Shehbaz pledges to spend "every bit" on public welfare
Says audio leaks revealed Imran Khan's true face
By Staff Reporter LAHORE: Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has stated that all resources will be used for the benefit of the people and the development of the country. The Prime Minister told reporters after attending a court session in Lahore on Saturday that the PML (N) and associated parties came to office through a constitutional process to save the national economy and the country from bankruptcy. He claimed that the dollar's value is currently progressively dropping as a result of Finance Minister Ishaq Dar's sensible economic policies. The Prime Minister stated that every person should respect the law, and he went in court today to demonstrate his respect for the law. He claimed that NAB summoned PML(N) Quaid, Nawaz Sharif, multiple times and that he also attended court proceedings but never requested an NRO. He stated that Pakistan had prosperity and success under Nawaz Sharif's tenure as Prime Minister. In response to Imran Khan's newest audio leak, he stated that the PTI Chairman was busy horse trading. Shehbaz Sharif, who called PTI Chairman Imran Khan a liar, said Imran Khan should be held accountable for his bogus propaganda about the cypher and the Panama documents. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif said on Saturday that Pakistan appreciated the United Nations General Assembly's approval of a resolution supporting its flood-affected reconstruction efforts. On his Twitter account, the prime minister emphasised that the world should strongly respond to the UN updated aid appeal and help Pakistan with access to climate finance and debt relief. He went on to say that these actions were necessary at this point. The United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution titled "Solidarity with and support for the Government and People of Pakistan, as well as strengthening of emergency relief, rehabilitation, reconstruction, and prevention in the aftermath of the recent disastrous floods." The resolution was introduced by Pakistan and cosponsored by 151 countries from all regions, representing more than two-thirds of the UN membership, to express sympathy with millions of people in Pakistan devastated by the recent disastrous floods.
Pakistan's army made sacrifices to eradicate terrorism: COAS
Military will not allow any group or force to destabilise Pakistan
By Our Correspondent
KAKUL: General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Chief of Army Staff, has stated that the Pakistan Army has made numerous sacrifices over the last two decades to rid the country of terrorism. He also stated unequivocally that the armed forces, with the support of the people, will never allow any country, group, or force to destabilise Pakistan politically or economically. On Saturday, General Bajwa addressed the passing-out parade of the 146th Long Course at Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) in Kakul, saying that Pakistan is a peaceful country that seeks peace and stability in the area. "Pakistan desires excellent and friendly relations with its neighbours, but our desire for peace should not be interpreted as weakness." "We want all concerns resolved peacefully," he said, adding, "Pakistan's borders are secure, and we will not allow anyone to weaken our country." The Army Chief advised the cadets to ignore bogus news and propaganda. The Army Chief also warned the cadets not to focus on fake news and political arguments, saying that "we must always respect democratic institutions." "I would also like to express my heartfelt congratulations to our fraternal countries' cadets on completing their military training at the Pakistan Military Academy," he added. General Bajwa stated unequivocally that the military forces, with the support of the people, will never allow any country, organisation (jetha), or force to destabilise Pakistan politically or economically. Pakistan, according to the Army Chief, is a peaceful country. He stated that in its pursuit of peace, Pakistan has made honest and all-out efforts to develop good neighbourly ties with all neighbours and regional countries. "We are doing everything we can to break the political impasse that has prevented South Asian countries from moving forward and resolving all regional and bilateral issues in a peaceful and dignified manner," General Bajwa said. The Army Chief emphasised that the people of South Asia deserve wealth and better living circumstances as well. "This can only happen with continuous economic growth, development, and, most importantly, long-term peace." As a result, we must work hard to keep the flames of war at bay throughout the region," he continued. "We must give peace a shot by building a framework to settle all bilateral disputes peacefully," added the COAS. We must all work together to combat hunger, poverty, illiteracy, population growth, climate change, and illness." General Bajwa, on the other hand, stated that Pakistan's desire for peace should not be interpreted as a sign of weakness.
UN should ensure international law, throughout world: Bilawal
Web Desk
BERLIN: Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has urged the United Nations to ensure the equal application of international law everywhere, arguing that India's unilateral actions in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) following the events of August 2019 cannot be justified, particularly in light of the global community's condemnation of Russia's actions in Ukraine. He said this to reporters in Berlin, Germany, before departing for Pakistan, in response to a question about India's unilateral activities in August 2019 in IIOJK. Annalena Baerbock, his German counterpart, stood by him. According to the International Minister, Pakistan has raised the issue with foreign leaders during interactions. "During our talks, we continue to bring up the subject of occupied Kashmir, especially in light of the events of August 2019." We believe that international law should be applied universally. UN decisions must be followed worldwide. "We cannot endorse unilateral activities in occupied Kashmir while opposing unilateral actions in Ukraine," he stressed. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari urged consistency in such matters, particularly at the United Nations. He noted that Kashmiris continue to speak up, and that people in Pakistan and throughout the world are looking forward to the day when the United Nations plays a role in finding a reasonable solution to the Kashmir problem. Despite New Delhi's unilateral activities in IIOJK, the Foreign Minister alluded to the ceasefire deal with India.
Pakistan-Britain relations required to be strengthened for mutual benefit: Ishaq Dar
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: A World Bank delegation met with Federal Finance Minister Ishaq Dar on Saturday. The delegation was led by Najy Benhassine, the World Bank Group's Country Director for Pakistan in the South Asia region. Najy Benhassine informed the minister that the World Bank is providing Pakistan with a $2 billion loan on an emergency basis for the rehabilitation of people and infrastructure impacted by the disastrous floods. Najy Benhassine also advised him that due to an emergency scenario, approximately $1.5 billion in funding would be mobilised this year. The Finance Minister informed the group on Pakistan's flood crisis and extended gratitude to the bank for flood assistance. He also briefed the delegation on the government's economic policies. According to Ishaq Dar, the World Bank is our primary development partner. Meanwhile, British High Commissioner Dr. Christian Turner met with Minister of Finance and Revenue Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Saturday and discussed views on areas of mutual interest. According to Ministry of Finance, the minister briefed the British High Commissioner on the devastation caused by the recent floods in Pakistan. The minister emphasised that Pakistan has long-standing historic links with the United Kingdom, and that relations between the two nations should be strengthened for mutual benefit. He also informed the ambassador on the government's economic plan and priorities, stating that the current administration's goal is to achieve economic and budgetary stability, which will lead to economic recovery and growth. Speaking on the event, the British High Commissioner congratulated the Minister on his new responsibilities. He expressed compassion for the devastation caused by the floods and stated that the UK stands with Pakistan during this difficult time, informing them of the UK government's humanitarian assistance to Pakistan for flood relief. He also expressed the full support of the British government and people for the Pakistani administration. Finance Minister Ishaq Dar thanked the British High Commissioner for extending flood relief support to Pakistan.
