Gohar seeks 'conducive environment' for talks

PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan on Tuesday said meaningful negotiations with the government could only move forward if a conducive political environment was created. He said that simultaneous convictions of PTI workers and calls for dialogue sent conflicting signals. Speaking to the media after being stopped by police near the Dahgal checkpoint while heading towards Adiala Jail, Gohar said there had been no progress in talks with the government despite Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's offer of dialogue from the National Assembly floor. He said that confidence-building measures were essential before negotiations could bear fruit. "The prime minister has invited us for dialogue from the floor of the Assembly. We have also said that political issues should be resolved through political means, but the government has to create an environment for negotiations." "On one hand, our people are being sentenced, and on the other, there is talk of negotiations. This should not happen," he lamented. Commenting on prison meetings, Gohar welcomed the decision to allow Bushra Bibi's family to meet her. However, he expressed concern over restrictions on meetings with PTI founder Imran Khan. "It is a good thing that Bushra Bibi's family has been allowed to meet her. Meetings should take place. Imran Khan's family should also be allowed to meet him, but 36 weeks have passed and no meeting has taken place. This is a matter of concern," he said. Clarifying reports surrounding last month's protest at Chungi No. 26, Gohar said he had conveyed no message regarding any meeting. He said the family supported Imran Khan being transferred to a hospital for treatment. He recalled that a meeting with Bushra Bibi had also been scheduled the previous week but could not take place because her family did not arrive.

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Bilawal, Fazl urge govt, protesters to resolve AJK crisis through dialogue

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Tuesday called for dialogue to resolve the ongoing unrest in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, while announcing an electoral alliance for the upcoming elections in the region and urging both sides to pursue a peaceful solution. Addressing a joint press conference after their meeting, Fazl revealed that the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) had approached him to mediate the crisis, while Bilawal said that he was prepared to play a role in resolving the issue regardless of the personal consequences. The JUI-F chief said the sit-in in AJK was continuing and disclosed that, following his offer to mediate, the JAAC had sent a delegation to him and formally sought his mediation. https://ift.tt/brzEX69 He said Bilawal had supported his mediation efforts in Parliament despite being part of the government. "We are jointly conveying a message to the prime minister as well, and we hope Shehbaz Sharif will take positive steps regarding the situation in Azad Kashmir," he said. The JUI-F chief also said that if his party's AJK chapter entered into an electoral alliance with the PPP, he would fully support the arrangement. Bilawal said that Fazl had always played an important role in politics and that he had met him to discuss the ongoing protests in Kashmir. "We both have extensive experience of protest movements." The PPP chairman urged the federal government to support efforts aimed at resolving the Kashmir issue through dialogue. Also Read: PPP, JUI-F announce alliance for AJK polls "We request the government to also support us on the Kashmir issue. Elections in Kashmir have already been announced, and we want free and fair elections," he said. Bilawal also announced that the PPP and JUI-F would jointly contest the upcoming AJK elections. "The PPP wishes to form the government in Kashmir together with JUI-F," he said. He also appealed to JAAC to remain within the bounds of the law and the Constitution. Expressing concern over content circulating on social media relating to Kashmir, Bilawal said such material was worrying and deserved condemnation. "Every issue is resolved through dialogue, and political disputes can only be settled through political means. We have to resolve this matter politically," he said. Referring to the dispute over refugee-reserved seats in the AJK Legislative Assembly, Bilawal said the issue had reached a deadlock. "The refugee seats in Kashmir have reached a deadlock. These seats will not be abolished through protests or sit-ins. The only solution is a constitutional amendment through the legislative assembly," he said. Bilawal further disclosed that he had invited the JAAC to participate in the recently held All Parties Conference, but the group chose not to attend. "I am ready to resolve this issue even if I am punished for it. Kashmir is our jugular vein, and it has already suffered immense damage," he said.

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AJK police arrests JAAC leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir amid sit-in

Shaukat Nawaz Mir, head of the recently proscribed Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), was arrested in Azad Jammu and Kashmir's Dhirkot area on Tuesday, according to an official. The situation in AJK remains tense after the government banned the JAAC, with the group continuing its sit-in and vowing to sustain the protest until its "legitimate demands" are met. Muzaffarabad Deputy Commissioner (DC) Munir Qureshi confirmed Mir's detention while speaking to The Express Tribune. Read: TTAP says police stopped AJK-bound delegation DC Qureshi said Mir was arrested in Dhirkot during a joint operation carried out by the district administration and police based on intelligence information. Following the arrest, the JAAC also confirmed Mir's detention in a statement, saying fellow member Saib Javed had also been arrested. It described the two as campaigners for "the people's rights, justice and a better future". https://ift.tt/ZDsEXea The group alleged that Mir was arrested while attempting to reach an ongoing sit-in, claiming that a combing operation involving intelligence agencies, police, and other institutions led to his detention before he could join the protest. In a separate statement, the JAAC said Mir's presence at the sit-in would have significantly boosted the morale of participants, but insisted that the arrest of a single leader would not weaken the movement. "One voice can be suppressed, but not resolve. One person can be arrested, but not the movement," it added. https://ift.tt/c5Ziyhx The JAAC said Mir was not alone and claimed the entire nation stood with him, expressing confidence that "victory will be for justice". Urging supporters not to lose heart, the group said public movements did not depend on any single individual. Also Read: AJK govt rules out blanket amnesty for JAAC "This is not just Shaukat Nawaz Mir's movement, nor solely that of the core members. This is the movement of the entire public," the statement said. The JAAC added that arrests, raids, imprisonment, and sacrifices had historically been part of public movements, expressing confidence that Mir would soon return to the people. Until then, it said, the public would remain "his voice" and carry forward his mission, adding that the movement would emerge stronger despite the arrest and that "ultimately, victory will belong to the people and defeat to tyranny, arrogance and the exploitative system." Background The recent unrest and deadly clashes broke out in areas, including Rawalakot, where the JAAC had been holding a sit-in outside the Combined Military Hospital Rawalakot. AJK police allege that armed JAAC members opened fire on deployed law enforcement in a planned attack, leaving four personnel dead and around 20 injured. JAAC, however, disputes this account, claiming security forces used tear gas and fired shells toward the hospital. According to the AJK police, three individuals linked to the JAAC and four law enforcement personnel were killed during the protests. JAAC, however, said in a statement on X that seven individuals were killed and dozens were injured when street firing was carried out in the dark after electricity was allegedly cut off. The clash came as the AJK government and the JAAC witnessed a face-off, as the election date for AJK was announced for July 27. Read More: Certain elements seeking to create instability in AJK despite repeated offers of dialogue: Rana Sanaullah AJK's 53-member legislative assembly includes 12 seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees — people who fled Indian-controlled Kashmir in 1947 and 1965 and are now scattered across Pakistan. Six seats represent refugees from the Jammu division (~434,000 people) and six from the Kashmir Valley (~30,000 people) — an already lopsided arrangement that many see as unfair. The region witnessed one of its most turbulent periods in October last year when protests led by the JAAC erupted over demands for constitutional and governance reforms. At least nine people, including three policemen, were killed during the unrest. The JAAC, which organised the protests and strike, had presented a wide-ranging charter of demands, including an end to the privileges enjoyed by the ruling elite, the abolition of 12 assembly seats reserved for refugees, and the scrapping of the quota system. Two days after the violence, the government and the JAAC reached an agreement covering 12 core and 13 additional points. Under the accord, both sides agreed to constitute a high-level committee to examine the issue of refugee seats in the AJK Legislative Assembly

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Placenta smuggling probe deepens

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has continued its investigation into the alleged recovery and smuggling of human placenta seized from an illegal human organ processing facility operating from houses in upscale sectors of Islamabad. Three Chinese nationals and two Pakistani suspects, whose four-day physical remand ends on Monday, will be produced before a court to seek an extension of their custody. The FIA has also widened the scope of its investigation to hospitals from where the Chinese and Pakistani suspects allegedly obtained human placenta after childbirth. According to details, acting on intelligence received by FIA Islamabad Zone Director Shahzad Nadeem Bukhari, a joint team of the FIA Corporate Crime Circle Islamabad and the Human Organ Transplant Authority raided a house in Sector F-7/1, Islamabad. During the raid, the team found a complete plant allegedly set up for the illegal processing of human organs, particularly human placenta. The investigation revealed that the suspects were illegally processing and drying human placenta at the facility. The finished product, marketed as "She Placenta", was allegedly smuggled and exported to Vietnam. Officials recovered around 500 kilograms of fresh and processed human placenta and arrested five suspects, including three Chinese nationals - Li Gangcai, Wang Bao and Peng Fei Gua - and two Pakistanis, Waqas and Qasim Hanif. During the raid, another Chinese national, identified only as Li, arrived at the premises and introduced himself as a friend of Li Gangcai. Acting on leads linked to the same network, the FIA later raided another location in Islamabad's E-11 sector, where another fully operational processing centre equipped with refrigerators containing organs was found. Processing equipment and prepared material were recovered from the site, while two more Pakistani suspects were taken into custody and are being questioned. A case has been registered against the suspects under the relevant provisions of the Human Organs Transplantation Act (HOTA), 2010. The investigation has also been extended to hospitals in Rawalpindi, Peshawar and Lahore from where the suspects allegedly obtained human placenta after childbirth. Sources said further revelations are expected during the investigation.

