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BankIslami Wins Bronze in Creative Excellence at Dragons of Asia Awards 2026 in Kuala Lumpur

KARACHI – BankIslami, one of Pakistan’s fastest-growing Islamic banks, has won a Bronze award in the Creative Excellence category at the Dragons of Asia Awards 2026 for its Independence Day campaign.

The recognition places the awareness efforts of a homegrown Islamic bank alongside some of the finest creative campaigns from across Asia. It also highlights the strength of Pakistani creative work on an international stage, and the impact of brand communication rooted in purpose and a genuine understanding of its audience.

The campaign, ‘Sab Mil Kar Azadi Ka Parcham Lehraein’, turned Independence Day into a nationwide call for unity, with inclusivity at its core as the foundation of the country’s freedom and a promise of an equal place for every citizen in its future.

The Bank sees inclusivity as the path to financial independence, where every individual, community and region has access to the financial system. This vision of a nation free from Riba, built on fairness and shared prosperity, is what the Bank works towards every day.

This marks a second international recognition this year for BankIslami, which had earlier been named Pakistan’s Best Islamic Digital Bank at the Euromoney Islamic Finance Awards.

The Bank’s purpose-driven campaigns and customer communications continue to build awareness and understanding of Islamic banking, bringing Islamic values closer to people in every part of the country, in line with its mission of Saving Humanity from Riba.

Mastercard and BankIslami Join Forces to Strengthen the Digital Payments Ecosystem in Pakistan

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‘I Don’t Believe in Pregnancy Before Marriage!’ Komal Aziz’s Savage Reply to Fan goes viral

Actress Komal Aziz Khan found herself at the center of a hilarious exchange after a fan unexpectedly asked her if she was pregnant again.

During a fan interaction, Bisaat-e-Dil star invited followers to ask her anything, writing, “Ask me anything, guys ❤.” However, one fan’s question, “Are u pregnant again??” caught the actress by surprise.

I Dont Believe In Pregnancy Before Marriage Komal Azizs Savage Reply To Fan Goes Viral

Reacting with laughter and sarcasm, Komal responded, “Hahaha, what? I don’t believe in pregnancy before marriage!” Her witty comeback made it clear that she was amused by the unexpected assumption, turning the fan’s misunderstanding into a lighthearted moment.

Komal’s humorous response has caught attention for its playful tone, with the actress handling the awkward question with a dose of sarcasm and confidence.

Komal Aziz hits back at troll moral policing her

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Pakistani Court sentences 4 Men to Death over ‘Blasphemous Content’ shared on WhatsApp

LAHORE – A sessions court has sentenced four men to death in a blasphemy case involving alleged circulation of blasphemous material through social media platforms, handing down multiple prison terms and financial penalties after concluding that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.

Additional District and Sessions Judge Nusrat Ali Siddiqui Malik announced verdict, convicting the four men under several provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) and the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca), 2016. Under Section 295-C of the PPC, each convict was sentenced to death and fined Rs500,000.

The court awarded each man life imprisonment under Section 295-B, 10 years of rigorous imprisonment and a Rs100,000 fine under Section 295-A, three years’ imprisonment and a Rs100,000 fine under Section 298-A, and seven years of rigorous imprisonment with a further Rs100,000 fine under Section 11 of PECA.

Despite identifying procedural shortcomings in the handling of forensic evidence, the judge held that the material presented before the court was sufficient to sustain the convictions. The court also acquitted the four men of charges relating to criminal conspiracy and common intention under Sections 120-B and 34 of the PPC. The judge observed that the evidence suggested the accused had acted independently rather than as part of a common plan.

The sentences have been ordered to run concurrently, except for additional imprisonment that may arise from non-payment of fines. The period already spent in custody will be deducted from the sentences in accordance with the court’s order.

The death sentences will now be referred to the Lahore High Court for confirmation, a mandatory step before the penalties can be carried out. The convicts retain the right to appeal against the verdict within 30 days.

The case dates back to May 2022, when a citizen’s complaint prompted the registration of a first information report (FIR) on May 24 by the FIA’s then cybercrime wing. According to FIR, material alleged to be blasphemous was circulated through several mobile phone numbers in a WhatsApp group presented as a platform for Quranic education.

FIA conducted technical analysis that linked one of the numbers to a suspect. Investigators raided his Lahore residence on May 22, 2022, and seized a laptop and two mobile phones for examination.

The agency said its analysis of the devices allegedly uncovered content deemed derogatory to the Holy Quran and Islamic sacred figures, which had reportedly been shared through Facebook and WhatsApp groups.

