<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" version="2.0"><channel>
                        <title>The Express Tribune</title>
                        <atom:link href="https://tribune.com.pk/feed/news" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/>
                        <link>https://tribune.com.pk/feed/news</link>
                        <description>The Express Tribune keeps you up to date with all the latest happenings from Pakistan and across the world!</description>
                        <lastBuildDate>Sat, 30 May 26 13:10:20 +0500</lastBuildDate>
                        <language>en-US</language>
                        <sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod>
                        <sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency>
                        <generator>https://laravel.com/</generator><item>
			<title>PM orders digitisation of Hajj process</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2586824/pm-orders-digitisation-of-hajj-process</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2586824/pm-orders-digitisation-of-hajj-process#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 12 Jan 26 21:39:47 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2586824</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Calls for setting new targets for technical and vocational training programmes]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday directed the National Information Technology Board (NITB) officials to ensure digitisation of all necessary stages of Hajj to facilitate pilgrims this year and access to government facilities easier for the masses through technology.

He chaired a review meeting on matters pertaining to the NITB here, a Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office statement said.

The premier appreciated the extensive preparations made by the Ministry of Information Technology and other concerned ministries to set up Asan Khidmat Markaz in the federal capital.

He also added that he would soon hold a review meeting on QR-based feedback system for overseas Pakistanis.

During the briefing, the NITB officials apprised the prime minister that after the appointment of the new CEO of NITB, the entire structure of the institution was being reorganized in line with contemporary requirements. However, the officials informed that all preparations were complete to open Asan Khidmat Markaz for citizens in the federal capital.

&ldquo;A secure new app for all government sector institutions will be launched soon. Moreover, an integrated One Patient One ID system is in the final stages of preparation for timely and better service delivery in public hospitals,&rdquo; the officials said in the briefing.

The officials opined that this system would improve the performance of hospitals and provide better care to patients. They added that an analytics dashboard for the judiciary using big data was also being developed.

It was noted that the NITB was running over 145 government websites, more than 126 portals, and 31 mobile phone applications.

NAVTTC

The prime minister expressed satisfaction over NAVTTC&rsquo;s recent performance and directed officials to set new targets for technical and vocational training programmes, aiming to improve outcomes and ensure implementation of the Apprenticeship Law.

While chairing a review meeting on the country&rsquo;s new vocational training ecosystem, the premier examined ongoing NAVTTC programmes in detail.

He said providing international certifications to Pakistani manpower to enhance global competitiveness was a welcome development.

He directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis to accelerate efforts to increase the absorption of Pakistani skilled labour in Gulf countries.

The prime minister emphasised that Pakistani youth possessed immense potential and that a comprehensive programme had been launched through NAVTTC to harness these capabilities.

He added that positive results of technical and vocational training programmes under NAVT]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/pm-shehbaz-sharif1758591716-5/pm-shehbaz-sharif1758591716-5.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>WATCH: Marjorie Taylor Greene laughs as two protestors tased at townhall</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2540286/watch-marjorie-taylor-greene-laughs-as-two-protestors-tased-at-townhall</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2540286/watch-marjorie-taylor-greene-laughs-as-two-protestors-tased-at-townhall#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 16 Apr 25 11:38:29 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2540286</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Tasers were deployed and three people arrested as a Georgia town hall hosted by Marjorie Taylor Greene turned chaotic.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A town hall hosted by Republican representative Marjorie Taylor Greene descended into disorder Tuesday night as police tasered protesters and removed multiple audience members amid heated exchanges over former President Donald Trump&rsquo;s trade policies.

Two protesters were tasered and three individuals arrested during a chaotic town hall held by hard-right congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene in Acworth, Georgia, on Tuesday evening.

Greene, a vocal ally of Donald Trump, was met with persistent interruptions from audience members questioning the former president&rsquo;s controversial tariffs and her alleged financial interests. Video footage from the event showed police deploying an electronic non-lethal device to subdue a protester, prompting cheers from parts of the 150-strong crowd.

&ldquo;This is a town hall. This should not have to happen,&rdquo; Greene said from the stage as officers intervened. Despite the use of force, no individuals appeared to approach the congresswoman directly.







Acworth police confirmed the arrest of two men aged 40 and 45, and a 28-year-old woman. Sgt Eric Mistretta said officers responded appropriately to individuals who shouted at Greene and resisted removal.

During the event, Greene accused the Democratic Party of orchestrating the disruptions, though she did not present evidence. She labelled critical audience members as &ldquo;brainwashed&rdquo; and urged them to leave.

Tensions escalated when Greene dismissed questions about Trump&rsquo;s tariff policies, denying claims that the measures would increase consumer prices. She also faced scrutiny after a protester held up a sign alleging she had profited from stock purchases linked to last week&rsquo;s partial pause on tariffs.

In response to questions from reporters after the event, Greene stated that a financial adviser manages her investments and denied direct involvement in recent trades. &ldquo;He did a great job. He bought the dip,&rdquo; she said.

The congresswoman has faced criticism in recent weeks, including a separate incident where she told a Sky News reporter to &ldquo;go back to your country&rdquo; following a leak involving sensitive text messages on US&nbsp;military action.

Despite internal pressure from congressional leaders to avoid holding public forums, Greene has continued to stage town hall events in her home state.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/copy-of-news-stories-640-x-480-px-441744805428-0/copy-of-news-stories-640-x-480-px-441744805428-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Reddit users rage against Elon Musk: calls for X ban erupt across subreddits</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2523768/reddit-users-rage-against-elon-musk-calls-for-x-ban-erupt-across-subreddits</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2523768/reddit-users-rage-against-elon-musk-calls-for-x-ban-erupt-across-subreddits#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 22 Jan 25 11:17:26 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category><category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2523768</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Reddit users are pushing to ban X links over Musk's gesture at Trump's inauguration, across multiple subreddits.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A number of users on Reddit are&nbsp;calling for a ban on links to X (formerly known as Twitter), sparked by Elon Musk&rsquo;s&nbsp; gesture during President Trump&rsquo;s inauguration that was eerily similar the&nbsp;&lsquo;Seig Heil.&rsquo;&nbsp;

The calls for a ban began in sports-related subreddits and are&nbsp;gaining traction, with multiple communities discussing whether to sever ties with the platform entirely.







The discussions started earlier this week in the r/hockey subreddit, which boasts 2.7 million members, and quickly spread to other sports forums such as those dedicated to the Premier League and NFL.

Users voiced concerns over Musk&rsquo;s controversial leadership, including the platform&rsquo;s increasing association with hate speech, far-right rhetoric, and user-unfriendly interface changes.

Many expressed frustration with changes, such as requiring non-logged-in users to create accounts to view posts.



For Reddit users, sports content linked to X has been a point of contention. Game highlights, breaking news, and other updates are often shared via X links, but many users, particularly those who do not have X accounts, can no longer access these posts.

This has led to growing dissatisfaction with the platform, with some users calling for alternatives like Threads or Bluesky.



While sports have long been a significant reason for many to stay on X, recent shifts are making it clear that users are exploring other options. Professional sports teams and journalists have increasingly embraced Bluesky, which may signal a change in how sports news is consumed.

Despite the growing sentiment on Reddit, not all communities are in agreement. In the r/Chelsea subreddit, a moderator quickly shut down posts advocating for a ban on X links, prompting backlash from some users.

Other subreddits, including those for the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings, have removed similar posts, sparking further debate within their communities.



A few subreddits, however, have already implemented bans on X links. Nottingham Forest&rsquo;s subreddit has taken the step, though the momentum for wider change remains slow and fragmented.

Moderators in many sports subreddits have stated that discussions are ongoing regarding the future of X links within their communities.

The controversy surrounding Musk intensified following his appearance at President Donald Trump&rsquo;s inauguration, where his arm gestures were widely criticised as resembling a Nazi salute.

Musk dismissed the allegations, claiming they were a tired &quot;dirty trick&quot; and not a Nazi salute. However, the incident has contributed to the backlash against him, with some Reddit users drawing connections between the gesture and his controversial statements and actions.

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) offered a cautious response, suggesting Musk&rsquo;s gesture appeared to be an &quot;awkward&quot; one but urging grace and understanding in the charged political climate.

Others, including Democratic Representative Dan Goldman, have condemned Musk, citing his history of controversial stances and his platform&rsquo;s role in proliferating hate speech. ADL&rsquo;s statement has also received much criticisms from social media users.



As the debate continues, it remains uncertain whether this movement to ban X links will grow into a significant shift in how Reddit users engage with social media content.

For now, many Reddit sports communities are weighing their options as they navigate the intersection of online culture, Musk&rsquo;s leadership, and the future of digital platforms.

This is not the first time Elon Musk&rsquo;s actions have drawn comparisons to Nazi ideologies. In a recent opinion piece for Welt am Sonntag, Musk defended his backing of Germany&rsquo;s far-right AfD party, which led to the resignation of a senior editor.

Musk reiterated his remarks from December 20, asserting that &quot;only the AfD can save Germany&quot; and labeling the anti-immigration party as the &quot;last hope for the country&quot; on the &quot;verge of cultural and economic collapse.&quot;

While Germany&rsquo;s domestic security agency has classified some AfD factions as &quot;extremist,&quot; Musk dismissed this as &quot;clearly false.&quot; The AfD, meanwhile, has denied accusations of being a Neo-Nazi party, despite various allegations.

Additionally, Musk has recently shown support for an anti-Pakistan narrative endorsed by Priyanka Chaturvedi, a Rajya Sabha MP linked to India&rsquo;s Shiv Sena (UBT) party.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Tribune-N-(7)1737545587-0/Tribune-N-(7)1737545587-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Texas man charged with stalking WNBA’s Caitlin Clark, behaves erratically in court</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2522301/texas-man-charged-with-stalking-wnbas-caitlin-clark-behaves-erratically-in-court</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2522301/texas-man-charged-with-stalking-wnbas-caitlin-clark-behaves-erratically-in-court#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 15 Jan 25 09:34:02 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[AP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2522301</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Texas man charged with felony stalking of WNBA star Caitlin Clark. Court has issued no-contact order and $50,000 bond.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Michael Thomas Lewis, 55, of Texas, has been charged with stalking WNBA player Caitlin Clark. He is accused of repeatedly harassing Clark from December 16, 2024, to January 11, 2025.

The Marion County prosecutor&rsquo;s office filed a Level 5 felony charge, which could lead to a prison sentence of 1 to 6 years. Prosecutors allege Lewis sent sexually violent messages, causing Clark to feel threatened and unsafe.





Court documents reveal that Lewis sent at least 14 disturbing messages. Some of these were explicit, with one claiming he had driven by Clark&rsquo;s home three times a day. Another stated, &ldquo;I&rsquo;m getting tickets, I&rsquo;m sitting behind the bench.&rdquo; The FBI traced some of these messages to a hotel near Clark&rsquo;s team&rsquo;s home venue, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, and to a library in downtown Indianapolis.

In court, Lewis behaved erratically, reportedly laughing and joking at times. He shouted &ldquo;guilty as charged&rdquo; as he sat down in the courtroom. During questioning, Lewis claimed he was on vacation and that the relationship was imaginary. However, prosecutors argue his messages were threatening. Clark, who won the 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year award, told authorities she altered her public schedule due to safety concerns.

As part of the legal proceedings, the court issued a no-contact order against Lewis, prohibiting him from contacting Clark by any means, including phone calls, social media, or through third parties. Lewis was also ordered to stay at least 500 feet from both Gainbridge Fieldhouse and Hinkle Fieldhouse, where Clark&#39;s team practices. Authorities are requiring him to provide contact details for GPS monitoring.

Lewis was held on a $50,000 bond, with the condition that he remain in Indiana unless granted permission to leave. If he posts bond, he will be monitored with an ankle bracelet. The court warned that violating the no-contact or stay-away orders could result in his bond being revoked. Lewis faces up to 6 years in prison and a $10,000 fine if convicted.

The prosecutor&#39;s office noted that Lewis traveled from Texas to Indianapolis with the intent of being close to Clark, which led them to seek a higher-than-standard bond. A not guilty plea was entered on Lewis&rsquo; behalf, and Judge Angela Davis instructed him to remain silent in jail and only communicate with his attorney.

Lewis&rsquo; next court appearance is scheduled for March 31, 2025.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Anti-Muslim-Race-Riots--(1)1736934363-0/Anti-Muslim-Race-Riots--(1)1736934363-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>News media quit X over 'disinformation'</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2509938/news-media-quit-x-over-disinformation</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2509938/news-media-quit-x-over-disinformation#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 16 Nov 24 02:01:30 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[AFP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2509938</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Sweden's left-liberal DN becomes third major media outlet to stop publishing articles on social media platform]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[News outlets have begun quitting X, formerly Twitter, once a favourite of global media but now accused of enabling the spread of disinformation under its owner, president-elect Donald Trump ally Elon Musk.

Citing a &quot;harsh and extreme&quot; climate, Sweden&#39;s newspaper of reference, the left-liberal Dagens Nyheter (DN), on Friday became third major media outlet to stop publishing its articles on the social media platform.

&quot;Since Elon Musk took over, the platform has increasingly merged with his and Donald Trump&#39;s political ambitions,&quot; said editor-in-chief Peter Wolodarski.

Already on Wednesday, Britain&#39;s centre-left daily The Guardian had announced it would no longer post content from its official accounts on X, which it called &quot;toxic&quot;.

A day later, Spain&#39;s Vanguardia did the same, saying it would rather lose subscribers than remain on a &quot;disinformation network&quot;.

Several users had already wondered back in 2022 whether they should remain on Twitter when Musk -- a businessman best known for running car company Tesla and space company SpaceX -- bought the platform and drastically reduced content moderation in the name of free speech.

The question has flared up again since Trump won this month&#39;s presidential election, actively supported by Musk.

&quot;I would expect more publishers to part ways with X,&quot; said Stephen Barnard, a specialist on media manipulation at Butler University in the US.

&quot;How many do so will likely depend on what actions X, Musk, and the Trump administration take with regard to media and journalism,&quot; he said.

Musk, who is the world&#39;s richest man, has been tapped by Trump&#39;s team to lead a new Department of Government Efficiency.