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SC returns Imran appeal against IHC order

The Supreme Court has returned appeals filed by former prime minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, challenging an Islamabad High Court (IHC) order that declined to decide their applications for suspension of sentence on merit in the £190 m case. It is learnt that the Supreme Court Registrar returned the appeals after raising objections, holding that the appropriate remedy against the IHC order lay before the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC). However, counsel for Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi, Salman Safdar, has contested the objection, maintaining that the appeals are maintainable before the Supreme Court under Article 185(3) of the Constitution. According to the petition, Article 175A(1)(a) of the Constitution provides that an appeal to the FCC lies only where it is expressly provided by law. The petition states that Section 32A of the National Accountability Ordinance (NAO), 1999, provides a second appeal to the FCC against a decision of a high court under Section 32 of the ordinance. However, it argues that the NAO does not expressly provide an appeal to the FCC against an order passed on a bail application under Section 9(b) of the NAO read with Section 497 of the CrPC, or against an order on an application for suspension of sentence, even where such an application is filed in a criminal appeal under Section 32 of the ordinance. "Consequently, in the absence of any specific statutory remedy of appeal under the NAO, 1999, the impugned order is assailable before the Hon'ble Supreme Court of Pakistan under Article 185(3) of the Constitution," the petition states. The IHC had disposed of the sentence suspension pleas in early May, observing that since the principal appeals had already been fixed for hearing, there was no justification for separately taking up the suspension applications. In his appeal, Imran Khan submits that he developed an eye condition during his imprisonment and had to be shifted outside jail for medical treatment. He argues that his continued incarceration despite serious health issues is unjust and contends that prolonged solitary confinement has caused him exceptional mental distress. The petition further alleges that the application for suspension of sentence was deliberately delayed and notes that Imran Khan had been granted bail during the trial after the allegations against him were found to be without basis. It argues that courts are legally empowered to examine the merits of a case while deciding applications for suspension of sentence and maintains that dismissing the plea without a preliminary assessment of the evidence was erroneous. The appeal also accuses NAB of repeatedly seeking adjournments, delaying the proceedings and denying the petitioners timely justice. It further alleges that Imran Khan's arrest was unlawful and politically motivated, adding that a higher court had previously ordered his release over the manner of his arrest.

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Educational decline feared in privatised schools

Serious concerns have emerged over deteriorating conditions in nearly 13,000 educational institutions across Punjab, including Rawalpindi district, which have been handed over to private management during the past two years under outsourcing and public-private partnership arrangements. According to education sector representatives, many of these schools are now facing an acute shortage of basic facilities, including electricity, water, furniture and other essential resources. Several outsourced schools have reportedly been abandoned altogether, with buildings locked and lying deserted. Complaints have also intensified regarding cost-cutting measures adopted during school hours, including the switching off of electric fans to avoid high electricity bills. In one widely discussed incident at a school operating under a public-private partnership arrangement, management allegedly turned off ceiling fans during classes. A video of the incident went viral on social media, prompting the registration of an FIR against the school administration. Muhammad Shafiq Bhalwalia, Secretary General of the Schools Education Pensioners Association, along with Punjab Teachers Union central president Ramzan Inqalabi and union leaders Bashir Warraich and Amjad Mahmood, stated that approximately 13,000 primary, elementary and high schools had been outsourced over the past two years. They claimed that many of these institutions were now struggling due to administrative difficulties and dilapidated infrastructure. They further alleged that when schools are transferred to private operators under partnership arrangements, female teachers possessing only matriculation or FA qualifications are often recruited on salaries ranging from Rs7,000 to Rs10,000 per month, while students are charged fees of around Rs1,500 each. Union representatives also alleged widespread violations of employment agreements in outsourced schools. According to them, teachers are reportedly made to sign salary receipts showing payments of Rs17,000 per month, despite actually receiving only Rs7,000. Allegations of fake student enrolments have also surfaced. Education leaders warned that the continued transfer of public educational institutions into private hands amounts to closing the doors to free education. They argued that the policy is steadily destroying the dream of quality public education for children from poor families. They demanded an immediate halt to the privatisation of educational institutions, insisting that the provision of free education remains a constitutional and moral responsibility of the state. Meanwhile, a total of 9,217 high and higher secondary schools are currently operating under the Punjab Education Department across Punjab, but the absence of permanent heads has severely affected the administrative and academic functioning of these institutions. No regular headmasters, headmistresses or principals have been appointed in government high and higher secondary schools for the past three years. Instead, schools are being run under an ad hoc arrangement merely to manage day-to-day affairs. Out of the 9,217 institutions, only 2,973 have permanent headmasters or principals, while 6,244 schools are functioning without regular heads. This means that nearly two-thirds of Punjab's high and higher secondary schools are operating without permanent administrative leadership. Although temporary and inexperienced acting heads have been assigned in some institutions, their appointments are also on an interim basis, further aggravating the situation.

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Pakistan moves to salvage fragile ceasefire

Pakistan on Sunday stepped up its diplomatic engagement with key regional and international players as fresh exchanges of fire between Iran and the United States threatened to unravel the fragile ceasefire and jeopardise the implementation of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a series of telephone conversations over the last 48 hours with the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Iran, besides separately speaking with British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and the European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas. The flurry of diplomatic contacts came as fresh US-Iran military exchanges cast a shadow over the MoU both sides signed on June 18, committing to end hostilities on all fronts. The latest escalation followed US allegations that Iran was behind attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Washington responded with strikes on Iranian military targets, prompting retaliatory missile and drone attacks by Tehran against US facilities in Bahrain and Kuwait. The renewed hostilities have once again put the future of the Islamabad MoU in jeopardy. Diplomatic sources said Pakistan was in close contact with all stakeholders in an effort to prevent the situation from spiralling into a wider regional conflict. During his conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Dar conveyed Pakistan's condolences over the helicopter crash in Saudi Arabia that claimed 14 lives. He expressed sympathies on behalf of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and the people of Pakistan. Prince Faisal thanked Pakistan for the brotherly gesture. The two leaders also discussed the evolving regional situation and expressed concern over the latest escalation, with Dar reiterating Pakistan's commitment to continue working for peace under the Islamabad MoU. Prince Faisal also conveyed his intention to visit Pakistan at the earliest mutually convenient date. In his conversation with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, Dar briefed her on Pakistan's continued diplomatic efforts aimed at developing a comprehensive framework for peace and stability in the Middle East. Kallas appreciated Pakistan's role in facilitating the signing of the Islamabad MoU but expressed serious concern over the recent ceasefire violations and stressed the importance of keeping channels of communication open. The two sides agreed to remain in close contact. The Bahraini foreign minister, Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, congratulated Pakistan on the signing of the Islamabad MoU and praised Islamabad's constructive role in facilitating the understanding between Washington and Tehran. Al Zayani expressed hope that the agreement would contribute to lasting peace and stability in the region and said he would visit Pakistan soon to personally thank the Pakistani leadership for its efforts. Dar also spoke to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, reaffirming Pakistan's commitment to playing a constructive role in achieving lasting peace and stability in the region and beyond. Araghchi appreciated Pakistan's continued support in advancing the peace process and thanked Islamabad for facilitating the safe repatriation of Iranian crew members and fishermen. Separately, British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper reiterated London's appreciation for Pakistan's sustained efforts for peace and stability in the region that culminated in the signing of the Islamabad MoU. Diplomatic sources said Pakistan was particularly concerned that the latest military exchanges could derail efforts to transform the ceasefire into a broader political settlement. Major differences still remain between Washington and Tehran over several contentious issues, including the future security architecture of the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions relief and the interpretation of key clauses of the MoU. The renewed tensions have also raised fears in Islamabad that instability in the Gulf could adversely affect global energy markets and maritime trade routes, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining one of the world's most critical oil transit chokepoints. Pakistani officials said Islamabad would continue engaging both regional and international players in an effort to preserve the ceasefire and prevent the latest military exchanges from escalating into a broader regional conflict.

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IHC rules travel bans require due process

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has ruled that travel restrictions on citizens can only be imposed by a competent legal authority and strictly according to the procedure prescribed by law, declaring that names cannot be placed on the Passport Control List (PCL) without due process. In a significant judgment on citizens' right to travel, the court ordered the immediate removal of petitioner Zain Atiq's name from the PCL, holding that his continued inclusion on the list was unlawful. According to the judgment, Atiq's name was placed on the PCL after he was deported from Turkiye in July 2022. Subsequently, FIA recommended removing his name from the list upon the petitioner's request, noting that more than two years had elapsed since his deportation. However, the Passport Authority rejected his application on the ground of non-prosecution. The court observed that a person deported for illegal entry or any other prohibited act cannot be kept on the PCL indefinitely without the approval of a competent authority. The judgment noted that the record did not show that any competent authority had ever decided to retain the petitioner's name on the PCL. It observed that the record showed no evidence of any conviction or pending criminal case against him in Pakistan or in Turkiye. Referring to the Shireen Mazari case, the IHC reiterated that travel restrictions on citizens can only be imposed by a lawful authority through the procedure laid down by law. It held that the relevant authorities had failed to fulfil the legal requirements in the present case. While observing that the Passport Authority has the final authority in such matters, the court ruled that the FIA's recommendation could not be ignored without sound legal reasons. The judgment further noted that no criminal proceedings were pending against the petitioner, there was no record of any conviction by a competent court, and no other legal basis existed to justify continuing his inclusion on the PCL. In the absence of any lawful determination by a competent authority, the court held, the petitioner's name could not remain on the PCL. Consequently, the IHC directed the authorities to immediately remove Zain Atiq's name from the PCL.