Blasphemy Death sentences overturned over lack of solid evidence

 

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Lahore Govt School turns Classrooms into Rental Spaces for labourers

LAHORE – Administration of Government Primary School in the Thokar Niaz Beg area of Lahore comes under scrutiny over allegations of renting out classroom space to labourers while students continue to study in deteriorating conditions.

A nursery classroom at the government-run institution has allegedly been rented out to a mason and a labourer for Rs5,000 each. The arrangement is said to have continued for approximately six months, raising questions about the use of public educational facilities for private commercial purposes.

The controversy has taken another turn over the reported consumption of electricity and water by the occupants, with the school’s utility expenses allegedly increasing as a result. The arrangement has sparked concerns about whether public resources intended to support education are being used appropriately.

While classroom space is reportedly being used for purposes other than teaching, the school’s physical condition shows troubling picture. Several windowpanes are broken, the wooden planks on classroom benches have deteriorated, and cracked whiteboards in multiple classrooms are reportedly no longer fit for use.

The school’s main entrance is missing its signboard, while the boundary wall and main gate are also said to be in a state of disrepair. These conditions have raised concerns about the learning environment being provided to children at an institution expected to offer a safe and functional space for education.

Sources have also claimed that the school administration forwarded inflated student enrolment figures to the District Education Authority (DEA) Lahore through allegedly fictitious registrations. If substantiated, the allegations could raise further questions about record-keeping, administrative accountability and the effectiveness of the authority’s monitoring mechanisms.

However, the claims regarding classroom rentals and enrolment figures require independent verification by the relevant authorities.

Local residents have reportedly called for the immediate replacement of the school’s headmaster, expressing frustration over the institution’s management and deteriorating facilities. Residents say the school’s poor environment left them questioning whether their children can receive an adequate education there, with some considering withdrawing them from the institution.

The allegations raised question on the role of the District Education Authority Lahore in supervising government schools and ensuring that public facilities serve students rather than private interests.

 

Punjab education minister to teach THESE subjects in schools from September 2026

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Per Tola Gold Price stays at Rs439,036 in Pakistan; full rates list

KARACHI – Gold prices in Pakistan remained stable on first day of the week, with the price of 24-karat gold holding at Rs439,036 per tola.

The price of 10 grams of gold also remained unchanged at Rs376,402. The gold metal maintained the same price on Monday, indicating no further movement in the local market.

In the international market, gold prices remained unchanged at $4,165 per ounce, reflecting stability in global bullion trading. Meanwhile, silver prices moved in the opposite direction in Pakistan, increasing by Rs59 per tola to reach Rs6,234.

Gold Rates in Lahore

The reported gold rates in Lahore listed the price of a piece at Rs433,000 and Rs432,500, while Pathoor rates stood at Rs427,500 and Rs425,500.

These Lahore-specific figures have been reproduced as provided; the relevant categories and rate differences require confirmation.

Monday’s unchanged gold prices followed the stability recorded in the international market. While gold remained steady in both local and global trading, silver registered a modest increase in Pakistan, highlighting differing price movements between the two precious metals.

Today Gold Rates in Pakistan – 18, 21, 24Karat Gold Price – 19 October 2026

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Afghan Taliban Taste their own Medicine as Resistance Groups claim 38 Killed across 12 Provinces

KABUL – As tensions soar over attacks being conducted from Afghan soil against Pakistan, Taliban are getting a taste of their own medicine as Resistance groups claim more than 18 attacks across 12 Afghan provinces, leaving over 38 Taliban personnel dead.

Afghanistan’s anti-Taliban resistance groups reported fresh wave of armed operations and several commanders were also among those who got killed in over 18 attacks during a 12-day period.

The claims point to continued armed opposition to Taliban rule, with several factions reporting attacks in strategically significant areas. However, the scale of the alleged casualties and the operational impact of the strikes could not be independently established.

Afghanistan United Front reported a series of operations in Kandahar and Helmand, including attacks on security checkpoints and personnel. According to the group, an attack in Ghor on October 11 killed one Taliban member and wounded another. Two days later, a strike in Kandahar’s Arghandab district allegedly killed Commander Rahimullah Rohani and a police officer.

On October 14, the group claimed that attacks on three checkpoints in Spin Boldak killed three personnel, wounded three others and destroyed a vehicle. The faction also reported killing five personnel and seizing weapons in Helmand. In Lashkar Gah, it claimed that two personnel, including an intelligence officer, were killed in separate operations on October 15 and 17.

