CTD registers terror case over deadly Kohat Police Lines attack

A case has been registered with the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) police station over the suicide attack on the old Police Lines in Kohat, police said. The FIR was registered on the complaint of the Station House Officer (SHO) of City Police Station Kohat against unidentified terrorists. The case includes charges related to terrorism, murder, attempted murder and other offences. On Friday, at least 21 people, including 15 police officials, were martyred when an explosives-laden vehicle detonated near a mosque in Kohat Police Lines, followed by terrorists storming the compound and attacking police facilities. Read More: Kohat Police Lines blast death toll rises to 23 as clearance operation concludes According to the FIR, militants belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan faction, identified in the report as Fitna al-Khawarij, carried out a suicide attack at the Police Lines mosque using an explosives-laden vehicle. The attackers subsequently opened indiscriminate fire and hurled hand grenades. The FIR stated that the militants used the mosque route as an entry point and forced their way into the Police Lines while firing. Police personnel and civilians suffered casualties during the attack. Police personnel confronted the attackers and engaged them in a gun battle. Officers from the army, police and CTD also reached the scene and took charge of the operation. According to the FIR, the suicide blast, gunfire and grenade attacks left 21 people martyred, while a large number of others were injured. Government and private property was also damaged in the attack. Police said further investigations were under way and efforts were being made to identify and arrest the unidentified terrorists involved in the attack as well as their facilitators.

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A devoted father: human stories behind Kohat attack

The family of SP Akbar Muhammad Shinwari, who was among those martyred in the Kohat Old Police Lines suicide attack and rampage, has been receiving a steady stream of mourners at their home in Hathian village, Mardan, BBC Urdu reported on Saturday. According to his nephew Tufail Akbar, Shinwari spent much of his police career serving in areas including Dir, Bajaur and Swat during periods of intense militancy, taking part in several major and dangerous operations. "He was very brave. He received threats too, but rarely spoke about them," Tufail told BBC Urdu. The officer had been particularly devastated by the death of his younger brother, Motorway Police Sub-Inspector Javed Akbar, who was killed after being struck by a dumper truck on July 15. Shinwari had repeatedly lamented his brother's death, saying: "Why did Javed leave me? It would have been better if I had gone instead." Two months later, Shinwari himself was killed in the Kohat terror attack. Tufail said Shinwari had two sons and two daughters, with his youngest daughter only six months old. He said the officer had been particularly delighted at her birth and considered her "the apple of his eye". Despite holding the rank of SP, Shinwari was regarded by people in his native area as a friend and someone they could turn to for help, Tufail said. "Whenever people had a problem involving a hospital, doctor or government department, they would come to him," he said, adding that Shinwari generally returned home only on weekends. The terror attack also claimed the lives of Muhammad Luqman and two young children, including his four-and-a-half-year-old son Abdullah, according to BBC Urdu. Luqman's brother-in-law Muhammad Tanveer told BBC Urdu that he had been at work in Kohat when his sister called in distress, asking about her husband and children. Tanveer repeatedly tried calling Luqman but received no response. Soon afterwards, he learned about the blast and rushed to hospital. When he arrived, he found Luqman's body. The bodies of two children were also brought to the hospital shortly afterwards. The second child, Asad, aged around three-and-a-half, was Luqman's nephew, Tanveer said. Luqman, 37, worked as a laboratory technician and was also a volunteer with the Alkhidmat Foundation. He was involved in arranging blood for people in need and served as the organisation's district blood-donation president, according to his family. His friend Muhammad Maskeen, who was also injured in the blast, told BBC Urdu that Luqman had picked up his children from school and stopped to offer Friday prayers. Maskeen said he had spoken to Luqman before the prayers and suggested that they meet afterwards to buy something for the children to eat and have tea together. "I went to pray, and I was in the middle of the mosque when the explosion suddenly occurred," Maskeen said. He suffered minor injuries and was taken to hospital. He later saw Luqman's body being brought to the hospital, followed by the bodies of his children. Luqman's family described him as deeply committed to his children's education.

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23 abductees rescued, 5 terrorists killed as security forces thwart attempt to set up check post near Kalat

Security forces foiled an attempt by terrorists to establish a check post for abducting people and snatching vehicles along the Pakistan Highway near Kalat, rescuing 23 abductees and killing five terrorists, the military’s media wing said on Sunday. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operation was conducted during the night of Sept 18-19, when terrorists belonging to Fitna al Hindustan attempted to disrupt the movement of people along the Chaman-Karachi N-25 highway near Kalat. The terrorists were allegedly trying to establish a check post for abductions for ransom, extortion and vehicle snatching, the statement said. Read: Security forces kill seven terrorists in two Balochistan operations: state media “Security Forces responded immediately, and after intense fire exchange, five terrorists belonging to Indian-sponsored proxy of Fitna al-Hindustan were sent to hell due to effective response by Armed Forces,” the ISPR said. 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 the outfits. Security forces also recovered 23 abductees from the terrorists’ hideout, along with six trucks, three buses and two cars. A large quantity of weapons, ammunition and explosives was also recovered from the hideout, according to the statement. The ISPR said the successful operation had thwarted the “nefarious designs” of the Indian-sponsored proxy of Fitna al-Hindustan. “Sanitisation operations are continuing in the surrounding areas to eliminate any remaining terrorists and ensure the safety and security of the local population and the vital National Highways,” it said. The military’s media wing said the counter-terrorism campaign under the vision of “Azm-e-Istehkam”, approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan, would continue “with full resolve”. Read More: Security forces kill three terrorists during IBO in Balochistan's Awaran: state media “Security Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies remain committed to eliminating the menace of foreign-sponsored and foreign-supported terrorism from the country,” the statement said. 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. Although Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) 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 2025, terrorists targeted innocent civilians in Balochistan’s Gwadar and Kharan districts, where 18 people, including women, children, the elderly and labourers, embraced martyrdom. On August 21, security forces, in coordination with police, killed 49 terrorists in a series of IBOs across K-P and Balochistan over several days. Earlier this week, security forces killed seven terrorists in Balochistan; six more were killed near Kalat. A few days ago, security forces killed three terrorists during an IBO in the Badrang area of Awaran district, according to security sources. The operation was conducted under Operation Radd-ul-Fitna 3 against terrorists affiliated with Fitna al-Hindustan, with weapons and ammunition recovered from those killed.