The Guardian has nearly 11 million followers on the platform, but it said &quot;the benefits of being on X are now outweighed by the negatives&quot;.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/grokai1722880510-0/grokai1722880510-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Google threatens to block NZ news links over proposed 'link tax' bill</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2500629/google-threatens-to-block-nz-news-links-over-proposed-link-tax-bill</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2500629/google-threatens-to-block-nz-news-links-over-proposed-link-tax-bill#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 04 Oct 24 08:45:10 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2500629</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Bill, introduced by Labour govt, would require Google to pay news organizations for linking their content]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Google has issued a stark warning to the New Zealand government, stating it may stop promoting local news content if the Fair Digital News Bargaining Bill is passed.

The bill, introduced by the Labour government and supported by the current coalition, would require tech giants like Google to pay news organizations for linking to their content.

While Google argues the bill could have unintended consequences, news publishers accuse the tech company of &quot;corporate bullying.&quot;

Google New Zealand&#39;s country director, Caroline Rainsford, expressed concern that the bill, described as a &quot;link tax,&quot; is not the right approach to support New Zealand&#39;s news industry.

If passed, she warned that Google would be forced to make significant changes, including ceasing to link to news articles in its Search, News, and Discover platforms, and ending commercial agreements with local publishers.

Rainsford argued that the bill contradicts the principles of the open web and has not proven effective in other countries like Australia and Canada, where similar legislation has been introduced.

She emphasized that smaller media outlets would be particularly affected, losing potential audience reach.

Google has proposed alternative solutions to the government that it claims would avoid harming smaller, regional publishers.

However, it remains concerned about the bill&#39;s potential financial exposure and lack of clarity, which it says creates too much uncertainty for businesses operating in New Zealand.

The New Zealand News Publishers Association (NPA) has dismissed Google&#39;s warnings, accusing the tech giant of bullying tactics.

They argue that the bill is necessary because Google and other tech companies have distorted the market, becoming some of the most powerful corporations in history.

The bill, they say, is intended to create a fairer environment for media companies to negotiate commercial terms with tech platforms that profit from their content.

NZME chief executive Michael Boggs supported the bill, pointing out that Google already generates significant revenue from content produced by local publishers.

He also highlighted that Google&#39;s use of AI, which often draws on news stories without linking back to the original sources, further demonstrates the need for legislation.

Media and Communications Minister Paul Goldsmith said the government is still in the consultation phase and is considering various perspectives.

He confirmed that the government has been in ongoing discussions with Google and will continue to do so.

However, not all political parties are in favor of the bill.

The ACT Party opposes the legislation, with leader David Seymour criticizing the government for &quot;playing chicken&quot; with Google. He warned that smaller media outlets could suffer if the tech giant follows through on its threats, losing visibility in search results.

Seymour also argued that it is not the government&#39;s role to protect businesses from market changes driven by consumer preferences.

The situation in New Zealand echoes similar developments in other countries.

In Australia, Google has negotiated deals with media companies under its News Media Bargaining Code but has included clauses allowing it to cancel agreements annually.

In Canada, Google agreed to pay an annual sum to support local journalism after the government exempted it from the Online News Act.

The New Zealand bill follows in the footsteps of these international efforts to regulate tech giants&#39; relationships with media outlets.

As the debate continues, the fate of the Fair Digital News Bargaining Bill remains uncertain, with both Google and New Zealand&#39;s media industry digging in for a potentially long battle.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/BeFunk_§_---2024-10-04T140122-6601728032494-0/BeFunk_§_---2024-10-04T140122-6601728032494-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Faisal Vawda tenders ‘unconditional’ apology to Supreme Court</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2474201/faisal-vawda-tenders-unconditional-apology-to-supreme-court</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2474201/faisal-vawda-tenders-unconditional-apology-to-supreme-court#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 26 Jun 24 10:03:09 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2474201</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Senator Faisal Vawda apologises to Supreme Court, seeks withdrawal of contempt notice.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Senator Faisal Vawda has submitted an apology to the Supreme Court of Pakistan in a contempt of court case.

Vawda, in his second written response to the court, expressed his utmost respect for the judiciary.

Vawda stated, &quot;Following the court proceedings on June 5, I met with religious scholars to understand the role of a senator. I was advised to stand by justice, even if it is against my own kin.&quot;

In his written apology, Vawda included references from the Qur&#39;an and Hadith, demonstrating his sincerity.

He requested the Supreme Court to withdraw the show-cause notice issued to him, stating, &quot;In the light of Islamic teachings, I seek forgiveness with a sincere heart.

If my press conference has harmed the dignity of the judiciary, I unconditionally apologise. I leave myself at the mercy of the court and request the withdrawal of the show-cause notice in the contempt case.&quot;

The contempt case against Vawda is set to be heard by a three-judge bench led by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa on June 28.


&nbsp;]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Faisal-Vawda1614063286-0/Faisal-Vawda1614063286-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>PPP to vote for budget 2024-25 to avoid ‘instability’</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2473912/ppp-to-vote-for-budget-2024-25-to-avoid-instability</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2473912/ppp-to-vote-for-budget-2024-25-to-avoid-instability#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 25 Jun 24 12:04:42 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Newslab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2473912</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[If we do not vote for the budget, it would amount to dismantling the government, says Naveed Qamar]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) will vote for the budget to prevent instability in the country, senior parliamentarian Syed Naveed Qamar announced on Tuesday.

The decision was made during a parliamentary party meeting chaired by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, with Aseefa Bhutto Zardari also in attendance.

PPP Secretary Information Shazia Marri stated that members had expressed concerns about their constituencies in previous meetings.

The party leadership engaged the government to address these issues, with senior PPP parliamentarian Syed Naveed Qamar briefing members on the progress.

Qamar explained that an agreement between the PPP and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) was made during the formation of the government.

This agreement included 25 points, some of which have been implemented, while others remain ambiguous.

&quot;Despite certain reservations, we have decided to vote for the finance bill,&quot; Qamar said.

&quot;If we do not support the budget, it would dismantle the government and lead to instability, which the PPP seeks to avoid.&quot;

Qamar noted that the PPP anticipates that the points raised by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in the assembly will be accepted by the government.

The PPP will continue discussions with the government to ensure these issues are addressed.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1080913-naveedqamarx-1460076456/1080913-naveedqamarx-1460076456.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Scientists assert 'alien mummies' in Peru are really dolls made from Earthly bones</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453135/scientists-assert-alien-mummies-in-peru-are-really-dolls-made-from-earthly-bones</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453135/scientists-assert-alien-mummies-in-peru-are-really-dolls-made-from-earthly-bones#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Jan 24 10:51:20 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2453135</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Two figurines turned up in Lima airport offices of courier DHL in cardboard box]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A pair of &quot;alien mummies&quot; that mysteriously turned up at the airport in Peru&#39;s capital last October have entirely Earthly origins, according to a scientific analysis revealed on Friday.

The two small specimens were described as humanoid dolls by experts at a press conference in Lima, and likely fashioned from both human and animal parts. A separate three-fingered hand believed to be from Peru&#39;s Nazca region was also analyzed, with experts ruling out any connection to alien life.

&quot;They&#39;re not extraterrestrials. They&#39;re dolls made from animal bones from this planet joined together with modern synthetic glue,&quot; said Flavio Estrada, an archeologist with Peru&#39;s Institute for Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences.

&quot;It&#39;s totally a made-up story,&quot; Estrada added.

The two figurines turned up in the Lima airport offices of courier DHL in a cardboard box, and were made to look like mummified bodies dressed in traditional Andean attire. Some media outlets subsequently speculated about possible alien origin.

Read&nbsp;Ruling out aliens? Senior US general says not ruling out anything yet

Last September, two tiny mummified bodies&nbsp;with elongated heads and hands with three fingers were featured at a Mexican congressional hearing, generating widespread media coverage. Mexican journalist and&nbsp;UFO enthusiast Jaime Maussan&nbsp;claimed those bodies were about 1,000 years old and recovered from Peru in 2017, but not related to any known species.

Most experts later dismissed them as a fraud, possibly mutilated ancient human mummies combined with animal parts, but certainly from Earth.

At the Lima press conference on Friday, which was organized by Peru&#39;s culture ministry, experts did not say that the dolls found in the DHL office were related to the bodies presented in Mexico, and they stressed that the remains in Mexico are also not extraterrestrial.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Doll-aliens-Reuters-1705143325-0/Doll-aliens-Reuters-1705143325-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Lakki Marwat martyrs laid to rest</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453123/lakki-marwat-martyrs-laid-to-rest</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453123/lakki-marwat-martyrs-laid-to-rest#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Jan 24 08:05:49 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2453123</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan armed forces are determined to eliminate scrouge of terrorism from motherland at any cost, says ISPR]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Pakistan Army soldiers who embraced martyrdom in an exchange of fire against terrorists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa&rsquo;s district Lakki Marwat on January 10 were laid to rest&nbsp;on Saturday. 

According to a statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Sepoy Muhammad Afzal (29 years old, resident of district Bhimber, Azad Kashmir) and Sepoy Ibrar Hussain (27 years old, resident of district Mansehra) were laid to rest with full military honours in their respective areas. 

A large number of senior military officers, soldiers, families of martyrs and locals attended the funeral of the martyred personnel, the ISPR further added. 

&ldquo;Pakistan forces are determined to eliminate the scrouge of terrorism from the motherland at any cost,&rdquo; the military&rsquo;s media wing stated. 







Read Brutal massacre: 11 family members slain in Lakki Marwat

On January 10, a gun battle took place between security forces and terrorists, in which army troops effectively engaged the terrorists&rsquo; location, resulting in the successful neutralisation of two terrorists, Aftab alias Malang and Masood Shah.

Both of these individuals had been actively involved in various terrorist activities against security forces and had been implicated in the target&nbsp;killings of innocent civilians. Weapons, ammunition, and explosives were also recovered from them.

The brave soldiers involved in the operation, Sepoy Muhammad Afzal and Sepoy Ibrar Hussain fought gallantly but tragically embraced martyrdom during the intense exchange of fire, the ISPR had said.

&ldquo;Security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve,&rdquo; it had maintained.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/IS{R1705135851-0/IS{R1705135851-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>K-P sees politically unstable year</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453076/k-p-sees-politically-unstable-year</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453076/k-p-sees-politically-unstable-year#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jan 24 20:56:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Shahid Hamid]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2453076</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[On January 18 last year, ex-CM of PTI sent advice for dissolution of provincial assembly to governor]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government will be the first ever caretaker setup in the country to complete one full year in office, which saw two chief ministers and three cabinets and in and out of many provincial ministers.

The 18th of this month will mark the first anniversary of the dissolution of the provincial assembly and four days later, on January 22, the caretaker setup will complete its one year in office. However, last year, the caretaker setup, led by chief minister Azam Khan was sworn in.

On January 18 last year, the then chief minister Mehmood Khan of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) sent the advice for the dissolution of the provincial assembly to the governor, on the instructions of then party chairman Imran Khan. Governor Haji Ghulam Ali accepted the advice and dissolved the assembly.

As per law, the outgoing chief minister and opposition leader in the dissolved assembly are required to name the caretaker chief minister. However, Mehmood Khan had initially refused to talk to the opposition leader Akram Durrani of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F).

Read&nbsp;PTI notifies candidates for K-P NA seats

Then, senior PTI leader and now the leader of the PTI-Parliamentarians, intervened and arranged the talks between the two and helped them reach consensus on the name of former bureaucrat Azam Khan, who tool oath as the caretaker chief minister on January 22, 2023.

The chief minister then formed his cabinet in consultation with parties included in the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), because of which the provincial set up remained dogged by controversies &ndash; sometimes the ministers were expelled and sometimes the entire cabinet had to leave.

At the outset, Khushdil Malik could not take oath as a caretaker minister despite his nomination because he did not fulfil his post-retirement protocols. Also, Adnan Jalil had to leave the cabinet after withdrawal of support from his main political party &ndash; the Awami National Party (ANP).

Meanwhile, another minister, Shahid Khattak, was removed from the cabinet instructions of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) after he participated in a political event. Later, because of the controversies, chief minister Azam Khan dismissed the entire cabinet.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 13th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1132137-KPassemblyPHOTOAFP-1467136122/1132137-KPassemblyPHOTOAFP-1467136122.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>PTI notifies candidates for K-P NA seats</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453075/pti-notifies-candidates-for-k-p-na-seats</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453075/pti-notifies-candidates-for-k-p-na-seats#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jan 24 20:56:52 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2453075</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Party chief Advocate Gohar to run for NA-10 Buner]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The PTI on Friday released the list of its candidates for 45 National Assembly seats from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

The party has given tickets to former members of the NA. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has been given ticket from NA-10 Buner, former NA speaker Asad Qaiser from NA-19 Swabi, and party&rsquo;s provincial president Ali Amin Gandapur from NA-44 Dera Ismail Khan.

Read&nbsp;K-P 56,000 personnel short for election duty

According to the list issued by the PTI&rsquo;s central secretariat, Abdul Latif will run the race for NA-1 Chitral, Dr Amjad Ali Khan for NA-2 Swat, Saleem Rehman for NA-3 Swat, Murad Saeed and Kamal Khan for NA-4 Swat, Sahibzada Sibghatullah for NA-5 Upper Dir, Mehboob Shah for NA-6 Lower Dir, Bashir Khan for NA-7 Lower Dir, Gul Dad Khan for NA-8 Bajaur, Junaid Akbar for NA-9 Malakand, Nawaz Khan for NA-11 Shangla, Ghulam Saeed for NA-12 Kohistan, Nawaz Khan for NA-13 Battagram, Imran Saleem for NA-14 Mansehra, Shahzada Gustasap for NA-15 Mansehra&nbsp; Ali Asghar Khan for NA-16 Abbottabad, Ali Khan Jadoon for NA-17 Abbottabad and Umar Ayub for NA-18 Haripur among others..

For the provincial capital, the PTI is fielding Sajid Nawaz for NA-28 Peshawar, Arbab Amir Ayub for NA-29 Peshawar, Shandana Gulzar for NA-30 Peshawar, Arbab Sher Ali for NA-31 Peshawar, and Asif Khan for NA-32 Peshawar.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 13th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1107188-KPassemblyAFP-1463796577/1107188-KPassemblyAFP-1463796577.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>CTD foils IS-K plot to attack Fazl, Aimal</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453073/ctd-foils-is-k-plot-to-attack-fazl-aimal</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453073/ctd-foils-is-k-plot-to-attack-fazl-aimal#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jan 24 20:56:51 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2453073</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Two would-be suicide bombers arrested from Peshawar]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) foiled a major terrorist attack in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), arresting two would-be suicide bombers from Peshawar, who intended to target two top politicians in the provinces, police said on Friday.