Rana arrest, a plan to cause unrest: Marriyum
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Marriyum Aurangzeb, claimed on Saturday that arrest warrants for Rana Sanaullah had been issued in Lahore because Imran Khan was terrified of him. In a tweet, she claimed that it was a scheme to sow disorder and anarchy in the country in order to divert attention away from the corruption of a "foreign agent, liar" who was jeopardising national security and deceiving the public.
PDM uproar over audio leaks
By Sardar Khan Niazi
PTI Chairman Imran Khan addressing a rally in Mianwali rightly said that the PML-N has started a new game of fake audios, saying that it was one of their leaders’ specialties. A steady wave of audio recordings surfaced of late, allegedly featuring the leaders of the PTI holding private conversations never meant to be heard by the public. PTI’s former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi also characterized these audios as fake. It is better to hold elections as all the PDM government moves are backfiring. Whatever is true and fake, the voters will decide. For a long time, the political environment of the country has faced grave chaos and instability; whether economic or social. The PDM government should understand that important national issues like the economy, Kashmir, etc. should be the number one priority, as the audio leaks are not so significant. The purpose of such audio leaks is to divert the attention of the people from Imran Khan, but every audio leak is making Imran Khan more popular. Despite ill-conceived earlier attempts to frame terrorism and treason charges against Imran Khan, the PDM government is now making a fresh bid to take him down through the Cablegate audio leaks. The government appears to have put little thought into what it is trying to do. It does not sufficiently acknowledge that source of its investigation is recordings made during the unlawful surveillance of a former prime minister while he was still holding office. That in itself was a serious breach of national security and the prime minister’s privileges. For the government to seem least interested in pursuing this aspect, even though it too has suffered from it, is a poor demonstration. Clearly, an unlawfully recorded conversation is not permissible as evidence in any court of law. How will the government prosecute a case without this leaked audio, which provides the entire grounds for its investigation? The government seems confused while accusing the PTI leadership of pilfering the cipher, which would be a violation of the Official Secrets Act. How can the PTI have stolen the cipher when the PDM government officially reviewed it at the National Security Committee forum soon after it took over? Clearly, the investigation is not a well-thought-over plan. It will lead to nowhere. The PDM rulers cannot provide relief to people as all of them are trying to get rid of corruption cases against them. They have become inconsiderate because of Imran Khan’s popularity. How hackers managed to get access to the PM office or residence. The matter needs investigation instead of harassing the politicians. When the government is going to prosecute those who bugged the PM’s office and have released such audio to suit their own agenda? The best course is to hold elections freely and impartially. All other steps increase the despair of the people and the country. Illogical enthusiasm in victimizing a major party will prove a useless exercise. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Vice-Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi has blamed the federal government for trying to divert from audio leaks by lacking cipher claims. He alleged that the federal government was involved in leaking audio clips of Imran Khan. The government wants to divert attention from its audio leaks and security lapse of the Prime Minister’s Office. Shah Mahmood Qureshi added that he is worried about how classified documents went missing from the PM office. If a classified document, cipher, or diplomatic cable, went missing from the PM office then it is a big security lapse. He further said that the audio leaks have not disturbed us. We love Pakistan and there is nothing to worry about anything. It is our duty to defend our motherland when it comes to national interests.
Musaddiq Abbasi lashes out, on Rana Sanaullah
By Our Correspondent
LAHORE: During a press conference, Brigadier Musaddiq Abbasi, Adviser to the Chief Minister of Punjab for Anti-Corruption, stated that Rana Sanaullah accepted two plots as a bribe from an illegal housing colony in Chakwal district. According to the source report, after the inquiry, ACE registered a case against Rana Sanaullah, who was then the law minister of Punjab. During the investigation, it was discovered that Rana Sanaullah, the provincial law minister at the time, and his wife attended the inaugural ceremony of Bismillah Housing Society, Colony Kalar Kahar. According to Musaddiq Abbasi, the owner of the said Colony gave Rana Sanaullah two plots of ten kanals area as a bribe to register the said Colony. The plots were transferred to Law Minister Rana Sanaullah by the Bismillah Housing Society at a far cheaper rate than the planned rate, according to the chief minister's counsel. He stated that throughout the investigation, it was also established that the existence of Plot Nos. 18A and 139A was not recorded. As a result, entering plan numbers 18A and 139A in registry numbers 171/1 and 172/1 dated December 12, 2017 qualifies as manufacturing spurious and forged documents, which is a felony. It was also revealed that Rana Sanaullah paid Rs 9 lakh for both plots, which is significantly less than the scheduled fee, creating a loss to the national treasury. Musaddiq Abbasi went on to say that Rana Sanaullah and his wife still own the plots. This is proof that he obtained these as a bribe by abusing his official position. According to Brigadier (R) Musaddiq Abbasi, the case was registered in 2019, but Rana Sanaullah did not appear in the anti-corruption in this matter. He was summoned again on October 6th, but he did not present, and a non-bailable arrest warrant was issued. At the moment, an anti-corruption team is stationed at the Kohsar police station in order to apprehend Rana Sanaullah. Brigadier (R) Musaddiq Abbasi stated that anti-corruption authorities are taking indiscriminate action against corrupt elements and that no one is above the law. And all the actions of ACE are being done according to the law. And it is wrong to give a political color to the anti-corruption actions. Whoever has committed the crime is against the law. Action will be taken accordingly. Musaddiq Abbasi further said that our team has reached the Kohsar police station, now we have to see the cooperation of the Kohsar police station. If the police do not cooperate, then we will approach the court.
LAHORE: Senior provincial minister Mian Aslam Iqbal, academic and religious personalities are present on the stage in the ceremony organized in connection with Ashra-e- Rehmat Ul Alameen (SAW).