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Twin cities admins on toes as four long marches loom

Four separate calls for long marches within seven days, from Sunday, September 20-27, have put the government, administration and police in a difficult situation, with authorities deciding to close all educational institutions, colleges and universities, hotels, motels, rest houses and inns in Rawalpindi from next week. Lights and mobile internet services will be shut down during the long marches, while all 1,500 cameras installed under the Safe City project in Rawalpindi have been activated to monitor protesters. Transport and goods transport terminals will also remain completely closed, while Metro Bus and Green Electric Bus services will remain suspended. Read: CM Afridi meets opposition leaders as PTI readies for Sept 27 protest Markets and wholesale markets across the city will also be closed. Large spiked containers, fitted with eight-inch spikes, have started being installed at entry points of the twin cities, including Faizabad, Chungi No. 26, Rawat, Chakri, Adiala Road, Pirwadhai, Bharakahu and 17-Mile, with entry routes being sealed. Monitoring will also be carried out through drones. Emergency has been imposed at all hospitals in the twin cities, and leave of doctors, nurses and paramedical staff has been cancelled. Fresh contingents of Rangers and Punjab Constabulary have been called in. Thousands of rubber bullets and tear-gas shells have been supplied to Rawalpindi and Islamabad police. Attock police have been provided heavy Rangers contingents, armoured vehicles, prison vans, heavy weapons and personnel, who will assume duties on Wednesday and Thursday. The central long march coming from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will be stopped at all costs, officials said. Edhi centres have also been put on alert. From next week, accused persons lodged in Adiala Jail will not be produced before courts in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, while jail staff have been assigned security duties in the city. A show of force by law-enforcement agencies will also begin from Monday. Also Read: JI weighs two plans for Islamabad march against petroleum levy The Jamaat-e-Islami long march will start from Karachi on Sunday, Sept 20, while caravans from all six districts of Rawalpindi division will also start reaching Liaquat Bagh from Sunday. Jamaat-i-Islami emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman will leave Karachi for Rawalpindi by train on Sunday, with his train march scheduled to reach Rawalpindi on Tuesday, Sept 22. Daily protest sit-ins will continue in Rawalpindi until his arrival. Due to road closures and the large number of spiked containers being installed at different places, all business, commercial and social activities in Rawalpindi will remain paralysed from Monday, Sept 21 to Sept 27. Anjuman-e-Tajiran Sabzi Mandi Sadr president Ghulam Qadir Mir and All Pakistan Private Schools and Colleges Association president Irfan Muzaffar Kiyani strongly condemned repeated strikes, long marches, road closures, the installation of containers and the closure of schools and colleges. They called for political dialogue with all political parties, particularly Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, to reduce political uncertainty and save the country’s economy, saying the use of force and long marches were not a solution to any problem.

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ECP sets Nov 8 for by-polls at NA-77 Gujranwala

The ECP on Friday issued the schedule for the by-election in NA-77 Gujranwala-I, with polling scheduled for November 8 following the death of PML-N MNA Chaudhry Mahmood Bashir Virk. The National Assembly had identified Virk as the member representing NA-77, and the assembly confirmed his death earlier this month. According to the schedule, nomination papers will be filed from September 28 to 30, while scrutiny of the candidates' nomination papers will be conducted on Oct 5. Election symbols will be allotted to the candidates on Oct 19, paving the way for polling on Nov 8.

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Archbishop of Canterbury ‘withdraws’ award given to Tahir Ashrafi

Lambeth Palace, the London residence and office of the Archbishop of Canterbury, has withdrawn the Hubert Walter Award for Reconciliation and Interfaith Cooperation 2026, days after presenting it to Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi, citing previous comments over Osama bin Laden. Ashrafi was presented with the award on the 25th anniversary of 9/11 at a ceremony held at Lambeth Palace in London in recognition of his services to interfaith reconciliation and cooperation. Read: Tahir Ashrafi receives Hubert Walter Award for reconciliation, interfaith cooperation in London The comment that led to the withdrawal dated back to 2007, when Ashrafi said he would confer the title “Saifullah”, meaning “Sword of God”, on then-Al Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden — the orchestrator of the Sept 11 attacks — in protest against Britain awarding a knighthood to writer Salman Rushdie, whose book he described as blasphemous. In a video statement posted on X regarding the withdrawal, Ashrafi said some of his statements had been presented "out of context" and that the decision to withdraw the award was based on them. He alleged that an “Indian and Ahmadi lobby” had played a role in the decision. حافظ محمد طاہر محمود اشرفی نے کہا: “ہم ناموسِ رسالت ﷺ، عقیدۂ ختمِ نبوت اور اپنی اسلامی اقدار پر قائم تھے، قائم ہیں اور قائم رہیں گے؛ اور اسی مضبوطی کے ساتھ امن، مکالمے، بین المذاہب ہم آہنگی اور ہر انسان کے جائز حقوق کے لیے اپنی جدوجہد بھی جاری رکھیں گے۔ ایوارڈ ہونا یا نا ہونا… pic.twitter.com/TUfgq4tz8r — TahirMahmoodAshrafi حافظ محمد طاهراشرفى (@TahirAshrafi) September 17, 2026 He said the Office of the Archbishop of Canterbury had sought clarification from him before withdrawing the award over several matters, including Pakistan’s blasphemy law, Salman Rushdie, Osama bin Laden and his wife’s hijab. Ashrafi said he had clarified that he supported retaining the blasphemy law but opposed its misuse. Explaining an earlier statement about Osama bin Laden, he said he was opposed to the use of religion for terrorism and had cited “Saifullah” as an example at the time. Regarding his previous remarks about Salman Rushdie, Ashrafi said he could not retract the statement and would not withdraw from his views. Read More: Religious leadership must play active role in ending wars, global peace: Ashrafi A statement issued by Lambeth Palace on Sept 17 said interfaith dialogue and cooperation required engagement “across deeply-held differences”. “It is a longstanding principle of interfaith dialogue and co-operation that we must engage with one another across deeply-held differences, and that remains the case,” it said. “However, previous comments made by Imam Ashrafi have come to light that have led Lambeth Palace to reconsider this award, and we can now confirm today that the award has been withdrawn.” Church of Pakistan honours Ashrafi In a related development, the Church of Pakistan honoured Ashrafi on Friday with a Global Peace Award for his services to peace, interfaith harmony and religious tolerance. President of the Church of Pakistan Bishop Azad Marshall presented the award to Ashrafi at a ceremony in Lahore. According to the Church of Pakistan, the award recognised his services in promoting peace, religious harmony, dialogue among followers of different faiths and protection of the rights of non-Muslim citizens.   Church of Pakistan honours Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi with Global Peace Award https://t.co/1RPXQeHCdT — TahirMahmoodAshrafi حافظ محمد طاهراشرفى (@TahirAshrafi) September 18, 2026 Bishop Marshall said Ashrafi had continued to play a role in promoting dialogue and harmony among followers of different religions in Pakistan. He also appreciated his efforts for interfaith peace and harmony at national and international levels. After receiving the award, Ashrafi thanked the Church of Pakistan and Bishop Marshall. He said that under Bishop Marshall’s leadership, the Church of Pakistan was working with leaders of different religions and Muslim schools of thought for peace, national security and stability in Pakistan. Ashrafi said joint efforts by Muslim and non-Muslim religious leaders through the National Paigham-e-Peace Committee would further strengthen peace, interfaith and sectarian harmony and national unity in Pakistan. He also expressed his resolve to continue working for peace, religious harmony and the protection of the legitimate rights of all Pakistanis.