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Sargodha police arrests 3 suspects for allegedly burying boy alive after reporting rape attempt

A 14-year-old boy was allegedly buried alive in a village on the outskirts of Mari Lak in Punjab's Sargodha district after he reported an old rape attempt, police said on Saturday, adding that a case was registered and three suspects were arrested. The injured boy was rescued and taken to the District Headquarters Hospital, where doctors said his condition was out of danger. According to police, the 14-year-old was allegedly subjected to a rape attempt around 20 days ago. However, the family did not approach police at the time, due to which no action was taken then. The police initially arrested two suspects, while the main suspect was later taken into custody. Read More: Child's brutal rape, murder shakes the city Sargodha District Police Officer Muhammad Suhaib Ashraf said the incident was being investigated from all angles and that the suspects would be dealt with in accordance with the law. He said it was too early to conclude the allegations, adding that a final opinion would be formed after forensic reports. Read: Operator rapes boy in lift, gives him Rs100 to shut up The boy told The Express Tribune that after he complained about the incident, the suspects became angry and decided to punish him. “He (the primary suspect) decided to teach me a lesson. On Muharram 9, I was picked up from outside my house in the afternoon and severely beaten by him along with two accomplices,” the boy said. “He later took me to a deserted area where bushes were growing and a hole had already been dug by a wild animal. I was thrown into it and covered with soil,” he added. A first information report (FIR) was registered on Friday on the complaint of the boy's mother at Jhal Chakian Police Station under Sections 34 (common intent), 324 (attempted murder) and 376(3) (rape of minor) and identified three suspects. According to the FIR, a copy of which is available with The Express Tribune, she stated that on June 25 at around 4:30pm, her 14-year-old son left home to attend a gathering but did not return till late night, prompting the family to inform the police via helpline 15. She further stated that the following day she and her husband were still searching for the boy when they suddenly heard a child crying. Upon reaching the spot, they found the child buried in the ground, with only his leg visible. Police and Rescue 1122 teams were called again, after which Rescue 1122 personnel retrieved the child and took him to the DHQ Hospital. The FIR added that when the child regained consciousness, he stated that around 20 days earlier he had told the elder brother of the main suspect that his sibling had subjected him to indecent assault. Also Read: Child abuse cases in Pakistan rise 8% to 3,630 in 2025: Sahil He further said that on June 25, while he was on his way to a gathering at around 5pm and reached Dera Wadhra, the main suspect intercepted him and questioned him about disclosing the incident to his older brother. The FIR stated that the other two suspects also arrived at the scene, after which all three abused and assaulted him and took him to nearby fields, where they subjected him to violence and buried him in the ground. Terming the incident a grave injustice, the complainant requested legal action against the suspects, seeking justice and their punishment.

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Sargodha police arrests 3 suspects for allegedly burying boy alive after reporting rape attempt

A 14-year-old boy was allegedly buried alive in a village on the outskirts of Mari Lak in Punjab's Sargodha district after he reported an old rape attempt, police said on Saturday, adding that a case was registered and three suspects were arrested. The injured boy was rescued and taken to the District Headquarters Hospital, where doctors said his condition was out of danger. According to police, the 14-year-old was allegedly subjected to a rape attempt around 20 days ago. However, the family did not approach police at the time, due to which no action was taken then. The police initially arrested two suspects, while the main suspect was later taken into custody. Read More: Child's brutal rape, murder shakes the city Sargodha District Police Officer Muhammad Suhaib Ashraf said the incident was being investigated from all angles and that the suspects would be dealt with in accordance with the law. He said it was too early to conclude the allegations, adding that a final opinion would be formed after forensic reports. Read: Operator rapes boy in lift, gives him Rs100 to shut up The boy told The Express Tribune that after he complained about the incident, the suspects became angry and decided to punish him. “He (the primary suspect) decided to teach me a lesson. On Muharram 9, I was picked up from outside my house in the afternoon and severely beaten by him along with two accomplices,” the boy said. “He later took me to a deserted area where bushes were growing and a hole had already been dug by a wild animal. I was thrown into it and covered with soil,” he added. A first information report (FIR) was registered on Friday on the complaint of the boy's mother at Jhal Chakian Police Station under Sections 34 (common intent), 324 (attempted murder) and 376(3) (rape of minor) and identified three suspects. According to the FIR, a copy of which is available with The Express Tribune, she stated that on June 25 at around 4:30pm, her 14-year-old son left home to attend a gathering but did not return till late night, prompting the family to inform the police via helpline 15. She further stated that the following day she and her husband were still searching for the boy when they suddenly heard a child crying. Upon reaching the spot, they found the child buried in the ground, with only his leg visible. Police and Rescue 1122 teams were called again, after which Rescue 1122 personnel retrieved the child and took him to the DHQ Hospital. The FIR added that when the child regained consciousness, he stated that around 20 days earlier he had told the elder brother of the main suspect that his sibling had subjected him to indecent assault. Also Read: Child abuse cases in Pakistan rise 8% to 3,630 in 2025: Sahil He further said that on June 25, while he was on his way to a gathering at around 5pm and reached Dera Wadhra, the main suspect intercepted him and questioned him about disclosing the incident to his older brother. The FIR stated that the other two suspects also arrived at the scene, after which all three abused and assaulted him and took him to nearby fields, where they subjected him to violence and buried him in the ground. Terming the incident a grave injustice, the complainant requested legal action against the suspects, seeking justice and their punishment.

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Heavy firing, explosion rock Karachi's Gulistan-e-Jauhar

Heavy gunfire and a powerful explosion were reported in Karachi's Gulistan-e-Jauhar on Saturday, triggering panic among residents. According to reports, intense gunfire was heard near Meteorological Chowrangi on University Road. A loud blast was also heard prior to the firing incident. Rescue 1122 spokesperson said that a report of a blast near Gulistan-e-Johar Block 5 was received by Rescue 1122 on Saturday. He said the Central Command and Control at Rescue 1122 received the information and immediately dispatched a team to the site of the incident. He added that Rescue 1122 teams have reached the location and are currently assessing the situation on the ground. Following the reports, a heavy contingent of police reached the spot. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah took notice of the incident and contacted inspector general of police (IGP) Sindh and additional inspector general (AIG) Karachi. According to the chief minister's spokesperson, Shah has sought a detailed report on the incident from the additional IGP Karachi. He directed the police to immediately determine the nature of the incident, reach the scene without delay, and ensure that all necessary measures are taken. More to follow...

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PTI issues show-cause notice to MNA Iqbal Afridi over alleged discipline violations

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Saturday issued a show-cause notice to Member of the National Assembly Iqbal Afridi over what it described as repeated violations of party discipline, directing him to submit a written explanation within seven days. According to the notice, a copy of which is available with The Express Tribune, Afridi has been asked to explain his position regarding a series of allegations levelled against him. The notice, issued by PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, accused Afridi of "routinely misbehaving with party MNAs", alleging that such incidents had "at times been captured on camera and streamed on televised news and social media". It further alleged that he had used "derogatory language and undignified remarks" against fellow lawmakers. Read: NA suspends PTI lawmaker over misconduct The notice also alleged that Afridi had "routinely gone against parliamentary party decisions during National Assembly proceedings". SHOW-CAUSE NOTICE FOR GROSS VIOLATION OF PARTY DISCIPLINE-IQBAL AFRIDI MNA pic.twitter.com/xYSgOP7uOk — Sheikh Waqas Akram (@SheikhWaqqas) June 27, 2026 In another allegation, the party claimed that his "derogatory behaviour has not only been directed towards party MNAs but also junior and senior staff of the National Assembly". Referring to an incident outside Adiala Jail, the notice alleged that on June 23, Afridi had "planned an assault on party MNAs" and that one of his accomplices assaulted several lawmakers. "You were personally involved in the assault. Party members gathered at Adiala for Imran Khan's cause; your action directly sabotaged this," the notice stated. PTI further alleged that Afridi's "actions and behaviour" had "brought disrepute to the party publicly" and constituted "serious misconduct, indiscipline, and conduct prejudicial to party discipline and unity". The notice asked Afridi to explain why his basic membership should not be cancelled and why he should not be expelled from the party. "You are directed to submit your written response within seven days of receipt of this notice. Failure to respond may result in further proceedings in accordance with the party's constitution," the notice concluded. The party warned that failure to respond within the stipulated period could lead to further disciplinary proceedings, including the cancellation of his basic membership and expulsion from PTI. Earlier, sources revealed that the decision to issue a show-cause notice was made during a PTI parliamentary party meeting, where members discussed Afridi's conduct and his recent altercations with fellow party lawmakers. Afridi had a dispute with PTI leader Junaid Akbar during the previous parliamentary session. He was also involved in an argument with MNA Sibghatullah outside Adiala Jail.