Afghanistan Freedom Front reported an attack near police headquarters in Logar on October 13, claiming that three intelligence personnel were killed and two others wounded. National Resistance Front separately reported operations in Baghlan and Panjshir on October 9 and 10, claiming two Taliban personnel were killed and another two injured.

Blow to Taliban regime as Afghanistan Freedom Front claims Heavy Losses in Border Clashes

Afghan Green Trend reported attacks in Herat, Panjshir and Lashkar Gah. Its claims included the destruction of a police checkpoint and Ranger vehicles, alongside reported Taliban casualties. The reported targeting of intelligence personnel and police installations suggests that opposition factions are continuing to challenge Taliban security structures in multiple locations. The extent of the damage and the identities of those killed have not been independently verified.

National Independence Front reported operations in Nangarhar, Helmand, Farah, Wardak, Badghis and Kandahar. According to the faction, its targets included a tank, military supply vehicles, an intelligence convoy, a Ranger vehicle and a Taliban commander. Separately, the Afghan Republic Front claimed responsibility for a rocket attack on a chromite storage facility controlled by the Taliban in Bamyan.

 

 

 

 

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FACT CHECK: Did Pak Army Officer die of Heart Attack during Pakistan-Sri Lanka Pindi Match?

RAWALPINDI – Reports of the death of a Pakistan Army officer during a Pakistan-Sri Lanka cricket match at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium went viral online, and it prompted reponse from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting MoIB.

According to ministry’s fact-check, the deceased was not a Pakistan Army officer but a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) employee who died from electrocution at his home, with no connection to the match.

Ministry of Information and Broadcasting ruled out social media claims that an Army officer died of a heart attack during the Pakistan-Sri Lanka cricket match at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, clarifying that Muhammad Farooq was not present at the stadium during the match and had no connection with the event. The clarification contradicts claims circulated on social media suggesting that an Army officer suffered a medical emergency during the match and later died at a hospital.

Fact Check Did Pak Army Officer Die Of Heart Attack During Pakistan Sri Lanka Pindi Match

Journalist Naveed Satti reportedly claimed that 50-year-old Muhammad Farooq, son of Muhammad Azam, lost consciousness during the Pakistan-Sri Lanka match and was transported to Benazir Bhutto Hospital in Rawalpindi by Rescue 1122, where he subsequently died. The journalist further claimed that Farooq was working with Pakistan Army and was posted at a security agency in Islamabad.

Fact Check Did Pak Army Officer Die Of Heart Attack During Pakistan Sri Lanka Pindi Match

According to the ministry’s fact-check and the First Information Report (FIR) shared with its statement, Farooq was approximately 60 years old and died after suffering an electric shock while checking an electrical plug at his home. After the incident, his family contacted Rescue 1122, and he was shifted to a local hospital. Hospital records reportedly identified electrocution as the cause of death.

FACT CHECK: No Pakistan Army lieutenant colonel killed at Chaman Border amid clashes

The ministry further clarified that the deceased was a PCB employee, not a member of the Pakistan Army. It also stated that he was not present at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium during the match. The discrepancy between the age cited in the journalist’s claim and the age mentioned in the FIR is another detail that distinguishes the two accounts.

Authorities urged the public to verify information through credible sources before sharing reports of deaths, emergencies or other sensitive incidents on social media.

FACT CHECK: Did US Navy operate from Pakistani territory against Iran?

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Bangladesh’s ex-Air Force Chief Arrested in Qatar in Major Corruption Probe

DHAKA – Bangladesh’s former Air Force chief, Air Chief Marshal Sheikh Abdul Hannan, has been arrested in Doha over corruption allegations involving unexplained wealth and suspicious financial transactions worth hundreds of millions.

Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) said Qatari authorities detained Hannan on October 15, with Interpol subsequently informing the commission of the arrest via email. Muhammad Akhtarul Islam, a deputy director at the ACC, confirmed the development, saying the commission gets official notification from Interpol regarding the former military chief’s detention.

The arrest is another development in the investigations surrounding Hannan, who served as the chief of the Bangladesh Air Force from June 2021 until his retirement in June 2024.

ACC alleges that Hannan accumulated assets worth more than 32.8 million Bangladeshi taka beyond his known sources of income. Investigators have also flagged suspicious financial transactions worth approximately 276.3 million taka through six bank accounts held in his name. The commission approved the filing of cases against him in July last year under Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission Act, the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, and the Prevention of Corruption Act.

The allegations concern the former air chief’s declared income, accumulated wealth and financial dealings, which remain under investigation.

