifor weeks, demanding Morsi to that condemned a lecturer at the Semitic, responding to complaints be reinstated. The North African system’s Santa Cruz campus for that the divestment campaign incountry has been the scene of in- what the resolution said was Is- cluded elements of anti-Semitism. creasing violence since the head lamophobic rhetoric. Council on American-Islamic Relaof Egypt’s armed forces, General tions spokesman Ibrahim Hooper Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi, said on July The groups said it was Saifuddin said opponents who disagreed 3 that Morsi was no longer in of- who showed an intolerance towith Saifuddin’s politics wanted to fice and appointed the head of ward opposing viewpoints. unjustly exclude her from civic parthe Supreme Constitutional Court, ticipation. “In a year where campus climate Adly Mansour, as the new interim issues have been the dominant president. theme of the UC system, a vote “Anytime an American Muslim rises to a prominent position, or According to the Egyptian sourc- to appoint somebody who has starts to rise to prominence, that es, at least 150 people have been served to polarise thousands and tiny minority of ‘Islamophobes’ in killed and 5,200 others wounded thousands of people in the camour society goes into action and in unabated clashes between the pus community and beyond is seeks to marginalise and disenfransupporters and opponents of Mo- shocking,” said Rabbi Aron Hier of chise that individual,” Hooper said. the Wiesenthal Center, which petihamed Morsi across the country.

19 JULY - 2013

Pakistan wrap up

West Indies’ tour on winning note

SPORTS In reply, West Indies lost their first three wickets in three overs, including another failure for Chris Gayle, who lobbed a ball straight to cover and was out for one. Dwayne Bravo, Narine and Kieron Pollard threatened a dramatic rescue, even though the asking run rate went to more than 12 an over. During a dramatic 17th over, Pollard smashed 20 runs off the first four balls with two sixes landing on the roof of the stand.

series in which they have taken a 2-0 lead, but they have never earned a 5-0 whitewash over Australia. “We are very conscious of not getting ahead of ourselves,” added Lancashire’s Anderson, who needs six wickets to pass Bob Willis’s 325 and become England’s second-highest Test wicket-taker of all time.

Masters, had been three clear of the field going into Sunday, but took two shots to get out of a bunker at the last. Rain and lightning caused play in the final round to be suspended on two occasions.

Both men wanted to finish the tournament on Sunday for scheduling reasons but, after they each “We have to concentrate on win- parred the 18th twice, play was ning this game and not looking too halted. far ahead in the series.” On Monday, Langer’s approach Anderson will be playing on home on the fifth play-off hole landed soil during the third Test, with Old just short of the green and, after Trafford the home of his county chipping on, he missed with a par side Lancashire. putt to keep the tournament alive.

Zulfiqar Babar then had him caught in the deep and took a second wicket with the next ball, dismissing Bravo in similar fashion. Tino Best, the last man in, threatened some drama too with two huge “I am very excited about it. I have The win, which earned the Amerinot played an Ashes Test here be- can £207,000 in prize money, is a sixes but fell short in the end. sixth career victory for Wiebe, 55. fore,” he said.

akistan wrapped up their tour of the West Indies with an 11run win in the second Twenty20 international in St Vincent on Sunday to complete a one-day double over the world T20 champions.

Ashes 2013: No thoughts of whitewash, says James Anderson

Scorecard The visitors ran through the home team’s top order at the Arnos Vale Ground in Kingstown to lay the foundation for success as they defended a modest target of 135 for seven by restricting the West Indies to 124 for nine from their 20 overs. It ensured a successful conclusion to Pakistan’s tour on the back of a 3-1 win in the five-match ODI series played in Guyana and St Lucia. Opener Ahmed Shehzad scored a breezy 44 in 53 balls but was not supported by his partners. His departure for the fourth wicket in the 13th over brought Umar Akmal to the crease and he took over the scoring responsibility on a slow track.