Senior Superintendent of Police, CTD, Capt (retd) Najamul Hasan told a press conference that the duo were arrested through an intelligence-based operation (IBO), adding that two suicide jackets and three hand grenades and pistols were recovered from their possession.

&ldquo;Their first target was Aimal Wali Khan [the K-P provincial president of the Awami National Party (ANP)], and the second target was Maulana Fazlur Rehman [the Amir of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F)],&rdquo; Hasan told reporters.

Read&nbsp;CTD nabs suspected killer of cop

Hasan said that the two terrorists belonged to the Islamic State-Khurasan (IS-K) &ndash; also known as Daesh-Khorasan &ndash; and were well trained in the use of all types of weapons. &ldquo;They had received training in suicide attacks in the Paktia province Afghanistan sometime in June last year,&rdquo; he added.

The SSP identified the attackers as Adil Khan alias Amin, a resident of Aziz Khel, Matni, Peshawar and Tahir Khan alias Abbas, a resident of Landi Kotal. He added that both the terrorists were detained from Peshawar.

&ldquo;Daesh-Khorasan sent some trained terrorists to attack sensitive places and political personalities in Pakistan by preparing suicide bombers to carry out suicide attacks in Peshawar and nearby areas,&rdquo; the SSP said.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 13th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1289597-counterterrorismfighter-1483989885/1289597-counterterrorismfighter-1483989885.JPG" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Chilly conditions forecast for K-P</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453072/chilly-conditions-forecast-for-k-p</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453072/chilly-conditions-forecast-for-k-p#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jan 24 20:56:50 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2453072</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA['Isolated rain is likely to occur over Chitral, Upper Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Mansehra and other districts']]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Regional Meteorological Center Peshawar on Friday predicted that very cold and partly cloudy weather with foggy conditions in plain areas are likely to occur in most districts of the province.

It said that isolated rain (light snow over the hills) is likely to occur over Chitral, Upper Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Mansehra, Battagram, Torghar and Abbottabad districts.

Read&nbsp;Cold snap triggers spike in sale of warm clothing

The center further informed that light to moderate foggy condition is likely to continue to prevail over Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Mardan, Swabi, Haripur, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, D.I. Khan and Tank districts as well as over motorway (M1)/highways.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 13th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/854870-cloudAFPweatherpollution-1426628100/854870-cloudAFPweatherpollution-1426628100.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>BISEP reschedules SSC exam dates</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453071/bisep-reschedules-ssc-exam-dates</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453071/bisep-reschedules-ssc-exam-dates#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jan 24 20:56:12 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2453071</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Specified that both regular and private students have the option to submit their fees]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, Peshawar (BISEP), announced on Friday that the Secondary School Certificate (annual-I) examination for 2024 has been rescheduled and will now commence on April 18. 

Read&nbsp;Private schools demand postponement of matric exams

In a notification released, it was specified that both regular and private students have the option to submit their fees as follows: normal fee until February 9, late admission fee until February 19, double admission fee until February 29, and triple admission fee until March 13. Payments can be made at any branch of Allied Bank, MCB, and through the Easy Paisa online system, accompanied by a system-generated receipt. 

Published in The Express Tribune, January 13th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/594351-exams-1377308279/594351-exams-1377308279.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Both PTI, SC face 'real test' today</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453114/both-pti-sc-face-real-test-today</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453114/both-pti-sc-face-real-test-today#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Jan 24 05:23:32 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Hasnaat Malik]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2453114</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Fate of party's internal elections hangs in balance]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Saturday (today) is crucial for the PTI as a three-judge bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, will decide the fate of its intra-party elections.

If the apex court declares that the PTI&#39;s internal polls were not held in accordance with the law, the party will suffer a major setback by not being allotted its cherished electoral symbol of the &lsquo;cricket bat&rsquo;.

Surprisingly, the Peshawar High Court in its short order did not give the declaration that the PTI&#39;s intra-party elections were held in accordance with the law.

The SC bench also expressed its surprise that the short order failed to mention this crucial aspect.

Makhdoom Ali Khan, the counsel for the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), pointed out several legal flaws in the holding of the PTI&#39;s intra-party polls.

The SC bench has yet to clearly make up its mind about its decision in this matter.

Now it is a major test for the PTI&rsquo;s legal team as to how it can defend the party&rsquo;s internal elections before the SC bench on Saturday. Usually, the benches do not sit for a hearing on Saturdays.

Questions are also being raised on the performance of the PTI lawyers, who appeared to be struggling before the bench led by CJP Isa.

Advocate Ali Zafar is likely to represent the PTI on Saturday.

The factor of perception is more important in this case.&nbsp; It is an open secret there is a clash between the &lsquo;powerful circles&#39; and PTI since the May 9 violence last year.

Despite facing tough times, the PTI&#39;s popularity has not decreased and the party&rsquo;s opponents do not want its renowned electoral symbol to be allotted to it.

Following this perception, the matter is also important for CJP Isa, who has so far been successful in adjudicating important cases during his tenure.

The elections date was announced after the SC&#39;s intervention. The court overturned a couple of high courts&rsquo; orders, which might have delayed the polls.

However, it is a key test for the SC as to how it will ensure the credibility of the elections.

Lawyer Salahuddin Ahmed said the SC&rsquo;s fundamental rights jurisprudence truly took off after former premier

Benazir Bhutto&rsquo;s petition in 1988 seeking an electoral symbol for the PPP (and her earlier plea against non-party polls).

&quot;It will be very unfortunate if the SC allowed the ECP to deny the [cricket] bat symbol to the PTI,&rdquo; he added.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/41702586805-1/41702586805-1.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Heavyweights to square off in polls</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453113/heavyweights-to-square-off-in-polls</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453113/heavyweights-to-square-off-in-polls#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Jan 24 05:18:25 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Waqas Ahmed]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2453113</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Nawaz Sharif and Yasmin Rashid prepare for showdown in NA-130; Tareen and PTI’s Malik Amir to lock horns in NA-149]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[As the clock ticks towards February 9 general elections, the electoral battleground has transformed into a spectacle of political rivalries after the unveiling of party tickets, setting the stage for a fierce showdown among heavyweights in the upcoming polls.

With the closing of the nomination withdrawal window by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday, prominent figures from various parties are bracing for intense face-offs in several key constituencies. The politicos found themselves pitted against each other as parties have already wrapped up awarding of tickets, throwing their hat in the ring.

In the political capital, Lahore, political giants will collide as PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif and PTI&rsquo;s Yasmin Rashid prepare for a showdown in NA-130, while Hamza Shehbaz and Aliya Hamza Malik are set for a head-to-head in NA-18.

Similarly, Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party&rsquo;s chief Jahangir Tareen and PTI&#39;s Malik Amir Dogar are poised for a contest in NA-149.

Meanwhile, the recently PTI-converted Sardar Latif Khosa will face PML-N&rsquo;s Khawaja Saad Rafique in NA-122, and JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman will go head-to-head with PTI&rsquo;s Ali Amin Gandapur in NA-44.

Furthermore, Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani and PTI&rsquo;s Ghulam Qadir Sanjrani are set for a contest in NA-260.

In NA-128, PTI&#39;s Salman Akram Raja and IPP&#39;s Awn Chaudhry will lock horns.

As for NA-123 Lahore, the stage is set for a fierce contest between Shehbaz Sharif and PTI&#39;s Afzal Azim.

Moreover, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif is set to take on PTI&#39;s Gustasif Khan in NA-15 Mansehra.

Three-way tussles
&nbsp;

In NA-56 Rawalpindi, Sheikh Rasheed, PML-N&#39;s Hanif Abbasi, and PTI&#39;s Shehryar Riaz will compete for dominance while, in NA-54, Chaudhry Nisar, IPP&#39;s Ghulam Sarwar Khan, and PTI&#39;s Colonel (retd) Ajmal Saber will vie for victory.

In NA-47 Islamabad, PML-N&#39;s Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, IPP&#39;s Aamir Kayani, PTI&#39;s Shoaib Shaheen, and Jamaat-e-Islami&#39;s Mian Aslam are set for a riveting contest.

In NA-55 Rawalpindi, Barrister Daniyal Chaudhry of PML-N and Raja Basharat of PTI prepare for a political duel.

Meanwhile, in NA-52, Raja Pervez Ashraf, Raja Javed Ikhlas of PML-N, and Tariq Uzair Bhatti of PTI are ready for a three-way tussle.

NA-58 Rawalpindi sees PTI&#39;s Ayaz Amir and PML-N Major (retd) Tahir Iqbal engage in a political battle. Similarly, the stakes are also high in NA-49, with PML-N&#39;s Sheikh Aftab and PTI&#39;s Major (retd) Tahir Sadiq facing off.

Meanwhile in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, in NA-33, Parvez Khattak and PTI&#39;s Shahid Ahad Khattak brace for a fierce contest. The political battleground extends to NA-207 Shaheed Benazirabad, where former president Asif Ali Zardari and PTI&#39;s Sardar Sher Mohammad Rind Baloch will lock horns.

As for the provincial constituencies, in PP-147 Lahore, Hamza Shehbaz and Mohammad Khan Madani of PTI are set for a face-off. PP-159 Lahore will witness a political duel between Maryam Nawaz and PTI&#39;s Mehr Sharafat Ali.

In PP-164 Lahore, Shehbaz Sharif and PTI&#39;s Yousaf Mayo prepare for a political battle, while Shehbaz Sharif and PTI&#39;s Chaudhry Yusuf Ali brace for a contest in PP-158 Lahore.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/86171-votingelectionafpxjpg-1566041781/86171-votingelectionafpxjpg-1566041781.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Parties delisted due to internal polls neglect</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453112/parties-delisted-due-to-internal-polls-neglect</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453112/parties-delisted-due-to-internal-polls-neglect#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Jan 24 05:13:17 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Amina Ali]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2453112</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[ECP 'disappointed over lack of seriousness of political parties regarding intra-party elections]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) delivered a blow to 13 political parties on Friday, removing them from its list of registered entities due to their failure to conduct mandated intra-party elections.

In a reserved judgment announced on Friday regarding 15 political parties, the ECP revoked the registration of 13 parties while permitting two, namely Jamiat Ulema e Pakistan (JUP) and Pakistan Muslim League Jinnah, to participate in the upcoming elections.In the verdict, the ECP expressed disappointment over the lack of seriousness exhibited by political parties regarding the conduction of intra-party elections.

Delisted political parties encompassed All Pakistan Minority Alliance, All Pakistan Tehreek, Awami Party Pakistan, Bahawalpur National Awami Party, Sab Ka Pakistan, National Peace Council Party, Pakistan National Muslim League, Pakistan Aman Party, Pakistan Brabri Party, Masihi Awami Party, Pakistan Quomi Yekjehti Party, Sunni Tehreek, and Nizam e Mustafa Party.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/69769-ecpjpg-1532766872/69769-ecpjpg-1532766872-57670.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Supporting PML-N 'challenging': Bilawal</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453111/supporting-pml-n-challenging-bilawal</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453111/supporting-pml-n-challenging-bilawal#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Jan 24 05:10:32 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[BILAL GHAURI]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2453111</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Ex-FM visits Minhaj-ul-Quran; PAT declares support for Bilawal in NA-127]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari emphasised the importance of forming a government that addresses public problems and fulfils promises, adding that supporting the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) was challenging.

Speaking to the media during his visit to Minhaj-ul-Quran in Lahore, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari highlighted PPP&#39;s commitment to working closely with the people.

Accompanied by the Secretary General of Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT), Khurram Nawaz Gandapur, Bilawal paid tribute to the martyrs of Model Town, laying a wreath at their memorial. In addition, he applied for and acquired a life membership in Minhaj-ul-Quran.

Bilawal outlined his vision to transform Pakistan into a model state, showcasing the genuine face of Islam to the world. &quot;We know that together in this struggle we will bring the peaceful face of Pakistan to the world,&quot; he said.

He called for an impartial inquiry into the tragedy of Model Town, saying that the demands for justice for the victims were legitimate. He stressed the removal of legal obstacles and the punishment of those responsible for the tragedy.

Highlighting the restoration of contacts with Minhaj-ul-Quran, Bilawal mentioned that his mother and late former prime minister Benazir Bhutto was also a life member of the organisation.

He commended the institute&rsquo;s efforts in projecting the peaceful identity of Islam worldwide, advocating for an end to political and societal hatred.

Bilawal further praised Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri for his universal religious services aimed at promoting peace and eliminating extremism.

In a noteworthy announcement, PAT&rsquo;s Khurram Nawaz Gandapur declared the party&#39;s support for Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in NA-127.

He highlighted the historical relationship between Minhaj-ul-Quran and Benazir Bhutto, noting that this relationship has now extended to the second generation with Bilawal Bhutto Zardari&#39;s life membership.

Gandapur mentioned that PAT candidates would participate in elections on their symbols and manifestos in various constituencies across the country.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Bilawal-screengrab1704376643-0/Bilawal-screengrab1704376643-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>PML-N to give Talal Senate ticket</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453110/pml-n-to-give-talal-senate-ticket</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453110/pml-n-to-give-talal-senate-ticket#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Jan 24 05:05:43 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2453110</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Sanaullah tells him he has not been ignored]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The PML-N has decided to give a Senate ticket to Talal Chaudhry for his unwavering support for the party in difficult times.

According to sources, PML-N Punjab President Rana Sanaullah conveyed the party leadership&rsquo;s decision to Talal.

Sanaullah informed Talal that the party had chosen him for a slot in the upper house of parliament.

In a conversation with Talal, Sanaullah said his contribution and sacrifices played a major role in the ouster of the &ldquo;anti-people&rdquo; government.

He continued the PML-N appreciated his sacrifices and love, which the party could never forget.

According to the sources, Sanaullah told Talal that not giving him a National Assembly ticket did not mean the party had ignored him but decided to make him a senator.

The PML-N has announced the names of its candidates for seats in the National Assembly and provincial legislatures for the next general elections.

However, the party&rsquo;s important leaders including Daniyal Aziz and Talal Chaudhry were not given a ticket for any seat of these seats.

On August 2, 2023, the five-year disqualification period of both the PML-N leaders had come to an end.