Bangladeshs Ex Air Force Chief Arrested In Qatar In Major Corruption Probe

The corruption investigation also implicated wife of former Air chief, who is accused of accumulating assets worth more than 19.1 million taka beyond her known sources of income, allegedly with her husband’s assistance. Investigators identified suspicious transactions worth approximately 11.8 million taka through 32 bank accounts registered in her name.

Investigators have reportedly traced Hannan’s alleged overseas assets to Canada and Dubai. Assets registered in the names of his children have also been identified in three different countries. The findings have brought the family’s alleged overseas holdings under further scrutiny as investigators continue examining the origins of their wealth and financial transactions.

In March, a Dhaka court ordered the seizure of the income tax records of Hannan and his wife following two separate applications by the ACC.

A court had also previously ordered the seizure of two apartments belonging to the former air chief and the freezing of his bank accounts amid allegations that he possessed assets beyond his known sources of income.

Hannan managed to leave Bangladesh despite facing multiple corruption cases and reportedly being subject to a travel ban. According to the ACC, the former military chief succeeded in leaving the country despite the restrictions.

Hannan joined the Bangladesh Air Force in 1984, receiving his commission as a General Duty Pilot. He later became the 16th chief of the Bangladesh Air Force, assuming office on June 12, 2021. He retired on June 11, 2024, after completing his tenure. Nearly four decades after joining the service, the former military chief is now facing serious allegations concerning his wealth, banking activities and alleged overseas assets. The charges remain allegations, and Hannan has not been established as guilty through the legal process.

Former Navy Chief also Faces Corruption Cases

The controversy extends beyond the former air force chief. According to media reports cited in the original account, former Bangladesh Navy Chief Admiral Mohammad Nazmul Hassan is also facing corruption cases and is currently abroad. However, unlike Hannan, Hassan has reportedly not been placed under a court-imposed travel ban.

Both former service chiefs were appointed during the government of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League party. Hannan completed his tenure while the Awami League was still in power, while Hassan retired later, during the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.

20 civilians killed in Bangladesh hostage siege: army

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DG ISPR signals Zero Compromise on Saudi Security, keeps Diplomatic Channels with Iran Open

ISLAMABAD – As tensions continue to grip the Middle East, Pakistan is walking a delicate diplomatic tightrope, keeping communication channels open with Tehran while reaffirming its defence commitments to Saudi Arabia. DG ISPR Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said Islamabad will continue pushing for de-escalation, while the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia-Türkiye defence alliance strengthens its collective deterrence posture.

ISPR chief, speaking to Independent Arabia, has pledged to intensify diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation in the Middle East while reaffirming its commitment to Saudi Arabia’s security, as the military leadership outlined the defensive objectives and collective deterrence framework of the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia-Türkiye alliance.

He warned that the repeated cycle of escalation and de-escalation was undermining regional stability, stressing that continued confrontation would serve neither the interests of the countries involved nor those of the wider region.

Pakistan, he said, would continue engaging relevant parties alongside its regional partners to contain tensions, prevent the conflict from spreading and create space for diplomatic progress.

Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement with Iran has continued for several months, according to the DG ISPR, with discussions centred on restraint and preventing the conflict from intensifying. Responding to questions about whether Islamabad issued a direct warning to Tehran after attacks on Saudi Arabia, Lt Gen Chaudhry neither confirmed nor denied that such communication had taken place. He however mentioned that Pakistan’s exchanges with regional stakeholders remained focused on reducing tensions.

The military spokesperson cautioned that recurring outbreaks of violence could derail efforts to establish sustainable peace. He stressed that political engagement and negotiations were necessary to prevent further escalation and limit the conflict’s geographical and military scope.

Islamabad’s position, as outlined in the interview, combines continued diplomatic outreach with a warning that prolonged regional confrontation could have serious consequences for collective security.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s position on Saudi Arabia, Lt Gen Chaudhry said the Kingdom’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and the security of Makkah and Madinah remained fundamental concerns for Islamabad. He said that Pakistan was extending the support required under its existing defence commitments and would continue fulfilling its obligations to Saudi Arabia.

While withholding operational information on grounds of military confidentiality, he maintained that Pakistan remained prepared to employ its available capabilities to meet those responsibilities.

The remarks came amid concerns over Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia. Lt Gen Chaudhry said the incidents had provoked strong reactions within Pakistan’s political and military leadership and among the public, reflecting the significance attached to protecting the Kingdom and Islam’s holiest sites. His comments shows Islamabad’s intention to maintain its security commitments to Riyadh while continuing to pursue diplomatic avenues to prevent the wider conflict from escalating.

Pak Army spokesperson said collective deterrence mechanism associated with Pakistan-Saudi Arabia-Türkiye defence arrangement was already being implemented.

