JAAC boycotts APC as parties reject refugee seats proposal for AJK Assembly

The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) on Wednesday boycotted an All Parties Conference (APC) convened by the Azad Jammu and Kashmir government to discuss its demands, as the participants unanimously rejected its proposal to abolish refugee seats in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly. The APC held at the Prime Minister’s House in Muzaffarabad lasted for more than six hours and was attended by almost all political and religious parties of the region, except the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the JAAC leadership, who boycotted the meeting despite being invited. A joint statement, based on a resolution adopted by consensus, was later read out by AJK Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore before the media. The JAAC confirmed that it had received an invitation from the AJK prime minister to attend the all-parties consultative meeting. However, it decided not to attend after the government rejected its proposal, which it termed an injustice to the people of the region. “The position of the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee is clear. During the negotiations held on May 30, the proposal put forward by the governments of Pakistan and Azad Kashmir was rejected based on clear arguments,” it said in a statement. جموں کشمیر جوائنٹ عوامی ایکشن کمیٹی کا آل پارٹیز کانفرنس میں شرکت نہ کرنے کا فیصلہ حکومت آزادکشمیر کے دعوتی خط کے جواب میں کور ممبرز جموں کشمیر جوائنٹ عوامی ایکشن کمیٹی جناب شوکت نواز میر صاحب کے ذریعہ حکومت کو مطلع کر دیا گیا. منجانب شعبہ نشرو اشاعت جموں کشمیر جوائنٹ عوامی ایکشن… pic.twitter.com/9d9B34sA3w — Awami Action Commite (@JAAC__Official) June 3, 2026 The committee said that consulting those who benefitted from a structure based on "injustice, denial of fundamental rights and inequality amounted to rubbing salt into the wounds of ordinary people who had long been subjected to exploitation". “Therefore, the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee stands by its decision not to participate in the meeting,” it said, adding that it hoped the prime minister and other responsible stakeholders would move towards serious and meaningful efforts to ensure full implementation of the agreement reached on October 4, 2025. Responding to the APC declaration, JAAC Chairman Shaukat Nawaz Mir said the organisation did not recognise the conference and accused its participants of convening it to serve their own interests. In a statement, Mir said there had been several occasions when an all-parties conference should have been convened, particularly on the Kashmir issue, and that political leaders should have issued a strong declaration in support of the cause. آل پارٹیز کانفرنس پر ایکشن کمیٹی کا موقف، ہم ایسی کسی کانفرنس کو نہیں مانتے جو ان کے مفاد میں ہو، شوکت نواز میر pic.twitter.com/VIVFCVrY4F — Awami Action Commite (@JAAC__Official) June 3, 2026 “There were many occasions when they failed to convene an all-parties conference, but when it came to waving the cipher, all parties gathered because it was meant to serve their own interests,” he said. Criticising the APC, Mir said it had never issued a declaration on the Kashmir issue despite developments affecting the disputed region. “On August 5, a blow was dealt to the Kashmir issue, but the rulers remained silent. Instead, they fled the country, while some took refuge in Kashmir House,” he alleged. Reiterating his call for a protest on June 9, Mir said large caravans from across the region would converge on Muzaffarabad. “Very large caravans will reach Muzaffarabad on June 9, and they will be received by the honourable, courageous and self-respecting people of Muzaffarabad division,” he said. AJK PM rejects extra-constitutional move Earlier, briefing reporters, the AJK prime minister said the participants deliberated the issue in detail and concluded that no such step could be supported outside the constitutional and legislative framework in the larger interest of the public and the Kashmir liberation movement. Representatives of the people of Azad Jammu & Kashmir have spoken clearly at All Parties Conference. There’s no justification for non-political entities to impose their will from outside of the legislative assembly. No one should try to hijack the democratic process. pic.twitter.com/f9eYlvmbkl — Faisal Mumtaz Rathore (@PMofAJK) June 3, 2026 “The decision in this regard can only be taken through elected representatives in the assembly,” he said. He said the JAAC leadership had been invited