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Six soldiers martyred, 10 terrorists killed in K-P IBOs: ISPR

Security forces killed 10 terrorists belonging to the Indian-sponsored Fitna Al-Khawarij in multiple engagements in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa between Sept 15 and 17, while six soldiers embraced martyrdom, the military’s media wing said on Thursday. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation in North Waziristan district following reports of the presence of khawarij in the area. “During the conduct of the operation, own troops effectively engaged the khawarij location and after intense exchange of fire, six khawarij belonging to Indian-sponsored Fitna Al-Khawarij were sent to hell,” the ISPR said. Read: 21 terrorists killed in multiple engagements across K-P: ISPR Fitna Al-Khawarij is the state-designated term for the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). In another encounter in Hangu district, security forces successfully neutralised four more khawarij, it added. On Sept 17, an improvised explosive device exploded on a security forces convoy, resulting in the deaths of six soldiers, the military’s media wing said. “Six brave sons of the soil rendered the ultimate sacrifice and embraced Shahadat,” the ISPR said. Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the killed Indian-sponsored khawarij, who, according to the statement, remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area. The ISPR said sanitisation operations were being conducted to eliminate any other Indian-sponsored khawarij found in the area. “The relentless Counter Terrorism campaign under vision ‘Azm-e-Istehkam’ (as approved by Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan) by Security Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country,” it said. “These sacrifices of our brave soldiers further reinforce our unwavering commitment to safeguarding our nation at all costs,” the statement concluded. 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. Earlier this month, security forces killed 21 terrorists belonging to the Indian-sponsored Fitna Al-Khawarij in multiple engagements in K-P. Last month, security forces killed 11 terrorists in separate intelligence-based operations in K-P and Balochistan, targeting suspected members of Fitna Al-Khawarij and Fitna Al-Hindustan.

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Pakistan, China activate Boundary Joint Commission in inaugural meeting

Pakistan and China have reaffirmed their consensus and agreed on a framework for future cooperation under the Pakistan-China Boundary Joint Commission (BJC), the Foreign Office said on Thursday. The inaugural meeting of the commission was held in Islamabad on Sept 16-17, formally activating a mechanism envisaged under a 2013 boundary management agreement between the two countries, the ministry said in a statement. “Both sides described the establishment of the Commission as a vital milestone in further strengthening the Pakistan-China All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership,” the statement said. 🔊PR No.2️⃣4️⃣8️⃣/2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣6️⃣ Pakistan-China Boundary Joint Commission 🔗⬇️ pic.twitter.com/iiXKzHfhWA — Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) September 17, 2026 The FO said discussions at the inaugural meeting covered a wide range of matters related to border management and cooperation, including cross-border coordination, movement of goods and people, joint border surveys and people-to-people linkages. The meeting concluded with the signing of minutes to reaffirm the mutual consensus and set out the framework for future cooperation under the commission, it added. “Both sides agreed to hold the next meeting of the commission in China at mutually convenient dates,” the FO said. The two-day inaugural meeting of the Pakistan-China Boundary Joint Commission concluded today with a signing ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Islamabad. Both sides signed the minutes, reaffirming their consensus and setting out the framework for future cooperation. pic.twitter.com/jr4srpDi7k — Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) September 17, 2026 The Pakistani delegation was led by Bilal Mahmood Chaudhary, director general (China) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while the Chinese delegation was led by Li Ya, deputy director general of the Department of Boundary and Ocean Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Senior representatives from various ministries and departments participated from both sides, including the ministries of foreign affairs, defence, interior, commerce and communications, as well as relevant customs, survey and other boundary management authorities. India rejected the Pakistan-China Boundary Joint Commission, saying the commission lacked a legal basis and that no boundary existed between Pakistan and China. Responding to the objections, Foreign Office spokesperson Sajjad Haider Khan rejected India’s assertions at his weekly news briefing. “Pakistan categorically rejects India’s baseless and legally untenable assertions concerning the Pakistan-China Boundary Agreement of 1963 and the Pakistan-China Boundary Joint Commission,” he said. “China is not only our neighbour but also an all-weather strategic cooperative partner. Our ironclad friendship has withstood the test of time,” he added. The spokesperson said the 1963 agreement was a valid arrangement concluded between Pakistan and China. He said India’s claims regarding Jammu and Kashmir were equally untenable, as the region remained an internationally recognised disputed territory whose final disposition was to be determined in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. “This is to be done through a UN-led process, under the auspices of the United Nations, through a plebiscite,” he said. Haider criticised India’s assertion, saying it was a “mockery of international law” for India to speak of legality while challenging the validity of the Boundary Joint Commission. “India must carry out its own introspection, especially regarding its illegal and unilateral decisions of 5 August 2019,” he said. He called on India to rescind what he described as illegal decisions, saying they were “in utter violation of the UN Security Council resolutions”. “Instead of advancing fictitious territorial claims, India should end its illegal occupation of Jammu and Kashmir and faithfully implement the UN Security Council resolutions,” the spokesperson said.