Calling framework as defensive in nature, Lt Gen Chaudhry said it was founded on the right of self-defence under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. He maintained that the arrangement was not directed against a particular country and was intended to deter aggression rather than pursue offensive objectives.

According to his explanation, aggression against any one of the three member states, whether direct or indirect, would engage the collective response commitments of the alliance. The framework’s institutional structure is also developing, with a secretariat and a strategic political and defence committee established to support coordination among the participating countries, he said.

DG ISPR clarifies Presence of Pakistan Army Troops in Saudi Arabia

The arrangement builds on longstanding political, historical and defence ties between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye. Lt Gen Chaudhry also clarified that it would operate alongside existing bilateral defence agreements and security partnerships rather than displace them.

Lt Gen Chaudhry said the alliance was designed to make clear that threats against its members would be met with a coordinated security response in line with their commitments. He highlighted the difficulties associated with deterring non-state armed groups, noting that such organisations can operate differently from conventional state actors and may not respond to traditional diplomatic signals in the same way.

In this context, he argued that credible defence arrangements were essential to discourage attacks and prevent armed groups from exploiting instability across the region. DG ISPR also cautioned against allowing security confrontations to expand, warning that a broader military conflict would undermine regional interests and make negotiated settlements harder to secure.

Pakistan-Saudi Arabia-Türkiye arrangement could potentially accommodate additional members, Lt Gen Chaudhry indicated, suggesting that the framework was not necessarily confined to its three founding countries. He said states that shared the alliance’s objectives of regional stability and collective security could be considered for future participation.

However, he offered no confirmation of reports concerning specific countries that might join, explaining that such decisions rested with the political and strategic leadership of the existing members. He reiterated that the initiative was intended to strengthen security cooperation and promote stability, not to establish a confrontation with any particular regional power.

DG ISPR also addressed maritime security challenges in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb, two strategically important waterways for international shipping and regional commerce. Lt Gen Chaudhry highlighted the importance of cooperation among countries to protect maritime routes and safeguard trade flows. He also referred to Pakistan’s participation in multinational maritime security arrangements as part of broader efforts to address shared challenges.

DG ISPR explains Pakistan’s Position on Saudi Defence as Houthi Attacks instensify

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Punjab Police ASI lands behind bars for showering currency notes at Dancers during festival

SAHIWAL – A viral video showing Sahiwal Police ASI tossing currency notes at dancers during a shrine festival sparked outrage online, prompting police high-ups to order legal action.

Taking notice of the incident, DPO Usman Tipu directed Yousafwala Police to register a case against ASI Rustam Ali Bhatti, posted at Fatah Sher Police Station, and Bashir Ahmed Bhatti, caretaker of the shrine of Hazrat Diwan Baba Haji Sher in village 55/5-L, tehsil Sahiwal.

ساہیوال کے علاقے میں سالانہ عرس کی تقریب کے دوران رقاصاؤں پر کرنسی نوٹ نچھاور کرنے کی ویڈیو وائرل ہونے پر پولیس کے اے ایس آئی کو گرفتار کر لیا گیا، جبکہ درگاہ کے متولی کے خلاف بھی مقدمہ درج کر لیا گیا, ڈان کی رپورٹ

ڈی پی او عثمان ٹیپو کی ہدایت پر یوسف والا پولیس نے تحصیل ساہیوال کے گاؤں 55/5-L میں حضرت دیوان بابا حاجی شیر کے سالانہ عرس کے موقع پر جمعہ کی رات رقاصاؤں پر پیسے لٹانے کے الزام میں فتح شیر پولیس اسٹیشن کے اے ایس آئی رستم علی بھٹی اور درگاہ کے متولی بشیر احمد بھٹی کے خلاف مقدمہ درج کر لیا۔
وائرل ہونے والی ویڈیو میں پولیس اہلکار کو خود بھی رقاصاؤں پر نوٹ نچھاور کرتے ہوئے دیکھا گیا تھا۔

— Shahid Hussain (@ShahidHussainJM) October 19, 2026

The video, which circulated widely on social media, allegedly shows the police official throwing currency notes towards dancers, raising questions about the conduct of a serving law enforcement officer.

After the incident, police registered a case under Section 294 of the Pakistan Penal Code and Section 155C of the Police Order on the complaint of ASI Zulfikar Ali of Yousafwala Police Station.

Police arrested Rustam Ali Bhatti and placed him in lockup, while teams were dispatched to conduct raids for the arrest of shrine caretaker Bashir Ahmed Bhatti.