Najam Sethi appoints “The whole region is cricket-mad and to get an Ashes Test back is a Moin huge thing for the area.” Khan Senior Open: Mark Wiebe beats PCB chief selector

Bernhard Langer in play-off

ngland seamer James Anderson says he and his team-mates are not yet contemplating a 5-0 Ashes series whitewash over Australia. Holders England lead 2-0 ahead of the third Test at Old Trafford, which begins on Thursday, after edging the first Test at Trent Bridge and then dominating Australia at Lord’s. “It (5-0) is not something we are really focusing on,” said Anderson, 31. “We played really well in the first two games. Our job is to improve on that.”

While spinner Sunil Narine threatened to sweep through the rest of the Pakistan batting, taking three wickets in a second spell at the end of the innings, Akmal helped push the tally to 135 with an unbeaten 46 off 56 balls.

“The ground looks amazing, the America’s Corey Pavin, Peter Senior redevelopments have made huge of Australia and South Africa’s David improvements and come Thurs- Frost tied for third at six under par. day it will be an incredible atmosphere and something we are all looking forward to.

England are aiming to retain the Ashes after winning the last contest 3-1 down under in 2010-11, their third victory in the past four series. England have won eight of the nine

he Pakistan Cricket Board has appointed former captain Moin Khan as chief selector. He replaces Iqbal Qasim who has resigned recently. With the appointment, all members of the selection committee have been reinstated, including Azhar Khan, Saleem Jaffar, Asif Baloch and Farrukh Zaman.

Moin Khan has been appointed by PCB acting chairman Najm Sethi, although he doesn’t have the right to do so under the board’s constitution and a recent decision by a merican Mark Wiebe overcourt. came Bernhard Langer on the fifth play-off hole to win the Senior Moin looks happy with the deciOpen at Royal Birkdale. sion, and so do most players of Karachi. But an appointment by After play had been halted bePCB’s acting chairman does not cause of darkness following two augur well for Moin’s future. Howextra holes on Sunday, the tourever, his appointment has been nament carried over to a fifth day. generally welcomed by experts Playing the 18th for a fifth time in and fans, because of his attachthe sudden-death play-off, Langer ment to Pakistan cricket and his could not match the par four of knowledge of contemporary techniques used in the sport, which the American. will definitely help cricket prosper German Langer, 55, let a two-shot in the country. lead slip at the 72nd hole on Sunday to allow Wiebe into the play-off. Moin played 69 Tests and 219 ODIs for Pakistan, including 13 Langer, a two-time winner of the Tests he captained.

20 JULY - 2013

SHOWBIZ

Main Hoon Shahid Afridi trailer will bowl you over!

hat a promising year this is turning out to be for Pakistani cinema. With two films (indie film Siyaah and Shahzad Nawaz’s Chambaili) having been released already, we are anticipating a few more. And the trailer that has caught our attention is the recently released teaser of Six Sigma’s Main Hoon Shahid Afridi. We can’t decide if it’s the two-second clip of the sizzling Mahnoor Baloch dancing that has us going gaga, or the fact that the storyline is based on a sport close to our rivals. He and his team take help from former cricketer Akbar Deen hearts. (played by Humayun Saeed), who MHSA is the story of a young man helps them but has a dark past of who dreams of becoming the star his own. cricketer himself, but is struggling to achieve his dream. He realises The Main Hoon Shahid Afridi team that his final chance is a cricket describes the film as “a journey of tournament that will take place in mistrust, betrayal, love, power and Sialkot, where he hopes he can unfulfilled dreams” — we can’t defeat professional, undefeated wait to watch it on Eid ul Fitr!

India Tribune Nite …a sensational treat of fashion and dance

olling Meadows, IL: It was extravaganza of fashion, dances, breathtaking lights and sound as India Tribune presented the India Tribune Nite 2013 which rocked a capacity audience at the classy Meadows Club here on Saturday, July 13, 2013. ‘Outstanding...”, “breathtaking”, “the best community event”, were only some of the accolades which were heard, as the audience were treated to a vibrant fashion show by Studio Elite choreographed by Monica Gandhi and presented by Shahida Khan and Abiha Javed Khan. This was followed by a truly memorable dance concert aptly titled “Dance, Vance te Rhythm Suhana” by performers from Hollywood and Chicago led by choreographer and dancer Shivani Thakkar. The show was conceived and scripted by Madan Kulkarni and narrated by Shebani Kulkarni.

