Miracle 543- April 23, 2021

Volume 21 Issue 543-Ramadan 11, 1442 H, April 23, 2021 $1

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07 Statement by the Prime

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ID-19: Is it safe ti fast?

How long will coronavirus vaccines protect.

Banned: What does the (TLP) want?

B.C. budget: Province to table 2021 fiscal plan amid 3rd wave of COVID-19 pandemic

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ANCOUVER -The B.C. government is set to table the budget today that’s expected to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic and more.CTVNewsVancouver.ca is streaming the announcement.

Finance Minister Selina Robinson has said in a recent interview that the budget will lay the groundwork for future prosperity.

Robinson released a fiscal update last December that said the impact of the pandemic on B..C’s economy was uncertain, and forecast a deficit for this fiscal year nearing $14 billion.

This is Robinson’s first budget since the former housing minister was appointed finance minister last November.

Source: bc.ctvnews.ca

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Minister on Ramadan | Province-wide restrictions Premier Horgan received his AstraZeneca

Imran urges same standards for holocaust, Biden to pull remaining U.S. troops from Afgn ‘We hope to help a little more’: Biden says

PM, opposition leaders booking AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine appointments

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TTAWA -- With Ontario now allowing adults aged 40 and older to sign up for AstraZeneca COVID-19 appointments, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland are in the process of booking their first doses, as opposition leaders schedule their shots too.

Asked Tuesday whether he was planning on getting a shot soon now that he was

eligible, Trudeau said that his staff was currently working on securing him an appointment.

“My office and I are busy trying to book appointments, and we will be sure to invite everyone along to help encourage others to get vaccinated as quickly as possible,” Trudeau said. “I’m looking forward to that happening and we’ll let you know as soon as we’ve concretized that To be Continued at page 7

Govt presents resolution for debate Liberal government pressed to delay tax filing deadline from end of April on expelling French envoy in NA

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session of the National Assembly called to vote on the expulsion of the French ambassador from Pakistan — one of the key demands made by the proscribed Tehreeki-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) — was held in Islamabad on Tuesday.

The government had called the session to debate the French envoy’s expulsion, and a PTI lawmaker presented a resolution in this regard. However, before a vote could take place on the resolution, the speaker announced the formation of a special committee to discuss the matter and asked the government and the opposition to engage with each other to develop consensus on the issue.

At the start of the session, PTI lawmaker Amjid Ali Khan moved a resolution condemning the publication of blasphemous caricatures by French magazine Charlie Hebdo in September last year. It also regretted the French president’s “encouragement of the elements hurting the sentiments of hundreds of millions of Muslims in the name of freedom of expression”.

The resolution asked for a debate to be held on the issue of expelling the French ambassador from Pakistan, and to “apprise all European countries, especially France, of the gravity of this matter”. It further said deTo be Continued at page 4

TTAWA -- The federal government is coming under pressure to extend this month’s tax-filing deadline, much like it did last year during the first wave of COVID-19.

The Opposition Conservatives are asking the Liberals to give a waiver until the end of June given the circumstances the country finds itself in.Quebec on Thursday announced it was pushing back the filing deadline until the end of May and waiving charging interest on balances owing through the same month. Speaking in question period, the revenue minister’s parliamentary secretary says the government understands that this tax season is a stressful one for Canadians.

Francesco Sorbara also says he encourages all Canadians to file their returns on time so that there isn’t any interruption to benefits.

Conservative critic Philip Lawrence didn’t appear impressed with the answer, saying at one point, “I’ll take that as a no.”

In a statement, Lawrence said the last thing Canadians want to deal with right now is the headache and financial stress of filing taxes.

“Let’s give Canadians some breathing room and much-needed compassion,”

he said. “The simple fact is that Ottawa can wait.”

The Liberals extended the tax-filing deadline last year from April 30 to June 1 during the first wave of COVID-19, and put off payment of any balances owing until September to ease cash-flow concerns for households.

