Pakistani pilgrims attend Mujadid Alf Sani’s urs in India

The Charge d’ Affaires of Pakistan to India, Saad Ahmad Warraich, laid the traditional chador on behalf of the government and people of Pakistan at the shrine of Hazrat Mujadid Alf Sani at Sirhind Sharif on Tuesday. A group of 75 Pakistani zaireen visiting India to participate in the 411th urs of the sufi saint Hazrat Mujadid Alf Sani (RA) were also present on the occasion. Warriach and Pakistani zaireen were greeted by Sajjada Nasheen Khalifa Syed Mohammed Sadiq Raza and other trustees. The participants offered dua and prayed for Pakistan’s progress and prosperity. The charge d’ affaires paid homage to the revered saint who is known for his contribution in revitalising Islam. He said that teachings and ideals of Hazrat Mujadid Alf Sani (RA) created a profound impact on society and continue to serve as a spiritual guide to us. Warraich thanked the Sajjada Nasheen for the meticulous arrangements made for the Pakistani zaireen as well as the local administration for facilitating his visit on the auspicious occasion of the annual Urs. The visit of Pakistani zaireen is covered under the framework of the 1974 India-Pakistan Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines.

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Pakistan has lowest rate of plastic waste leakage in region: World Bank

A recent World Bank report reveals that Pakistan and India, along with four other South Asian nations, are contributing to the cross-border transport of pollutants like solid waste, plastics, industrial effluents, domestic wastewater, and microplastics through 20 major rivers.  The report titled 'Waves of Plastic: A Snapshot of Marine Plastic Pollution in South Asia' highlights the significant environmental impact of pollution in the region, focusing on two major transboundary river basins: the Ganges-Brahmaputra Meghna (GBM) basin, encompassing Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal, and the Indus River basin, which includes Afghanistan, India, and Pakistan. According to the report, 68% of Afghanistan’s plastic leakage, 66% of Pakistan’s, and 1.5% of India’s, flow into the Indus River. The report also notes that while Pakistan has the lowest rate of plastic waste leakage in South Asia, Sri Lanka has the highest. Despite being landlocked, Bhutan and Nepal still contribute to oceanic plastic waste through their rivers. In contrast, India and the Maldives boast higher waste collection rates than other South Asian countries.  The report also points out that Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan, as more populous nations, have lower per capita plastic leakage rates due to their relatively higher recycling rates—37% for Bangladesh, 40.6% for India, and 19.2% for Pakistan. The World Bank emphasises that effective national policies and their implementation are crucial for reducing plastic waste that pollutes rivers and oceans.  While environmental ministries typically oversee policy approval, their success relies heavily on the cooperation of national, state, provincial, and local government institutions. The availability of necessary infrastructure and logistical support, along with strong leadership, is essential for effective policy enforcement.  The report also underscores the vital roles of the private and informal sectors in policy implementation, noting that policies enforced at the sub-national or city level tend to be more effective due to local mandates. Global plastic pollution has surged at an alarming rate, with an estimated 171 trillion plastic particles floating in the oceans by 2019, according to research by the 5 Gyres Institute. The report warns that without legally binding global policies, marine plastic pollution could increase 2.6 times by 2040.  The study, which analysed surface-level plastic pollution data from 11,777 ocean stations across six major marine regions between 1979 and 2019, highlights the urgent need for global action.

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Punjab on high alert as monsoon rains forecasted to persist until Sept 4

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Punjab issued a warning on Monday about the heightened risk of river flooding due to forecasts of heavy rainfall across various parts of Pakistan in the next two days. The PDMA has instructed all relevant departments to remain on high alert to manage any potential emergencies. PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia stressed the increased risk of urban flooding in Punjab's cities due to the expected downpours. According to a statement from the PDMA, heavy rains forecasted for the upper regions of Punjab on September 3 and 4 could lead to flooding in major rivers, including the Jhelum River at the Mangla Upstream point, and pose a threat to the Ravi, Chenab, and Indus rivers. Kathia maintained that the water capacity in Mangla Dam is currently at 79% while Tarbela Dam is at full capacity. He also stressed the importance of ensuring all essential services are available in flood relief camps, given the looming flood risks. In response to the ongoing monsoon, the PDMA and other relevant authorities have been placed on high alert, following directives from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The PDMA alerted local administrations and relevant departments to prepare for the potential heavy rains and urged disaster response teams, particularly Rescue 1122, to stay vigilant. The public was also urged to take safety measures and contact the PDMA helpline 1129 in case of emergencies. In Lahore, rain was recorded in various parts of the city, with the heaviest downpour at Nishtar, receiving 107 millimetres. The Water and Sanitation Agency confirmed that its teams are fully mobilised, with Managing Director Ghufran Ahmed overseeing operations personally. Since the monsoon season began in July, the country has recorded 293 rain-related fatalities, with Punjab bearing the brunt with 112 deaths. Known for its five major rivers and fertile lands, Punjab is particularly vulnerable to severe flooding during the monsoon.