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India resorting to covert tactics, using proxies to destabilise Pakistan: PM Shehbaz

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Saturday that India was trying hard to avenge the humiliating setback of last year’s war through “covert tactics” and “proxies” aimed at creating instability in Pakistan. “Our eastern neighbour, having suffered a humiliating setback in the conflict in May last year, has increasingly resorted to covert tactics and the use of proxies in an attempt to undermine the hard-earned peace and stability in our country,” the premier said while noting that Pakistan was navigating conflicts and multi-faceted security challenges, marked by a dangerous combination of international and internal threats. The prime minister was addressing a passing-out parade of the 125th Midshipmen Course and the 33rd Short Service Commission (SSC) Course as a chief guest at the Pakistan Naval Academy in Karachi. Referring to the Afghan insurgency, the premier said, “Our valiant armed forces continue to confront the menace of foreign-sponsored terrorism emanating from our western borders,” adding that the nation stood shoulder-to-shoulder with its brave armed forces. He said the entire country remained steadfast in its “iron resolve” to defeat the nefarious designs of enemies, while continuing to pursue peace, dialogue and diplomacy to address all outstanding disputes. PM Shehbaz also highlighted that the address was taking place in the backdrop of monumental global developments affecting lives in ways “unimaginable before”. “Pakistan stands proud as a peacemaker in the comity of nations. Pakistan’s sincere mediation efforts with the support of brotherly and friendly countries led to the historic signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the United States and Iran,” the premier emphasised. He also paid tribute to the Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir for his relentless efforts towards regional peace. Commenting on the recent visit of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Pakistan, PM Shehbaz said, “It was not only a manifestation of the strong brotherly ties between Pakistan and Iran but also an acknowledgement of Pakistan’s important role to promote peace in the region.” The premier also stressed the evolving regional situation and highlighted the importance of maritime security for the global economy and international supply chains. “Today, the right of free passage and freedom of navigation are no longer luxuries but have become an absolute necessity for the entire world.” The premier reiterated the government’s commitment towards strengthening the navy as a “potent and effective force” that is “not only capable of ensuring national defence, but also acting as a stabilising force in the wider maritime region”. He noted that the strategic naval force produced “tangible operational results” during operations Marka-e-Haq and Bunyanum Marsoos against India. While advocating the Kashmir and Palestine causes, the PM reiterated the country’s resolute and unwavering commitment towards the “just” causes. Addressing the cadets, the head of the government further said that they were joining the maritime force at a time of profound transformation. He underscored the importance of modernising naval capabilities, particularly in the domains of artificial intelligence (AI) and unmanned systems, to meet emerging challenges across the seas and beyond. Concluding his address, he congratulated the cadets for successfully pursuing the course. “The rank you wear on your shoulders today carries immense responsibility. As you embark on this noble profession, always remember: calm waters do not test a sailor nor do fair winds define a captain. It is the rough seas and strong winds that test one’s mettle.” Cadets from Turkey, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Iraq, and Djibouti were also among the passing-out officers. According to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), PM Shehbaz had arrived in Karachi earlier in the morning, where Sindh Governor Nehal Hashmi and Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah welcomed him. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and Information Minister Ataullah Tarrar also accompanied the premier on the visit.

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Eight terrorists, including suicide bomber, killed in two separate Balochistan IBOs: ISPR

Security forces killed eight terrorists belonging to Indian proxy Fitna al-Hindustan in two high-tempo intelligence-based operations in Balochistan's Kharan and Mastung districts, the military's media wing said on Saturday. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), security forces received intelligence about the movement of a group of terrorists in Kharan on June 25. As a result of a "precise and skilful engagement", three terrorists were killed, while several others were injured. The federal government last year officially designated all terrorist groups operating in Balochistan as ‘Fitna al Hindustan’, accusing India of sponsoring a proxy war through these outfits. Eight terrorists belonging to Fitna Al Hindustan were killed during two high-tempo intelligence-based operations conducted by security forces in the Kharan and Mastung districts of Balochistan on June 25-26 as part of the ongoing counterterrorism campaign under the vision… pic.twitter.com/nOjNDqoq6V — Pakistan TV (@PakTVGlobal) June 27, 2026 The ISPR added that, in a separate operation the following day, security forces conducted a pre-emptive intelligence-based operation in Mastung against the possible presence of a suicide bomber. "During the operation, own troops effectively engaged the terrorists' location, and after an intense exchange of fire, five terrorists, including a suicide bomber, were successfully neutralised," the statement said. Read: Six terrorists killed in Panjgur IBO: ISPR According to the ISPR, weapons, ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and motorcycles used by the terrorists were also recovered during the operation. The military's media wing said sanitisation operations were underway to eliminate any other Indian-sponsored terrorists present in the area. "The relentless counterterrorism campaign under the vision of 'Azm-e-Istehkam', as approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan, by Pakistan's security forces and law enforcement agencies will continue at full pace to eliminate the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country," the ISPR said. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the security forces. In separate statements, the president and the prime minister said the successful operations reflected the professionalism, capability and unwavering resolve of Pakistan's security forces. They reaffirmed that the entire nation stood firmly alongside the armed forces in the fight against foreign-sponsored terrorism and vowed that the campaign would continue until the complete eradication of the menace. President @AAliZardari and PM @CMShehbaz have paid tribute to the security forces for killing eight terrorists belonging to #IndianProxy #FitnaAlHindustan in #Balochistan@PresOfPakistan @PakPMO @OfficialDGISPR @dpr_gob #RadioPakistan #News https://t.co/F7tpTJ3vJm pic.twitter.com/eZDmY4rxwf — Radio Pakistan (@RadioPakistan) June 27, 2026 Earlier this month, a soldier was martyred as security forces killed 14 terrorists in the Naal area of Balochistan's Khuzdar district in an intelligence-based operation (IBO), thwarting their plan to attack a police station and banks. Read More: 17 terrorists killed in Balochistan operations after Quetta train attack: ISPR Terrorism is a growing problem for Pakistan, with the number of attacks rising every year since 2022, according to Armed Conflict Location & Event Data (ACLED), a global monitoring organisation. Data from ACLED shows attacks in Pakistan rose nearly fourfold to 2,425 in 2025 from 658 in 2022 and over the same period, TTP attacks increased more than sevenfold to 838 from 118. Although Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa has borne the brunt of terrorism, Balochistan has also remained a major target of Indian proxies, which often target civilians and military installations in the province. In one such attack on the last day of last year, terrorists targeted innocent civilians in Balochistan’s Gwadar and Kharan districts, where 18 people, including women, children, the elderly and labourers, embraced martyrdom. Security forces and law enforcement agencies immediately responded and successfully thwarted the “evil designs” of the terrorists, killing 92 militants, while 15 security personnel also embraced martyrdom during the operation.

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Govt lodges protest over BBC report

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has lodged a strong official protest and formal complaint with BBC Urdu over the publication of "fake news regarding Azad Jammu and Kashmir", accusing the broadcaster of relying on unverified allegations while ignoring official facts and on-record statements. In a post on X, the ministry said the report was based on unverified and uncorroborated claims and failed to reflect the official position. "Unfortunately, this is not the first instance of such reporting," it said. "The repeated publication of unverified claims has become a trend, and corrective measures must be taken." Separately, the ministry and the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government issued detailed fact-checks rejecting BBC Urdu's report alleging that police had blocked the movement of food, medicines and fuel during the ongoing unrest in the region. Both dismissed the report as "factually incorrect" and maintained that there was no truth to allegations of road closures or restrictions on the movement of vehicles. According to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting's fact-check, building a news report around the statement of an anonymous source without credible verification gives the impression of advancing a particular narrative. The AJK government's fact-check specifically rejected BBC Urdu's claim that police had stopped civilians transporting food, medicines and fuel, describing it as contrary to the facts. It said the report's headline and central allegation were based entirely on an anonymous source and that it contained neither video evidence nor any independent witness account or official statement to substantiate the claim. The AJK government further maintained that there was no truth to claims regarding road blockades or restrictions on vehicular movement, adding that highways across the region remained open for traffic. It also pointed out that during a joint press conference held on June 23, the AJK chief secretary and inspector general of police had categorically denied allegations regarding road closures. According to the fact-check, any disruption witnessed on roads was caused by protesters belonging to the banned Action Committee, who allegedly attempted to stop and loot vehicles carrying essential goods. It said law enforcement agencies acted promptly to protect the vehicles and their cargo while ensuring that roads remained open and traffic continued. The federal ministry and the AJK government urged international media organisations to uphold professional journalistic standards and refrain from publishing unverified, misleading and baseless reports. In a related development, AJK police chief warned citizens at home and abroad against disinformation and AI-generated content, urging them to rely on official sources for information amid a "hybrid warfare" environment. Addressing a news conference, Inspector General of Police Captain (retd) Liaqat Ali Malik said all entry points into AJK remained open to all types of traffic, including vehicles carrying essential commodities, and rejected reports suggesting otherwise. He urged overseas Pakistanis, particularly members of the Kashmiri diaspora in the United Kingdom and Europe, to verify information through authentic government media and social media platforms. "All major entry points into the territory, including Kohala, Azad Pattan and Bararkot, are open for all types of traffic without any intervention, except routine security checks within police protocols," he said. Malik alleged that activists of the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) had erected barriers at some locations and attacked or snatched goods-laden trucks, adding that law enforcement agencies were regularly clearing roads and facilitating commuters. Referring to a recent BBC Urdu report, Malik claimed that the report was based on unverified allegations and published without seeking the government's version, despite the availability of official contact channels. "We can say that this article is far away from reality […]," he said.