NAB launched an investigation into potential corruption in BRT Peshawar
By Our Correspondent
PESHAWAR: The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has initiated an investigation into alleged corruption in Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Peshawar on Saturday. According to records, the anti-graft panel summoned former Peshawar Development Authority (PDA) Director-General (DG) Muhammad Saleem Wattoo on October 17 for the corruption case. The accountability bureau stated in a Call-Up notice that the former DG PDA will be probed for possible wrongdoing in the project. As Chairman of the Technical and Evaluation Committee, Saleem Wattoo signed various project-related agreements. The notice added, "NAB reserves the right to take action in the event of non-appearance on October 17." Previously, in 2021, the Supreme Court overturned a Peshawar High Court (PHC) decision requiring the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) to examine the Peshawar Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project. The court said that the high court order with regard to investigation by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had legal flaws.
Basic unit of democracy local body institutions
By Our Correspondent
CHAKWAL: Senior journalist Khawaja Babar Saleem Mahmood said on Saturday that local elections in Punjab are a constitutional and legal requirement, the main reason for the problems faced by the people at the moment is the lack of elected local representatives. On the other hand, for the last six months, crores of rupees are being spent on transfers of government officials in Punjab and moving them around, while on the other hand, the problems of the people are increasing day by day. Municipal elections must be held immediately, but the facts on the ground indicate that the environment is not favorable for the elections, but the Election Commission of Pakistan has taken strict notice regarding the local elections in Punjab. He was speaking live from Chakwal Press Club studio. The host of the program, Zulfiqar Mir, said that the public's contact with the bureaucrats is not possible, at least the people's access to the elected local government representatives is easy, but the reason for not having local government representatives. Even small problems are now becoming bigger. Senior journalist Raja Iftkha Rahamad said that claims are being made to restore democracy in the country, but the basic unit of democracy is the local government and it is a great misfortune of the country that the members of parliament have never had the desire for local bodies to work because Members of Parliament believe that the presence of local bodies reduces their dynamism and this is the reason why local bodies are not given their full powers. Senior journalist Abdul Khaliq Darwish said that in the last 75 years, the past has not been very pleasant in terms of local government elections. is not maintained and this is one of the main reasons why we could not create a local government system for ourselves.
Social Welfare Society handed Governor, check of Rs. 30 lakh for flood victims
By Our Correspondent
LAHORE: Today, students from the Social Welfare Society School Mughalpura, led by Principal Mrs. Tahsin, paid a visit to Governor Punjab Muhammad Balighur Rehman at Governor House Lahore. During the meeting, students from the school presented a check for Rs. 30 lakh to flood victims, while the president of the Social Welfare Society Mughalpura, Major General (Retd) Muhammad Saleem Khan, presented a check for Rs. 10 lakh to the Governor of Punjab for the Prime Minister Flood Relief Fund. Governor Punjab Muhammad Balighur Rehman spoke on the event, saying that the students have set a magnificent example by collecting flood relief donations for their fellow countrymen in this hour of need. The governor of Punjab stated that the flood victims are going through a difficult period, and that the floods have also disrupted hundreds of schools, disrupting the education of lakhs of children. Governor Punjab stated that now is the time to stand in solidarity with our flood-affected brothers and sisters. On this occasion, Professor Samiullah Khan, General Secretary of the Social Welfare Society, and Mrs. Tahsin, School Principal, briefed Governor Punjab on the school's performance. Principal Mrs. Tahsin told Governor Punjab that 4600 students and their parents collected 30 lakh rupees for the flood victims. Furthermore, in his message on the occasion of Eid Milad-ul-Nabi (PBUH), Punjab Governor Muhammad Balighur Rehman stated that this is the wonderful day when Allah Almighty gave the darling of the universe Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) as a blessing for all the worlds as well as the end of Prophethood. With the coming of Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH), the message of Allah Almighty's oneness became the objective of Muslims' life until the Day of Judgment. He stated that all Muslims have the honour and pride of being Muhammad-e-(PBUH) Arabi's slaves and regard Ishq-Muhammad (PBUH) as the foundation of religion and the end of Prophethood as the path of salvation and faith. The day is to pledge that we have to promote the eternal message of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) about love, patience, tolerance and the truth. May Allah grant us the ability to follow the message of Holy Prophet (PBUH) (Amen).
Karachi : Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali shah meets with a 30-member Indonesian delegation of doctors and paramedical staff led by the Consul general of Indonesia in Karachi, Dr. June Kuncoro Hadiningrat at CM House. The Indonesian government has sent a team of doctors, nurses, and other paramedical staff to work in flood-affected areas of the province. The chief minister, on behalf of his government and the people of the province, thanked the Indonesian government for its support and cooperation.
CM wishes Muslim community a happy Eid Mlad-un-Nabi (SAW)
Says Holy Prophet (saw) delivered comprehensive human rights charter on eve of khutba -e-hujjat-ul-wida
By Our Correspondent
LAHORE: Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, Chief Minister of Punjab, congratulated the Muslim community on the auspicious occasion of 'Eid Milad-un-Nabi' SAW, saying that the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad SAW is the leader of all the other Holy Prophets. Allah Almighty gave instruction on the entire globe by sending the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad SAW as 'Rehmatullil Alemeen' (a bleesing for the entire world). The Holy Prophet SAW converted the Arabs, who had previously been sunk into the darkness of ignorance, into a civilised nation. CM mentioned in his message on the eve of 'Eid Milad-un-Nabi' SAW that the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad SAW created an excellent social and economic system in a short period of time, which serves as a beacon light for the entire globe. On the eve of Khutba-e- Hujjat-ul- Wida, the Holy Prophet SAW gave a comprehensive charter of human rights. On the eve of the conquest of Makkah, the Holy Prophet SAW established a magnificent tradition by pardoning the enemy and granting rights to women and minorities for the first time in history. According to CM, the life of the Holy Prophet SAW is a full code of life for the entire world. According to the Holy Prophet SAW, a good Muslim is one whose hand and words keep others secure. The Holy Prophet SAW forbade dishonesty in administration and is the bringer of peace. CM emphasised that the world is currently experiencing turmoil, immorality, moral and social decline, and that the root cause of all such afflictions is our disconnection from the teachings of the Holy Prophet SAW. Without a doubt, the world may become a centre of peace and harmony by accepting the Holy Prophet SAW's great deeds and teachings as a beacon light in text and spirit. The practical condition of demonstrating our sincere love for the Holy Prophet SAW, according to CM, is to totally adhere to his Seerat (character) and Sayings. On this fortunate day, we must renew our commitment to living our lives in accordance with the teachings and sayings of the last Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad SAW. In connection with this blessed day we pray that may Allah Almighty forgive all our sins, mistakes and bless us with the intercession of the benefactor of humanity the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad SAW Ameen!