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Dutch prosecutors seek 14-year sentence for Ashraf Asif Jalali over threats against Geert Wilders

Dutch prosecutors requested a 14-year prison sentence for Muhammad Ashraf Asif Jalali, a Pakistani Muslim cleric accused of inciting the murder of Geert Wilders, a prominent anti-Islam lawmaker and leader of the party that won the Netherlands' last general election. Jalali, who did not appear at the trial held in a heavily secured courtroom near Amsterdam on Monday, faces charges of using his religious platform to urge followers to execute Wilders by hanging or beheading. The defendant was not present as Pakistan does not have an extradition treaty with the country. During the trial, Wilders addressed the court, describing the severe impact the threats have had on his life, which has been marked by intense security measures since 2004.  “You wake up each day, travel to work in armoured vehicles with sirens blaring, and always carry the awareness that any day could be your last,” Wilders told the court. “I’m 60 now, and I haven’t known freedom since I was 40.” A prosecutor, who requested anonymity due to security concerns, informed the judges that the threats against Wilders began circulating on social media following his 2018 announcement of a competition to draw cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).  The proposed contest sparked widespread protests in Pakistan and other parts of the Muslim world. After facing intense backlash, Wilders cancelled the contest but continues to face the consequences of his actions, which he views as a defence of free speech. These trials add to a series of legal actions in the Netherlands against individuals threatening Wilders, who has lived under constant police protection for nearly two decades due to his outspoken criticism of Islam.  Last year, former Pakistani cricketer Khalid Latif was sentenced to 12 years in prison after allegedly offering a reward for Wilders’ assassination. Latif also did not attend his trial.  In a separate 2019 case, another Pakistani man was arrested in the Netherlands, convicted, and sentenced to 10 years in prison for planning a terrorist attack against Wilders, often dubbed the “Dutch Donald Trump.” In the past, Wilders' comments have also led to legal challenges in the Netherlands. In 2020, an appeals court upheld his conviction for insulting Moroccans during a 2014 election speech.  However, no punishment was imposed, with the judge acknowledging the significant personal toll on Wilders, who has endured tight security for expressing his views.

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Talks with military crucial to calm the storm: Raoof