On August 2, 2018, the Supreme Court had handed down the sentence to both Daniyal and Talal in a contempt of court case.

The then premier Shehbaz Sharif had congratulated both Talal and Daniyal on the conclusion of their sentences in a social media post.

&quot;The darkness of negative actions taken by enemies of Pakistan&#39;s prosperity and progress during the past years is dissipating,&rdquo; the premier wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

&quot;I extend my appreciation to those leaders of PML-N who stood firm alongside the party and its supreme leader, Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, despite the hardships, and remained steadfast,&quot; he added.

PMLN Senior Vice President Maryam Nawaz Sharif said the party was proud of Talal.

&ldquo;Courage and conviction do not always roar, sometimes they&rsquo;re personified by people like you. You stand tall.

Taller than those who victimised you. They are relegated to the dustbins of ugly history while you are the present and the future, Insha&rsquo;Allah,&rdquo; she wrote on X.

The sources said the party leadership had decided that former party MPA, Malik Muhammad Nawaz, would be chosen for the slot of the Faisalabad mayor.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1570489-_de-1511848713/1570489-_de-1511848713.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>PMD issues water advisory</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453109/pmd-issues-water-advisory</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453109/pmd-issues-water-advisory#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Jan 24 05:00:30 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2453109</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[MD says, rainfed areas will remain under water stress conditions]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Friday said that the rainfed areas will remain under water stress conditions next week due to persistent dry and cold weather conditions, advising the citizens to use water judiciously.

The PMD, in its advisory, informed that due to stable weather conditions, cold and dry weather is expected in most parts of the country during the next week. Very cold weather conditions are likely to continue in plains of Punjab during the next week.

Dense foggy conditions are also likely to continue in plain areas of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and upper Sindh in patches. Frost is also expected to occur in upper parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pothohar region including Islamabad and Kashmir.

Light rain with light snowfall over the mountains is expected in Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan on January 13, January 16 and 17. The PMD has also termed the rumours on social media regarding snowfall in plains of Punjab as baseless and urged the public to ignore fake information.

About the impacts, the PMD said that the rainfed areas will remain under water stress conditions so the general public is advised to use the water judiciously.

Due to foggy conditions in plain areas, day temperatures are likely to remain 04 to 06 degrees Celsius below normal. The farmers are advised to manage their crops and keep their livestock at warm places due to prevailing cold weather conditions. The travellers are advised to remain extra cautious during foggy days.

&nbsp;]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/rain1689745819-0/rain1689745819-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>6.0 magnitude earthquake jolts northern areas, Punjab</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452912/60-magnitude-earthquake-jolts-northern-areas-punjab</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452912/60-magnitude-earthquake-jolts-northern-areas-punjab#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jan 24 10:45:59 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452912</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Earthquake struck at around 2:20pm in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan, says PMD]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A magnitude 6.0 earthquake&nbsp;jolted parts of Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Azad Kashmir, including the federal capital on Thursday.

The&nbsp;Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD)&nbsp;said the earthquake struck at around 2:20pm in the Hindu Kush region of&nbsp;Afghanistan at a depth of 213km.

People in the major cities of Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi and Peshawar reported feeling the tremors, with some evacuating their residences and offices.&nbsp;



An earthquake originated on 11-01-2024 at 14:20 PST
Mag: 6.0
Depth: 213 km
Lat: 36.16 N
Long: 70.63 E
Epicenter: Hindu Kush Region Afghanistan #Earthquakes
&mdash; Pak Met Department محکمہ موسمیات (@pmdgov) January 11, 2024



Authorities and rescue services are assessing the situation in the affected areas but there are no reports of loss of life or property so far.&nbsp;

Read Japan earthquake death toll tops 100 with hundreds still missing -media

It should be noted that severe earthquake tremors were felt across and in Quetta a few days ago.

Similarly, on December 18, a 5.8 magnitude earthquake shook Islamabad.

The National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC) in Islamabad confirmed that the epicentre was in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) at a depth of 133 kilometres.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/earthquakerechterscaleAPP1702906881-0/earthquakerechterscaleAPP1702906881-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Court approves Imran's 14-day judicial remand in 12 cases linked to May 9 riots</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452901/court-approves-imrans-14-day-judicial-remand-in-12-cases-linked-to-may-9-riots</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452901/court-approves-imrans-14-day-judicial-remand-in-12-cases-linked-to-may-9-riots#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jan 24 07:38:37 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452901</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[ATC rejects 30-day physical remand request by police]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[An anti-terrorism court in Rawalpindi approved on Thursday PTI founder Imran Khan&#39;s 14-day judicial remand in 12 cases linked to the May 9 riots.

ATC Judge Malik Ijaz Asif rejected a request for a 30-day physical remand by the police and instead approved judicial remand during the hearing held at Adiala jail.

The former premier is incarcerated at Adiala jail and all his cases, including Toshakhana and cypher, are being heard inside the prison premises.

The hearing was attended by counsels representing Imran - Malik Faisal and Sardar Shahbaz Khosa.

Read No information about Imran&rsquo;s role in May 9 riots: PM

Imran&#39;s arrest and previous hearings

On January 9, Imran was arrested in the GHQ attack case soon after his release warrant was issued in the cypher case.

The hearing had commenced at the Adiala jail through a video link and was attended by multiple station house officers (SHO).

Rawalpindi&#39;s anti-terrorism special court presided over by Judge Ijaz, had granted a two-day physical remand for Imran Khan in connection to 12 cases related to the May 9 riots following the conclusion of legal arguments.

Following the court&#39;s decision, investigation teams from all police stations were authorised to conduct inquiries into Imran&#39;s involvement within the confines of Adiala jail. The court had explicitly directed that the PTI chief could not be removed from the jail premises.

In July last year, a high-level joint investigation team (JIT) probing incidents related to the May 9 violence had decided to nominate the former premier in two terrorism cases including an attack on the GHQ.

The May 9 riots pertain to the attacks on state installations last year, following the arrest of the then Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman in a corruption case. The installations, which were attacked, included the army&rsquo;s General Headquarters in Rawalpindi and the corps commander&#39;s house in Lahore.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/IK1684838174-0/IK1684838174-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Poultry prices go up by 30pc</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452852/poultry-prices-go-up-by-30pc</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452852/poultry-prices-go-up-by-30pc#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 21:20:57 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452852</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[PPA has called for further increase in prices of chicken]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The prices of poultry items have increased by 30 per cent in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi during the last six months, which has created huge volatility in the market.

According to a market survey conducted on Wednesday, during the last six in the twin cities, a 30 per cent increase was witnessed in the price of chicken in the last six months, while as same as 33 per cent increase in the price of poultry eggs in the same period.

According to the survey, the price of live chicken in the twin cities was between Rs420 and Rs440 per kg from the last week of January. Similarly, chicken meat is sold at Rs680 to Rs700 per kg in the market of both cities. During this time, it was also found that poultry eggs used to be sold at Rs390 to Rs405 per dozen in the market of both cities.

Read&nbsp;Public outcry over soaring poultry prices

Meanwhile, Pakistan Poultry Association (PPA) Chairman, Chaudhry Muhammad Ashraf, said the increase in the current prices of poultry is due to demand and supply issues. He said that the increase in poultry business inputs and cost of doing business was seen across the country due to which the market was in crisis.

He said many people in the business were affected by the current crisis and especially small businesses were closed, adding the poultry business in the four provinces was suffering from the current economic crisis.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/2246334-Poultryindustry-1592621316-397-640x4801592628400-0/2246334-Poultryindustry-1592621316-397-640x4801592628400-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>NCHR, HEIs team up to promote rights education</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452853/nchr-heis-team-up-to-promote-rights-education</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452853/nchr-heis-team-up-to-promote-rights-education#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 21:20:58 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Zaigham Naqvi]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452853</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Collaboration to foster culture of equality amongst students]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[To promote human rights education among university students, the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) has signed Memorandum of Understandings (MoU) with a number of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).

The recent MoUs was signed with Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University in Islamabad and the Fatima Jinnah Women&rsquo;s University, Rawalpindi. This collaboration underscores the shared commitment of both entities to empower individuals, foster a culture of respect, equality, and justice amongst students, and prevent human rights violations through education.

This collaborative initiative is aligned with the crucial role of education and awareness in the protection and promotion of human rights. &ldquo;By engaging with universities and educational institutions, the NCHR aims to create a lasting impact, fostering a society that values and upholds the principles of human rights. We look forward to creating a more just and inclusive society through widespread human rights literacy,&rdquo; said Chairperson NCHR Rabiya Javeri Agha.

Read&nbsp;Integrating climate into education

She said that the NCHR recognises the pivotal role of human rights institutions in contributing to the formulation and execution of human rights education programmes. &ldquo;In line with this objective, the commission has been actively engaged in forging partnerships with esteemed universities and educational institutes across the country. This partnership, in accordance with its mandate under Section 9 (h) of its Act, is crucial to NCHR&rsquo;s programme on human rights education, building knowledge about human rights, changing attitudes and behaviors and promoting a culture of tolerance and peace.&rdquo;

An NCHR team, led by Member Balochistan Professor Farkhanda Aurangzeb, recently engaged in several meetings with key stakeholders in various universities.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/2067821-education-15697283361701411928-0/2067821-education-15697283361701411928-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Call to promote sustainable tourism</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452851/call-to-promote-sustainable-tourism</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452851/call-to-promote-sustainable-tourism#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 21:20:57 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452851</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[DG PTDC says heads of educational institutions and students will participate in moot]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) Managing Director (DG) Aftabur Rahman Rana has emphasised the need to introduce tourism as a subject in schools and establish more academies to create awareness about responsible tourism in the country.

Announcing the date for the upcoming &quot;Tourism Education Conference&quot;, he said the conference will be held in February under the auspices of PTDC.

&ldquo;The purpose of the conference is to raise national prestige worldwide and promote local tourism.&rdquo;

Read&nbsp;Panel set up to promote tourism in Gwadar

He said heads of educational institutions and students will participate in the moot.

Talking to The Express Tribune, he said the government is taking concrete steps to promote tourism in the country which can become a major source of income for the country. PTDC is launching an awareness campaign about responsible tourism through social and electronic media platforms, he added.

The PTDC MD said a plan to establish five to six hospitals in different cities of the country is under consideration to ensure quality health facilities for tourists with the support of the Ministry of Health.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/852908-Aviationpolicy-1426269532/852908-Aviationpolicy-1426269532.JPG" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Tribunal clears key PTI candidates</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452854/tribunal-clears-key-pti-candidates</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452854/tribunal-clears-key-pti-candidates#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 21:20:58 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Qaiser Shirazi]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452854</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Rawalpindi’s political bigwigs rejoice in newfound eligibility]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The third and crucial phase of the upcoming general elections concluded on Wednesday as an election tribunal concluded the hearing of appeals against the rejection of nomination papers for seven national and 14 provincial assembly seats in Rawalpindi.

In a surprising development, the nomination papers of prominent Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders were approved, stipulating the political bigwigs into the election arena.

The nomination papers of former ministers and assembly members were initially rejected by returning officers, but the latest development has caused a significant political stir as these candidates re-entered the election arena.

A total of 165 appeals were filed for national and provincial seats in Rawalpindi district, along with two national and four provincial seats in Mianwali. Among them, 103 appeals were approved, 56 were rejected, and six were withdrawn.

The appellate tribunal operating under the jurisdiction of the Lahore High Court&rsquo;s Rawalpindi Bench, consisting of Justice Mirza Waqas Rauf and Justice Chaudhary Abdul Aziz, issued verdicts on all filed appeals.

Accepted appeals declared several candidates eligible for the upcoming election, including former interior minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, former Punjab speaker Sabtain Khan, deputy speaker Wasiq Qayyum Abbasi, former law minister Basharat Raja, former minister Raja Rashid Hafeez, former federal minister Ijazul Haq, Major Tahir Sadiq, Naz Sadiq, Iman Sadiq, Zulfi Bukhari, Ijaz Khan Jazi, Murtaza Satti, Major Latasab Sati, Ayaz Amir, Umair Khan Niazi, Fozia Behram, Colonel Ajmal Sabir, Seemabia Tahir, and Raja Nasir.

Read&nbsp;Tribunal gives clean chit to Sharif family to contest polls

However, key figures such as former premier Imran Khan, former Punjab chief minister Pervaiz Elahi, former minister Fawad Chaudhary, Hiba Chaudhry, Hafiz Ammar Yasir, Arif Abbasi, and former prime minister Yusuf Raza Gilani&rsquo;s media advisor Mian Khurram Rasool had their appeals rejected, barring them from the election.

Candidates whose appeals were rejected plan to challenge the election tribunal&#39;s decision in the Lahore High Court Larger Bench on Thursday.

The larger bench is expected to resolve all appeals within three days. The election tribunals forwarded the list of approved appeals to relevant returning officers on Wednesday, and a new list will be issued on Thursday, incorporating the approved names.

Islamabad tribunal

Separately, an Islamabad appellate tribunal decided on 70 cases and approved 65 candidates&rsquo; appeals against the rulings of returning officers.

Tribunal Judge Arbab Muhammad Tahir rejected two appeals against the approval of the nomination papers of a transgender candidate. Meanwhile, the judge rejected an appeal of a candidate against the rejection of his nomination papers on grounds of dual nationality. The appeals of all PTI candidates including Shoaib Shaheen, Niaz Ullah Niazi, and Zafarullah Shah were approved.

In the aftermath of these legal victories, PTI&rsquo;s prospects for the upcoming general elections in the region are bolstered.

As the election season unfolds, the party&rsquo;s focus on addressing internal discrepancies and presenting a united front becomes paramount.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/2555170-ptirallyx-1697970611-227-640x4801697972583-0/2555170-ptirallyx-1697970611-227-640x4801697972583-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>‘Animal rights pivotal to society’</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452850/animal-rights-pivotal-to-society</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452850/animal-rights-pivotal-to-society#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 21:20:56 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452850</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Experts bemoan animal abuse for entertainment]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Renowned wildlife and animal behaviour expert, Dr Ijaz Ahmed, emphasised the imperative need to not just consider the well-being of animals as a moral obligation but as a fundamental right within our society.

He asserted that animals, like humans, experience pain and deserve to have their intrinsic rights acknowledged. In a call for a societal mind-set shift, he urged the public to recognise the emotional capacity of animals and their right to coexist in human societies with dignity and respect.