Court Notice
In the Court of Khalid Mehmood Naib Tehsildar Gujrat Title: Irshad Begum Versus Muzaffar Hussain etc. Notice to: Muzaffar Hussain S/O Sardar Muhammad deceased, Ahsan Zafarullah, Imran Zafarullah, Sajid Irfan Sons, Qaisra Naheed, Saiqa Muzaffar, Saima Muzaffar Daughters of Muzaffar Hussain Caste Warraich Residents of Kalra Panwan, Tehsil & District Gujrat, Azmat Ullah S/O Sardar Muhammad deceased, Attia Begum widow, Umair Azmat S/O Azmat Ullah Caste Warraich residents of Kalra Panwan, Tehsil & District Gujrat, Asima Azmat D/O Azmat Ullah Caste Warraich resident of Qamar Hospital Sargodha Road Gujrat Tehsil & District Gujrat, Shahnaz Bibi D/O Sardar Muhammad deceased, Muhammad Akram husband of deceased, Naveed Akram, Saeed Akram sons, Tameela Akram alias Samina Akram D/O deceased Caste Warraich residents of Kalra Panwan, Tehsil & District Gujrat Application for divided of land Village Kalra Panwan Tehsil Gujrat Whereas in the above mentioned case it has been proved to the satisfaction of the court that the above mentioned defendants are not served in ordinary way. It is therefore proclaimed under order 5 rule 20 CPC that if the said defendants will not appear personally or through a duly authorized agent or pleader in court at 8 AM on 15-10-2022, otherwise case will be decided ex party.
Court Notice
In the Court of Riasat Ali Naib Tehsildar Gujrat Title: Atif Nadeem Versus Mateen Nawaz etc. Notice to: Mateen Nawaz S/O Muhammad Nawaz Caste Arain, Ansar Mehmood S/O Allah Rakha Caste Arain, Ghazanfar Iqbal S/O Allah Rakha Caste Arain, Yasir Iqbal S/O Mian Khan Caste Gujjar, Sajjad Haider S/O Mian Khan Caste Gujjar, Waqas S/O Mian Khan Caste Gujjar, Atique Ur Rehman S/O Muhammad Arshad Caste Arain, Abdul Rehman S/O Muhammad Arshad Caste Arain, Faisal Khan S/O Mian Khan Caste Gujjar, Razia Begum widow of Muhammad Afzal Caste Arain, Salal Afzal S/O Muhammad Afzal Caste Arain, Jameel Afzal S/O Muhammad Afzal Caste Arain, Memoona Afzal D/O Muhammad Afazal W/O Adnan Ali Caste Arain, Aliza Afzal D/O Muhammad Afazal W/O Zohaib Arif Caste Arain, Zonia Afzal D/O Muhammad Afazal Caste Arain, Bilal Ali S/O Muhammad Afzal Caste Arain, Shahbaz Hussain S/O Muhammad Sadiq Caste Arain, Gulzar Ahmad S/O Ahmed Din Caste Muslim Shiekh Residents of Karianwala Post Office Khas, Tehsil & District Gujrat, Application for divided of land Village …………… Tehsil Gujrat Whereas in the above mentioned case it has been proved to the satisfaction of the court that the above mentioned defendants are not served in ordinary way. It is therefore proclaimed under order 5 rule 20 CPC that if the said defendants will not appear personally or through a duly authorized agent or pleader in court at 8 AM on 10-10-2022, otherwise case will be decided ex party.
Court Notice
In the Court of Malik Muhammad Saleem Naib Tehsildar Gujrat Title: Muhammad Qadeer Versus Muhammad Walayat etc. Notice to: Bibi widow, Sajida Bibi, Manzoor Bibi, Naseem Bibi, Anwar Bibi, Hajra Bibi daughters of Muhammad Khan, Muhammad Bibi widow, Muhammad Anwar, Muhammad Aslam sons of Allah Rakha, Muhammad Azam S/O Allah Rakha, Fazal Hussain S/O Bakhsha, Nazir Hussain son, Kousar Bibi, Shamim Bibi daughters of Sughran Bibi Caste Jatt, Residents of Kotli Permanand, Tariq Aziz, Khawar Aziz, Nasir Aziz, Khalid Aziz, Hassan Aziz sons of Ghulam Hussain, Muhammad Inayat, Muhammad Walayat, Lal Khan, Muhammad Hussain sons of Barkat Ali Caste Tarkhan Residents of Barila Sharif Tehsil and District Gujrat, Fazal Hussain S/O Nawab Khan Caste Gujjar, Muhammad Nazir, Allah Ditta, Muhammad Ishaq sons of Ranjha Caste Jatt Residents of Kotli Permanand Tehsil and District Gujrat, Hajra Bibi, Ammara Bibi daughters of Muhammad Khan Caste Tarkhan Residents of Barila Sharif Tehsil and District Gujrat, Muhammad Riaz, Muhammad Nawaz sons of Rehmat Khan, Inayat Khan S/O Nawab Khan, Mushtaq Ahmed S/O Rehmat Khan Caste Gujjar, Fazilat Hussain Shah S/O Sadiq Hussain Shah Caste Syed, Muhammad Inayat S/O Lal Khan Caste Awan Resident of Kotli Permanand, Raza Mustafa S/O Muhammad Khan Caste Tarkhan Resident of Barila Sharif, Muhammad Aslam S/O Adayat Ullah Caste Awan, Saleeman Bibi D/O Rehmat Khan Caste Gujjar, Muhammad Akram S/O Piran Ditta Caste Awan, Ashfaq Ahmed S/O Mushtaq Ahmed, Sultan Ahmad S/O Allah Rakha, Rehmat Bibi, Piran Ditta, Gulzar Ahmed sons, Nazir Bibi, Aimna Bibi, Sharifan Bibi, Balqees Bibi daughters of Kala Khan Caste Kumhar, Nazir Ahmed S/O Jalal Khan Caste Gujjar, Muhammad Ramzan S/O Muhammad Sadiq, Sughran Bibi widow of Allah Ditta, Haji Muhammad S/O Rehmat Khan, Siraj Din S/O Bhagu, Muhammad Azam S/O Allah Rakha Caste Jatt, Muhammad Razzaq S/O Kala Khan, Bagh Ali S/O Bulanda Caste Kumhar, Sain Khan S/O Ramzan, Aslam S/O Rehmat Khan, Caste Gujjar, Fazal Karim S/O Allah Rakha Caste Awan Residents of Kotli Permanand Tehsil and District Gujrat Application for divided of land Village Tehsil Gujrat Whereas in the above mentioned case it has been proved to the satisfaction of the court that the above mentioned defendants are not served in ordinary way. It is therefore proclaimed under order 5 rule 20 CPC that if the said defendants will not appear personally or through a duly authorized agent or pleader in court at 8 AM on 18-10-2022, otherwise case will be decided ex party.