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Turkish intelligence chief visits Pakistan, discusses regional security and bilateral cooperation

Türkiye's National Intelligence Organisation (MIT) Chief Ibrahim Kalin visited Pakistan following his trip to Afghanistan, holding talks with senior officials on bilateral ties, regional security, and ongoing tensions in the Middle East, Turkish security sources said on Thursday. During his visit to the capital, Islamabad, Kalin met Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir and Inter-Services Intelligence Chief Asim Malik, and he was also received by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The talks addressed the current state of Türkiye-Pakistan relations and opportunities for further cooperation, as well as regional and global developments. The officials discussed the security landscape that emerged in the Middle East following the beginning of the US-Israel war with Iran, rising regional tensions, and the conflict’s political, security, and economic repercussions for regional countries. Read: Hormuz will remain closed until Trump, Netanyahu are removed: Iran supreme leader’s aide They also assessed the risk of the conflicts spreading to other countries and regions, according to the sources. Recent tensions and developments between Yemen and Saudi Arabia, as well as the risks they pose to regional stability, were also among the issues discussed. The talks highlighted the importance of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement in providing common ground among the parties as part of efforts to restore regional stability. The officials also pointed to the roles of Türkiye and Pakistan in reducing tensions and keeping diplomatic channels open. Türkiye stressed that it would continue to make every effort to help resolve tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan through dialogue, as it has done in the past. The two sides also agreed to further strengthen their existing high-level cooperation in the security and intelligence fields. Türkiye reiterated its support for Pakistan in its fight against terrorism and underlined that it would continue supporting efforts to strengthen the country’s counterterrorism capacity. Kalin’s Pakistan visit came after he held talks in Kabul and Kandahar with senior Afghan officials.

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Khuhro regrets ‘unintentional’ remarks about Field Marshal Asim Munir

PPP senior leader and Sindh chapter President Nisar Khuhro on Wednesday expressed regret over his remarks about the Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, made a day earlier, saying the statement was unintentional in its meaning. “My statement regarding the field marshal yesterday was unintentional in terms of its meaning,” Khuhro said in a statement. “I sincerely regret the statement,” he said, adding that he held the dignity of the institution in the highest regard. “I deeply respect the dignity of the institution and regret if my words caused any misunderstanding,” the PPP leader said. We Didn’t Run From Zia-ul-Haq or Musharraf , This Field Marshal Can’t Stand Against Us Either! Nisar Khuhro | Star Asia TV . . . .. . .#NisarKhuhro #PPP #PakistanPolitics #PoliticalStatement #BreakingNews Disclaimer: This content is for informational and news reporting purposes… pic.twitter.com/v04s224jGe — Star Asia Tv (@StarAsiatvHD) September 16, 2026 The clarification came after Khuhro, while speaking at a seminar on new provinces earlier this week, criticised Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s remarks about the governance system and his call for new administrative units, while questioning the significance given to his statement. Referring to the interior minister’s speech, Khuhro had said its significance was that he had “dragged” Gen Asim Munir, who is referred to as the field marshal, into the issue. Read: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi calls for new administrative units citing existing governance failure “Then I said that when we did not run away anywhere out of fear of Ziaul Haq and did not run away anywhere out of fear of Musharraf, then this field marshal also cannot confront us,” he had said, adding that the army chief should not have been dragged into the issue. He accused the minister of trying to “defame” the army. “The Pakistan Army is protecting our borders, and by dragging it into politics, you are destroying its dignity and status,” Khuhro said. Taking a dig at Naqvi, he also said the interior minister would not become prime minister through such means. “Mohsin Naqvi sahib, I am telling you that you will not be able to become prime minister in this way. If this is your next desire, it will not be fulfilled if people do not want you,” he said. The debate over the creation of new provinces began in July this year when Naqvi called for the creation of additional administrative units or provinces to overhaul the country’s outdated governance system, stressing that meaningful structural reforms were essential to ensure justice and create opportunities for young people. The proposal appeared to receive support from Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, who said an administrative reset, if required, should be undertaken to ensure good governance. Also Read: ‘Sindh is one, shall remain one’: Assembly passes resolution against division of province The remarks resulted in a series of exchanges among major political parties in Sindh, with the MQM supporting the idea while the proposal drew strong criticism from the PPP and nationalist parties in the province. Later, the Sindh Assembly passed a resolution, tabled by Khuhro, rejecting any proposal to divide the province or alter its territorial limits, as opposition lawmakers staged a walkout in protest. The assembly reaffirmed that it would not consent to any alteration of Sindh’s territorial limits and would exercise its constitutional authority under Article 239(4) to safeguard the province’s unity and territorial integrity.

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Government raises petrol price by Rs6.88, HSD by Rs5.62 for Sep 17

The federal government on Wednesday increased the price of petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD) by Rs6.88 and Rs5.62 per litre, respectively, for Sept 17. According to a notification issued by the Petroleum Division, the price of petrol was fixed at Rs391.22 per litre, while HSD would cost Rs421.45 per litre from Thursday. The latest revision comes after the government increased the price of petrol by Rs4.10 per litre and that of HSD by Rs6.41 per litre for Sept 16. Read: PM Shehbaz holds review meeting for fuel subsidy scheme amid escalation in Gulf tensions, rising oil prices On July 17, the government announced a new pricing mechanism under which petroleum product prices would be reviewed and notified on a daily basis, replacing the weekly pricing mechanism, as renewed tensions between the United States and Iran continued to drive volatility in global oil markets and raise concerns over fuel supplies. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday announced a special relief scheme offering Rs100 per litre off petrol for motorcycles, three-wheeler rickshaws, and cars up to 800cc engine, in an attempt to shield lower-income consumers from the impact of sharply rising petroleum prices. “In this hour of difficulty, we will not leave the public alone. To alleviate the burden of rising oil prices on users of motorcycles, rickshaws, Qingchis, and small vehicles, a special scheme is being initiated,” said a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). Under the proposal, an estimated 11.8 million beneficiaries would be covered. Around 10 million two-wheeler users and 800,000 three-wheeler users would be entitled to relief on 20 litres of fuel per month, translating into a maximum monthly benefit of Rs2,000 per beneficiary. Another one million users of cars of up to 800cc would receive relief on 30 litres per month, providing them a maximum benefit of Rs3,000 each. The government estimated the monthly fiscal impact of the scheme at Rs24.6 billion – Rs20 billion for two-wheelers, Rs1.6 billion for three-wheelers and Rs3 billion for cars.