However, it&rsquo;s disheartening to witness the widespread use of animals for entertainment, particularly in circuses and amusement parks. Expressing concern over the gradual disappearance of animal biodiversity in Pakistan, Dr Ahmed highlighted the alarming consequences of depleting jungle cover. As these natural habitats diminish, countless species face the threat of losing their homes.

He further said that the diminishing jungles also result in a decline in biodiversity, particularly affecting Pakistan&rsquo;s aquatic ecosystems. He emphasised the necessity of protecting aquatic animals, underscoring the importance of preserving their habitats for the benefit of future generations.

Read&nbsp;Police, Wildlife Dept join hands against animal cruelty

As diverse species face a decline, he underscored the urgency of educating the younger generation so as to instil a sense of responsibility in them. Additionally, he emphasises the need to preserve natural habitats and establish wildlife sanctuaries as crucial steps towards conserving Pakistan&rsquo;s rich and diverse wildlife.

A prominent animal rights activist, Anees Jilani, urged for a comprehensive overhaul of Pakistan&#39;s antiquated animal rights laws to align them with contemporary societal values. The existing laws, such as the 1890 Act under which the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) have proven ineffective and are in desperate need of reform.

Anees Jilani shed light on some key provisions of the outdated act, emphasising that it criminalises cruelty to animals, including baiting or inciting animals to fight. He said that there was a dire need to resuscitate the neglected laws.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1100193-MayAghacopy-1462815868/1100193-MayAghacopy-1462815868.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Pindi’s very own ‘iron-man’</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452849/pindis-very-own-iron-man</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452849/pindis-very-own-iron-man#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 21:18:49 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Zulfiqar Baig]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452849</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Old man builds 70-year-long career with coal-powered iron]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The ironing machine is an essential household item which serves as a basic necessity in every home. However, Sher Muhammad of Patiala still runs his business by taking it upon himself to iron people&rsquo;s clothes with his hand-crafted coal-powered iron at a nominal fee.

It can be said that iron plays an important role in shaping people&rsquo;s personality and surely, no one prefers to leave the house wearing clothes lined with creases. However, ironing can be a time-consuming task that may prove a challenge, especially in the case of smoothing out clothes fashioned from different kinds of fabric.

This is where Sher Muhammad comes in. A 75-year-old man from Patiala near Saidpuri Gate &ndash; the densest area of Rawalpindi &ndash; makes both ends meet by using a charcoal iron to provide ironing services to locals of the area and has been doing so for the past 70 years.

Talking to The Express Tribune, Sher Muhammad said &ldquo;Our forefathers belong to Patiala, and we used to live in Saidpuri Gate before Pakistan was founded.&rdquo;

He says before the creation of Pakistan, Hindus, Sikhs and Muslims were living happily in one neighbourhood. &ldquo;When the movement for Pakistan started, the desire for a separate homeland arose in our hearts. I participated in the movement,&rdquo; he elaborated while sharing his life story.

Sher Muhammad explained that in the earlier days Kartarpura, Saidpuri Gate, Bhapara Bazaar, Haripur, and Bagh Sardaran were areas within old Rawalpindi that had central status. In these areas, resided the famous traders.

Read&nbsp;PPP rebukes PML-N claiming credit for Thar coal power project

Hindu and Sikh traders mostly wore white clothes and shawls and warm woollen clothes in the winter, while women used to wear silk, banarsi and cotton sarees. He said, &ldquo;When I started my service, I used to iron shalwar kameez for one rupee.&rdquo;

My iron was made of a block of iron worth Rs200, he said adding that irons like these are no longer manufactured and coal has also become expensive. &ldquo;Now I charge Rs100 to iron a pair of shalwar kameez. I iron the clothes of twenty-five houses in the neighbourhood and I have raised my children with the help of this iron,&rdquo; he exclaimed.

Sher Muhammad has three children. His eldest son has died, while two of his children work hard to run the household. His children are the ones who pay the ironing store&rsquo;s rent which costs Rs5,000 per month.

In the past, clothes were ironed on special occasions such as Eid or other festivals. However, people are now in the habit of regularly ironing clothes and they prefer to use an ironing machine made of iron. The main reason for this is that the weight of a machine made of iron helps press and smooth out fabric so that it gives the cloth a sheen of its own.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/11704921617-0/11704921617-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>PTI seeks postal ballot if Imran detained</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452895/pti-seeks-postal-ballot-if-imran-detained</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452895/pti-seeks-postal-ballot-if-imran-detained#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jan 24 06:18:08 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452895</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Lauds PHC decision to reinstate 'Bat'; says ticket allocation process completing today]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan on Wednesday expressed the party&rsquo;s intent to apply for a postal ballot provision should Imran Khan remain imprisoned during the elections.

&quot;We&#39;re exploring the option of seeking permission for postal ballots if Imran Khan&#39;s release isn&rsquo;t secured before the elections,&quot; he said while speaking to the media following his meeting with the former prime minister in Adiala Jail.

He shared that discussions with the PTI&#39;s founding chairman regarding the allocation of party tickets were underway, adding that the process would be completed on Thursday (today).

Candidates from constituencies across Pakistan would be actively involved in the electoral contest, he assured.

Barrister Gohar Khan hailed the Peshawar High Court&#39;s (PHC) decision to reinstate the bat symbol, declaring it a symbol of the party&rsquo;s victory.

He criticised the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), alleging deliberate obstruction in returning the symbol to PTI, portraying it not just as a PTI symbol but as a representation of the people&#39;s rights in Pakistan.

He further alleged that the attempts to snatch the bat symbol threatened the integrity of upcoming elections, fostering an environment ripe for corruption.

Touching upon the intra-party polls that resulted in his chairmanship, Barrister Gohar noted that no other party has held such transparent polls.

He announced the release of finalised candidate lists and dismissed any insinuations of favouritism in the ticket allocation process, assuring that all information would be shared with the media.

&quot;To ensure fair representation, committees have been established at various levels for ticket allocation,&quot; he said.

On the subject of the ongoing cypher case, he expressed optimism about the court providing relief and ensuring an open trial.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/PTI-Chairman-Barrister-Gohar-Ali-Khan1703156390-0/PTI-Chairman-Barrister-Gohar-Ali-Khan1703156390-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Faizabad sit-in: services chiefs asked to penalise personnel</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452892/faizabad-sit-in-services-chiefs-asked-to-penalise-personnel</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452892/faizabad-sit-in-services-chiefs-asked-to-penalise-personnel#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jan 24 06:12:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452892</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Defence secy tells body he wrote letters to top military officials]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[In light of the Supreme Court&#39;s directives, Defence Secretary Lt Gen (retd) Hamooduz Zaman Khan has sent letters to the three services chiefs to take action against the officers and personnel involved in the case of the 2017 Faizabad sit-in staged by the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP).

In his written statement submitted to a three-member Faizabad sit-in inquiry commission, the defence secretary said he had written letters to the chiefs of army, navy and air force to take action against the officers and personnel involved in the TLP demonstration.

The commission, formed to identify those who planned, financed, and supported the sit-in at Islamabad&rsquo;s Faizabad around six years back, has already questioned former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, ex-chairman of the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) Absar Alam and former inspector general of police Punjab Arif Nawaz.

The body had also summoned PML-N president and former premier Shehbaz Sharif on January 3 in his capacity as the ex-chief minister of Punjab. However, Shehbaz failed to appear before the commission and asked it to send him a questionnaire pertaining to the inquiry they wanted to conduct.

The inquiry body has to submit its report to the top court on January 22.

It will also recommend legal actions against those who both planned and executed the protest.

Earlier, former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) director general Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed submitted his written statement to the commission.

While giving his statement, Faiz answered the questions given by the commission, in which he said that he had negotiated with the TLP on the instructions of the government.

Faiz denied the allegations of any conspiracy against the government.

Constituted under Section 3 of the Pakistan Commission of Inquiry Act, 2017, the commission is led by Syed Akhtar Ali Shah, a former civil servant, who also served as the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa police chief.

It also comprises Tahir Alam Khan, also a former police officer, and Khushal Khan, an additional secretary at the interior ministry.

The TLP, then led by Allama Khadim Hussain Rizvi, had staged the sit-in in protest against the changes made in the lawmakers&rsquo; oath, affirming their belief that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the last messenger of God.

As a result of the protest, the PML-N government had to sack its law minister Zahid Hamid. The Supreme Court had taken suo motu notice of the sit-in on Nov 21, 2017.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/41702586805-1/41702586805-1.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>PML-N revs up election drive</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452890/pml-n-revs-up-election-drive</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452890/pml-n-revs-up-election-drive#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jan 24 06:06:24 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[  Rameez Khan]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452890</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Party allocates tickets in key districts]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Amid mounting criticism over the delay in its election strategy and ticket allocations, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) on Wednesday not only unveiled plans to kickstart its electoral campaign on January 15 but also finalised the distribution of party tickets across 21 districts, including Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala.

This update was confirmed at the time of this report&#39;s filing. As per the party&#39;s notification, PML-N distributed National Assembly tickets and provincial assembly seats among candidates hailing from 21 districts. The recipients spanned Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Nankana Sahib, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Chiniot, Sheikhupura, Gujrat, Sialkot, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang, Attock, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Wazirabad, Kasur, Sahiwal, Okara, Pakpattan, and Hafizabad.

The party seems to have reserved certain seats for potential adjustments with other parties, such as NA-64 Gujrat and two provincial seats under it for PML-N.

As per PML-N leader Abid Raza, the party has allocated NA-64 to Chaudhary Salik Hussain, along with the two associated seats for his party, as part of honouring their commitment.

A surprise inclusion in the allocations was NA-75 (Narowal) being awarded to Chaudhry Anwar Iqbal, which meant that Danyal Aziz was given the boot due to his criticisms against his constituency colleague, Ahsan Iqbal. Contrary to earlier predictions, Ahsan Iqbal not only secured a ticket for NA-76 but also for PP-54.

PML-N also kept its promise to former National Assembly opposition leader Raja Raiz, acknowledging his assistance in allowing PML-N to govern with no checks on it during his tenure as a sham opposition leader. After the conclusion of his assembly term, Raja joined PML-N.

In order to accommodate Raja and company, the party had to ditch its leader Rana Ehsan Afzal. Raja was accommodated on NA-104, while PML-N leader Chaudhry Abid Sher Ali secured NA-102 and Rana Sanaullah claimed NA-100.

Talal Chaudhry is expected to be ditched in a constituency which is yet to be announced.
The party accommodated all its old guards in key NA seats in Toba Tek Singh, such as Chaudhary Khalid Javed on NA-105 and Colonel (retd) Ayub Gadhi on PP-112.

In Jhang, PML-N welcomed a new entrant, Makhdoom Faisal Saleh Hayat, who received tickets for NA-108 and PP-125. In Sheikhupura, Rana Tanveer secured the party ticket for NA-114 and PP-139, while Javed Latif obtained the ticket for NA-115.

Chaudhry Muhammad Barjees Tahir was given the NA-111 ticket in Nankana Sahib. In Chiniot, PML-N allocated NA-93 to Syed Muhammad Raza Bukhari and NA-94 to Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh. Meanwhile, in Gujranwala, the party granted NA-78 to senior leader Khurram Dastaghir Khan.

The party allocated the following tickets in various constituencies: Sheikh Aftab Ahmed for NA-49 (Attock), Malik Sohail Khan for NA-50 (Attock), Raja Osama Sarwar for NA-51 (Rawalpindi), Raja Muhammad Javeed Ikhlas for NA-52 (Rawalpindi), Raja Qamar Ul Islam for NA-53 (Rawalpindi), Malik Ibrar Ahmad for NA-55 (Rawalpindi), Muhammad Haneef Abbassi for NA-56 (Rawalpindi), Danyal Chaudary for NA-57 (Rawalpindi), Major (retd) Tahir Iqbal for NA-58 (Chakwal), and Sardar Ghullam Abbass for NA-59 (Talagang).

PML-N leader Bilal Yasin secured a PP-6 ticket from Rawalpindi. In addition, PML-N announced the commencement of its election rallies starting on January 15.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/nawazsharifshehbazmaryamPMLN1697904320-0/nawazsharifshehbazmaryamPMLN1697904320-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Fazl pledges to revive govt-TTP talks</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452884/fazl-pledges-to-revive-govt-ttp-talks</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452884/fazl-pledges-to-revive-govt-ttp-talks#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jan 24 05:58:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Shahabullah Yousafzai]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452884</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[JUI-F chief meets Afghanistan’s supreme leader]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Wednesday met with Afghanistan&rsquo;s supreme leader Haibatullah Akhundzada in Kabul wherein it was assured that the next elections in Pakistan would be held peacefully and efforts would be made for the resumption of Islamabad&rsquo;s talks with the banned outfit Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

The Afghan government also demanded that Islamabad would have to play its role in the elimination of Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) as well as chalk out a visa-free policy on the Chaman border alongside a soft plan on the expulsion of its refugees.

Kandahar Governor Mullah Shirin Akhund had promised a meeting of Haibatullah with the JUI-F chief on his visit to Kabul, but declined a huddle with other delegates.

Fazl and Haibatullah discussed the TTP, ISKP, border management, soft visa policy, and refugees during their one-on-one meeting.

The JUI-F chief promised that he would take up the issues of Kabul with the relevant quarters in Islamabad, but pressed the sureties of a ceasefire till peaceful elections in Pakistan, a source said.

The meeting was scheduled by former Kandahar governor Haji Yousuf Wafa. He is currently the governor of the Balkh province.

The source confirmed that Fazl took flight to Kandahar later in the day accompanied by Mullah Idrees and met with some members of the former Quetta Shura.

The overall visit of Fazl will bring a positive impact on the tense relationship between the two neighbouring countries. Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have been simmering for months over Kabul&rsquo;s failure to stop the TTP-sponsored attacks from across the border.

Soon a short-term ceasefire with the TTP will be announced or there will be an unannounced one between the two sides.

Sources from the delegation also confirmed that a meeting of Hafiz Gul Bahadur Group is also on the agenda.

It has also been learnt that a day might also be added to the unannounced period of the JUI-F chief&rsquo;s visit to Afghanistan.

Many Afghan Taliban members including those who are in the government have studied from seminaries run by the JUI-F. Observers believe that Pakistan may use the influence of the JUI-F chief to sort out the issue of the TTP.