Speech & Naat Khawani event held at PAC
By Staff Reporter
RAWALPINDI: In conjunction with Ashra Shan-e-Rehmatulil Almeen, the Punjab Arts Council hosts Speech and Naat competitions in association with the All Pakistan Private Schools Management Association. Waqar Ahmed, Director of the Arts Council, was the principal guest at the award ceremony. Director Arts Council Waqar Ahmad stated during the ceremony that love for the Holy Prophet is a component of our faith. The Holy Prophet came to provide mercy to the entire world. We should strive to make every activity conform to the Quran and Sunnah, since this will bring us success not only in this life but also in the Hereafter. Muhammad Ibrar, President of APPSMA, stated that Rabi al-Awwal is the season of good actions. The Muslim Ummah has been taught to cherish mankind by the Holy Prophet. Your good deeds secure your prosperity. The arrival of the Holy Prophet (S.A.W) in the earth dispelled the darkness of ignorance and despair, and candles of peace, love, brotherhood, and light were lit everywhere. Ali Awan won the first position, Saima Noor second position, Zainab Gul third position and Pakeeza took fourth position, while Muhammad Shahid Jameel Minhas and Faizan Qadri were the judges in the Naat Khoani competition. Hasan Aslam, Manahil , Sadia Farooq and Momina came first, second, third and fourth respectively in the speech competition. A large number of male and female students from Rawalpindi, Islamabad participated in the competition. Shields and certificates were also distributed among the children who got positions
Traders in Aabpara Market want Parking Plaza
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) President, Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, stated that the Aabpara Market is Islamabad's oldest market, which plays a vital role in boosting the economy by promoting commercial activities, and emphasised that the CDA should develop it as a model market for the Capital. He stated that because foreign diplomats and other dignitaries frequently visit Aabpara market, CDA should build a monument in the market's chowk and work on additional beautification to bring it up to international standards. He stated that the ICCI would collaborate with the CDA, FBR, ICT Administration, Police, and other government ministries to address the concerns of the business community. He made the remarks while speaking to a delegation from Aabpara Market led by Ajmal Baloch, President of All Pakistan Anjuman-e-Tajiran and President of Traders Welfare Association Aabpara Market. Faad Waheed, Senior Vice President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry, promised the delegation that the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry would collaborate with the CDA to address the primary issues of the traders and to modernise the Aabpara Market. Speaking at the event, Ajmal Baloch, President, All Pakistan Anjuman-e-Tijaran and President, Traders Welfare Assocation, Aabpara Market, Islamabad, stated that parking was a big issue for the area's traders and urged ICCI to collaborate with CDA to build a parking plaza at the Aabpara Market. He stated that Aabpara Market should be easily accessible from 7th Avenue. He stated that many traders are having tax challenges as a result of their integration with the Tier-1 and Tier-2 tax systems, and that the ICCI should work with traders to resolve their tax issues. The delegation members thanked the new ICCI office bearers and hoped that they would play a role in tackling important trade and industrial concerns. Khalid Iqbal Malik Group Leader, Muhammad Ejaz Abbasi former President ICCI, Akhtar Hussain, Muhammad Yahya, Khalid Chaudhry and others were also present at the occasion.
NIC, Ignite, and Huawei join forces to host pitch day for Huawei Cloud Startup Program
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: 16 different start-ups from across Pakistan pitched their business ideas to a set of decorated judges during the Huawei Cloud Start-up program. The programme is a global support initiative for global startups developed by HUAWEI CLOUD. The primary goal is to assist and expedite the commercialization of technology companies and ecosystem partners. Eligible start-ups who apply and are accepted will receive free cloud resources, expert technical trainings, GTM assistance, mentorship, and marketing perks. Huawei launched the programme in collaboration with Ignite, NICs, and other partners. The collaboration intends to allow a "Digital Pakistan" through enhancing Cloud technology implementation through knowledge sharing. A distinguished panel of judges from the public and private sectors was assembled. Each startup was given seven minutes to present and five minutes to answer questions. With the goal of accelerating startup growth, Huawei formed a startup advisory group comprised of legal counsel, CTO, CDO, corporate marketing, industry specialists, Huawei senior executives, founders of established businesses, venture capital firms, and government officials.
Over 2000 cops perform duties on "Eid Milad ul Nabi"
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Over 2000 personnel of Islamabad Capital Police would perform duties on the occasion of Eid-Milad-UN Nabi to be observed across the country. Islamabad Capital Police have devised a thorough security strategy for the 12th Rabi ul Awal main procession, and stringent patrolling would be enforced during processions and other religious events in the capital. On the specific directives of IGP Islamabad Dr Akbar Nasir Khan, the security strategy was formally reviewed here on Saturday by DIG Operations Sohail Zafar Chatha. On the occasion, Islamabad capital police, including Rangers and Frontier Constabulary, would patrol and provide security, while the main procession, beginning from Sector G-7, would be totally sealed off by strong deployment. Procession would start from sector G-7 (Sitara Market) and culminate near the shrine of Hazrat Sakhi Mehmud at Aabpara market after passing through various routes. The monitoring and surveillance of processions would be ensured through Safe City drone and Cameras. The video footage of the processions would also be made from the front and backside of the entrance point. All SPs, SDPOs, SHOs, and other police officers would attend the procession routes to ensure good coordination among the security personnel performing their tasks.