to the conference to discuss a possible framework for addressing their demands but chose not to attend, adding that they had already decided to launch an agitation even if their demands were met. He said most of the JAAC’s demands had already been addressed, and that the leadership had been requested to postpone their planned June 9 protest to allow meaningful deliberations within legal and constitutional committees on sensitive matters such as refugee seats. However, he added, the request was not accepted. “They were requested to postpone their protest for one day for meaningful deliberations, but they refused,” he said. Rathore said the government would not use force against peaceful protesters and would facilitate them during demonstrations. “We will not use force against peaceful protesters and will provide them with facilities, including cold water, during hot weather conditions,” he added. According to the resolution, leaders of the JAAC had also been invited to attend the meeting. However, despite waiting for their participation, the committee did not become part of the consultative and democratic process. Also Read: AJK forms 20-member cabinet under pact with Awami Action Committee The participants reiterated their commitment to democratic processes, constitutional continuity and state stability, describing these as essential for the future of AJK. The resolution stated that democratic continuity and constitutional governance formed the foundation of institutional stability and reaffirmed the resolve of political parties to strengthen democratic institutions and make them more effective and responsive. It said political disagreement was a natural feature of democracy, but stressed that differences of opinion could not be allowed to weaken institutions or undermine governance and the democratic structure. The resolution called upon political parties, civil society organisations and public groups to promote tolerance, dialogue and peaceful political engagement, stating that responsible political conduct was essential for lasting peace in the region. The APC reaffirmed full support for the right to self-determination of the people of Jammu and Kashmir in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions, pledging continued political, moral and diplomatic support for what it described as the legitimate freedom struggle of the Kashmiri people. The conference strongly condemned alleged human rights violations by Indian forces in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and termed Indian hostile actions in the territory unacceptable. It also condemned the detention of Hurriyat leaders and Kashmiri political activists, and criticised what it described as India’s attempts to alter the demographic composition of occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The resolution appreciated the role of national security institutions, describing them as an important pillar of stability in AJK. It is alleged that India was carrying out organised propaganda against state institutions through social media platforms and attempting to create misunderstandings between state institutions and democratic structures. The conference said efforts aimed at weakening public confidence in state institutions would not be tolerated. On the issue of elections, the APC stated that general elections to the AJK Legislative Assembly would be held within the constitutionally mandated timeframe and in accordance with the law. The participants pledged to ensure that the electoral process remained free, fair, transparent, impartial and peaceful. Read: PM Rathore rules out confrontation with JAAC The resolution stated that all necessary administrative, legal and security arrangements would be put in place to ensure smooth elections and provide voters with an environment in which they could exercise their right to vote without fear, pressure or interference. It warned that any attempt to sabotage, delay or make the electoral process controversial would not be tolerated and would be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law. The conference stressed that maintaining continuity of the democratic process was a shared responsibility of all political forces. The participants also paid tribute to refugees from Jammu and Kashmir for their sacrifices for the Kashmir freedom movement and the creation of Pakistan. The resolution described the representation of Jammu and Kashmir refugees residing in Pakistan as a historical and constitutional reality. The conference acknowledged that certain electoral complications relating to