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HRCP flags gaps in anti-torture law and custodial abuse, demands reforms

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) on Friday urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to strengthen the country’s anti-torture legal framework, warning that gaps in existing laws continue to undermine accountability for torture and ill-treatment in detention facilities. In an open letter issued on Friday to mark the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, HRCP said torture and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment — both physical and psychological — remained a serious concern across places of detention in Pakistan. The commission acknowledged the enactment of the Torture and Custodial Death (Prevention and Punishment) Act, 2022, as a significant legislative milestone, but argued that the law failed to recognise mental and psychological pain and suffering as forms of torture. Read: HRCP calls for judicial probe into Punjab CCD ‘encounter’ killings According to HRCP, the omission excluded practices such as threats of death or serious harm, intimidation, coercion, humiliation, mock executions, threats against family members and prolonged solitary confinement from the legal definition of torture. The rights body also expressed concern over the law's investigation mechanism, noting that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) had exclusive authority to investigate torture allegations despite senior FIA officers being drawn from the police service. It said this arrangement raised concerns over potential conflicts of interest and weakened public confidence in the accountability process. HRCP further stated that although the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) had been assigned an oversight role, its supervisory powers remained unclear, limiting its effectiveness in ensuring independent investigations. The commission said the absence of a systematic monitoring and reporting mechanism had made it difficult to determine the true scale of torture and ill-treatment in detention facilities, leaving policymakers, civil society and international accountability bodies without reliable data. HRCP called on the government to amend the 2022 law to explicitly recognise psychological torture, introduce criminal liability and proportionate penalties for such offences, and ensure victims have access to effective remedies, rehabilitation and compensation in line with Pakistan's obligations under the UN Convention against Torture. Also Read: From ratification to reality — enforcement gap in rights cases It also urged the government to amend the law and the 2025 Rules to guarantee independent, prompt and effective investigations into torture allegations, remove procedural hurdles that delay justice, clarify the oversight powers of the NCHR and ensure that no institution accused of torture has exclusive control over investigations. The commission further called on Pakistan to ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (OPCAT) and establish an independent national preventive mechanism to regularly monitor detention facilities, with its findings made public and acted upon.

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Fire guts hundreds of stalls at H-9 market

Hundreds of stalls and their merchandise were reduced to ashes after a fire broke out at the H-9 Sunday Bazaar in Islamabad. Fire brigade teams reached the scene and brought the blaze under control, while traders termed the incident a conspiracy. According to details, the fire erupted suddenly between 10pm and 11pm on Tuesday at the H-9 Sunday Bazaar near Peshawar Mor and quickly spread to several sections of the market. Six Rescue 1122 fire tenders remained engaged in firefighting operations, while the Pakistan Navy's fire brigade also participated in the rescue efforts. According to the district administration, the fire spread to a total of nine sections of the market. Sources said more than 380 stalls were affected by the blaze, while an initial estimate of financial losses is being assessed. No loss of life was reported. Affected traders said government officials arrived at the scene very late and claimed that fires had become a recurring issue at the market. Speaking to The Express Tribune, Abdul Rehman Khan, president of the traders' association of H Section, alleged that the fire was not accidental but part of a conspiracy. He said rescue agencies reached the scene too late, allowing the fire to spread extensively.

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Khawaja Asif doubles down, says 'stands by' contentious AJK remarks despite volley of criticism

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Wednesday stood by his recent contentious remarks on Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), calling for a clear distinction between those who had made sacrifices for the Kashmir cause and those who had not. In a television interview, Asif said Rawalakot — which has seen protests led by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) — was "not Kashmir" and that he did not regard its residents as Kashmiris. He later clarified the remarks on X, saying that "Kashmiriat is defined by the sacrifices and struggles waged over almost eight decades" by Pakistanis, Kashmiris and others, "not by birth certificates". The controversy spilt over to the National Assembly earlier in the day, where PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman and PPP MNA Raja Pervaiz Ashraf slammed Asif for his remarks. Read: Asif warns against 'anti-Pak agenda' in AJK Responding to the criticism on private television programme Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath, the minister resolutely said: "Bilawal is entitled to say anything, I don't have any reservation over it, this is the beauty of democracy. When politicians criticise one another on the floor of the assembly or even in the media, I believe it is a sign of the system's success. "I welcome the criticism and rest my point of view — right or wrong but right in my view — I stand by it." He criticised the actions of the JAAC in AJK and accused its members of mistreating bodies. “Members of the action committee not only caused the deaths of people but also desecrated their bodies. After that, one of the committee's members said that while bodies are returned from Balochistan, we will not return these bodies from Kashmir,” he said The minister also criticised the committee's demand to remove references to AJK's accession to Pakistan from official provisions. “If such voices begin to emerge from our side of Kashmir, it undermines our position on a plebiscite. Such statements are benefiting India.” Reiterating his position on the issue of language, Asif said he stood by his earlier remarks and maintained that the language spoken in parts of AJK differed from Kashmiri spoken in the Valley. “The issue of language is entirely different. The language spoken in some parts of Punjab is also spoken in certain areas of Azad Kashmir. Kashmiri, however, is a completely different language that is spoken in the Valley and in many parts of Azad Kashmir.” “Those who migrated from there speak that language, but in areas adjoining Punjab, Kashmiri is not spoken. Instead, the language of Pakistan's Potohar region is spoken there.” Also Read: Bilawal, Fazl slam Khawaja Asif over AJK remarks during heated NA session The defence minister said there should be a clear categorisation between those who had made sacrifices, those who continued to do so and those who had migrated and were living elsewhere. “I believe categorisation is my right and also the right of those people who are still making sacrifices in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.” Referring to the issue of reserved seats for migrants, Asif accused unnamed political forces of backing protesting elements for political gains. He said some parties believed that a larger number of seats in Punjab could increase their political influence, describing the matter as “all politics”. Asked about Fazl, who was approached by the JAAC to mediate with the government, the minister said he respected the veteran politician's role. “I respect Maulana's politics. If his efforts can help find a solution, it is for the government to decide. Personally, I have no objection to Maulana's mediation.” Asif also expressed support for resolving issues through negotiations. “I believe in dialogue, but at the same time, I also believe in expressing my views. Whether someone agrees with them or not, I respect their opinion.” Responding to a question regarding Fazl’s call for protesters to end their sit-in, the minister said he had no objection to contacts between the JUI-F chief, the government and political groups in AJK. “If there are talks with maulana, whether by our party or by political elements within Kashmir, who am I to object?” Background The recent unrest and deadly clashes broke out in areas, including Rawalakot, where the JAAC had been holding a sit-in outside the Combined Military Hospital Rawalakot. AJK police allege that armed JAAC members opened fire on deployed law enforcement in a planned attack, leaving four personnel dead and around 20 injured. JAAC, however, disputes this account, claiming security forces used tear gas and fired shells toward the hospital. According to the AJK police, three individuals linked to the JAAC and four law enforcement personnel were killed during the protests. JAAC, however, said in a statement on X that seven individuals were killed and dozens were injured when street firing was carried out in the dark after electricity was allegedly cut off. The clash came as the AJK government and the JAAC witnessed a face-off, as the election date for AJK was announced for July 27. Read More: Certain elements seeking to create instability in AJK despite repeated offers of dialogue: Rana Sanaullah AJK's 53-member legislative assembly includes 12 seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees — people who fled Indian-controlled Kashmir in 1947 and 1965 and are now scattered across Pakistan. Six seats represent refugees from the Jammu division (~434,000 people) and six from the Kashmir Valley (~30,000 people) — an already lopsided arrangement that many see as unfair. The region witnessed one of its most turbulent periods in October last year when protests led by the JAAC erupted over demands for constitutional and governance reforms. At least nine people, including three policemen, were killed during the unrest. The JAAC, which organised the protests and strike, had presented a wide-ranging charter of demands, including an end to the privileges enjoyed by the ruling elite, the abolition of 12 assembly seats reserved for refugees, and the scrapping of the quota system. Two days after the violence, the government and the JAAC reached an agreement covering 12 core and 13 additional points. Under the accord, both sides agreed to constitute a high-level committee to examine the issue of refugee seats in the AJK Legislative Assembly

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Review committee proposes overhaul of contentious telecom bill's provisions, upholds property rights