An 11-member delegation, headed by the JUI-F chief, and including former South Waziristan MNA Maulana Jamaluddin Mehsud, Mufti Ibrar and members from the Haqqani religious seminary, are in Afghanistan since January 7.

Despite repeated attempts, the JUI-F spokesperson, who otherwise had been giving regular updates about Fazl&rsquo;s engagements in Afghanistan, could not be reached.

The Afghan Taliban chief rarely meets leaders from outside. This was the only second known meeting he held with any foreign leader following his interaction with the Qatari Prime Minister last year.

The meeting could be a turning point in the bilateral ties between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban government. The two governments are at loggerheads over the issue of banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

Sources familiar with the development said Maulana Fazl was given a brief and talking points about Pakistan&rsquo;s stance before he traveled to Afghanistan. The sources said Maulana Fazl was told to convey a clear message to the Taliban chief that Kabul had to choose between Pakistan and the TTP.

The JUI-F chief was also told to inform the Taliban chief that without resolution of the TTP problem bilateral relationship could not move forward.

The Afghan Taliban government has so far not given any indication to take on the TTP. In fact, Maulana Fazl was told during a meeting with the Afghan Interim Prime Minister that the TTP was an internal problem of Pakistan and that it should find a solution from within.

One source, who deals with the Afghan issue, said if this was an attitude of the Taliban government then there won&rsquo;t be any breakthrough. The source said the Taliban government was well aware that the TTP and its leadership were in Afghanistan. They had the &ldquo;sanctuaries&rdquo; and this was also corroborated by the UN and other countries, according to sources.

The JUI-F chief wanted to travel to Kabul to congratulate the Afghan Taliban for their return to power in August 2021 but he could not due to various reasons.

The sources, nevertheless, claimed that the Afghan Taliban, earlier, were not keen to extend him the invitation. Since Pakistan virtually severed high-level contacts with the Kabul regime, the Afghan Taliban decided to invite Maulana Fazl to share its perspective on the TTP and other issues.

Officials are skeptical about any major breakthrough because of the close links between the Afghan Taliban and the TTP. The visit may lower the temperature between the two sides but the prospects of any major headway are slim, according to sources.

Pakistani policymakers would now be waiting for the JUI-F chief&rsquo;s briefing on his return to know what exactly transpired in his meeting with the Taliban supreme leader.

Some observers see the meeting as a last ditch effort to sort out the issue of TTP.With additional input from Kamran Yousaf in Islamabad]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/image-(642)1704909115-0/image-(642)1704909115-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Imran given ‘out’ as Nawaz ‘pads up’</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452879/imran-given-out-as-nawaz-pads-up</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452879/imran-given-out-as-nawaz-pads-up#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jan 24 05:45:21 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Rana Yasif]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452879</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Tribunal upholds RO's ruling citing Imran's disqualification under Article 63 (1)(h) of the Constitution]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[In a dramatic prelude to the February 8 elections, PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday hurdled past objections to his candidacy from NA-130 while incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan faced the sting of rejection on appeals against the dismissal of his nomination papers for two National Assembly seats.

The appellate election tribunals delivered what came as a &ldquo;double-edged verdict&rdquo;, granting a clean chit to the Sharif family, including Nawaz Sharif, while quashing appeals by the former premier Imran Khan, former Punjab chief minister Chaudhry Pervez Elahi, along with his wife and son, Moonis Elahi, against the rejection of their nomination papers.

Two separate appellate tribunals upheld the ROs&#39; decision to reject Imran nomination papers.

The PTI&rsquo;s founding chairman faced the stumbling block &ndash; potentially ousted from the electoral battleground &ndash; just as the party celebrated the return of its cherished &lsquo;Bat&rsquo; symbol.

Meanwhile, the election tribunals also gave the green light to PTI&rsquo;s Dr Yasmeen Rashid from NA-130, Mian Mehmood ur Rasheed from PP-169 and various other contestants from distinct constituencies by overturning the Returning Officers&#39; decisions that previously rejected their nomination papers.

The election tribunals, in dismissing appeals, affirmed the decision of the ROs to accept the nomination papers of Nawaz Sharif from NA-130, Shehbaz Sharif from NA-132, and Maryam Nawaz from NA-119.

The appellants had contested the ROs&#39; acceptance of their nomination papers.

The tribunals upheld the decisions of the ROs, dismissing appeals lodged by PTI&#39;s founding chairman Imran Khan from NA-122, as well as the appeals of PTI&#39;s former chief minister Ch. Pervez Elahi, his wife Qaisara Elahi, and their son Moonis Elahi from NA-64, NA-69, PP-32, and PP-34.

The twelve-judge election tribunals of the Lahore High Court (LHC) presided over appeals filed by contestants challenging the acceptance or rejection of their nomination papers by the respective ROs. January 10 marked the final day for appeal hearings.

To address challenges against the election tribunals&#39; decisions, the LHC had initially formed a larger bench comprising five members, including Justice Shujaat Ali Khan, Justice Ali Baqar Najafi, Justice Shahid Bilal Hassan, Justice Faisal Zaman, and Justice Jawad Hassan.

However, Justice Faisal Zaman withdrew from the bench, and Justice Shujaat Ali Khan was on medical leave during this period.

Following this, LHC CJ Muhammad Ameer Bhatti established a larger three-member bench comprising Justice Ali Baqar Najafi, Justice Shahd Bilal, and Justice Jawad Hassan.

&nbsp;

Sharif family

An appellate tribunal on Monday had reserved its verdict on an appeal against the acceptance of Nawaz Sharif&rsquo;s nomination papers from NA-130, Lahore.

Read&nbsp;Tribunal gives clean chit to Sharif family to contest polls

Pakistan Awami Mahaz chief Ishtiaq Ahmad Chaudhry, a lawyer, filed the appeal under section 63 of the Election Act 2017.

The appellant argued that Nawaz could not contest an election due to lifetime disqualification held by the Supreme Court for a person disqualified under Article 62 (1) (f) of the Constitution.

He said the former prime minister was disqualified by the apex court for not being &lsquo;sadiq&rsquo; and &lsquo;ameen&rsquo; under article 62(1)(f).

In the case of former prime minister and PML-N president, the appellant had challenged RO&rsquo;s decision of accepting his nomination papers, alleging &ldquo;he had been identified as the mastermind of alleged criminal attack on the supreme court on November 28, 1997&rdquo;.

Similarly, the appellant had challenged RO&rsquo;s decision to accept the nomination papers of PML-N&rsquo;s Maryam Nawaz on the grounds that she is not &lsquo;sadiq&rsquo; and &lsquo;ameen&rsquo;.

The petitioner objector contended that ROs&rsquo; decision to accept her nomination papers from NA-119 was illegal and unlawful.

He cited various TV talk shows where Maryam Nawaz, during a live news segment with anchorperson Sana Bucha, publicly stated that she &quot;doesn&#39;t have any property in London or even in Pakistan.&quot;

However, in a separate statement to anchorperson Sohail Warraich, she declared that she &quot;owned assets worth about 100 crores.&quot; In addition, in an interview with anchorperson Javed Ch, Maryam

Nawaz&#39;s brother asserted that she is the beneficiary of his property in London.

He stressed that Maryam Nawaz has faced convictions in different cases, including the Panama case. Despite her declaration in the nomination papers stating no ownership of property outside Pakistan, her brother had previously claimed that she is a beneficiary of property in London.

He further pointed out that in the 2023 nomination papers, Maryam Nawaz had listed four individuals (Muhammad Safdar, Meheru Nisa Safdar, Muhammad Junaid Safdar, and Mah Noor Safdar) as dependents in her affidavits. However, in 2024, she omitted mentioning her children in the affidavit.

Referring to Articles 62 and 63 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan 1973, which disqualifies individuals not meeting the criteria of being sadiq and ameen from contesting the 2024 elections, he requested the admission of his appeal and the rejection of the nomination papers.

&nbsp;

Imran Khan

Meanwhile, an appellate election tribunal dismissed PTI&#39;s founding chairman Imran Khan&#39;s appeal against the RO&#39;s decision to reject his nomination papers from NA-122.

The tribunal upheld the RO&#39;s ruling, which cited Imran&#39;s disqualification under Article 63 (1)(h) of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, along with section 232 of the Election Act 2017, due to &quot;the candidate being convicted by a court of law.&quot;

Furthermore, the RO considered another ground for rejection, stating that &quot;the proposer of the candidate is not a registered voter in constituency NA-122, as per section 60(1) of the Election Act 2017.&quot;

As for the Pervez Elahi and Moonis Elahi, the concerned appellate election tribunal while announcing a reserved decision dismissed appeals of the PTI&rsquo;s former chief minister and his son against the orders of ROs wherein their nomination papers were rejected from constituencies NA-64, NA-69 and PP-32 and PP-34.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/nawazsharifimrankhancollage1700579678-0/nawazsharifimrankhancollage1700579678-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Pindi announces amnesty for Qingqis</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452855/pindi-announces-amnesty-for-qingqis</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452855/pindi-announces-amnesty-for-qingqis#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 21:20:59 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Saleh Mughal]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452855</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Commissioner Chattha says Vehicle Inspection Centres will remain operational seven days for fitness certification]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Rawalpindi district administration has introduced an amnesty scheme for Qingqi rickshaws to regularise them.

The drive, inaugurated by Rawalpindi Commissioner Liaquat Ali Chattha, aims to address the issue of numerous unregistered passenger and loader rickshaws causing traffic problems in the city.

The initiative offers a six-month amnesty period for the registration of these rickshaws, with workshops providing regular vehicle inspections and fitness checks seven days a week. After completion of the registration process, the city will undergo zoning, and route permits will be issued based on approved zoning.

Read&nbsp;Govt bets on relief, amnesty

Additionally, specific stands will be designated for the parking of loader rickshaws. Special registration centres have been established at two locations in Rawalpindi to facilitate the registration process for Qingqi passengers and loader rickshaws.

Commissioner Chattha while commenting on the latest initiative said the Vehicle Inspection Centres will remain operational seven days a week for the fitness certification of these vehicles.

According to citizens, motorcycle rickshaws have become a major cause of accidents and pollution in the city due to weak regulation by the departments concerned.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/616320-qingqis-1381436150/616320-qingqis-1381436150.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Rs40m heist triggers police jurisdiction spat</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452856/rs40m-heist-triggers-police-jurisdiction-spat</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452856/rs40m-heist-triggers-police-jurisdiction-spat#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 21:21:00 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Imran Asghar]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452856</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Seven armed bandits loot 40 cattle traders near Rawalpindi-Chakwal border region with impunity]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[At least seven armed robbers snatched Rs40 million from 40 cattle traders on a bus near Rawalpindi and Chakwal border on Wednesday.

According to the police, the robbers held the cattle traders hostage at gunpoint for about 45 minutes in the moving bus and got away with their money.

After the incident was reported, a boundary dispute arose between the Rawalpindi and the Chakwal police. Later, the issue was resolved with the intervention of senior officers and a case was registered. The affected traders demanded the Punjab chief minister take notice of the incident.

A traders, Daniyal, informed the Jatli police team over the phone that the incident occurred when over 40 traders were on their way to the Lahore cattle market via the Peshawar Motorway in public transport. 

However, due to fog near the Balkasar Interchange, the Motorway police diverted the bus from the motorway towards the Sohawa, Chakwal GT Road.

The report stated that as soon as the bus covered some distance, seven robbers with pistols and a Kalashnikov in a car signalled to stop the bus. 

As the robbers got into the vehicle, they asked the bus driver to keep moving, took all the cattle traders hostage at gunpoint, thrashed and beat them up and robbed them of their money.

Read&nbsp;Gang involved in heist busted

The affected traders said that they had reported the incident to Rescue 15, on which a preliminary report was lodged at the Jatli police station, Rawalpindi. The police also visited the crime scene, inspected the bus and directed all the affected traders to reach Jatli police station. 

When the victims reached the Jatli police station, the police officials said that the incident on GT Road did not take place in the limits of Rawalpindi district but in Chakwal district, therefore, the traders should go to Chakwal and get their report registered there.

The affected traders were standing outside the Jatali police station in the bitter cold and were in distress by the indifference of the police. 

The traders demanded that action should be taken by taking notice of the improper behaviour of the police.

The Rawalpindi Police spokesman said that the robbery incident took place in the Dhok Amb area of Chakwal district.

However, the Jatli police had rushed to the spot after receiving the information about the incident but after investigation, they found out that the area falls within the limits of Chakwal. The case of the incident will be registered by District Chakwal police.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/961658-Bankheist-1442946425/961658-Bankheist-1442946425.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Nearly 2,000 litres of tainted milk destroyed</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452858/nearly-2000-litres-of-tainted-milk-destroyed</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452858/nearly-2000-litres-of-tainted-milk-destroyed#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 21:26:25 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452858</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Authority inspects over 50 milk-carrying vehicles loaded with total of over 41,000 litres of milk]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) discarded 1,900 litres of adulterated and substandard milk on Wednesday, as part of an ongoing operation against subpar milk in the provincial metropolis. 

On the directions of PFA Director General Muhammad Asim Javaid, dairy safety teams inspected milk-carrying vehicles, dairy units and milk shops to ensure the provision of pure and fresh milk to consumers. DG PFA said that teams placed screening pickets at three different points of Lahore including Babu Sabu, Saggiyan Bridge and Ravi Toll Plaza on Wednesday. 

Read&nbsp;Adulterated milk seized in DG Khan

The authority inspected over 50 milk-carrying vehicles loaded with a total of over 41,000 litres of milk. He added that teams took action against milk suppliers and discarded over 1,900 litres of milk after screening test results were not up to the mark. The samples of discarded milk contained polluted water, a low level of fats and a lack of nutritional value in the milk. 

DG Muhammad Asim said that indiscriminate action would continue until the elimination of the milk-adulteration mafia across Punjab. He added that citizens could get milk tested free of cost by visiting the nearest PFA office with a sample of 200ml of raw milk.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/843616-Milk-1424812881/843616-Milk-1424812881.JPG" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Polio workers to get security cover</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452857/polio-workers-to-get-security-cover</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452857/polio-workers-to-get-security-cover#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 21:21:00 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Jamil Mirza]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452857</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Seven-day anti-polio drive to conclude on January 14]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The District Health Authority (DHA) has acquired the services of the police department to provide security to polio workers so that they accompany them in sensitive areas to administer drops to children during the seven-day anti-polio drive.