refugee representation existed, but said these could be addressed through reforms acceptable to political parties and enacted through the Legislative Assembly in accordance with constitutional requirements. It maintained that constitutional reforms fell within the exclusive mandate of elected representatives and should therefore be left to the Legislative Assembly. The APC called for consultations with political parties, bar associations, the bar council, civil society organisations and constitutional experts before any reforms were undertaken. The participants agreed on the need to initiate a broad-based consultative process on constitutional reforms and emphasised that all political and constitutional issues should be resolved through dialogue, law, the Constitution and democratic institutions. Concluding the meeting, the conference declared that there would be no compromise on democratic continuity, constitutional reforms and state stability in Azad Kashmir. The conference was attended by a majority of political parties from Jammu and Kashmir, including Pakistan Muslim League leader Shah Ghulam Qadir, Pakistan Peoples Party leader Chaudhry Yasin, Muslim Conference leader Sardar Attiqueur Rehman, former prime ministers Sardar Farooq Haider Khan, Sardar Yaqoob Khan and Sardar Tanveer Ilyas, as well as Ahmed Raza Qadri, Maulana Saeed Yousaf, Yasser Abbas Naqvi and Dr Ilyas. ‘Height of frivolity’, JAAC slams APC resolution Responding to the APC's declaration, the JAAC issued a strongly worded statement, dismissing the resolution as insignificant and accusing the authorities of failing to effectively represent public interests during negotiations. “The height of frivolity,” the statement said, describing the APC's declaration as “nothing more than a page and a half filled with utterly trivial lines”. The committee alleged that state representatives had effectively surrendered both their authority and negotiating position, calling the situation “deeply frustrating”. غیر سنجیدگی کی انتہا۔ یہ پریس ریلیز انتہائی سطحئ سطروں پر مشتمل ڈیرھ ورق سے زیادہ کچھ نہیں۔ لگ رہا ہے جیسے ریاستی نمائندے اپنے اختیارات اور مذاکرات کی طاقت سے دستبردار ہو چکے ہیں جو کے بہت مایوس کن بات ہے یقیناً آج کی کل جماعتی کانفرنس نے عوامی غصے میں جلتی پر تیل والا کام… — Awami Action Commite (@JAAC__Official) June 3, 2026 The statement further claimed that the all-party conference had intensified public resentment. “Today's all-party conference has undoubtedly poured oil on the fire of public anger,” it said. The JAAC also reiterated preparations for its planned June 9 protest, saying its members were present in all divisions of Azad Jammu and Kashmir to coordinate the campaign. The committee also reiterated a set of proposals it had submitted in writing to the negotiating teams of the governments of Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir on May 30 regarding the representation of Jammu and Kashmir refugees residing in Pakistan. According to the proposals, the committee argued that since the government's negotiating team had maintained that the Azad Government of the State of Jammu and Kashmir represented the entire former princely state, symbolic representation for all regions of Jammu and Kashmir should continue in the AJK Legislative Assembly until a permanent resolution of the Kashmir dispute is reached. As an alternative, the committee proposed abolishing the refugee seats reserved for Jammu and Kashmir refugees residing in Pakistan in the AJK Legislative Assembly and instead allocating four seats to refugee representatives in the AJK Council. ایکشن کمیٹی کی طرف سے حکومتی مزاکرتی کمیٹی کو دی گئ تجاویز pic.twitter.com/x8zcxyCyPB — Awami Action Commite (@JAAC__Official) June 3, 2026 “Such an arrangement would preserve the political dimension of the Kashmir dispute, as the council is chaired by the prime minister of Pakistan,” it maintained. The committee also proposed measures aimed at addressing concerns regarding the issuance of state subject certificates and protecting the employment rights of residents of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. It called for the verification of all state subject certificates in light of allegations raised by refugee organisations, saying that any fraudulent certificates should be cancelled while genuine refugees should be protected. The proposals further suggested making an Azad Jammu and Kashmir domicile certificate mandatory, in addition to a state subject certificate, for employment in government institutions and admission to professional educational institutions in the territory.