spoke briefly to the audience and emphasized the fact that the evening was going “to be and about entertainment, entertainment and entertainment”. Following this Leah Nandy presented the “Agneepath” dance which again wowed the audience for its subtle grace and footwork. The fashion show then presented by Studio Elite held sway for the next 30 minutes as energetic and sprightly models paraded an exquisite collection of designer outfits by leading designers from South Asia. The churidars, lehengas, kaftaans and other accessories sizzled under the dazzling lights and through innovative presentations conceived and choreographed by Monica Gandhi. The audience were mesmerized by the rich designs and intricate work on the outfits presented. A brief glimpse of the cultural show which was to follow the dinner was then announced by Shebani Kulkarni and a riveting presentation of classical and fusion styles, Dola re & Dum Dum was presented by the MKM Bollystars from Hollywood. It raised the expectation levels of the audience as a gourmet multi-course dinner was served to the audience with wine and champagne service. The gourmet dishes made by the chefs of the Meadows Club and the prompt service drew a lot of appreciation from the audience.

Lanuza delighted the audience in their traditional Indian outfits as they performed to the Taraana from the movie Thak Shak in “Bollywood Natyam”. The lyrical element of Bollywood was then presented by the MKM Bollystars, DeVaughn, Derek, Yasmeen and Meghan Nichols. Set to some brilliant lighting by Mike Kellner the dance was a visual delight. The vibrant and colorful folk element of Bollywood was demonstrated by a video clipping which was followed by the Spirit of Rangeela presented by Megan and Jessica which featured colorful props and entrancing movements. This was followed a high energy Rajasthani folk style presentation of Dholna by the MKM

Apart from the desserts the mood was enhanced by some melodious songs by Chicago songstress Kathakali Das Gupta.

Post dinner the audience settled by the attentive staff of the Meaddown to witness what can only ows Club. The attendees were imbe termed as a command performediately in high spirits and walked mance by the extremely talented into the main ballroom with high experformers from Hollywood and pectations. Their expectations were Chicago. A heady mix of Indian, Latjustified as they settled into their in, Caucasian and Black performers seats marveling at the table décor, gave their own twist to famous Bolthe soft lighting and the brightly lit lywood tunes which reflected the screens. international appeal of Bollywood Tanya Prabhakar launched the eve- music and dance today. The choning by welcoming the audience and reography of Shivani Thakkar was introducing the first performance, an exceptional and innovative. invocatory number by Leah Nandy, The classical element was first ina student of Guru Dilshad Khan. It troduced to the audience by narwas a very skillful performance with The finesse and energy of the MKM beautiful movements and expres- rator Shebani Kulkarni and then a short video clip showing Bollystars from Hollywood, the sions in the Kathak Style of dance. famous classical Bollysensuousness of Arabian dancers wood performances over Megan and Jessica and the breath- The invocation was followed by the the years was presented. taking pyrotechnics of hip hop and introduction of Congressman Danny breakers Danny Haywood and the Davis by Tanya. The Congressman This was followed by an expressive Brave Monks from Chicago had the then read out a special proclama- extremely Bharat Natyam piece audience gasping in awe and ap- tion applauding and appreciating the contributions of India Tribune “Bho Shambho” by chopreciation. and its publisher Prashant Shah to reographer and dancer Shivani Thakkar. Black The evening began with a cocktail the community in the US. and Latin performers hour which featured some tasty appetizers and top shelf spirits served Eric Shah of India Tribune then Erica Duff and Gloria

Bollystars. The color, the beats, the lights and the dancers had the audience in raptures. The pop and hip hop sections were then introduced to audience and a brilliant James Brown number Good Foot, choreographed by Cheryl Baxter was presented by Derek and Tom in the true tap dance style of Hollywood greats. It was both a slick and engaging piece which lent a variety to the show. Next the guests were treated an explosive, energy driven piece of sheer technique, skill and pyrotech-