Dengue war, Capital reports 123, Rawalpindi 98 new dengue cases
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: In the last 24 hours, the federal capital Islamabad reported 123 new dengue cases, while Rawalpindi reported 98. According to the District Health Officer (DHO) Islamabad, 123 dengue cases were registered in the federal capital in the last 24 hours, bringing the overall number of illnesses this season to 2,986. In Islamabad, seven individuals have died as a result of dengue, he noted. According to DHO Islamabad statistics, 57 of the total 123 instances were recorded in rural regions of the capital, while the remaining 66 were reported from urban premises. The DHO further stated that in the last 24 hours, 46 people were admitted to the PIMS hospital Islamabad, 10 to the Federal General Hospital, and eight to the Holy Family Hospital. Another 53 cases have been reported in private laboratories. The Rawalpindi Health Department recorded 98 new dengue cases in the last 24 hours, bringing the total to 3012. According to the secretary of health, Punjab has reported at least 6,378 dengue cases this season. There are 95 dengue patients being treated at Benazir Bhutto Hospital, 78 at DHQ, and 68 at Holy Family Hospital. During the current season, three persons have died as a result of dengue.
Six Criminals arrested for drug peddling and possessing illegal weapons
ISLAMABAD: Islamabad Capital police Bani Gala police team has arrested six outlaws involved in drug peddling and possessing illegal weapons and recovered drugs and weapons with ammunition from their possession, a police public relations officer said. He said that DIG Operations Sohail Zafar Chatha had ordered all zonal officers to curb the crime in their respective areas and arrest those involved in criminal activities and looting innocent people. Following these directives, a Bani Gala police team under the supervision of SHO Bani Gala used all available resources and arrested six accused namely Kamran Khan, Zafar Mehmood, Ikram Ullah, Kaswar Ali, Nasir Ali and Hamad Abbas and recovered 3290 gram hashish, 1050 gram heroin, one Kalashnikov, two pistols along with ammunation from their possession. Cases have been registered against the nabbed accused and further investigation is underway. DIG Operations Sohail Zafar Chatha appreciated the police team efforts and further directed all zonal officers to accelerate action against criminal elements in order to save the lives and property of the citizens. Citizens are also requested to cooperate with police and inform about any suspicious activity around them.PR
Thar Block-1 begins assisting flood victims
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Thar Block-1 Integrated Coal Mine Power Project initiated assistance for flood affectees in a big way, says a press release. Since June of this year, the death toll from severe floods in Pakistan has surpassed 1,400, and 33 million people have been affected, with Sindh province being the hardest hit, and home to the Thar Block-1 Integrated Coal Mine Power Project. Thar Block-1 Integrated Coal Mine Power Project commenced assistance immediately following the disaster. Recently, Thar Coal Block-1 Power Generation Company (Pvt.) Ltd. and Sino Sindh Resources (Pvt.) Ltd., Chairman Meng Donghai, SSRL CEO Li Jigen, on behalf of our project, provided tents, food, water, and selected medical supplies, among other things, to flood-affected people via Mithi Government. Meanwhile, the Project donated Rs. 2.5 million to the Sindh Flood Relief Fund via the Saylani Welfare Trust.
Northern and Balochistan play off in third round of Quaid-e-Azam Trophy
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: The Quaid-e-Azam Trophy 2022-23 continues to feature Pakistan's greatest first-class cricketers, with the third round of the four-day competition beginning tomorrow in Abbottabad, Faisalabad, and Rawalpindi. After two of the three first-round matches yielded results, all three second-round matches finished in draws. The draws, on the other hand, wonderfully set up the third round, with the points disparity between top-ranked Northern and second-placed Balochistan down to just three points before their clash at the Abbottabad Cricket Stadium. Balochistan completed an incredible comeback to secure a draw after trailing Central Punjab by 350 runs in the previous round. Imam-ul-brave Haq's second innings century (he joined Balochistan after returning from County Cricket) and half-centuries from Imran Butt and Asad Shafiq added five points to Balochistan's tally, rather than a defeat. Northern has started the campaign with a 10-wicket victory. After Sindh had made 457 for eight, Umar Amin and Faizan Riaz both got hundreds, and Nauman Ali hit a 65-ball 65 to take them to 417. Their young all-rounder Mubasir Khan, who was player of the tournament in the last season, is the joint leading wicket-taker with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Arshad Iqbal with nine scalps. He took four wickets in an innings in the last match. Central Punjab will rue the missed opportunity of claiming their first win of the tournament after taking a 350-run lead over Balochistan in the last round. Both of their matches proved to be stalemates and they will look to capitalise on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's poor form to earn 16 crucial win points. Abdullah Shafique and Tayyab Tahir are the top run-getters in this edition with 329 and 302 runs at towering averages of 110 and 151. While Abdullah recorded his maiden double century and a half-century in the first round, Tayyab scored centuries in two consecutive innings, stretched over the two rounds. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa –languishing at the bottom of the points table - are the title defenders. They shared the trophy with Central Punjab in the 2020-21 edition and beat Northern in the final the previous season. They have had a bad run in the two rounds and will hope to overturn their fortunes, starting tomorrow. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Kamran Ghulam (249 at 62.25) and Waqar Ahmed (245 at 81.67) are third and fourth on the list of batters with most runs and fast bowler Arshad with nine wickets is the joint leading wicket-taker with Northern's Mubasir. In the third match of the round beginning from tomorrow, Southern Punjab and Sindh will play at the Pindi Cricket Stadium in front of High-Definition broadcast cameras that will beam the action live through PCB's YouTube channel. Southern Punjab suffered a heavy defeat by Northern in the first round and enter this match after drawing their previous round fixture against Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Zain Abbas, the opening batter, is the highest run-getter for them with 195 - including a century – at an average of 48.75, while Hasan Ali, with six wickets at 34, has been their best bowler. Sindh come into this match after playing two draws. They were able to post an imposing 457 for eight against Northern in the first innings of their previous round match against Northern thanks to a classy 158 from their captain Saud Shakeel. Sindh's middle-order comprises experienced Test batters Fawad Alam and Sarfaraz Ahmed and both have made their presence felt by stepping up when the team needed them to. Fawad scored a brilliant century against Central Punjab in what was the two teams' season opener and Sarfaraz has scored two half-centuries – his 148 runs have come at an average of 148 that underscore the struggle of the opposition bowlers to get him out in the first two rounds. Pacers Asif Mehmood and Mir Hamza are the two leading wicket-takers for Sindh with seven and six wickets at an average of 34.29 and 18.83.
RAWALPINDI: ADCHeadquarters Marzia Saleem is presiding over the meeting held in connection with the anti-dengue campaign.