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K-P govt, dissident PTI lawmakers fail to reach reconciliation ahead of budget

Reconciliation efforts between the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government and its dissident lawmakers in the provincial assembly have failed, as the disgruntled members have adopted a hardline stance and decided not to support the upcoming budget without prior consultation with PTI founder Imran Khan. In a meeting held in Peshawar, the dissident lawmakers linked their movement to the campaign for Imran’s release. A statement issued by the group said the participants discussed the prevailing political situation and various other matters in detail during the meeting. The statement strongly condemned the denial of a meeting between the founder and his family once again, calling it a violation of basic human rights, the law, and the Constitution. “We strongly condemn this move,” the statement read. Also Read: Afridi displays majority amid PTI dissent The dissidents warned that unless a comprehensive and workable strategy is adopted for the former prime minister’s release, the federal government will neither allow him to meet his family, lawyers, or party leaders, nor will there be any clear progress on his medical treatment. “Under these circumstances, all assembly members urge and demand party leaders to come forward and advance the movement for Imran Khan’s release under a comprehensive, organised, and viable strategy,” the statement said, adding that the current protest process appears disorganised and reflects a lack of seriousness. The statement welcomed the position taken by Aleema Bibi and the K-P chief minister regarding the new fiscal year’s budget, terming it a positive step that represents the voice of every PTI worker. “For this reason, today all assembly members clearly and unanimously supported the stance that the budget should not be presented in the assembly until the chief minister is allowed a meeting with leader Imran Khan,” the statement said. “We all stand firm on this position and are ready to go to any extent for it.”

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Pakistan wins WHO award in recognition of contributions to tobacco control

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has awarded the World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) 2026 Award to Pakistan in recognition of its outstanding contributions to tobacco control. According to the statement issued by the WHO, the award was given jointly to the Tobacco Control Cell of Pakistan’s Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination and Dr Waseem Iftikhar Janjua, Senior Researcher at the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI). The WNTD Award is presented annually to individuals or organisations from each of the six WHO Regions in recognition of their outstanding contributions to tobacco control. The statement further added that Pakistan successfully reduced tobacco consumption by 15.7% between 2014 and 2024, because of measures implemented to fulfil its international obligations under the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), according to new findings from the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) 2024 led by the Government of Pakistan in partnership with WHO and the CDC Foundation. Discover how Pakistan has reduced tobacco consumption & saved lives over the last 10 years thanks to measures such as taxation under the @WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. Together, we can protect our families & our children from tobacco. https://t.co/06wPs0hSoS pic.twitter.com/VfYN4rO4gZ — WHO Pakistan (@WHOPakistan) June 3, 2026 “Tobacco products are still consumed by 16.1% of the Pakistani population aged 15 and above. As a result, each year, tobacco continues to cause nearly 164,000 deaths and economic losses of over 1,800 billion Pakistani rupees (around US$6.6 billion).” It said that the GATS 2024 results were presented – under the leadership of Health Minister Mustafa Kamal – as part of the extended celebrations of WNTD and the international campaign launched by WHO under the theme “Unmask the Appeal – Countering Tobacco and Nicotine Addiction.” Read More: President vows to protect youth from tobacco harm The survey followed a science-based global standard protocol for systematically monitoring adult tobacco use, offering the last decade’s trends and a comparison with the 2014 round. It was conducted by the National Institute of Population Studies Training and Research in collaboration with the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination – through its Tobacco Control Cell – and WHO. More than 11,000 interviews were completed with an overall response rate of 95.6%. .