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AJK moves to digitise land records, streamline public services

The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has accelerated work on a range of digital initiatives aimed at making public services faster, more transparent and accessible, potentially reducing citizens’ need to visit government offices repeatedly for routine matters. The initiatives, being implemented through the AJK Information Technology Board, include computerisation of land records, a one-window public service system, a complaints management mechanism and IT excellence centres designed to expand access to technology and digital skills. The progress on the projects was reviewed at a meeting of the IT Board chaired by AJK Prime Minister Iftikhar Gilani. Secretary IT and Information Rashid Hanif briefed the meeting on the ongoing initiatives and their implementation. Read: Gilani seeks wider tax net to boost AJK revenue The computerisation of land records is expected to make ownership and other land-related information more readily accessible to citizens while reducing dependence on paper-based records and lengthy administrative procedures. Digital records could also help improve transparency and reduce the need to approach multiple offices for land-related matters. Under the one-window operation, different government services are being brought under a single system so that citizens can obtain services through one platform instead of visiting several departments for a single matter. The proposed complaints cell is intended to provide citizens with a formal mechanism to lodge complaints and track their progress. The system will also allow authorities to monitor complaints and hold the relevant departments accountable for timely action. The IT Excellence Centres will focus on technology training and skills development, with particular emphasis on creating opportunities for young people to acquire modern IT skills and improve their prospects in the digital economy. Addressing the meeting, Prime Minister Gilani directed the authorities to use modern technology to make government services easier, faster and more transparent for the public. Also Read: PML-N leadership urges prioritising healthcare, education, infrastructure in meeting with new AJK PM Gilani He said the government’s focus was on public service and initiatives that could bring tangible improvements to people’s daily lives. The prime minister particularly directed the authorities to establish an effective and transparent mechanism for the registration, monitoring and resolution of public complaints so that citizens did not have to make unnecessary visits to government offices and could receive timely relief. Principal Secretary Sardar Adnan Khursheed, Deputy Secretary Malik Hamid Siddique and other relevant officials also attended the meeting.

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Lahore police to begin using body-worn cameras after training

Training of Punjab’s police field force in the use of body-worn cameras has been completed, with the project being launched initially in Lahore, where docking points for the cameras at police stations are being installed. The body-worn cameras will be connected to Smart Safe City systems established in 43 cities across the province. Personnel of the Punjab Police, Highway Patrol, Dolphin Force and traffic wardens will wear the cameras while performing their duties. The cameras’ digital facial recognition feature will help identify suspects. The state-of-the-art devices will also facilitate automated reading of motorcycle and vehicle number plates, while an instant threat alert can be generated in an emergency. Also Read:  The cameras are equipped with a calling facility for immediate communication. Police personnel will be able to record audio and video and take photographs through the devices. During duty, recordings will also be stored in the cameras’ built-in memory. After completing their duty, personnel will place the cameras at designated docking points, where the recorded data will automatically be transferred from the devices and securely stored. A ‘push-to-talk’ facility will enable field-duty officers to establish immediate contact with the control room, while an SOS emergency button will allow them to alert the control room in emergencies. The cameras will be connected to a central monitoring system, with live monitoring carried out at the respective district Safe City control rooms. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said the body-worn cameras would not only facilitate monitoring but also help curb corruption. “Ensuring a sense of security among the public, particularly vulnerable segments, is the real measure of success,” she said regarding the initiative. She said protection of the life and property of every individual in Punjab was the foremost responsibility of the government. In a message on the International Day of Democracy, the chief minister said an informed citizenry, honest leadership and the rule of law were essential for the success of democracy. She termed accountability a key pillar of democracy and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to hold corrupt elements accountable. She said a systematic campaign against corruption was under way in Punjab. The chief minister said supremacy of the Constitution was the essence of democracy, while an active civil society and effective institutions were crucial for promoting and strengthening democratic traditions. Meanwhile, Naseerabad police in Lahore arrested two men for allegedly impersonating police officers and intimidating citizens in Gopal Nagar’s main market. According to police, the suspects, Muhammad Asif and Abdul Majid, were wearing police caps with white shalwar kameez and allegedly presenting themselves as officials. When questioned, they failed to provide proof of their identity or employment. Police arrested the two men and registered a case under Sections 170 and 171 of the Pakistan Penal Code for impersonating police officials and illegally using official police caps.

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Cost of living, debt top Pakistanis' concerns: survey