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Central Information Secretary Raoof Hasan has said that there was a pressing need for dialogue between the military and the former ruling party, saying that such talks were the need of the hour.  He called for negotiations to curb violent incidents, foster political understanding, and stabilise the economy, adding that, to prevent the situation from spiralling out of control, the talks should kick off without delay. In an interview with Voice of America, his first since his release after last month’s arrest, the PTI leader also expressed hope that the deadlock between the military and the PTI would soon be resolved. He also reiterated his party’s openness to a dialogue with the military. He stated that the PTI had always wanted to engage in a dialogue with the military and that the party’s doors were open for such discussions. “I repeat—talks between the military and the PTI should begin without delay”, he said. Hasan argued that it was in the country’s interest that the military and the PTI engage in discussions so that the country could move forward. Former prime minister and PTI founder Imran Khan has also indicated his willingness to talk to the military on several occasions. However, the military spokesperson, during a press conference, referred to the May 9 riots when asked about the possibility of talks with the PTI.  He said that negotiations with a ‘disruptive group’ were not feasible as dialogue was the domain of political parties, not the military. During the interview, Hasan highlighted that the public had shown its clear trust in the imprisoned Imran Khan in the elections, but PTI’s mandate had been negated, which he believed must be rectified. He stressed that the people’s mandate should be recognised, whether through judicial processes or new elections. Hasan also pointed out the rise in violent incidents across the country, stressing the urgent need for political reconciliation. He mentioned that economic expectations had not been met, with friendly nations like Saudi Arabia, China, and the UAE expressing concerns about further loans or investments. He said that all evidence pointed to a lack of political stability, which he believed could only be addressed by acknowledging the PTI’s mandate. “The path forward lies in dialogue with the military,” Hasan said, adding that while PTI does not want to drag the military into politics, recognising ground realities had made dialogue essential. He noted that currently, the power lies with the military, making negotiations with them beneficial. Hasan mentioned that the PTI had taken all possible steps for confidence-building and asserted that instability would persist unless all institutions operated within their domains. Responding to a question about the military’s demand for an apology from PTI regarding the May 9 incidents, Hasan reiterated PTI’s stance that a judicial commission should investigate these events or present evidence justifying an apology.     Contact with military leaders Hasan revealed that some PTI leaders have personal contacts with military officials, which could aid in formal dialogue between PTI and the authorities. He cited an instance where contact with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur had led to the postponement of a rally on August 22. Imran Khan has established a three-member committee for negotiations with the military. Hasan refrained from commenting on any formal or informal contacts involving this committee but acknowledged that personal connections could help advance the dialogue. He noted that if formal talks with the military begin, the committee has the authority to progress these discussions and consult Imran for further instructions if necessary.     Talks Hasan revealed that Imran Khan has delegated negotiation authority to Mahmood Achakzai, head of the opposition alliance. Achakzai, who has been a proponent of engaging with the ruling parties, may facilitate extending negotiations to the establishment if the talks with political parties yield positive results. Regarding the government’s alleged attempt to control the judiciary, Hasan expressed scepticism about its success, citing the judiciary’s growing independence. He criticised the government’s efforts to allegedly influence the judiciary through legislation, arguing that the autonomy of the judiciary is vital for the state’s stability. PTI plans to launch a nationwide movement on September 8 to mobilise the public, with rallies and gatherings scheduled in major cities. Hasan asserted that regardless of administrative permissions, the Islamabad rally on September 8 will proceed. PTI, after actively engaging in parliament and judiciary, aims to now take its movement to the streets. Hasan said that Imran Khan has made it clear that if anyone claims the September 8 rally is postponed in his name, it should not be believed. He mentioned that previous cancellations of rallies were due to PTI’s policy of avoiding gatherings without administrative consent to prevent incidents similar to May 9. Hasan asserted that PTI’s rallies are peaceful and the September 8 event will follow the same principles. Hasan hinted that more parties will join the opposition alliance and highlighted an agreement with Maulana Fazlur Rehman for forming committees in Parliament to adopt a unified strategy. A recent meeting between a PTI delegation and Maulana Fazlur Rehman had led to an agreement on forming committees for the National Assembly and Senate to develop a joint strategy in the assemblies. Hasan described the meeting as very positive and expressed confidence in advancing bilateral matters.

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Dialogue only after PTI apologises: Asif

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said on Sunday that, for any meaningful dialogue to take place, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) must seek an unconditional apology for orchestrating the events of May 9. Referring to the PTI while talking to a private news channel, the minister stated that it was impossible to negotiate with a party that was engaged in activities that undermine the political process. Read also: Not in favour of talks with PTI: Khawaja Asif He said the prime minister had repeatedly called for discussions and had even proposed a charter of economy to address the country’s challenges. The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) had consistently emphasised the importance of dialogue for the restoration of politics, he added.

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Dire need of dialogue between army and PTI: Raoof Hasan

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) spokesperson Raoof Hasan has expressed optimism that the ongoing deadlock between PTI and the army will soon be resolved, stating it is in the best interest of the state. In an interview with Voice of America (VoA), Hasan emphasised the need to end the standoff and called for immediate dialogue between PTI and the military. “The deadlock should not continue any longer,” he said. Hasan argued that achieving political stability in Pakistan requires recognising PTI’s mandate, either through judicial decisions or fresh elections. He clarified, “PTI does not seek to involve the army in politics, but engaging in dialogue with the military is necessary, as they currently hold significant power in the country.” The PTI spokesperson proposed that a judicial commission investigate the events of May 9, and assured that if any wrongdoing is found, the party would issue an apology. Hasan acknowledged that some PTI leaders maintain personal contacts within the army, which he believes could facilitate future negotiations. He also disclosed that PTI founder Imran Khan has authorised Mahmood Achakzai to negotiate with other political parties and, if needed, with the army. Criticising the current government, Hasan claimed it has failed to influence the judiciary, highlighting that the government cannot function effectively without judicial support. He also noted a growing movement for judicial independence within the country. Addressing allegations of contacts with anti-national elements, Hasan challenged the information minister to provide evidence of such claims, firmly denying any involvement. Looking ahead, Hasan announced that PTI would launch a nationwide movement starting on September 8, with planned rallies in major cities, regardless of whether they receive official permission. He further stated that more political parties are joining PTI’s alliance, noting that Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) has agreed to collaborate on a common strategy. The recent meeting between PTI delegates and JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman was described as positive, with discussions expected to continue at the bilateral level.

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