A committee constituted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to review the controversial Pakistan Telecommunication Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026, has proposed sweeping changes to the legislation, ruling out any access to or use of private property without the owner's consent and calling for clearer wording in several provisions to remove ambiguity. The development comes a week after the prime minister formed the committee following strong criticism from both government allies and opposition lawmakers, who demanded thorough scrutiny of the bill and amendments to its contentious clauses. According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Law and Justice on Wednesday, the committee reviewing the bill's Right of Way provisions submitted its interim report after conducting a detailed review of the proposed amendments and the existing legal framework governing Right of Way. Read More: PM forms committee to review contested telecom bill; directs proposals submission on priority The committee concluded that the primary objective of the legislation was to improve digital connectivity across the country while safeguarding citizens' rights, but noted that several provisions required further clarification. “Certain provisions required further clarification to remove any ambiguity,” the statement said. وزیراعظم کی قائم کردہ کمیٹی نے پاکستان ٹیلی کمیونیکیشن ری آرگنائزیشن ترمیمی بل 2026 میں رائٹ آف وے شقوں سے متعلق رپورٹ پیش کر دی اسلام آباد، 24 جون 2026 - وزارتِ قانون و انصاف نے کہا ہے کہ وزیراعظم اسلامی جمہوریہ پاکستان کی جانب سے پاکستان ٹیلی کمیونیکیشن ری آرگنائزیشن ترمیمی بل… — Hasnaat Malik (@HasnaatMalik) June 24, 2026 Addressing concerns relating to private property, the report stated that owner consent and a mutually agreed arrangement would remain a fundamental requirement in all such matters. “No action involving access to or use of the land, building, property, or assets of a private individual or private legal entity would be taken without the owner's consent and a mutual agreement,” it added. The committee recommended that the law clearly specify its applicability to land, buildings, properties, and assets owned, managed, or controlled by public institutions as well as federal, provincial, and local governments. It also proposed explicitly extending the framework to regulated private housing schemes, cooperative housing societies, and similar entities. The report further recommended that definitions relating to private land, private property, private individuals, companies, cooperative societies, and other forms of joint ownership be clearly incorporated into the legislation to avoid misunderstandings. Also Read: PPP will not pass disputed telecom bill containing 'draconian clauses': Sherry Rehman According to the press release, a clear distinction would be maintained between telecommunications infrastructure located above and below ground, right-of-way arrangements and related equipment, with separate procedures prescribed for each category. The committee also proposed a mechanism for resolving disputes involving licensed operators and public institutions, housing schemes, cooperative housing societies or similar entities. Under the proposal, such disputes would be referred to the appropriate government, which would be required to decide the matter within 45 days in accordance with the law. It further recommended that clear principles be established to guide the relevant government in assessing the necessity and appropriateness of any proposal, its public interest implications, and the compensation payable. The report said any person affected by a decision of the relevant government should have the right to appeal before the Telecommunications Appellate Tribunal established under Section 7A of the Pakistan Telecommunication (Reorganisation) Act, 1996, with the tribunal's decision being final. The committee also recommended a review of the overriding clause to ensure consistency between the language and objectives of the law and to remove any ambiguity regarding citizens' rights. In addition, it proposed revisiting the penalty prescribed under Section 27B(1) and aligning it with the broader objectives, structure, and provisions of the legislation. According to the Ministry of Law and Justice, the committee had reached consensus on the broad principles, policy objectives, and necessary amendments. A draft of the proposed changes to the Pakistan Telecommunication Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026, would be finalised within one week and submitted for further consideration and directions. The ministry said the government remained committed to promoting the growth of the telecommunications and information technology sectors while ensuring full protection of citizens' constitutional and legal rights. It stressed that there would be no compromise on the principles of private property rights, owner consent, the right to object, legal safeguards, and compensation. The ministry added that the objective of the Right of Way reforms was to provide the public with better, more reliable, and faster internet services, not to undermine any citizen's right to property. The bill, which seeks changes to a 1996 Act and was tabled by IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja, was approved by the National Assembly on June 11 by a majority vote. Later, it was deferred by the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecommunication, where it was referred on June 15. Questions over the motives behind the bill had grown stronger, particularly because of the government's push to have it approved by both houses of parliament. Following reservations raised by the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) over the bill, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), a key ally of the government, also withheld its support, with Senator Sherry Rehman categorically stating that her party would not allow any legislation related to the information technology sector, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority or right of way to pass through the Senate unless it was thoroughly scrutinised and amended by the relevant standing committee. The prime minister later constituted a committee to review the bill and tasked it with addressing concerns raised over some of its provisions. The committee was mandated to examine the Right of Way framework under Sections 2(qb), 2(ma), 27A, and 27B of the Pakistan Telecommunication Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication had also clarified that the proposed Right of Way Bill 2026 would not allow the forcible acquisition of private land or unauthorised entry into citizens' private properties. According to the ministry, the property owners would retain the full right to raise objections, negotiate terms, and demand appropriate compensation before any work is carried out on their land.

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27 dismissed cops reinstated on condition of 'planting trees'

In an unusual move aimed at combining discipline with reform, Faisalabad police have reinstated 27 police personnel who were "compulsorily retired" for remaining absent from duty during Eidul Azha, subject to the condition that each officers plants 10 trees in his respective area. The personnel, including a sub-inspector, an assistant sub-inspector, head constables and constables, had been ordered into compulsory retirement by SP Madina Division Flight Lt (retd) Azhar Javed, over unauthorised absence from duty during the Eid holidays. The dismissed officials later filed appeals before City Police Officer (CPO) Faisalabad Tanveer Hussain, seeking reconsideration of the punishment. After reviewing the cases, the CPO modified the penalties and reinstated the officials, directing each of them to plant 10 trees and submit photographic evidence of the plantation. While restoring their jobs, the CPO emphasised that there would be no compromise on discipline within the force. However, he said corrective measures and opportunities for reform should also remain part of the accountability process. According to police records, more than 60 Faisalabad police employees have faced disciplinary proceedings during the past 18 months. In 2025 alone, 44 officials, including two station house officers (SHOs), were penalized over allegations ranging from links with drug traffickers to defiance of court orders. During the first six months of 2026, cases were registered against eight more officials on charges that included alleged connections with criminals and involvement in gambling activities. Many of those dismissed from service have challenged the decisions before the Service Tribunal, where their appeals remain pending.

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AJK govt asks JAAC leaders to surrender, assures due legal process

The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government on Tuesday vowed to proceed in accordance with the law if leaders of the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) surrendered to authorities, while holding the group responsible for a series of violent attacks against law enforcement officials as well as public assets to destabilise law and order in the valley. For the last couple of years, the local administration and the JAAC have been at loggerheads over the abolishment of 12 reserved seats in the AJK Assembly allocated for the refugees hailing from the Indian-occupied Kashmir who settled in Pakistan after 1947. Addressing a joint press conference, AJK Chief Secretary Flight Lieutenant (Retd) Khushal Khan and Inspector General of Police (IG) Captain (Retd) Liaqat Ali Malik outlined the government's stance on the law and order crisis in the valley that led to the negotiation deadlock. Appealing to the public, Khan urged citizens to avoid what he termed "misleading protests" and focus on their own welfare. Addressing JAAC members and supporters directly, he said the government would ensure due legal process for those involved if they voluntarily surrendered to law enforcement authorities. According to Khan, the government accepted key demands of the movement, including subsidised electricity tariffs, resulting in a financial burden of Rs8-9 billion on the exchequer. He added that after gaining public support, the JAAC gradually expanded its list of demands from three to eight and eventually to 38 demands, creating what he described as a cycle of continuous agitation. Khan maintained that 36 of the 38 demands included in an agreement with the Action Committee had been fully implemented, costing the governments of Pakistan and AJK between Rs20 billion and Rs25 billion. "The committee was expected to oversee the implementation process, but instead chose to sabotage it," he alleged. The region’s top secretary said the group's objections initially centred on the composition of the implementation committee, prompting the government to make changes in response to its concerns. Despite repeated boycotts and new demands from the JAAC, he said, the government continued to implement the agreed measures and launched various development projects that had reached the tendering stage. The apex secretary stated that the proscribed outfit was supposed to oversee the implementation process, but instead, it chose to sabotage it. Explaining why some demands could not be accepted, Khan said certain proposals were financially unviable. "For example, the removal of advance income tax would have caused a loss of Rs35 billion to the AJK government," he elucidated. He noted that while AJK's annual revenue stood at approximately Rs70 billion, the region relied heavily on financial support from the federal government of Pakistan. "The Government of Pakistan contributes around Rs300 billion to cover AJK's budget deficit, while we also benefit from several indirect forms of support in the form of projects and other resources." Dispute over reserved seats The chief secretary also addressed the controversy surrounding 12 reserved seats in the AJK Legislative Assembly, claiming that the JAAC refused to participate in a committee formed to resolve the matter. According to Khan, the committee insisted that the reserved seats be abolished before any further dialogue could take place. He further said that the JAAC had demanded the removal of the "accession to Pakistan" clause from the AJK Interim Constitution and from the oath taken by the AJK parliamentarians. "They also spoke about revisiting the Karachi Agreement, which exposes their actual intentions under the guise of public welfare," the chief secretary highlighted. The Karachi Agreement, signed in April 1949, had transferred administrative control of Gilgit-Baltistan and subjects including defence, foreign affairs and communications from the AJK government to Pakistan. Khan said discussions between the government and the committee on May 30 had been marked by what he described as an "offensive" attitude from JAAC representatives. "They threatened to launch a long march, while some participants even referred to it as an armed incursion." The chief secretary said the government had proposed three options for resolving the reserved seats dispute: convening an all-parties conference, referring the matter to the Supreme Court, or debating it in the Legislative Assembly. "All three options were rejected," he lamented. Following the collapse of negotiations, Khan alleged that JAAC supporters began mobilising across the region and attempted to disrupt supplies to border areas. They stopped food supplies from reaching border posts and called on citizens to shut down markets after June 9 in support of their strike, he said. He added that the administration subsequently sought assistance from paramilitary forces to maintain law and order. The chief secretary thanked the business community for continuing commercial activities despite calls for strikes and blockades. "People in Muzaffarabad and Mirpur divisions stood with the government, while residents of Rawalakot also pledged support and distanced themselves from the protesters," the top bureaucrat maintained. Read: Govt calls on JAAC to abandon 'violence', says no direct talks ongoing although AJK PM welcome to try Casualties, cases and arrests The AJK IGP detailed that the incidents of violence in the recent unrest led to the deaths of at least four law enforcement personnel, while 97 were wounded. To hold the miscreants responsible, 155 suspects were placed under the fourth schedule, Malik said, adding that at least 145 cases were registered against those involved in the unrest. Providing an update on the retaliatory law enforcement actions, the police chief further stated that police had arrested 572 suspects and all previously dismissed cases had been “reinstated”. Malik maintained that the government's priority remained the restoration and preservation of peace throughout AJK. He stated that authorities had not prevented peaceful demonstrations and had expressed willingness to address legitimate public demands.  The police chief also noted that the federal government had provided approximately Rs120-125 billion to the AJK government to meet its administrative requirements. Concluding the press conference, Malik said the activities of the banned outfit had disrupted peace and stability in the region and pledged that the law enforcement agencies would continue efforts to maintain public order. AJK premier accepts call for ‘meaningful dialogue’ from ‘stubborn’ JAAC Meanwhile, AJK Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore said that the JAAC sought mediation from Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman to resolve outstanding issues with the government. Rathore shared a video message on X from Fazl, which outlined the message from the group. “Isn't this what we've been asking from them since Day 1?” Rathore asked, maintaining that the government always insisted on the continuity of dialogue. He added that he personally appealed to JAAC on numerous occasions to call off their lockdown, end its campaign of agitation and return to the table. The premier lamented that it raised slogans against “so-called political interference in AJK's affairs” and had now approached the JUI-F chief to overcome the negotiation deadlock. Remarking on the new JAAC stance, he said, “This required no mediation until they decided to bully the state.” In the video shared by the AJK PM, the JUI-F leader accepted the role of a mediator and said he needed time to convince the government to convene negotiations. Fazl said he received a letter from JAAC leaders Sardar Umar Aziz, Khawaja Mehran, and Shaukat Nawaz Mir to arbitrate in the tense conflict with the AJK government. Isn't this what we've been asking from them since Day 1? We asked them not to leave dialogue. They showed zero flexibility. I personally appealed to them on numerous occasions to call off their lockdown, end their campaign of agitation and return to the table. They ignored.… pic.twitter.com/DPnCaDIeM0 — Faisal Mumtaz Rathore (@PMofAJK) June 23, 2026 He called on the committee to quit protesting while he tried to bring the government to the table for talks. Additionally, he urged the JAAC to abandon all actions that could lead to the intensification of the conflict so that a “pathway for talks” could be carved out. The JUI-F chief hoped the JAAC, as well as the government, would show flexibility to pave the way for a peaceful resolution of the conflict. On the other hand, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also shared his views about the ongoing unrest in AJK and said, "The nefarious and external agenda-driven voices coming out of AJK against Pakistan and the Kashmir cause must be responded to in the strongest possible terms." The minister highlighted that the Kashmiris were the ones who paid the price for migration and continued "to pay the price in IIOJK". "The people of AJK, who live here in peace and tranquillity for many decades guarded by soldiers from all over Pakistan, and surely brave hearts from AJK too, need to recognise the sacrifices of Kashmiris of IIOJK and the muhajirs of 1947 and later years. Belittling these sacrifices is negating the Kashmir cause." Asif further said that in his opinion, the Kashmiri identity was defined by the "sacrifices and struggles waged over almost eight decades by Pakistanis, including Kashmiris and all others, not by birth certificates". My remarks about the crisis in AJK were frank and honest, Alhamdolillah. Those who have sinister agendas may try to twist them but they cannot take Kashmir out of me or out from Pakistan or take Pakistan out of Kashmir. The sacrifices of Kashmiris who crossed over into Pakistan… — Khawaja M. Asif (@KhawajaMAsif) June 23, 2026 Background The recent unrest and deadly clashes broke out in areas, including Rawalakot, where the JAAC had been holding a sit-in outside the Combined Military Hospital Rawalakot. AJK police allege that armed JAAC members opened fire on deployed law enforcement in a planned attack, leaving four personnel dead and around 20 injured. JAAC, however, disputes this account, claiming security forces used tear gas and fired shells toward the hospital. According to the AJK police, three individuals linked to the JAAC and four law enforcement personnel were killed during the protests. JAAC, however, said in a statement on X that seven individuals were killed and dozens were injured when street firing was carried out in the dark after electricity was allegedly cut off. The clash came as the AJK government and the JAAC witnessed a face-off, as the election date for AJK was announced for July 27. Read More: Certain elements seeking to create instability in AJK despite repeated offers of dialogue: Rana Sanaullah AJK's 53-member legislative assembly includes 12 seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees — people who fled Indian-controlled Kashmir in 1947 and 1965 and are now scattered across Pakistan. Six seats represent refugees from the Jammu division (~434,000 people) and six from the Kashmir Valley (~30,000 people) — an already lopsided arrangement that many see as unfair. The region witnessed one of its most turbulent periods in October last year when protests led by the JAAC erupted over demands for constitutional and governance reforms. At least nine people, including three policemen, were killed during the unrest. The JAAC, which organised the protests and strike, had presented a wide-ranging charter of demands, including an end to the privileges enjoyed by the ruling elite, the abolition of 12 assembly seats reserved for refugees, and the scrapping of the quota system. Two days after the violence, the government and the JAAC reached an agreement covering 12 core and 13 additional points. Under the accord, both sides agreed to constitute a high-level committee to examine the issue of refugee seats in the AJK Legislative Assembly.