21 JULY - 2013

HEALTH Health tips for Ramadan

Money Gram Iftari distribution campaign nics by Danny Haywood and his Brave Monks of Chicago. Dancing to drums of AR Rahman’s Ishq Dance the skill of the performers in hip hop, lock and pop and street dance styles drew repeated gasps of amazement from the guests. Cabaret ad Mujra was the next segment which was introduced with a short video clipping and true Bollywood cabaret style opening number Apni to jaisi taisi instrumental by Jessica Beuckman. And then an absolutely breathtaking medley of cabarets and a mujra by the MKM Bollystars had the guests squealing and screaming in delight. Nostalgia and admiration was evident as this mixed group of dancers performed to hits like “ Duniya Mein, Piya Tu, Do Ghoont Mujhe Bhi, Ae Mera Dil, Salaam-e-Ishq, Kaisi Paheli Zindagani”, and “Chamma Chamma”. The lights and sound added to the glamour and finesses of the presentation. A brief vote of thanks on behalf of India Tribune was then presented by Madan Kulkarni, founder and CEO of the Meadows Club before the house was brought down again by another exquisite finale presentation, a medley of Talli Ho Gayi and Jai Ho by the MKM Bollystars . A special mention needs to be made for the brilliant lighting and sound designs of Mike Kellner and Anil Mahajan of Tantrixx and showreels for the evening put together by Sri Latha and Nagesh from Chicago and director Milind Oak from India. Speaking later Mr Prashant Shah, the long time Publisher of India Tribune complimented the choreographers, performers and directors of the show for an outstanding presentation and said he was already thinking and planning for the next year’s event. The audience reactions could be summed by a statement by noted physician and a decorated Gujarati poet, Ashraf Dabawala who celebrated his birthday on during the event with his friends. “ You do not get to see this kind of a performance in community events. This was truly outstanding and my compliments to India Tribune and all the performers for an amazing evening”. It indeed was…..

So take the following precautions:

AVOID Fried and fatty foods. Foods containing too much sugar. Over-eating especially at suhur. Too much tea at suhur: Tea makes you pass more urine taking with it valuable mineral salts that your body will need during the day. Smoking cigarettes: If you cannot give up smoking, cut down graduFasting has been found to be an ef- ally starting a few weeks before Rafective treatment for psychological madan. Smoking is unhealthy and and emotional disorders. It helps a one should stop completely. person to firm up his will, cultivate and refine his taste and manners, EAT strengthen his conviction of doing Complex carbohydrates at suhur so good, avoid controversy, petulance that the food lasts longer making and rashness, which all contribute to- you less hungry. ward a sane and healthy personality. Haleem is an excellent source of sugar, fiber, carbohydrates, potasBesides nurturing resistance and sium and magnesium. ability to face hardships and endurAlmonds are rich in protein and fiber ance, fasting reflects on outward with less fat. physical appearance by cutting out Bananas are a good source of potasgluttony and getting rid of excess sium, magnesium and carbohydrates. fat. The benefits of fasting on health do not stop there but are instrumenDRINK tal in alleviating a number of physical diseases, including those of the As much water or fruit juices as posdigestive systems, such as chronic sible between iftar and bedtime so stomachache, inflammation of the that your body may adjust fluid levcolon, liver diseases, indigestion, els in time. and conditions such as obesity, ar- Finally, as Swiss physician Dr U. teriosclerosis, high blood pressure, Barsilus, says: “The advantages of asthma, diphtheria and many other hunger as a remedy exceed those ingesting medicine several times.” maladies.

22 JULY - 2013

23 JULY - 2013

Mr. and Mrs. Mohammad Kamran hosted a reception to celebrate the Nikkah Ceremony of their daughter Sheeroz Kamran at Holiday Inn Itasca Hotel Report by Jawaid Riaz Mr. and Mrs. Mohammad Kamran hosted a grand reception to celebrate the Nikkah Ceremony of their daughter Sheeroz Kamran to Asad R Khan son of Mr. and Mrs.Hashim Khan on July 6, 2013 in Holiday Inn Itasca Hotel. The Nikkah Ceremony took place at the Institute of Islamic Education (IIE) in Elgin and the grand reception was held at the Holiday Inn Itasca Hotel. A large number of family and friends enjoyed the celebrations. Urdu Times and Pakistan Abroad congratulate the Bride and Bride groom and their families and wish them a happy and prosperous future together.

NEWS