Floods wreaked damage in 88 Pakistani districts: WHO official
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Floods have damaged 84 districts in Pakistan, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) Representative in Pakistan. Dr. Palitha Mahipala, speaking to the media here, stated that severe floods in Pakistan had affected around 33 million people. Flooding has damaged almost 2,000 health institutions, according to the World Health Organization's (WHO) Pakistan representative. According to Dr. Palitha Mahipala, the flooding has also claimed over 1,700 lives. "Health workers are doing their utmost in flood-affected areas," a WHO official said. "A state of emergency was declared during the country's floods," he stated. Flooding has wreaked havoc in Sindh and Balochistan provinces, he told reporters. According to Dr. Palitha Mahipala, the WHO is sending more healthcare personnel to flood-affected areas, and its specialists will visit these locations on October 10. "The WHO is constantly monitoring the situation in flood-affected areas," a WHO official said. "By December of this year, the number of malaria patients in Pakistan could exceed two million," he predicted. "Steps are also being taken to improve the country's healthcare structure." "Flood-affected areas are also experiencing food shortages," he said. "330 more vaccination teams have been organised for flood-affected areas, in addition to anti-measles vaccination teams," he stated. "So far, the WHO has donated nine million dollars in medications and other relevant products to Pakistan," he stated. "WHO will provide emergency help for the rehabilitation of health centres," he continued.
Alvi upholds 'dismissal from service' & Rs 5 lac monetary penalty for two officers in Peshawar
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: President Dr. Arif Alvi has upheld the penalty of “dismissal from service” and the fine of Rs 5 lac each to the Chief Finance Officer (CFO) and Project Director (PD) of the Commissionerate Afghan Refugees, Peshawar after the charges of committing sexual harassment against two female colleagues were proved against them. While rejecting the two accused officials' representation against the judgement of the Federal Ombudsman for Protection against Harassment of Women at Workplace (FOSPAH), President Dr. Arif Alvi stated that such individuals not only soiled the reputation of their agency but also of their country. The President said in his judgement that such occurrences were among the key reasons why women were hesitant to work since their public space was limited and they were not safe because such individuals harassed them in the workplace, in addition to exploiting their authority for pressure. He went on to say that it was the state's responsibility to put a stop to such acts, despite the fact that only a few incidences of sexual harassment were documented. President Dr. Arif Alvi also rejected the accused officials' claim that the female employees filed sexual harassment complaints against them because of prior enmity, grudge, and animosity, saying that it was not convincing to believe that the female complainants could have filed such complaints against their male colleagues after jeopardising their dignity and reputation. "No lady takes the risk of submitting false sexual harassment allegations against a male colleague in the organisation since such a complaint is detrimental to her own modesty, honesty, and reputation," he added. The President remarked that the two accused had not questioned the sincerity of the complainants' attitude by not cross-examining them, and it greatly backed the complainants' claims against the accused. He further stated that, with the exception of the CFO and PD, the two ladies had not implicated any other officer of the organisation with specific charges and occurrences that were backed by evidence given to the record. President Dr. Arif Alvi held that the FOSPAH had come to the conclusion that the accused had been in a dominant position to misuse their authority to exploit comparatively weaker and junior lady complainants and thus imposed the major penalty, which was well supported by the evidence on record and legally justified. He found that no intervention was necessary in the initial FOSPAH order, which was properly reasoned and passed after careful consideration of the facts on record. President Dr. Arif Alvi upheld the order of FOSPAH imposing the major penalty of “dismissal from service” and fine of Rs 5 lace to each accused and rejected the representation of the two accused officials. According to details, two female officials from the Commissionerate Afghan Refugees in Peshawar filed a harassment complaint with FOSPAH under Section 8 of the Protection Against Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2010, alleging sexual harassment by the department's Chief Finance Officer (CFO) and Project Director (PD). They claimed that CFO had requested that one of them come to her office alone so that he could take care of her in exchange for her cooperation. She also recounted certain earlier events, with brief mention of witnesses. The other female employee said that the PD sexually, intellectually, and on a sectarian basis harassed her. She claimed that these powerful people were spiteful if their unlawful and immoral demands were not executed, and that one of them was fired under the guise of a lack of cash. FOSPAH has imposed a penalty of expulsion from service as well as a Rs 5 lac punishment on both officers. The two accused had filed an appeal against FOSPAH's judgement, which the President denied after reviewing the full case and the evidence presented against the two officials.
UN passed resolution seeking assistance for flood ravaged Pakistan
UNITED NATIONS: The United Nations General Assembly expressed solidarity with flood-ravaged Pakistan on Friday and urged the international community to enhance relief in the aftermath of the recent devastating floods. Floods in Pakistan have affected 33 million people and killed at least 1,700 people since mid-June. Almost 8 million people have been displaced, with hundreds of thousands still living in tents and improvised shelters. During a visit last month, UN Secretary-General António Guterres observed some of the damage for himself and reminded the assembly of the losses: more than 2 million homes were damaged or destroyed, and crops and livestock were devastated. He predicted that the calamity would push more than 15 million people into poverty. The resolution, which was passed unanimously, calls on the international community, particularly donor countries, international financial institutions, and relevant international organisations, as well as the private sector and civil society, to provide full support and assistance to the Pakistani government in its efforts to mitigate the negative effects of the floods and meet the medium- and long-term rehabilitation and reconstruction needs. It encourages member states, the United Nations, and humanitarian organisations to continue working together to address the various needs of affected populations, particularly the most vulnerable, and calls on the international community to scale up its humanitarian assistance and rehabilitation of Pakistan in order to repair and strengthen the country's prospects for achieving sustainable development.
Self-esteem of individual you assisting should not be jeopardised: Imran Khan
Decides to make administrative changes in Punjab and KP
By Our Correspondent
DERA ISMAIL KHAN: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan distributed cheques among the flood victims in Dera Ismail Khan on Saturday. In his remarks at the cheque-distribution ceremony, he stated that it is a huge duty to spend the money obtained from people transparently. "The self-respect of the individual you aid should not be harmed," he insisted. He said that the PTI has provided each person with Rs one million in health insurance. "Flood victims are being mocked. We have resolved to transform Pakistan into a welfare state "He said. Meanwhile, ahead of the long march, former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan has decided to make significant administrative changes in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). According to reports, the former prime minister made the decision while chairing a meeting of senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders. According to sources, Imran Khan did not reveal the date of the lengthy march to party leaders. "I will not reveal the protest date to anyone," the PTI Chairman said, according to sources. According to sources, the conference attendees also discussed how to fight the government policy, as several party leaders were dissatisfied with the performance of Punjab Home Minister. Before the long march, the previous prime minister has chosen to make significant administrative changes in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). According to sources, it has also been planned to change the Advocate General of Punjab. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf has decided to contest in all by-elections, with party chairman Imran Khan leading the campaign. A schedule for Imran Khan's forthcoming public gatherings has also been finalised.