A professional organization representing chartered accountants, CPA Canada, has been asking the Canada Revenue Agency for a similar reprieve over the last few days.The situation is particularly concerning in Ontario where a stayat-home order will be in effect beyond the current April 30 filing deadline.

On its website, the association writes to its members that it hopes the federal government will follow Quebec’s lead.

Source: ctvnews.ca

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Ramadan 11, 1442 April 23, 2021

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Ramadan 11, 1442 April 23, 2021

PAKISTAN

210 cases, including one filed against S. Rizvi, Imran urges same standards for holocaust, blasphemy to go through legal process: Sheikh Rashid

the party would file an appeal to the interior ministry within 30 days, after which a committee would be formed to decide the case.

“Today, the state is firmly continuing with its routine. It is not under pressure from anyone. Its writ is established,” he emphasised, warning that whoever tried to take the law into their hands would be dealt with by the state.The agreement with the TLP was done to “save the country from bloodshed, end the environment of civil war and social media conspiracies”, he said.

“We were in a much better position on Sunday but some anti-state elements from outside the country were doing such propaganda and showing such videos that people in [the videos] themselves came forward later to say they were alive.”.....Source: dawn.com

• Calls on western govts to outlaw negative comment against Holy Prophet • Confiscation of TLP assets ordered • Fawad terms imposing ban on TLP internal matter ISLAMABAD: Western governments should treat the people who insult the Prophet (peace be upon him) the same as those who deny the Holocaust, Prime Minis­ter Imran Khan said on Saturday.

Speaking after the government banned the religious party that turned violent while demanding the expulsion of the French amba­ ss­ ador to protest against President Emmanuel Macron’s support for the cartoons’ publication, PM Khan said insulting the Prophet (PBUH) hurt Muslims across the world.“We Muslims have the greatest love & respect for our Prophet,” he tweeted. “We cannot tolerate any such disrespect & abuse.”

The group Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) was banned on Thursday after days of violent protests during which four policemen were killed, compelling the French embassy in Islamabad to recommend its nationals leave Pakistan, a call that appears to have gone largely unheeded.

Mr Khan tweeted: “I... call on Western govts who have outlawed any negative comment

on the holocaust to use the same standards to penalise those deliberately spreading their message of hate against Muslims by abusing our Prophet.”Denying the Holocaust is illegal in several European countries including Germany and France and offenders can be jailed.The prime minister suggested the government had not banned the TLP because it disagreed with TLP’s motivation, but rather its methods.“Let me make clear to people here & abroad: Our govt only took action against TLP under our anti-terrorist law when they challenged the writ of the state and used street violence & attacking the public & law enforcers,” he said.

“No one can be above the law and the Constitution.” Source: dawn.com

Supreme Court Justice Qazi Faez Isa alleged on Thursday that former chief justice Asif Saeed Khosa had betrayed him and “stabbed him” in the back.

Justice Isa made the remarks during a hearing of the review petitions filed against the June 19, 2020, apex court judgement about the presidential reference against him. Justice Umar Ata Bandial presided over the 10-judge SC bench which conducted the hearing.“The Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) has murdered justice,” Justice Isa said, adding that President Dr Arif Alvi “did not bother” to reply to three letters of his and that he hadn’t even received a copy of the presidential reference filed against him.

He said despite that, noise and voices against him had started on the media and “fifthgeneration warfare” was initiated against him and his family. ”Former chief justice Asif Saeed Khosa stabbed me in the back without listening to my stance,” Justice Isa remarked. He also said that although retired Justice Sheikh Azmat Saeed had been his friend, “I was saddened at his decision.

He is the government’s favourite personality

today.”Justice Muneeb Akhtar observed that the two judges were retired and asked Justice Isa to refrain from “making accusations” against them, while Justice Maqbool Baqar asked him to present his arguments in the case.“Is Faez Isa not a judge of this court?