Rising energy and fuel prices, the growing national debt and drug abuse emerged as the biggest concerns among Pakistanis, while public trust in state institutions remained relatively low, according to the National Citizen Survey 2026 released on Monday. The nationwide survey, conducted by the Institute for Public Opinion Research (IPOR) in collaboration with Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency (PILDAT), sought to measure the gap between citizens' priorities and federal spending. According to a joint press release by IPOR and PILDAT, the survey interviewed 5,155 voting-age citizens through face-to-face, in-home interviews between August 23 and September 5. It covered all four provinces, rural and urban populations, as well as different age, gender and income groups. The survey had a reported margin of error of ±1.55%. According to the findings, electricity and gas prices were cited as the biggest national concern by 19% of respondents, while another 10% identified rising fuel and petrol prices as their primary concern. The findings also showed widespread concern over Pakistan's growing debt burden. About 66% of respondents said the rising national debt was a matter of concern, including 49% who described it as "extremely concerning". Only 5% viewed the debt situation positively. Drug abuse emerged as another major concern, with 79% of respondents describing rising drug use as "extremely dangerous". Overall, 90% expressed serious concern over the issue. The survey also found considerable scepticism about reporting on Pakistan by foreign-funded NGOs and think tanks. Some 43% of respondents said such reporting was either exaggerated or driven by a foreign agenda, compared with 25% who considered it fact-based. Social media and unregulated internet use also came under scrutiny. According to the survey, 56% of respondents believed unrestricted internet and social media use was a major factor behind what they perceived as a decline in social and moral values. However, the survey found differences between generations over the extent to which internet and social media should be regulated. Despite widespread perceptions about corruption in government departments, only 18% of respondents said they had personally been asked for a bribe by a government official during the preceding year. Around 77% said they had not experienced such a demand. The survey also measured public confidence in state institutions, with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and National Accountability Bureau (NAB) recording the highest levels of complete trust among the institutions tested. About 33% of respondents said they had complete trust in the FIA, while 23% expressed complete trust in NAB. Parliament received complete trust from 15% of respondents, while the Revenue Department recorded 13%. The survey also highlighted difficulties faced by people seeking to establish and operate businesses in Pakistan. As many as 91% of respondents said they found it difficult to start and operate a business in the country. Taxation was identified as the single biggest barrier. The survey organisers said the findings highlighted a significant disconnect between public priorities and the allocation of public resources, particularly at a time when households were facing mounting cost-of-living pressures. The National Citizen Survey 2026 was presented as Pakistan's first nationwide public opinion survey specifically designed to examine the relationship between citizen priorities and federal budget allocations.

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CM Afridi accuses Punjab govt of political victimisation and manhandling at worker's residence in Lahore

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Sohail Afridi on Monday accused the Punjab government and police of political victimisation, brutality and manhandling during his visit to Lahore to offer condolences to the family of a slain Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) activist, Ishtiaq Ahmad. Tensions rose outside the deceased activist’s residence as Afridi, accompanied by PTI Secretary General Barrister Salman Akram Raja and Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Malik Ahmad Khan Bhachar, reached the workers' home. They also encountered barricades and a heavy police presence. Afridi alleged that the Punjab govt attempted to "abduct" him and later "dumped" him on the street, saying such an attempt against a provincial chief minister was no small matter. He urged workers to remain peaceful, alleging that the situation was orchestrated by Punjab’s government to create chaos. “We have not come here to hold any political gathering or procession,” Afridi told police personnel. PTI strongly condemned the incident, calling it "the shameful and reprehensible conduct of the Punjab Police" towards Afridi. "انہوں نے اغواء کرنے کی کوشش کی پھر یہاں سڑک پر پھینک گئے، ایک صوبے کے وزیراعلی کو اغواء کرنے کی کوشش کی یہ چھوٹی بات نہیں ان پر اب پریشر آئے گا" وزیراعلی سہیل آفریدی@SohailAfridiISF pic.twitter.com/RSrVeGYKkL — PTI (@PTIofficial) September 14, 2026 The statement said that the political differences were one thing, but "harassing or attempting to abduct" an elected public representative was absolutely unacceptable under any circumstances. "Maryam Nawaz and her thuggish elements should feel ashamed of this disgraceful behaviour," it added. PTI said that the "power is temporary, but the violation of the people's mandate and the humiliation of democratic representatives" are always remembered in history. پریس ریلیز: پاکستان تحریکِ انصاف وزیر اعلیٰ سہیل آفریدی کے ساتھ روا رکھے جانے والے پنجاب پولیس کے شرمناک اور قابلِ مذمت رویے کی شدید الفاظ میں مذمت کرتی ہے۔ سیاسی اختلاف اپنی جگہ، مگر ایک منتخب عوامی نمائندے کو ہراساں کرنا یا اغوا کرنے کی کوشش کرنا کسی صورت قابلِ قبول نہیں۔… — PTI (@PTIofficial) September 14, 2026 K-P Information Minister Shafi Ullah Jan also strongly condemned it and said that said forcing an elected chief minister into a vehicle, withdrawing his security and leaving him without assistance was a serious matter for which the Punjab government should be held responsible. Jan said the incident in Lahore amounted to an affront to the democratic mandate and constitutional rights of the K-P chief minister. Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Moeen-ud-Din Riaz Qureshi also condemned what he described as the alleged misconduct and attempted abduction of Afridi by Punjab police. He said such treatment of an elected chief minister was unacceptable and stressed that the public mandate, Constitution and democratic values must be protected. Tehreek-e-Tahafuz-e-Ayin-e-Pakistan (TTAP) Punjab Chief Organiser Ammar Ali Jan and Information Secretary Shayan Bashir also condemned the alleged detention of Afridi, holding the Punjab government responsible for the incident. In a joint statement, they said a sitting chief minister had visited the family of a deceased political worker to offer condolences and should not have been detained by police of another province. They alleged that Punjab police had held the elected K-P chief minister against his will and described the incident as unprecedented in relations between the provinces. وزیراعلیٰ خیبرپختونخوا @SohailAfridiISF کو پنجاب پولیس کی جانب سے اغوا کرنے کی کوشش کی گئی۔ مریم نواز کے گلو بٹوں نے وزیراعلیٰ آفریدی کو ڈالے میں ڈال کر اغوا کیا اور دور ویرانے میں چھوڑ دیا، پنجاب پولیس نے وزیراعلیٰ آفریدی کو ان کی سکیورٹی سے الگ کرکے زبردستی دوسری گاڑی میں… — Shafi Jan (@ShafiJanPTI) September 14, 2026   Responding to Afridi’s allegations, Punjab Information and Culture Minister Azma Zahid Bokhari called it a “drama”, saying that they themselves went and sat in the police van while police officials were asking them to get off. “They scolded and pushed aside their own guard for obstructing what she described as a scripted drama and lazy acting," she said in a post on X. ایک اور ڈرامہ بازی ملاحظہ کریں،خود جا کر پولیس وین میں بیٹھ گئے،پولیس والے اترنے کو کہہ رہے ہیں،اپنے گارڈذ کو اپنا ڈرامہ بلاک کرنے پر جھاڑ کر پرے کردیا،فرمائشی اور سستی ایکٹینگ انکو عزت دے رہے ہیں لیکن یہ اسکے لائق ہی نہیں pic.twitter.com/CXVeRGAu0u — Azma Zahid Bokhari (@AzmaBokhariPMLN) September 14, 2026 Addressing media and PTI workers outside Ahmad’s home, Afridi accused the Punjab police and government of causing the death, saying the deceased was innocent. He also criticised Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, referring to her concerns over security threats. “The Punjab police and the illegitimate Punjab government burned Ishtiaq Ahmad in hot oil; he was innocent and had done no wrong, yet he was killed,” he said. Ahmad had died after suffering burn injuries during a police raid while preparations were under way for Eid Miladun Nabi (PBUH). The PTI alleged that the police were responsible for his death, claiming that he had suffered burns over 70 per cent of his body after falling into a vat of boiling oil amid chaos. He later died despite treatment. Afridi rejected security and protocol offered by the Punjab authorities and said he had come to Lahore as an ordinary citizen. “Punjab is mine, Pakistan is mine. I have come here as an ordinary citizen. I refuse to accept your security; I do not need your protection. The fake chief minister of Punjab claims she feels threatened by the three provinces of Pakistan but not by India, which is a shameful attitude. I am from Punjab, and Punjabis are mine. I have no threat from Punjab. The people of Punjab despise you. I am the people’s chief minister and I enjoy being among the people,” he added. Speaking about the PTI’s planned September 27 protest, he said the party’s struggle would remain within democratic and legal limits. He said the Constitution was the guarantor of national cohesion and equal rights and rejected violence and lawbreaking. “We do not support violence or lawbreaking; our only demand is that courts and relevant institutions make impartial and fair decisions in accordance with the Constitution and law,” he said. Afridi called upon citizens to participate in the September 27 protest, saying people would come out to demand the release of PTI founder Imran Khan and their rights. The Punjab Home Department had imposed a ban on large gatherings under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code until September 17. The order also prohibited rallies, demonstrations and the display of weapons, while exempting weddings, funerals and court proceedings. PTI leaders also alleged that authorities had obstructed their movement. Opposition Leader Moeen Qureshi claimed that the K-P chief minister’s convoy was repeatedly stopped and attempts were made to arrest members of the delegation. “An attempt was made to arrest me, PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja and Senator Aoun Abbas. Moreover, the police prevented us from going to the deceased’s home to attend the funeral,” he said. PTI Punjab Information Secretary Shaukat Basra also accused the provincial authorities of carrying out late-night raids and detaining hundreds of party workers, including women. The leaders alleged that the police had maintained a heavy presence during the funeral and rushed the rites to prevent family members and party workers from gathering. After offering condolences to the family, Afridi and other leaders proceeded towards Data Darbar in a rally. A large number of PTI supporters joined the procession as it passed through Mochi Gate, Lohari Gate and Bhatti Gate amid heavy police presence. After offering prayers at the shrine, Afridi proceeded with supporters towards the Lahore High Court to attend a function hosted by lawyers. The movement of the convoy and rally disrupted traffic in several parts of central Lahore. Severe congestion was reported around the railway station, Mall Road, Lower Mall Road, Regal Chowk, GPO Chowk and Circular Road, while traffic diversions forced commuters to use adjoining neighbourhood streets. Traffic jams were also reported around Ek Moriya Pul, Akbari Market Road, Delhi Gate, Wansan Wala Bazaar and Shah Alam Market. Sources said police forced shopkeepers to close businesses along Hall Road, Mall Road, Anarkali and other markets during the time.