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Man shot dead on way to court

A 22-year-old man was shot dead by armed assailants while on his way to attend a court hearing in Kabirwala, allegedly as a result of a long-standing tribal feud. The deceased, identified as Mursaleen Tayyab Hanjra, came under attack near Jhandeer Kassi in the jurisdiction of Nawan Shehr Police Station. Police and family sources said more than eight armed suspects allegedly ambushed him and opened fire with Kalashnikovs and rifles, leaving him critically injured. The attackers reportedly fled the scene towards the Mamdal area after the shooting. The incident is said to be linked to an old rivalry between the Hanjra and Kartwana communities in the Head Sardar Pur area, which falls under the jurisdiction of Sarai Sidhu Police Station in Kabirwala police circle. Family members immediately called Rescue 1122 for medical assistance. However, Mursaleen Tayyab succumbed to his injuries before help could arrive. On the complaint of the victim's father, Muhammad Tayyab Hanjra, Nawan Shehr Police registered a case against the nominated suspects, identified as Muhammad Hanif Kartwana, Muhammad Asif Kartwana, Muhammad Kashif Kartwana, Qaiser, Sagheer Ahmed, Abdul Razzaq and Muhammad Bilal, along with other unidentified accomplices. Following the killing, members of the Hanjra community staged a protest by placing the victim's body on Multan Road outside the Tehsil Headquarters (THQ) Hospital in Kabirwala. The demonstration continued for nearly two hours, causing traffic disruption and drawing a large crowd. The protesters chanted slogans against DSP Kabirwala Chaudhry Munawar Gujjar and the SHO of Sarai Sidhu Police Station, accusing police of failing to act against proclaimed offenders allegedly associated with the rival group. The victim's relatives claimed that wanted suspects frequently remained present in residential areas of Muhammad Pur Nasheb and Sardar Pur but were not arrested despite police being aware of their whereabouts. They alleged that timely action by law enforcement could have prevented the killing. The victim's mother and other family members were seen mourning during the protest and demanded arrest of the suspects. The bereaved family appealed to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and the Inspector General of Police Punjab to ensure the arrest of the accused and take action against those responsible for negligence. Police said investigations are underway and efforts are being made to arrest the suspects named in the case.

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Water crisis hits 14 Pindi localities

A severe water crisis has emerged in 14 localities at the Rawalpindi-Islamabad border after the Capital Development Authority (CDA) revoked No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for 20 tube wells and water borings installed with official permission in areas from Faizabad to Koral Chowk and adjoining localities. Residents have been deprived of water for the last three days, triggering protests by women, children and other residents. Private water tanker operators have raised prices, with small tankers now selling for Rs2,500 and large tankers for Rs3,500. Local philanthropists collected donations and purchased large tankers to distribute water free of cost. WASA and the district administration have been accused of remaining absent from the situation. CDA revoked NOCs of 15 tube wells operated by the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA). Four tube wells established during former president Pervez Musharraf's tenure through Asian Development Bank support and operated by a community-based NGO were also shut down and their equipment seized. The closure has completely halted water supply in Rahmatabad, Ghareebabad Blocks A, B, C and D, Gulrez, Jabbar Colony, Banaras Colony, Dhoke Chaudhrian, Mumtaz Colony, Nayyar Colony, Chaklala, Dhoke Munshi and adjoining informal settlements, forcing residents to search for water with containers in hand. According to the WASA Managing Director, 15 tube wells costing Rs1.16 billion were planned along Islamabad Expressway service roads under a Punjab government project. Nine have been completed and six are under construction, but IESCO has yet to provide electricity connections. Although CDA later restored the NOCs, implementation has not taken place. Residents said four tube wells installed in 2002 with support from the Asian Development Bank, World Bank and Japan had supplied water on a no-profit, no-loss basis through a community-based operator. After nearly 26 years, their permits were revoked and machinery confiscated. NOCs for private household borings were also cancelled, with operations, challans and fines initiated against residents. WASA says water supply can resume within 24 hours if electricity connections are provided to its completed tube wells. A CDA spokesperson maintained that the land falls within Islamabad's jurisdiction and cannot be used by another district without its approval. Hundreds of men and women led by Haider Ali, Yasir Bhatti, Raja Nasir, Amjad Ali Shah and Fayyaz Khan staged protests and warned that if water is not restored within 24 hours, sit-ins will be held outside the offices of the commissioner, deputy commissioner and WASA. Residents said Federal Parliamentary Secretary Daniyal Chaudhry had approved two additional tube wells for the area, but work has not yet begun. PTI MPA Tanveer Aslam also raised the issue in the Punjab Assembly, where the government suggested waiting until 2029 for a new dam project. Residents have appealed to the prime minister, interior minister, chief minister and commissioner for immediate intervention.