@WHO has recognized Pakistan’s Tobacco Control Cell and Dr Waseem Janjua with the World No Tobacco Day 2026 Award. Congratulations & thank you for your outstanding work to protect and save lives.#TobaccoExposed#WorldNoTobaccoDay To learn more:https://t.co/E2t8yWHQEN pic.twitter.com/BXhCtXscqq — WHO Pakistan (@WHOPakistan) June 3, 2026 Decline in exposure to secondhand smoke Among other encouraging key findings, the GATS 2024 results underline that – between the previous survey in 2014 and 2024 – the exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke in Pakistan decreased in all locations measured in both surveys: homes (48.3% to 28.8%), workplaces (69.1% to 35.9%), government buildings (64.6% to 40.7%), private buildings (77.3% to 54.8%), healthcare facilities (37.6% to 24.5%), restaurants (86.0% to 55.2%), marriage halls (65.7% to 50.3%), public transportation (76.2% to 45.4%), universities (44.2% to 33.3%), and schools (25.1% to 11.5%). Furthermore, the survey reported a decrease in exposure to tobacco advertising or promotions in stores (from 20.4% to 17.8%) and to any tobacco advertisements, promotions or sponsorships (from 38.6% in 2014 to 30.5%). However, female consumption of tobacco increased slightly by 1.7%, with 5.9% of women aged 15 and above smoking, and there was a marginal decrease in the percentages of smokers who made a quit attempt in the past 12 months (from 24.7% to 24.1%) and who were advised to quit when visiting a health-care provider (from 51.8% to 49.9%). Key tobacco control measures to prevent major health risks The findings further added that since 2014, under the umbrella of the WHO FCTC, Pakistan had implemented key policy changes to reduce tobacco consumption, including a 208% increase in tobacco taxation during fiscal year 2022–2023; larger pictorial health warnings on tobacco packaging; a ban on the sale of loose cigarettes nationwide; the National Tobacco Control Strategy 2022–2030; and the establishment of provincial Tobacco Control Cells and Implementation and Monitoring Committees, among others. The Secretary of the Ministry of National Health Regulations, Services and Coordination Muhammad Aslam Ghauri, while addressing the event, said that “this year’s WNTD theme, 'Unmask the Appeal – Countering Tobacco and Nicotine Addiction,' served as a timely reminder of the evolving tactics employed by the tobacco and nicotine industries to target young populations and create lifelong addiction. Also Read: Rise of vapes, e-cigarettes fuels new nicotine risks for Pakistan’s youth “The emergence of electronic cigarettes, vaping devices, heated tobacco products, and digital advertising platforms has transformed the tobacco epidemic into a more complex public health challenge. The aggressive targeting of youth through flavoured products, social media influence, and misleading perceptions regarding safer alternatives demands urgent and coordinated policy action,” he said. Pakistan’s tobacco control measures reduced consumption by 15.7% over 10 years. The Global Adult Tobacco Survey 2024 confirms the positive impact of Pakistan’s policies under @WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. Together, we can save lives.#WorldNoTobaccoDay pic.twitter.com/u336XC5LHP — WHO Pakistan (@WHOPakistan) June 3, 2026 Ghauri reminded that Pakistan continued to face a significant burden of tobacco use. “The findings of the GATS Pakistan 2024 reveal that approximately 22.7 million adults currently use tobacco products in the country. Exposure to secondhand smoke and tobacco advertising remains widespread, particularly in public spaces and among younger age groups. Approximately 163,600 Pakistanis die each year due to causes related to tobacco, accounting for 448 deaths per day.” WHO’s Representative in Pakistan, Dr Luo Dapeng, said, “The GATS 2024 results confirm that, together, we can protect and save lives thanks to international cooperation and the implementation of specific measures such as taxation and banning tobacco advertisements that are particularly targeting our children and teenagers.” “The science is very clear: all tobacco products are killers. WHO will always stand with Pakistan to protect our children and our families from this public health threat,” he added.