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Young girl abducted at gunpoint recovered from Hangu, three arrested

Charsadda police on Sunday claimed to have safely recovered a minor girl who was allegedly abducted at gunpoint and arrested three suspects, including a woman, in connection with the incident. District Police Officer (DPO) Charsadda Rifatullah Khan told a press conference at the City Police Station that Sarderheri police received information on Sept 10 about the abduction of a 15- to 16-year-old girl at gunpoint. A case was registered and an investigation launched immediately. Upon learning of the incident, the DPO constituted five special teams to ensure the safe recovery of the girl and personally supervised their operations. The teams included SP Investigation Charsadda Alamzeb Khan, DSP Sarderheri Bilal Haleem, SHO Sarderheri Yasin Khan, CIO Sarderheri and other police officers. Also Read: 'Abducted' minor girl recovered The police teams were dispatched to different areas. One team was sent to Mardan, another to Rawalpindi and Gujar Khan, a third to Peshawar, while the fourth team conducted operations in Tall, Doaba and Hangu. The fifth team was assigned technical duties and obtained data and call detail records (CDRs) of more than 100 mobile numbers, which were analysed in detail. According to the DPO, the initial investigation revealed that the incident had occurred against the backdrop of a dispute between the two families over a marriage proposal. Police said the suspects had initially sought the girl’s hand in marriage, but after their proposal was rejected, they allegedly abducted her from her home at gunpoint. Charsadda police traced the girl using technology, continuous pursuit, and a coordinated strategy, and eventually recovered her safely from Hangu district. Suspects, including a woman, were arrested during the operation. The two male suspects were identified as Shaukat, son of Ayaz, and Riaz, son of Khanzada. Further investigation of the arrested suspects is under way. Speaking on the occasion, DPO Rifatullah said Charsadda police were taking all possible measures to protect the lives, dignity and honour of the public, particularly women. He said those involved in any crime would be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law and that no compromise would be made on the protection of citizens.

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Two children die, parents critical after eating leftover food in Lahore

Two children died, and their parents were in critical condition after consuming leftover food at their home in Lahore’s Harbanspura area, police said. According to police, Qadeer, his wife Asma and their two children ate curry cooked the previous night. All family members developed serious symptoms and were shifted to a hospital, where the two children died during treatment. A crime scene unit and forensic experts collected food samples and other evidence from the house. A food department team was also called in to assist with the investigation. Police said forensic experts suspected that a lizard might have contaminated the food, but the cause of the deaths had not yet been confirmed. Samples collected from the scene will be examined to determine the cause of the poisoning, officials said.