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Govt decides to end fuel subsidies after sharp decline in global oil prices

Owing to a sharp decline in global fuel prices, the government on Monday decided to discontinue fuel subsidies provided to motorcyclists, small farmers and public transport. The development comes after recent reductions in petroleum prices, under which petrol was cut by Rs74 per litre and diesel by Rs67 per litre, bringing them down to Rs299 per litre and Rs311 per litre respectively, following a decline in the international market after the US and Iran reached an agreement to end a conflict that had lasted over three months. The decision was taken during the seventh meeting of the National Steering Committee on Fuel Subsidy, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Deputy Prime Minister & Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 chaired the 7th meeting of the National Steering Committee on Fuel Subsidy. The Committee reviewed the rollout of fuel subsidy for motorcyclists, small farmers, public transport & goods transport in… pic.twitter.com/I4X55tPKNV — Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) June 22, 2026 The committee reviewed the rollout of fuel subsidy for motorcyclists, small farmers, public transport and goods transport across all provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Noting the sharp decline in global fuel prices and that the benefit had already been passed on to consumers, the committee agreed to discontinue the subsidy, with the prime minister’s approval. While appreciating the committee’s work marked by sustained interprovincial coordination, the deputy prime minister directed that lessons learnt from the exercise be documented and gaps in data and delivery be addressed to strengthen future initiatives aimed at improving public service delivery. Also Read: Govt disburses Rs38b in fuel subsidy The meeting was attended by SAPM Tariq Bajwa, federal secretaries of petroleum and IT, the State Bank of Pakistan governor and senior representatives from all provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Following the oil price surge in the global market after the US-Iran conflict, the government significantly increased petroleum product prices after initially deciding to absorb the burden. At one point, petrol prices had reached Rs458 per litre in April this year. However, days later, the prime minister announced an immediate Rs80 per litre reduction in the petroleum levy to provide relief to the public. While announcing the relief, the prime minister also unveiled a fuel subsidy package aimed at shielding the public from rising fuel costs triggered by tensions in the Gulf region. Under that initiative, motorcyclists were to receive a subsidy of Rs100 per litre, while goods transport, public transport and freight vehicles were also provided support for one month. Under the same relief measures, small trucks were given Rs70,000 per month, large trucks Rs80,000 and public transport buses Rs100,000 as monthly subsidies. The initiative also included support for small farmers, who were provided Rs1,500 per acre in assistance.

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G-B power deal raises democratic concerns

The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) may have agreed to form a government in Gilgit-Baltistan and finalised a power-sharing formula, but PML-N's decision to sit on the opposition benches while supporting the government has drawn criticism from leading political analysts, who described the arrangement as a bizarre proposition and a mockery of parliamentary norms. Former caretaker Punjab chief minister Hasan Askari Rizvi said a leader of the opposition belonging to the government is akin to making a mockery of the parliamentary system. "This is a personalised rule, though there is no authority that can check such distortions. It is interesting that the three major players in G-B are allies in the central government in Islamabad. That says everything about this current hybrid system." Commenting on the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP), Rizvi noted that despite failing to win a single seat in Gilgit-Baltistan, the party effectively received five seats after independent candidates joined its ranks. He said the gift of seats should not be overinterpreted, as the party was unlikely to receive similar political gains elsewhere in the country. Independents joining a relatively unknown party at a time when both the ruling party and one of its principal allies were fully active in the electoral arena was, in his view, an extremely rare occurrence and virtually unprecedented in Pakistani politics. Senior journalist and political commentator Mazhar Hussain said that when the ruling alliance itself makes no secret of the hybrid nature of the system, no political development, regardless of how unusual, should come as a surprise. "Democracy only exists in name" Recalling the political developments of 1992, he said Muzaffar Hussain Shah became chief minister of Sindh despite the PPP holding the majority, followed by the MQM. "He interestingly was from neither of two." He argued that discussing democratic norms and ethics had become largely pointless. "We have political parties, elections and parliament but no democracy." Regarding the IPP, Hussain said he believed the party had been awarded these seats by the powers that be as a counterweight to the PPP. "To ensure that PPP functions as per their whims, for in-case-otherwise situation, an alliance with remaining parties to bringing in a new government, is a threat that they have left dangling on PPP's head." Political scientist and Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency (PILDAT) President Ahmad Bilal Mehboob said PML-N's decision to occupy the opposition benches effectively deprives genuine opposition members of their voice, as its alliance with the government also makes it a partner in the incoming administration. He observed that such situations can arise in democracies, although they remain politically contentious. Commenting on the IPP, Mehboob said so-called "king's parties" have historically benefited from such political advantages, adding that there was nothing particularly surprising about the development in countries like Pakistan. He said the political windfall would enhance the IPP's stature across the country and demonstrated that the party continued to enjoy relevance within influential power circles.

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Child's death exposes flood safety lapses

The tragic death of a nine-year-old boy, who drowned after falling into an uncovered stormwater drain during the season's first pre-monsoon rainfall, has exposed serious shortcomings in flood preparedness and public safety measures across Rawalpindi. The victim, Wisal, fell into a rainwater drain approximately 10 feet deep and seven feet wide near Kacha Stop on Khalid Bin Waleed Road in the Westridge-III area, where the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad meet. He was swept away by the fast-flowing water during heavy rainfall. Wisal's funeral was held in his ancestral village in Mohmand Agency, Khyber- Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) on Saturday. According to residents and shopkeepers, the drain, which runs for nearly half a kilometre alongside a busy market, has neither protective railings nor a concrete cover. They claim motorcyclists and pedestrians frequently fall into the drain because of the lack of safety barriers, although most escape unharmed when water levels are low. During the heavy downpour, however, the drain was flowing at full capacity, leaving the child little chance of survival. The latest incident has also raised concerns over the emergency response. According to sources, rescue teams searched a 500-foot stretch of the drain using five-foot bamboo poles and mobile phone flashlights, reportedly lacking essential equipment such as high-powered torches, specialised rescue machinery and protective gear. A survey of the surrounding area conducted by The Express Tribune found that numerous manholes remained uncovered, with some measuring up to 20 feet in depth. In addition, officials said that none of the city's 15 seasonal drainage channels had undergone comprehensive desilting or clearance before the onset of the monsoon. A senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity, claimed that rescue agencies had not received adequate funding, machinery or equipment over the past five years despite repeated requests, warning that similar tragedies could occur unless urgent improvements are made. In response to the incident and the approaching monsoon season, the 111 Brigade of the Pakistan Army has been placed on red alert until August 15. An Army major will oversee operations from the Central Flood Control Room, while military teams equipped with life jackets, high-powered rescue boats, ropes and modern rescue equipment will remain on standby. Army teams are also scheduled to inspect vulnerable locations along the 18-kilometre Nullah Lai and other seasonal drains next week. Rawalpindi Commissioner Aamir Khattak and Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema will accompany military representatives during the inspection. The Army will continue monitoring identified high-risk locations throughout the flood season. Meanwhile, five flood relief camps are expected to be established next week as part of the city's monsoon preparedness plan.

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SC orders protection of female students

The Supreme Court has ordered all inspectors general of police (IGPs) to devise and implement effective mechanisms for the protection of girls attending schools, colleges, and universities, particularly regarding complaints of harassment, stalking, and other offences. In an 18-page judgment authored by Justice Salahuddin Panhwar while hearing an appeal against a death sentence awarded to a sweeper for raping a 10-year-old schoolgirl, the court emphasized that such complaints must be treated seriously, investigated promptly, and acted upon without delay. The judgment, a copy of which was also circulated to all high courts, lower courts, federal and provincial law officers, and all IGPs, directed that visible patrolling must be ensured around educational institutions, public transport facilities, bus stops, and routes used by female students. "All Provincial Inspectors General of Police and the Inspector General, Islamabad Capital Territory Police, shall devise and implement effective mechanisms for the protection of girls attending schools, colleges, and universities. "Particular attention shall be paid to complaints of harassment under Section 509 PPC, stalking, and other precursor offences against women and children. Such complaints shall be treated seriously, investigated promptly, and acted upon without delay. "Visible patrolling shall be ensured around educational institutions, public transport facilities, bus stops, and routes commonly used by female students. Preventive policing, rather than post-crime reaction, must become the governing principle in matters affecting the safety of girls," it stated. The court lamented that a child of merely ten years was not safe even within a school environment, a place expected to provide security, learning, and protection, and instead became a victim of sexual violence. It said the case compelled the court to examine the broader question of safety for girls in educational institutions and during their commute, stating that acts of harassment, stalking, intimidation, and sexual misconduct often begin with conduct already recognized as criminal under law. It noted that Section 509 PPC criminalizes conduct intended to insult the modesty of a woman, invade her privacy, or subject her to harassment, adding that the provision also places an obligation on law enforcement agencies to respond promptly and effectively. The court stressed that early police intervention at the harassment stage may prevent escalation into more serious offences. "If a child is not secure in an educational institution, or while travelling to and from it, the constitutional promise of education, dignity, equality, and personal security becomes illusory," it added. The judgment further held that the state's obligation is not limited to establishing educational institutions but extends equally to ensuring that girls can attend them free from fear, intimidation, harassment, and violence. On medico-legal infrastructure, the court observed that the quality of medico-legal examination, documentation, and testimony is critical in sexual offence prosecutions and depends on a trained, dedicated, and properly resourced medico-legal service. It referred to the Sindh Medico Legal Act, 2023 as a legislative model providing for a regulated medico-legal service, a directorate for its administration, and criteria for appointment of medico-legal officers. The judgment suggested that the federal and provincial governments may adopt similar frameworks to establish a dedicated medico-legal cadre with structured training in forensic examination of sexual violence victims, adequate appointment of women medical officers, and coordination with forensic science agencies. The court directed the Attorney General for Pakistan, all provincial advocate generals, health departments, and police authorities to consider the observations for implementation in accordance with law.

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