The incident has drawn attention to the conduct of public officials at religious gatherings, with further developments expected as the investigation proceeds.

Punjab cop suspended for posting dance video in uniform with woman

 

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Muzaffarabad, parts of Azad Kashmir gets Mobile Internet back after 130-Day Shutdown

MUZAFFARABAD – After four months and 10 days of digital blackout, mobile internet services have finally been restored in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Kashmir, bringing relief to residents who had endured months of connectivity disruptions. However, the situation remains grim in other districts.

The service started returning late last night after announcement by AJK PM a day earlier. While the development is a relief for residents of the capital, the continued suspension elsewhere has left the region facing an uneven return to digital connectivity.

Authorities suspended mobile internet services on June 5 amid tensions surrounding a June 9 protest call issued by the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).

Although mobile phone calls remained available during the shutdown, mobile internet connectivity was disrupted, alongside DSL internet services. DSL connectivity has since been restored in Muzaffarabad, followed by the resumption of mobile internet services. The latest restoration is expected to ease communication difficulties for residents who have spent months dealing with restricted access to online services.

Despite the restoration in Muzaffarabad, the shutdown continues in several parts of Azad Kashmir. Rawalakot, Bagh, Kotli and Sudhnoti are among the districts where mobile internet services have yet to be restored, leaving residents uncertain about when normal connectivity will resume.

The disparity raised fresh questions about timeline for restoring mobile internet access across the entire region. Banned Joint Awami Action Committee continues its sit-in protest in Rawalakot district, where demonstrators have been camping since June 5 to press for the acceptance of their demands.

The ongoing protest shows continuing tensions surrounding the committee’s campaign, even as internet services begin returning to the regional capital.

The prolonged suspension of mobile internet has created difficulties for residents in affected areas, disrupting online communication, limiting access to information and complicating routine digital activities.

Mobile, internet services begin restoring in AJK’s Mirpur after 45-day suspension

 

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Bureaucrats returning from Overseas Training Must Submit Verified Degrees, Financial Guarantees

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani government tightened the noose around civil servants returning from overseas scholarships, educational programmes, professional training and deputation, introducing strict requirements for degree verification, joining reports and recovery of government funds in case of violations.

Under newly issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Establishment Division made it clear that government-funded foreign training and educational assignments cannot be treated as open-ended leave, while officers who fail to fulfil mandatory requirements could face employment-related consequences and financial penalties.

The move aims to strengthen accountability, prevent misuse of public funds and ensure that officers receiving taxpayer-funded education and training fulfil their obligations to the state.

Civil servants returning from educational leave or foreign scholarships will be required to submit an attested copy of their degree certificate or an official academic transcript along with their joining report.

Officers who fail to produce the required documents without a reasonable and verifiable justification may be formally treated as absent from duty.

The new requirements also address delays in the issuance of degrees by foreign universities. In such cases, officers will have to provide verifiable documentation from the relevant educational institution confirming satisfactory academic performance and explaining the reason for the delay. Without the required supporting documents, officers will not be permitted to rejoin duty, according to the procedures outlined in the circular.

Once the documents are submitted, the degree and joining report will be forwarded immediately to the Training Wing (T Wing) of the Establishment Division to ensure that the central record is updated and maintained.

Over 22,000 government officers in Pakistan are dual national: Report

The government has also moved to plug financial loopholes associated with publicly funded scholarships and professional training programmes. In the past, some officers reportedly sought to resign or leave government service without completing the mandatory service period attached to their scholarships or training. The new mechanism is designed to make such departures financially accountable.

Under the revised procedure, a centralised statement of financial liabilities will be prepared for every officer who signs a surety bond. The statement will contain a detailed breakdown of the original scholarship cost, training expenses and all other amounts paid to the officer that may be recoverable under the applicable terms.

It will also clearly specify the mandatory period of service the officer must complete after returning to Pakistan.

Resignation Rules

The new procedure requires statement of financial liabilities to explicitly identify circumstances that could constitute a breach of the surety bond, including an unauthorised resignation or abandonment of government employment.

The exact amount of the financial penalty recoverable from the officer must also be recorded, bringing greater clarity to the government’s recovery mechanism. Training Wing will be required to provide the relevant financial details to the Executive Wing (E Wing) without delay.

The statement will become a key component of the officer’s personal file and must be placed before the competent authorities whenever an administrative decision concerning the officer’s employment or service conditions is considered.

The measure is intended to ensure that the financial obligations attached to government-funded education and training remain visible during subsequent service-related decisions.

Establishment Division has ruled that merely applying for an extension of approved leave, educational leave or deputation does not automatically authorise an officer to remain away from duty. Officers must report back as soon as their approved period expires, even if their extension applications are still awaiting approval.