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Lahore bat population declines amid habitat loss

The historic Bagh-e-Jinnah remains one of the largest bat roosting sites in Lahore. Hundreds of bats can still be seen hanging from old trees during the day before leaving in search of food at dusk. However, experts say their numbers have been steadily declining over the years. Urbanisation, shrinking green spaces, artificial lighting and widespread misconceptions among the public are contributing to a gradual decline in bat populations in Lahore, wildlife experts and biologists warned, stressing the need for conservation measures to protect the species and maintain urban biodiversity. According to wildlife expert Shahzaib Khurshid, rapid urban expansion is the primary reason behind the decrease in bat population. He said the construction of roads, housing schemes and commercial projects has led to the loss of mature trees and natural habitats that bats depend on for shelter. "Bats prefer old and dense trees in relatively undisturbed environments. As cities continue to expand, suitable habitats for these animals are becoming increasingly scarce," he said. The experts believe misconceptions about bats are also contributing to their decline. While some citizens view bats as an important part of nature, others associate them with superstition and fear. At Bagh-e-Jinnah, several visitors shared varying views about bats. A local resident said every living being has a purpose in nature. "People should try to understand their role in the environment instead of fearing them," he said. Joham expressed a similar view, saying that nothing in nature is created without purpose. He said bats play a role in maintaining ecological balance and deserve protection. Muhammad Munir said many beliefs surrounding bats are based on myths rather than facts. He stressed the importance of awareness and scientific education about wildlife. On the other hand, some residents acknowledged holding negative perceptions about bats. Rehana Ahmed said she had grown up hearing that bats are a bad omen and therefore always felt uncomfortable around them. Bushra Khalid said many people believe bats suck blood, making them fearful of the species. Imtiaz Hussain said bats' unusual appearance and sudden flight patterns often create fear and disgust. Wildlife experts, however, say such perceptions have little scientific basis. They note that most bat species found in Pakistan are harmless to humans and play an important role in maintaining ecological balance. Senior Veterinary Officer Dr Muhammad Azhar said bats are an essential component of healthy ecosystems. He explained that insect-eating bats help control mosquito and pest populations naturally, reducing the need for chemical interventions. "The presence of bats is often an indicator of a healthy environment. Public awareness is necessary to dispel myths and encourage coexistence with wildlife," he said. The experts say bats provide valuable ecological services by consuming large numbers of insects, including mosquitoes, moths and agricultural pests. Some species also contribute to pollination and seed dispersal, supporting plant diversity and forest regeneration. Punjab University Zoology Department Head Dr Zulfiqar Ali said several species of birds, insects and other forms of urban wildlife have declined significantly or disappeared from parts of the city over the past few decades.

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Market time restriction restored in Punjab

The Punjab government will reinstate prescribed business operating hours across the province from Tuesday, following the end of a temporary Eidul Azha relaxation, requiring markets to close by 8pm daily. The relief granted to markets and restaurants remained in effect until Monday. Now the commercial activities will continue according to the previously notified schedule. Under the policy, markets, shops, shopping malls and commercial centres across Punjab must shut by 8pm. Authorities are expected to monitor compliance and ensure enforcement of the decision. Restaurants, marriage halls and food outlets will be allowed to operate until 10pm. Gyms, indoor sports facilities, the information technology sector and call centres will remain exempt from the restrictions. The government says the measure forms part of its strategy to promote efficient electricity use and reduce energy wastage in an effort to ease pressure on power resources. However, the decision has raised concerns among traders who argue that reduced operating hours could affect sales and overall commercial activity. Read More: Sindh lifts closing time restrictions for markets, restaurants Business representatives say customer footfall typically increases in the evening, when people visit markets after completing their work commitments. “The closure timing will affect business as most customers come after office hours. Evening is the busiest period for traders, and shorter hours will lead to lower sales and losses,” said a local trader, Muhammad Asif. He maintained that earlier closures could adversely affect traders, employees and sectors linked to commercial activities. Traders have urged the government to review the policy in light of prevailing economic conditions and allow flexibility in business hours. They say longer operating hours would offer greater convenience to consumers during the summer season, as daytime heat discourages shopping. The relaxation would help sustain commercial activities during peak evening hours. No fresh notification has been issued to amend the schedule, and the early closure time policy is expected to be enforced from June 2. A temporary relaxation had been introduced ahead of Eidul Azha to facilitate shopping. Announcing the measure on May 15, Lahore Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Ali Ejaz had said that markets in the provincial capital would be allowed to remain open beyond the prescribed hours until June 1 to support the business community and facilitate citizens. Separately, the Multan district administration announced that the Eid relief period had ended and the standard operating hours would be restored. According to the administration, markets in the district will close at 8pm, while restaurants will be permitted to operate until 10pm. The administration said assistant commissioners and other district officials had been directed to ensure implementation of the notification. Bakeries, petrol pumps, medical stores and tandoors will remain exempt from the restrictions.