The entry points to Rawalpindi have been focused on the anti-polio campaign, in which the children from other districts will be administered polio drops at the entrance points of Rawalpindi.

According to the details, the anti-polio campaign started on January 8 and will continue till January 14. Approximately, 1,015,262 children under the age of five years will be administered the polio vaccine in Gujar Khan, Kahuta, Kallar Syedan, Kotli Sattian, Murree, Taxila, Rawalpindi Cantt and Rawalpindi City.

To implement the anti-polio campaign plan, 3,675 mobile teams, 330 fixed centres, 163 transit centres, and 245 UC MOs will participate in the anti-polio drive.

Read&nbsp;Two more cops on polio duty martyred in Bannu

Religious scholars have been involved in the drive to persuade parents to administer polio drops to their children in the Pakhtun communities to make the campaign successful. DHA Chief Executive Dr Ijaz Ahmed said that the drive has yielded positive results so far, however, in the city and cantonment areas where there is a fear of interfering with the work of the polio teams, security personnel have been deployed at the desired locations.

Dr Ahmed said that during the anti-polio campaign, the focus is on administering polio vaccine to children whose families are coming from other cities. While at home, the guest children are also being administered anti-polio drops.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/polio1/polio1.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Steadfast Pak-Turkiye mutual support hailed</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452861/steadfast-pak-turkiye-mutual-support-hailed</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452861/steadfast-pak-turkiye-mutual-support-hailed#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 21:26:27 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452861</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA['We are playing a role in promotion of Turkish language and culture in Pakistan,' Turkiye's Consul General says]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Turkiye&#39;s Consul General Durmus Bastug has said that Pakistan and Turkiye enjoy exemplary relations since 1947 and both countries have supported each other in every difficult time. 

Addressing a seminar organised by the Punjab University&rsquo;s Pakistan Study Centre to celebrate Turkiye&rsquo;s 100 years of democracy and 75 years of diplomatic relations with Pakistan, he said Pakistan and Turkiye were two separate states but the heart of their people was one. He said both countries always supported each other at every level in difficult situations. He said President Tayyip Rajab Erdogan had always supported Pakistan&rsquo;s position regarding Kashmir at every forum. 

&ldquo;We are playing a role in the promotion of Turkish language and culture in Pakistan,&rdquo; he said and added that there was a need to strengthen the bilateral ties.

Read&nbsp;Pak, KSA, Turkiye discuss cooperation in defence tech

PU Vice Chancellor Dr Khalid Mahmood said steps were needed to increase trade relations with Turkiye for the stability of Pakistan&rsquo;s economy. He said the universities of both countries were working together on many projects. 

In his keynote lecture, the Head of the Urdu Department of the Turkish Radio and Television, Dr Furkan Hamit said that even before the creation of Pakistan, the Muslims of the subcontinent had played their role in the Khilafat Movement.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Pakistan-Turkey-flag-file-6401592158859-0/Pakistan-Turkey-flag-file-6401592158859-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>‘Encounters’ leave 4 dead</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452859/encounters-leave-4-dead</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452859/encounters-leave-4-dead#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 21:26:26 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452859</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[ASI injured in attack while travelling with detained suspects]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Four suspects in murder and other serious cases were killed and a police ASI was injured in two police encounters. The police shifted the bodies to hospitals for postmortem and started searching for their fleeing accomplices. Dozens of relatives of the deceased raised slogans, protesting against the police outside the mortuary unit, alleging that the police killed them in fake encounters.

According to the incident reports, SHO Saddar Rai Aftab Wasim and other officials were taking arrested suspects Akhlaq alias Akhlaqo, Shehbaz alias Mota and Waqar alias Waqari in an official vehicle with the weapon in a murder case. Three armed suspects on motorcycles intercepted the vehicle near Kowal Bridge and opened fire on the police. The police returned fire and the suspects on motorcycles fled the scene, taking advantage of cover of darkness. Akhlaq, Shehbaz, Waqar and ASI Ghulam Mustafa were injured. 

A Rescue 1122 team was transferring the injured to hospital when they succumbed to their injuries.

According to SHO Rai Aftab Wasim, the three slain suspects were target killers, against whom murder cases are registered.

Read&nbsp;Man accuses cops of crippling son in fake encounter

In another incident, In-charge Investigation Sub-Inspector Ghulam Mustafa, posted at Chak Jhumra police station, was taking the accused Bilal Cheema, who was arrested in a kidnapping and murder case, when seven armed suspects in a car and on motorcycles opened fire on them near Paharing Bridge. The accused also snatched an official SMG and fled towards Chiniot. 

SHO Chak Jhumra was heading to the scene along with Inspector Rana Asim near Babewala Bridge. Police signaled the accused to stop at a blockade, who opened fire on the police. 

During the ensuing gunfight, the accused escaped, leaving Bilal Cheema behind. The weapon he stole was also recovered. Investigation In-charge Ghulam Mustafa was taking him to Allied Hospital, when Bilal succumbed to his injuries. 

Dozens of the accused&rsquo;s relatives protested by blocking the road outside the Allied Hospital Mortuary Unit. They alleged that Saddar and Jhumra police killed them in fake encounters.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/dead-body1657735797-0/dead-body1657735797-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Pakistan ‘not interested’ in talks with TTP</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452906/pakistan-not-interested-in-talks-with-ttp</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452906/pakistan-not-interested-in-talks-with-ttp#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jan 24 09:25:13 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Kamran Yousuf]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452906</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[FO spokesperson says Afghan authorities must eliminate terrorist sanctuaries inside Afghanistan]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[&nbsp;

&nbsp;A day after a reported meeting between Maulana Fazlur Rehman and Taliban chief Haibatullah Akhundzada, Pakistan made it clear on Thursday that it had no interest whatsoever in holding talks with the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

Pakistani officials also clarified that the visit by the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief was a private one, and he was not representing the government of Pakistan.

The statements from the Foreign Office spokesperson and the information minister came against the backdrop of reports that Fazl&rsquo;s visit might lead to the resumption of talks with the TTP and that he had gone there with the blessing of the government.

In a weekly media briefing, Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, while clarifying Pakistan&rsquo;s stance, stated that the TTP had accepted responsibility for numerous terrorist attacks in the country.
&ldquo;First, Maulana Fazlur Rahman is a private citizen, who is visiting Afghanistan on a private visit at the invitation of the Afghan authorities. This is not a visit sponsored by the government of Pakistan,&rdquo; she explained.

&ldquo;Secondly, before his travel to Afghanistan, he visited the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs briefed him on our policy towards Afghanistan,&rdquo; the spokesperson added.

&ldquo;This is a normal practice whenever a senior official or political figure wishes to receive a briefing from the Foreign Office, we provide those briefings.&rdquo;

However, the spokesperson stressed that Fazl was not visiting Afghanistan as an emissary of the government of Pakistan and that he was there in his individual capacity.

&ldquo;As far as Pakistan&rsquo;s position with respect to dialogue with TTP is concerned, we have articulated our position several times and reiterated it in this forum and gathering on many occasions. Our position hasn&rsquo;t changed,&rdquo; the spokesperson told reporters.

She went on to say that Pakistan was not interested in dialogue with TTP. &ldquo;We have no dialogue taking place, nor do we intend to have a dialogue with TTP, which is responsible for several terrorist incidents inside Pakistan and is responsible for killing of Pakistani civilians and law-enforcement officials.&rdquo;

&ldquo;Our demands from the Afghan authorities haven&rsquo;t changed, they remain the same, which is that the Afghan authorities should take action, effective action against terrorist elements inside Afghanistan, including TTP leadership,&rdquo; according to the spokesperson.

Afghan authorities, she continued, should &ldquo;ensure that the hideouts and sanctuaries inside Afghanistan for these terrorist groups are eliminated and those responsible for terrorist incidents in Pakistan are handed over to Pakistan&rdquo;. She said: &ldquo;Our demand &hellip; is that they take action against the terrorists.&rdquo;

Separately, Information Minister Murtaza Solangi said in a statement there would not be any talks with the TTP. He also said the visit of the JUI-F chief to Afghanistan was private but added that the government would welcome if his engagements in Kabul would bring any positive outcome.

Fazl went to Kabul on Sunday, and on Wednesday he travelled to Kandhar on a chartered plane along with a prominent cleric from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) to meet the Taliban chief. This was the first known meeting between any Pakistani leader and the reclusive Afghan Taliban chief.

Haibatullah Akhundazada, who took over the reign of Afghan Taliban in 2016 after the assassination of his predecessor Mullah Mansur in the US drone strike, rarely meets people from outside. Since the Taliban returning to power in August 2021, the cleric runs the country from Kandahar.

This was only the second known meeting Akhundazada held with any outsider, following his interaction with the Qatari prime minister last year. Even though the JUI-F chief went there in a private capacity but his visit was seen as significant in view of the brewing tensions between the two countries.

Officials said the outcome of the visit depended on what message the JUI-F chief would bring for Pakistan. They added that the Taliban leadership was aware of Pakistan&rsquo;s concerns and demands and hence unless they come up with a workable solution to the TTP issue, there won&rsquo;t be any change in Pakistan&rsquo;s stance.

Tensions have been simmering between the two countries in recent months primarily over the lack of action against the TTP by the Afghan Taliban government.

Even during the visit of Fazl, the Taliban government spokesperson reiterated Kabul&rsquo;s stance that the TTP was Pakistan&rsquo;s internal issue, and therefore, it had to find a solution from within. Pakistan, however, does not share the Taliban&rsquo;s perspective.

Previously, Islamabad shared &lsquo;irrefutable evidence&rsquo; of the TTP presence on Afghan soil. Publically, the Taliban government may have been denying the presence of TTP on Afghan soil but privately they have been pushing for the resumption of talks. However, Pakistan is adamant that it would no longer hold talks with the TTP.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Mumtaz-Zahra-Baloch1700744733-0/Mumtaz-Zahra-Baloch1700744733-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Duty evasion worth Rs3.8b uncovered</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452860/duty-evasion-worth-rs38b-uncovered</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452860/duty-evasion-worth-rs38b-uncovered#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 21:26:27 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452860</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[235 cases related to irregularities and customs violations filed against smugglers from October to December 2023]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Customs Intelligence has confiscated contraband items and uncovered a massive duty and tax evasion totalling Rs3.8 billion.

The crackdown, conducted over the last three months, resulted in the seizure of Rs636 million worth of Iranian petrol, 115 non-custom paid vehicles, and a staggering 8 million cigarettes. Additional operations also led to the confiscation of auto parts, home appliances, and tires, collectively valued at hundreds of millions of rupees.

A total of 235 cases related to irregularities and customs violations were filed against smugglers from October to December 2023.

Read&nbsp;Botched escape bid exposes drug smuggling

The seized smuggled items amounted to Rs3,790 million, reflecting a notable 15 per cent increase compared to the same period in the previous financial year.

The October to November timeframe of the last quarter was dubbed the &quot;Super Quarter,&quot; resulting in the confiscation of Rs2,904 million worth of smuggled items and a significant exposure of duties and tax evasion.

Operations also contributed to a revenue gain of Rs56 million, marking a substantial 200 percent increase from the previous quarter.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1128526-tax-1466659137/1128526-tax-1466659137.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Prep classes in schools suspended for a week</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452862/prep-classes-in-schools-suspended-for-a-week</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452862/prep-classes-in-schools-suspended-for-a-week#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 21:26:28 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[ADNAN LODHI]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452862</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pneumonia risk mars reopening after winter break]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Due to the extreme cold weather in Punjab, the provincial government has extended by a week the winter vacations for playgroup to Class I in the schools because of harsh weather and health risks.

However, the schools will remain open for the higher classes in accordance with a new timetable issued by the authorities. On the other hand, on the first day after the winter vacations, low attendance of the students was recorded due to the cold weather. A large number of children were reportedly suffering from diseases caused by the cold weather.

The extreme cold weather and proliferation of diseases, including pneumonia, fever, flu and chest infection among young students forced the Punjab government to extend for seven more days the winter holidays for the pre-class to Cass I students in the public and private sector schools. 

The decision was taken after the first day following the reopening of schools, in view of reports regarding health risks to young children due to the harsh cold weather conditions and low attendance in the classes. The schools across Punjab opened on Wednesday after three-week winter vacations. 

According to Punjab Teachers Union Secretary General Rana Liaqat Ali, around 40 per cent students were absent on first day of school after the vacations. 

Health experts say lack of rainfall has turned the weather harsh with a spike in diseases caused by smog and fog. Several big cities of the province are experiencing a long spell of fog. 

Citing inadequate infrastructure, school administrators had been asking the Punjab government to take steps to provide facilities to protect the children from the cold weather.

&quot;Attendance was low in the schools and the teachers also faced difficulties in continuing the classes for little kids in the prevailing conditions. We have no facilities of heating in the classrooms and the reason is simply lack of funds,&rdquo; Rana Liaqat said while speaking to The Express Tribune.

He urged the government to release funds to the schools to purchase heaters and also make adequate arrangements in the rural areas.

&ldquo;We also don not have the facilities for taking care of students feeling unwell and it would be better for them to stay home,&rdquo; he added.

The parents also faced hardship in dropping their children at schools in the morning, especially in the remote districts.

&quot;Thousands of students go to schools on local buses, while a majority of them travel on motorbikes. In this cold season the critical issue is the lack of facilities in the government schools,&rdquo; said a schoolteacher in Narowal district, Qamer Khan.

Meanwhile, Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi said while speaking to the media that a ban had also been imposed on morning assemblies throughout the ongoing month.

He said there was an alarming situation at the Children&#39;s Hospital, where a number of kids had succumbed to pneumonia since January 1. 

Naqvi likened the spread of pneumonia to the coronavirus and urged parents to be vigilant about their children&#39;s diet and health. He announced an imminent awareness campaign against pneumonia. 

Highlighting the severity of the cold weather, he urged the elderly citizens to prioritise their diet and attire. 

Mask-wearing was declared mandatory in schools and specific guidelines issued to combat the disease. 

He assured the public that the health and school departments were diligently addressing the situation, with daily feedback from a committee.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/61683666429-0/61683666429-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>SMDC tops medical and dental colleges’ merit rankings</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452863/smdc-tops-medical-and-dental-colleges-merit-rankings</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452863/smdc-tops-medical-and-dental-colleges-merit-rankings#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 21:26:31 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452863</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[UHS releases first selection list for admissions in Punjab]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Sharif Medical and Dental College (SMDC) in Lahore has emerged as the frontrunner in the merit rankings for medical and dental education in Punjab, according to a press release by the University of Health Sciences (UHS).