Failure to submit a joining report may result in the officer being treated as absent without authorisation. The matter may also be referred to senior officers for appropriate directions. The clarification closes a potential administrative loophole through which officers could otherwise remain away from duty while awaiting decisions on extension requests.

The new SOPs signal a tougher approach to monitoring civil servants who receive government-funded overseas education, scholarships and professional training. By linking degree verification, joining reports, surety bonds and financial liability records, the Establishment Division is seeking to ensure that officers fulfil both their documentary requirements and their post-training service commitments.

The new framework places particular emphasis on timely reporting, verifiable academic records and the recovery of public funds where the applicable rules and bond conditions permit.

 

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18 Workers kidnapped in Armed Attack on Marble Factory in Balochistan’s Khuzdar

KH​​UZDAR – Another armed attack reported at marble factory in Balochistan’s Khuzdar where gunmen stormed the facility, abducted 18 workers and escaped with two vehicles and a loader. One worker was shot and wounded during the incident.

The attack took place in the remote Nal area near Besar Mountain, around 35 to 40 kilometres from Khuzdar city, at a marble factory owned by former National Party provincial minister Sardar Aslam Bizenjo and his son, Shah Mir Bizenjo.

According to the police official, dozens of armed men arrived at the factory late Saturday night in vehicles and on motorcycles before forcibly taking away 18 workers present at the site. One worker tried to flee but was shot by the attackers, sustaining a bullet wound to his leg. The injured worker was identified as Rashid, whose condition was reported to be out of danger by medical sources.

Initial information suggests that the abducted workers belong to different areas of Khuzdar district. The assailants reportedly took two vehicles and a loader from the factory before fleeing the scene. No armed group had claimed responsibility for the attack at the time of reporting.

The mass abduction raised fresh concerns about the security of workers and industrial facilities in the province, where a separate incident involving the abduction of police personnel was reported just a day earlier.

Unidentified armed men abducted 20 police personnel belonging to the Rakhshan Division from a passenger van in Mastung district, according to the report. The two incidents intensified concerns over the deteriorating law and order situation in Balochistan, with multiple abductions in quick succession putting renewed focus on security in the province.

Security forces have launched a search operation in the area to trace the abducted workers, while police have registered a case and initiated an investigation into the attack.

 

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PM Shehbaz targets Equal Education through Danish Schools across Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced plans to expand Danish Schools network across Pakistan, promising equal access to quality education for underprivileged and talented children regardless of their provincial, ethnic or socioeconomic backgrounds.

Addressing inauguration ceremony of a Danish School in Islamabad, the premier declared that no child should be deprived of quality education simply because their parents cannot afford it. He emphasized that the state must fulfil its responsibility as a mother by ensuring justice, equal rights and educational opportunities for every citizen.

The announcement comes as 27 Danish Schools are reportedly under construction across the country, marking a significant step towards expanding an education model originally introduced by the Punjab government in 2010.

Sharif said that whether a child is Punjabi, Sindhi, Baloch, Kashmiri or Pashtun, every child deserves an equal opportunity to succeed. The prime minister expressed deep concern over Pakistan’s longstanding educational divide, questioning why children from wealthy and influential families can access prestigious institutions such as Aitchison College while millions of disadvantaged children struggle to obtain even basic education.

He argued that a child’s future should be determined by talent, hard work and ability, not by the financial circumstances of their family.

Highlighting the plight of underprivileged families, the prime minister pointed to millions of talented boys and girls who remain unable to fulfil their potential because of financial hardship.

Sharif also recalled the example of a young girl from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa whose determination and love of education could not overcome the financial barriers standing in her way. His remarks underscored a central challenge facing Pakistan: ensuring that poverty does not become a permanent obstacle to educational achievement.

The prime minister questioned the disparity between children of the privileged class and those from low-income households, pointing out that the children of powerful political figures, senior officials, judges and wealthy landlords can access elite educational institutions with relative ease. Meanwhile, millions of children from Pakistan’s four provinces, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan continue to face barriers to quality schooling.

Recalling the vision behind the establishment of Danish Schools in Punjab in 2010, Shehbaz Sharif said the objective was to create an institution capable of providing education comparable to, or better than, that offered by elite institutions such as Aitchison College.

He also cited the example of an orphaned female doctor from Bahawalpur to highlight how access to educational opportunities can transform lives and help disadvantaged children overcome difficult circumstances.