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Market time restriction restored in Punjab

The Punjab government will reinstate prescribed business operating hours across the province from Tuesday, following the end of a temporary Eidul Azha relaxation, requiring markets to close by 8pm daily. The relief granted to markets and restaurants remained in effect until Monday. Now the commercial activities will continue according to the previously notified schedule. Under the policy, markets, shops, shopping malls and commercial centres across Punjab must shut by 8pm. Authorities are expected to monitor compliance and ensure enforcement of the decision. Restaurants, marriage halls and food outlets will be allowed to operate until 10pm. Gyms, indoor sports facilities, the information technology sector and call centres will remain exempt from the restrictions. The government says the measure forms part of its strategy to promote efficient electricity use and reduce energy wastage in an effort to ease pressure on power resources. However, the decision has raised concerns among traders who argue that reduced operating hours could affect sales and overall commercial activity. Read More: Sindh lifts closing time restrictions for markets, restaurants Business representatives say customer footfall typically increases in the evening, when people visit markets after completing their work commitments. “The closure timing will affect business as most customers come after office hours. Evening is the busiest period for traders, and shorter hours will lead to lower sales and losses,” said a local trader, Muhammad Asif. He maintained that earlier closures could adversely affect traders, employees and sectors linked to commercial activities. Traders have urged the government to review the policy in light of prevailing economic conditions and allow flexibility in business hours. They say longer operating hours would offer greater convenience to consumers during the summer season, as daytime heat discourages shopping. The relaxation would help sustain commercial activities during peak evening hours. No fresh notification has been issued to amend the schedule, and the early closure time policy is expected to be enforced from June 2. A temporary relaxation had been introduced ahead of Eidul Azha to facilitate shopping. Announcing the measure on May 15, Lahore Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Ali Ejaz had said that markets in the provincial capital would be allowed to remain open beyond the prescribed hours until June 1 to support the business community and facilitate citizens. Separately, the Multan district administration announced that the Eid relief period had ended and the standard operating hours would be restored. According to the administration, markets in the district will close at 8pm, while restaurants will be permitted to operate until 10pm. The administration said assistant commissioners and other district officials had been directed to ensure implementation of the notification. Bakeries, petrol pumps, medical stores and tandoors will remain exempt from the restrictions.

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Two dead as social media dispute turns deadly

A petty dispute that began on social media escalated into a deadly armed clash in Bhakkar, leaving two young men dead and five others injured. Following the tragic incident, authorities have approved the establishment of a permanent police post at the District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital to strengthen security and ensure a rapid response to emergencies. As per a notification issued by District Police Officer (DPO) Shahzad Rafiq Awan, the new police post will be staffed by seven personnel, including one female and six male officers. The move is aimed at enhancing hospital security and enabling action in emergency situations. Police said the incident occurred on Gudwala Darya Khan Road within the jurisdiction of Sadar Bhakkar Police Station. A verbal dispute between two groups of youths, which reportedly began on TikTok and other social media platforms, intensified and eventually led to an exchange of gunfire. As a result, one young man from each side, identified as Shiraz and Zohaib, was killed, while five others sustained injuries. Upon receiving information about the shooting, police rushed to the scene, brought the situation under control and shifted the injured to hospital for medical treatment. DPO Shahzad Rafiq Awan took notice of the incident and visited DHQ Hospital, where he met the injured victims. He said police teams were conducting raids at various locations to arrest those involved in the clash and vowed that all suspects would soon be brought to justice. The DPO added that the establishment of a permanent police post at DHQ hospital would further strengthen security arrangements, provide a safer environment for doctors and healthcare workers and ensure an effective quick-response mechanism to deal with any future emergencies or violent incidents. Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Ehsan Ali Jamali, accompanied by DPO Shahzad Rafiq Awan, paid a special visit to DHQ hospital. SP Investigation Shaukat Ali, Chief Executive Officer Health and Population Dr Mazhar Abbas Khan, doctors, and paramedical staff were also present. During the visit, officials reviewed hospital security arrangements and discussed issues faced by medical staff.

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