This emerged as the UHS released the first college-wise selection list of admissions to private medical and dental colleges in Punjab.

UHS highlighted that SMDC secured the highest merit positions in both medicine and dentistry, reaffirming its commitment to academic excellence.

SMDC under the patronage of Chairman Sharif Trust, the former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, is an academic institute par excellence, distinguished by its achievement of top merit and its commitment to attracting and nurturing the brightest minds in healthcare education.

Read&nbsp;SMDC tops merit rankings among 49 medical and dental colleges of Punjab

The list of choices comprised 49 private medical and dental colleges, offering a total of 4,000 MBBS and 1,025 BDS seats. Successful candidates must promptly remit the specified fee within a three-day period.

For admission to MBBS in private medical colleges, a minimum merit of 79.05% is required, while for BDS, the benchmark is set at 76.10%.

Among the top merit holders, Sharif Medical and Dental College Lahore leads alongside FMH College of Medicine and Dentistry Lahore at 88.02%, Al Aleem Medical College Lahore at 87.10%, Shalamar Medical and Dental College Lahore at 86.88%, and Lahore Medical and Dental College Lahore at 86.63%.

In anticipation of a second round of selections, the UHS is scheduled to release the second selection list on January 15, offering additional opportunities for eligible candidates.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Online_Degree/Online_Degree.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Smog termed public health emergency</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452864/smog-termed-public-health-emergency</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452864/smog-termed-public-health-emergency#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 21:26:34 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452864</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Chief Guest emphasises potential catastrophic impact of uncontrolled smog on Pakistan's economy]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Experts at a seminar on Wednesday underscored the escalating threat of smog, labelling it a public health emergency that demands immediate action.

The seminar was organised by the General Cadre Doctors Association and Fatima Memorial Medical College and Hospital.

Chief Guest Dr Saeed Elahi emphasised the potential catastrophic impact of uncontrolled smog on Pakistan&#39;s economy, drawing parallels with strategies adopted by Western nations to combat smog.

Read&nbsp;Anti-smog efforts stumble

Dr Elahi urged a comprehensive approach, emphasising the need to prohibit unnecessary deforestation and manage industrial waste responsibly after treatment.

Dr Masood Sheikh, President of GCDA, highlighted smog&#39;s global impact, emphasizing the necessity for collaboration at individual, national, and international levels.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/51700425965-0/51700425965-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Inadequate correctional facilities plague jails</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452865/inadequate-correctional-facilities-plague-jails</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452865/inadequate-correctional-facilities-plague-jails#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 21:26:36 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[khalid Rashid]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452865</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Released inmates struggle to reintegrate into communities]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[For jailed convicts accustomed to a life of crime and deviance, reintegrating into a decorous society is a task requiring stupendous perseverance, even more so for inmates serving sentences in Punjab&rsquo;s jails, who in the absence of behavior correction programs, leave prison cells only to return to their earlier offensives with reinvigorated resilience.

Where nations across the globe heavily invest in the education and instruction of prisoners serving terms inside jails in an attempt to prepare them for a new life of propriety and dignity after their release, inmates within Punjab&rsquo;s largest jail network facing a variety of charges are denied basic didactic coaching and skills training, leading human behavior experts to deduce that the life of freedom awaiting most outcasts beyond the threshold of the jail premises would be far more unforgiving than their time behind bars.

&ldquo;Until or unless the prisoners in jails are given adequate counselling and training, they can never lead normal lives after their release. But unfortunately, no such coaching system exists in the jails of Punjab for prisoners who are denied a chance at becoming better citizens. Therefore, in most cases, these prisoners return to their criminal activities soon after leaving jail,&rdquo; expressed Dr Shahzad Tahir, a Professor of Psychology, who advised the government to introduce reform houses within jails, which conduct weekly lectures for inculcating moral values among inmates. 

According to sources obtained by The Express Tribune, a negligible number of correctional facilities exist across 43 jails in Punjab which despite holding more than 55,000 prisoners including 52,000 men, 1,000 women, 700 children, 3,800 accused, 1,400 convicts and more than 400 death row prisoners, have only 32 teachers available for giving basic ethical instruction to prisoners or their children.

Moreover, the nugatory didactic and vocational training that prisoners receive in these jails is either funded by a private non-governmental organization (NGO), a company or a welfare organization. This is evident in the fact that ever since Masjid/Maktab schools were closed in jails, the only kind of coaching available to inmates was technical and was offered by companies like Toyota however, the efficacy of such schemes was dubious in nature.

Read&nbsp;Govt urged to bring back fishermen from Indian jails

Unsurprisingly, even when some religious and ethical training was given in jails, a shortage of teachers prevented any serious improvements in the intellectual and social development of inmates since 40 per cent of the posts for Arabic, ethics and psychology teachers were reportedly vacant.

&ldquo;The scope of our work is limited, therefore, we only offer coaching to children and young girls in the hopes of improving their future prospects,&rdquo; said Syeda Farah Hashmi, a teacher working at a jail.

Given the dire absence of teaching facilities in jails, some prisoners who aspire to achieve erudition study on their own and complete their intermediate, bachelor&rsquo;s or master&rsquo;s degrees through the Allama Iqbal Open University.

&ldquo;The sentence of any prisoner who receives worldly or religious education is waived by 15 days to two years,&rdquo; informed Inspector General Prisons Punjab Mian Farooq Nazir. 

Speaking to The Express Tribune on the matter, Special Secretary Home Department Fazalur Rehman said, &ldquo;Many NGOs in jails are running schools offering courses of matriculation, intermediate, bachelors, masters and Quranic education. We plan to introduce a correctional facility in jails soon.&rdquo;

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1068945-jailstock-1458413547/1068945-jailstock-1458413547.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>SC to be final arbiter in ‘bat’ acrimony</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452918/sc-to-be-final-arbiter-in-bat-acrimony</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452918/sc-to-be-final-arbiter-in-bat-acrimony#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jan 24 11:53:48 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452918</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Court to review ECP’s challenge today; PTI files contempt plea against ECP]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[&nbsp;

The Supreme Court will hear the Election Commission of Pakistan&rsquo;s (ECP) plea against the decision of the Peshawar High Court to allot the electoral symbol of the &lsquo;cricket bat&rsquo; to the PTI on Friday (today).

On the other hand, the PTI on Thursday filed a contempt plea in the PHC against the ECP for delaying the issuance of the party&rsquo;s certificate.

A three-judge bench of the SC, headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, will conduct the hearing of the ECP&rsquo;s plea filed on Thursday.

Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Musarrat Hilali are also part of the bench.

Earlier, the SC registrar office had returned the ECP&rsquo;s plea raising the objection that various pages of the application could not be read.

A day earlier, the PHC annulled the ECP&rsquo;s ruling revoking the PTI&rsquo;s cherished electoral symbol, citing irregularities in the party&rsquo;s internal polls.

In its short order, the high court declared that the electoral body&rsquo;s order was &ldquo;illegal, without any lawful authority and of no legal effect&rdquo;.

The court also instructed the ECP to publish the certificate submitted by the PTI after its internal polls on the commission&#39;s website.

In its contempt plea filed by the PTI in the PHC, the party named Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja, ECP secretary, and commission&rsquo;s members Justice (retd) Ikram Ullah Khan, Nisar Ahmad Durrani, Babar Hassan Bharwana, and Shah Muhammad Jatoi as respondents.

The plea was filed by lawyers Qazi Muhammad Anwar and Shah Faisal Ilyas.

The petition read that the commission&rsquo;s action to delay the issuance of the PTI&rsquo;s certificate was considered contempt of court as it hindered the party&rsquo;s regular electoral process as evident from the PHC&rsquo;s &ldquo;explicit instructions&rdquo;.

&ldquo;[The] respondents disregarded the order of this honourable court and downgraded the authority of this honourable court. That omission of respondents to act upon the order of this honourable court speaks of the fact that respondents undermined the authority of this honourable court,&rdquo; the plea read.

The PTI, after earlier submitting an application regarding the allotment of its electoral symbol to the SC, withdrew it on January 10.

The apex court dismissed the petition on grounds that it was withdrawn.

Talking to the media after meeting PTI founding chairman Imran Khan at Rawalpindi&rsquo;s Adiala Jail, the incumbent chief of the party Barrister Gohar Ali Khan said the commission had the right to move the SC against the PHC order, but the party was sure that it would receive justice from the top court as well.

He added that the PTI&rsquo;s electoral symbol stood restored until the SC made a decision on the ECP&rsquo;s plea.

The PTI chairman said the ECP should abide by the court&rsquo;s order and fulfil its responsibility of conducting free, fair and transparent elections.

Speaking on other matters, Gohar said party tickets would be announced by Thursday night.
He added that the PTI would begin issuing tickets soon.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/A-general-view-of-the-Supreme-Court-of-Pakistan-in1668673145-0/A-general-view-of-the-Supreme-Court-of-Pakistan-in1668673145-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Remittances increase to $2.38 billion in December 2023</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452791/remittances-increase-to-238-billion-in-december-2023</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452791/remittances-increase-to-238-billion-in-december-2023#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 07:51:27 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Salman Siddiqui]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452791</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[SBP report says remittances during December 2023 were mainly sourced from Saudi Arabia, UAE, UK and US]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The inflow&nbsp;of workers&#39; remittances sent by overseas Pakistanis increased by 13% to $2.38 billion in December 2023&nbsp;as funds were dispatched through official channels following the return of stability in the&nbsp;rupee-dollar parity and the crackdown against illegal currency networks.&nbsp;

The improvement in the remittances is expected to fuel the ongoing gradual rally in the rupee against the US dollar and strengthen the market as the current account is expected to be in surplus for the&nbsp;second consecutive month of December 2023.

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) reported that remittances rose 13% compared to $2.10 billion when compared to December 2022.

Inflows also showed an improvement of 5.5% compared to $2.26 billion in November 2023.&nbsp;

Remittances, however, have cumulatively slowed down by 7% in the first half (Jul-Dec) of the current fiscal year 2023-24 to $13.45 billion compared to $14.42 billion in the same period of the last fiscal year, according to the central bank.

Read Call to root out illegal inflow of remittances

Topline Securities&nbsp;Chief Executive Officer (CEO)&nbsp;Muhammad Sohail said the latest monthly inflows of $2.38 billion are higher than the 2023 average of $2.20 billion a month.

The SBP also reported remittance inflows during December 2023 were mainly sourced from Saudi Arabia at $577.6 million, the United Arab Emirates at $419.2 million, the United Kingdom at $368.0 million and the United States at $263.9 million.

Market talk suggests the receipts have boosted in the wake of the caretaker government&#39;s action against foreign currency smugglers and also the hawala-hundi operators and hoarders since September 2023.

The operation crushed the illicit currency markets, especially in the bordering areas of Afghanistan and strengthened the hold of official operating networks such as&nbsp;commercial banks and authorized exchange companies.

The crackdown did not only help arrest the freefall of the domestic currency but also helped it bounce back by over 9% or around Rs26 in the past four months, closing at a 10-week high at Rs281.22 against the US dollar on Tuesday.

Earlier, it had hit an all-time low at Rs307.10/$ in the first week of September 2023.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/2209272-remittances-1588133262/2209272-remittances-1588133262.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Eight of a family killed in Lakki Marwat</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452783/eight-of-a-family-killed-in-lakki-marwat</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452783/eight-of-a-family-killed-in-lakki-marwat#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 24 06:49:49 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452783</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Police starts investigation, assailants fled after attack]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[At least eight people, including women and children, were shot dead by unknown assailants in their house in the Lakki Marwat district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P)

According to the police, the incident took place within the limits of Sarai Naurang police station in&nbsp;Takhti Khel. Police officials said armed men barged into a house and opened indiscriminate fire. They added that the assailants escaped after the attack.&nbsp;

According to preliminary reports, among the eight people in the house, two children and two women were killed in the late-night attack.

A police team reached the crime scene after being informed and started its initial investigation. The dead were shifted to a nearby hospital and officials are collecting evidence from the incident site.&nbsp;

Read Constable shot dead by cousin

The police officials added that it could be old enmity which led to the incident, but they were exploring all possible motives.

Residents of Takhti Khel announced a protest against the incident.

In another incident, at least five members of a family were killed and one was injured in an attack in&nbsp;Rawalpindi.

The incident took place&nbsp;within the jurisdiction of the Chountra police station when unknown assailants opened fire on individuals travelling in a car.

The Chountra police station registered a case against 12 suspects under various provisions, including murder. However, none of the accused have been apprehended as yet.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/dead-body1657735797-0/dead-body1657735797-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>New cybercrime agency on the cards</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452747/new-cybercrime-agency-on-the-cards</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2452747/new-cybercrime-agency-on-the-cards#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 09 Jan 24 20:49:17 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2452747</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Official vows stringent measures to curb illegal money transfers]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) is being established to control increasing cybercrime, while stringent measures are being taken to control smuggling, said Director Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Rai Ijaz Ahmad. 

Addressing a meeting in the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry (FCCI) on Tuesday, he advised the business community to switch over to transparent transactions through government channels instead of making payments through &quot;Hawala Hundi&quot; to avoid financial implication.

&nbsp;Director Ijaz said that the State Bank&rsquo;s Financial Management Unit was electronically monitoring available financial data and &quot;red-flags,&quot; which are dubious, irregular and out-of-proportion transactions.&nbsp; 

He urged businesspeople to avoid indulging in illegal traditional practices as the monitoring system will grow stricter in the coming days.

Read&nbsp;NA panel alarmed by rising cybercrimes

Drawing a line between the jurisdiction of FIA and other departments, the Director said that tax matters generally fall within the ambit of the FBR, but any forgery or fraudulent transactions invoke the involvement of FIA. 

Director Ijaz recommended that businessmen should make payments directly to the concerned parties, instead of sending it through an irrelevant account.

He suggested that the FCCI should organize an awareness session on this subject to sensitize its members and to clarify different issues faced by the business community.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 10th, 2024.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/878524-Cybercrimecopy-1430390590/878524-Cybercrimecopy-1430390590.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item>	</channel>
                </rss>