PM Sharif’s announcement placed educational equality back at the centre of the national debate. The proposed expansion offers the prospect of opening new pathways for disadvantaged children who might otherwise remain excluded from quality education. However, the initiative’s ultimate success will depend on how quickly new schools become operational, how fairly deserving students are selected, and whether the institutions maintain consistent educational standards across provinces and regions.

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Honda CD 70 2027 Installments Plans with Monthly Payments starting at Rs6,500

Honda CD 70 continues to remain among the top-selling bikes despite its high price, but masses apparently prefer fuel efficiency, durability, affordable maintenance, and strong resale value.

However, with motorcycle prices remaining high with no major upgrade, buying a Honda CD 70 outright can be difficult for people managing tight budgets. For such buyers, installment plans offer an alternative, allowing them to spread the cost over several months rather than paying the full amount at once.

Honda CD 70 2027 Installment Plans

Customers can pay Rs53,300 per month for three months or Rs26,650 per month for six months, with both options advertised at zero markup. Those who prefer smaller monthly payments can consider longer repayment periods, although these plans may cost more overall.

Honda Cd 70 2027 Installments Plans With Monthly Payments Starting At Rs6500

12-month plan comes with a monthly installment of Rs16,523, while the payments fall to Rs9,861 for 24 months and Rs7,640 for 36 months. The lowest advertised monthly payment is Rs6,529 under the 48-month plan.

CD 70 is listed at Rs159,900, keeping it within reach of some buyers while remaining a considerable expense for others. Despite the price, the motorcycle continues to attract customers who value its established reputation and relatively straightforward maintenance.

Its popularity also benefits from the widespread availability of spare parts and mechanics familiar with the model. These practical advantages, along with its resale value, help explain why the CD 70 remains a familiar sight on Pakistan’s roads.

Atlas Honda remains a major player in Pakistan’s motorcycle market, with demand supported by its well-established commuter models. The company’s overall sales performance reflects the continued importance of motorcycles for everyday transportation in the country.

CD 70 remains one of its best-known models, particularly among buyers looking for a simple motorcycle for daily use. However, company-wide sales figures should not be confused with CD 70-specific sales, as a separate breakdown is needed to determine the exact number of units sold.

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Is Egypt joining Pakistan, Türkiye to defend Saudi Arabia from Houthi Attacks?

CAIRO — Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi signals Cairo’s readiness to take “any necessary measures” to defend Saudi Arabia if Riyadh formally requests assistance, raising the prospect of deeper Egyptian involvement amid escalating tensions with Yemen’s Houthi movement.

Speaking at Egyptian Military Academy’s graduation ceremony in the New Administrative Capital on Saturday, el-Sisi stressed that Egypt’s commitment would be strictly defensive, insisting that Cairo had no intention of attacking another country or initiating a war.

Egypt’s House of Representatives scheduled full parliamentary session today following a request from president. The meeting has drawn attention because it comes directly after el-Sisi’s remarks on defending Saudi Arabia. Some reports suggest lawmakers could consider authorization for defensive assistance, although the precise agenda and outcome require official confirmation.

Under Article 152 of Egypt’s Constitution, declaring war or sending armed forces on combat missions abroad involves consultation with the National Defense Council and parliamentary approval by a two-thirds majority.

The immediate question is whether Cairo could move beyond political support and provide practical military assistance if Saudi Arabia comes under further attack. Potential forms of assistance could include air-defense cooperation, military advisers, logistical support or a limited deployment. These remain possibilities, not confirmed operational decisions.

El-Sisi made it clear that Cairo does not seek confrontation and would act only in defensive capacity. No confirmed announcement establishes that Saudi Arabia has formally requested Egyptian military assistance, that Egyptian forces have been deployed, or that Cairo has entered a new military campaign against the Houthis.

The stakes extend beyond bilateral relations between Cairo and Riyadh. Red Sea is key maritime corridor linking global shipping routes, while the Suez Canal remains a major source of revenue and economic importance for Egypt. Any sustained deterioration in regional maritime security could carry serious consequences for trade, shipping and Egypt’s economic interests.

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Against this backdrop, Cairo has repeatedly stressed that the security of Gulf states forms an integral part of Egypt’s national security.

Egypt condemned Houthi attacks, underscoring its opposition to threats against Saudi security and regional stability.

Egypt previously participated in the Saudi-led intervention in Yemen in 2015, with its contribution focused substantially on maritime security in the Red Sea.

Any renewed Egyptian involvement would unfold in a different regional context and could take a more limited defensive form. Whether Cairo would consider direct combat operations, maritime deployments or defensive assistance would depend on the circumstances, the nature of any Saudi request and the decisions taken by Egyptian authorities.

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