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Sindh local govt law hits a roadblock as opposition cries foul

A proposed overhaul of Sindh’s local government law ran into fierce opposition on Saturday, with MQM-P, PTI and Jamaat-e-Islami rejecting key government proposals and accusing the provincial administration of seeking to curb elected mayors’ powers and pave the way for unelected administrators. A parliamentary committee constituted to examine amendments to the Sindh Local Government Act met at the Sindh Assembly, with government and opposition lawmakers taking part. The meeting reviewed the proposed new local government legislation, while representatives of participating parties also submitted their own amendments. Speaking to the media after the meeting, Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar said the government had proposed a mechanism for the period following the completion of local representatives’ terms. Read: Sindh moves to keep mayors, chairmen in power after term Under the proposal, he said, the Election Commission of Pakistan would be formally approached 120 days before local government elections, allowing sufficient time for delimitation and other electoral preparations. Lanjar said delimitation was essential before elections and pointed out that different schedules had been issued during previous polls. Once an election schedule was announced, he added, the Election Commission would make the necessary arrangements, while an administrator would handle day-to-day affairs in the interim. He said the government wanted to strengthen the Election Commission, adding that political parties represented in the committee had also put forward their proposed amendments. The government’s position, however, drew a sharp response from opposition members. MQM-P lawmaker Taha Ahmed rejected the committee proceedings outright, alleging that the government was treating the Sindh Assembly as a “personal domain” and deliberately resisting the transfer of powers to elected local representatives. He demanded that mayors be given full powers under Article 140-A of the Constitution and called for implementation of the PPP’s own 2008 manifesto commitment on devolution of local government powers. Ahmed questioned the proposed removal of the mayor’s authority over the master plan, solid waste management and the Water Board, alleging that legislation was being tailored to strengthen a “fake mayor”. He warned that MQM-P would launch protests across the country if what he described as controversial legislation was not stopped. Also Read: Karachi mayor’s office affected as fire breaks out at KMC building MQM-P’s Iftikhar Alam also rejected the proposed law, saying the party had serious reservations about making mayors administrators. Such an arrangement, he argued, could compromise the transparency of elections, particularly if polls were delayed because the proposed amendments did not clearly define the administrator’s tenure. Alam said the committee had also failed to address the transfer of powers to local governments in line with Supreme Court directives, describing the proceedings as a “joke”. PTI’s Shabbir Qureshi said his party had rejected the government’s proposals, particularly the suggestion to place unelected representatives in union councils. PTI, he said, had instead demanded the appointment of internal administrators. Qureshi also criticised the existing arrangements for solid waste management and alleged that powers had been taken away from the Water Board and the Sindh Building Control Authority. He called for the implementation of the Sindh Local Government Act 2013 in accordance with Article 140-A and Supreme Court judgments. Jamaat-e-Islami’s Muhammad Farooq said Sindh already had a local government law, but the system remained powerless because authority had not been genuinely devolved. He said JI had proposed holding local government elections within 120 days and opposed appointing administrators, but its amendments were not accepted. The party also rejected a proposed oversight mechanism in place of transferring powers down to the union council level. Farooq said none of the proposals submitted by JI three months ago had been accepted and warned that the party would approach the courts if the proposed amendments were enacted.  

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MQM-P turns up the heat for new province, says urban Sindh case ‘strongest’

The MQM-P has renewed its push for new provinces, declaring that the case for a separate administrative unit in urban Sindh is stronger than anywhere else in the country and warning that a transparent census and corrected voter lists could force the PPP to confront the demand itself. Speaking at a seminar titled “National Dialogue” organised by the MQM-P Graduate Forum Pakistan at a local hotel on Saturday, party chairman and Federal Education Minister Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui said the demand for new provinces dated back to the APMSO era, well before the formation of the MQM. “Pakistan is our motherland, while provinces are merely administrative units,” Siddiqui said, arguing that provinces should be divided on the basis of population to improve governance and facilitate development. Read: Parliament to decide on creating new provinces: Sanaullah He maintained that although the existing provinces had been formed largely along linguistic lines, the MQM-P was seeking new provinces on administrative grounds. Of all demands for new provinces across the country, he said, the case of urban Sindh was “the strongest and most justified” because the region carried a major share of Pakistan’s economic burden while continuing to face deprivation. Siddiqui further claimed that if an honest and transparent census were conducted in Sindh and voter lists were properly corrected, the PPP itself would be compelled to demand the creation of a new province. Senior MQM-P leader Dr Farooq Sattar said the country’s four provinces were effectively controlled by a handful of families, while the status quo had survived despite the devolution of powers to provinces under the 18th Amendment. He said provincial powers had failed to trickle down to the grassroots and announced that the MQM-P had already submitted a constitutional amendment bill in the National Assembly seeking to empower local governments under Article 140-A. Sattar also called for a public referendum on the creation of new provinces under Article 48(6), urging people from different walks of life to unite for what he described as a historic rally on Sharae Faisal in support of their survival and development. Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Rehan Hanif, trader leader Atiq Mir and former bureaucrat Barrister Shahab Imam also spoke in favour of new administrative units and an empowered local government system, saying Karachi’s economic infrastructure had deteriorated and that restrictions on hiring local residents in public institutions, coupled with the appointment of non-local personnel, had aggravated a sense of injustice.

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IHC seeks affidavits on non-use of state machinery for PTI Sept 27 protest

The Islamabad High Court (IHC), hearing a case against the PTI’s September 27 protest, on Saturday sought affidavits from the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa chief secretary and inspector general of police after the former assured the court that government machinery or resources would not be used for any political gathering. The court directed both officials to submit affidavits confirming that government machinery and resources would not be used for political gatherings. The larger bench also sought arguments from the Islamabad advocate general and prosecutor general at the next hearing. Read: Tariq Fazal warns PTI of ‘other options’ if Sept 27 march goes ahead A two-page written order was issued by the bench comprising Chief Justice Sarfraz Dogar, Justice Azam Khan and Justice Muhammad Asif. According to the order, the advocates general of K-P, Punjab, Sindh and Balochistan had completed their arguments. The court noted that the KP secretary had given an undertaking that government machinery or resources would not be used for any political gathering. The court subsequently directed the K-P chief secretary and inspector general of police to submit affidavits to this effect at the next hearing. The case will be heard on Monday at 10am.  The court clarified that the chief secretaries and inspectors general of police of the provinces were not required to appear in person.

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