PTI focusing its efforts in South Punjab region
By Our Correspondent
MULTAN: Provincial Minister for Primary and Secondary Health Care Punjab Dr. Muhammad Akhtar Malik has said that elimination of corrupt people from the health department, availability of doctors and paramedics at all times and availability of medicines in all hospitals are among my priorities. He said these things while addressing a press conference at Health Secretariat South Punjab along with former Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Secretary Health South Punjab Muhammad Iqbal. He further said that all the hospitals and health centers across Punjab are focusing on making the health system fully functional. He further said that Tehreek-e-Insaf has been focusing exclusively on the South Punjab region which has always been deliberately deprived. Addressing the press conference, former Foreign Minister of Pakistan Makhdoom Shah Mehmood Qureshi said that South Punjab Secretariat is the best initiative of Tehreek-e-Insaf for the people of South Punjab, the fruits of which have started reaching the doorsteps of the people of this region. He further said that the performance of Health Secretariat is satisfactory and SecretaryHe further said that Nishtar-II in Multan, Mother and Child Hospital Granary and Trauma Center Qadirpur Rawan are the best gifts for the people of Multan
Non-bailable arrest warrants issued for Rana Sanaullah
By Staff Reporter
RAWALPINDI: A special judicial magistrate has issued non-bailable arrest warrants for Interior Minister and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Rana Sanaullah on Saturday. According to sources, Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah has been issued non-bailable arrest warrants by Senior Civil Judge Ghulam Akbar of Special Judicial Magistrate. A police team has been formed to apprehend the federal minister. The Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) Punjab issued a non-bailable arrest warrant for the PML-N leader after he failed to appear in an inquiry, according to a statement. The warrants were issued in case number 20/19 against the federal minister, according to the spokeswoman.
PTI leader Hamid Zaman's two-day physical remand authorized
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) obtained a two-day physical detention after presenting PTI leader Hamid Zaman in court on Saturday in the party's 'prohibited' fundraising case and seeking a 14-day physical remand of the suspect. Zaman's counsel, Khawaja Haris, on the other hand, objected to the FIA's request. Speaking on the occasion, FIA's counsel stated that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had traced some PTI bank accounts operating from the United States, into which Rs60 million had been deposited, during its investigation into the issue. He went on to add that any funds placed in these accounts would be used for political objectives. In his response, PTI leader's counsel stated that the FIA had not summoned his client. When the magistrate questioned if his client had answered the Agency's questions, Khawaja Haris stated that all answers had been delivered in writing to the FIA team.
LONDON: Begum Tahimna Daultana, former Federal Minister and her son Mian Imran Daultana met PML N leader Maryam Nawaz to welcome at London to meet her father. Former Prime Minister is also present on the occasion. Both the leaders appreciated the services rendered by Tahmina Daultana for PML N during crises.
Nation remembers victims of October 8 earthquake on 17th anniversary
By Our Correspondent
MUZAFFARABAD The 17th anniversary of the October 8, 2005, killer earthquake was marked on Saturday across Azad Jammu and Kashmir with solemnity, reverence, and determination. The event will be marked as a national day of awareness regarding natural disaster safety. The day began with special prayers in mosques across AJK at Fajr prayers for the departed souls of victims. It is a declared holiday throughout the state of AJK. The 17th anniversary of the October 8, 2005, killer earthquake was marked with solemnity, reverence, and determination across Azad Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday. The event will be marked as a national day of awareness about natural disaster preparedness. The day began with special prayers for the departed souls of victims at mosques across AJK at Fajr prayers. It is a state holiday in AJK. The biggest ceremony to commemorate the day was conducted in Muzaffarabad, with the government and people of Pakistan, as well as national and international NGOs and fraternal foreign countries, expressing their great love and compassion for the rebuilding and rehabilitation of the quake-hit zone of AJK. Furthermore, special functions were organised to promote public awareness about the importance of taking precautionary measures to avoid losses in the event of a natural disaster, according to the sources. In Mirpur, a major ceremony was performed in which Fateha Khawani was offered for the martyrs after sirens sounded at 8.52 a.m. and two minutes of silence was observed to pay tribute to the victims. The special events included awareness walks, seminars, and symposiums held around the Valley, which were attended by people from all walks of life, including social and political activists, lawyers, journalists, and business leaders. Seventeen years ago today, on October 8, 2005, at 8:52 a.m., a 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck. The earthquake destroyed Khyber Pakhtunkwa's cities. The seismic disaster killed, injured, and disabled thousands of people. After 17 years, the horrifying events will never be forgotten. However, the tremors and aftershocks destroyed entire cities in Kashmir, including Bagh, Garhi Habibullah, and Muzaffarabad, as well as Balakot and Mansehra in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. More than three million people were displaced as a result of the disaster. Islamabad, the federal capital city, was also hit by one of the most devastating earthquakes in 100 years. The condominium worth billions of rupees at Margala Towers in F-10 Markaz, a wealthy district of Islamabad, was also destroyed by the earthquake, which woke up hundreds of people. The earthquake with 7.6 rector scale hit the northern part of the country in the morning of October 8. A total of 1450 projects were approved for the rehabilitation work in the affected areas, out of which few projects are still in pending.
Visit of US envoy to AJK irritates India
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: The recent visit to Azad Jammu & Kashmir by US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome has irritated Indian authorities. Donald Blome travelled to AJK from October 2 to 4 to promote the US-Pakistan alliance and emphasise the two nations' strong economic, cultural, and people-to-people links. During his tour, he met with AJK Prime Minister Tanveer Ilyas, as well as representatives from academia, industry, culture, and civil society. In response to Donald Blome's visit, Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi stated during a media briefing that India has voiced its complaints to the US over the US Ambassador's recent visit to AJK. According to him, India also objected to the ambassador holding talks there.