Are the names of [Justice] Azmat Saeed and [Justice] Asif Saeed Khosa too sacred?” Justice Isa asked in response.

The reference filed against Justice Isa by the government in May 2018 alleged that he had acquired three properties in London on lease in the name of his wife and children between 2011 and 2015, but did not disclose them in his wealth returns. Justice Isa had contested the allegation, saying he was not a beneficial owner of the flats — neither directly nor indirectly.....Source: dawn.com

Members of the government and the ruling PTI on Tuesday denounced PML-N senior leader Shahid Khaqan Abbasi for threatening to hit National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser with his shoe after the two exchanged harsh words. The political temperature was at a fever pitch from the get-go as the assembly session resumed on Tuesday, when the government presented a resolution to debate the expulsion of the French ambassador — one of the key demands of the proscribed Tehreek-iLabbaik Pakistan (TLP) which staged several days of violent protests across the country last week.After PTI lawmaker Amjid Ali Khan moved a resolution condemning the publication of blasphemous caricatures by French magazine Charlie Hebdo in September last year, He authorising the speaker to constitute a special committee to take up the resolution.

Qaiser conducted a voice vote on the motion and it was quickly adopted.Apparently enraged at what he perceived to be a move by the government to bulldoze the resolution through the National Assembly without listening to the opposition, former prime minister Abbasi left his seat and made his way to

the speaker’s dais.

“Are you not ashamed?” he asked the speaker, who asked Abbasi to tame his language.

In response, Abbasi could be heard saying: “I will take off my shoe and hit [you].”The heated exchange between the two continued for some time before Abbasi returned to his seat and expressed his reservations regarding the resolution.Questioned by a reporter about his choice of words after the session, Abbasi doubled down on his remark, saying if he was not allowed to speak on the important issue of Namoos-i-Risalat “then I will hit with my shoe”.

Soon after, the PTI on its official Twitter account shared a cropped clip of Abbasi’s remark about tossing his shoe at the speaker. “Shame on PML-N and shame on ex-prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi,” it wrote. Source: dawn.com

ISLAMABAD: Lashing out at the government’s economic policies, the opposition parties have termed the latest reshuffle in the cabinet “meaningless”, saying the problem does not lie in the cabinet, but in the person heading it.The leaders of two major opposition parties — the Pak­istan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pak­istan Peoples Party (PPP) — on Saturday said the appointment of the fourth finance minister

in three years proved that the economic policies of the government were a total failure and a confession by the rulers that they had failed to provide any economic relief to the masses.The leaders of the PPP and the PMLN also expressed surprise over the timing of the change in the cabinet, saying each time the government had changed finance minister only weeks before presentation of federal budget.The reaction from the opposition parties came on the day when President Dr Arif Alvi administered oath to the newlyappointed Finance Minister Shaukat Tarin and Science and Technology Minister Shibli Faraz at a ceremony at Aiwan-i-Sadr. Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday changed portfolios of five ministers while bringing in Shaukat Tarin to replace finance minister Hammad Azhar, who had been recently given the charge in place of Dr Abdul Hafeez Shaikh.,. Source: dawn.com

LAHORE: Judges of a Lahore High Court (LHC) bench on Saturday finally came up with a split decision on the post-arrest bail petition of Leader of Opposition in the National Assembly Shehbaz Sharif, sending the matter to the chief justice for the nomination of a referee judge.

Justice Sardar Mohammad Sarfraz Dogar, who headed the bench, allowed the petition while its other member Justice Asjad Javed Ghural dismissed the same on merits. In his dissenting order, Justice Ghural also accused the senior judge of issuing the bail granting short order ‘unilaterally’.

“It is shocking for me to observe here that it has been mentioned in the beginning paragraph of the said order that unanimous order qua grant of bail to the petitioner was announced, which is against the ground reality,” said Justice Ghural.

“In fact after hearing the parties, when my

learned brother sought my consent qua allowing the petition, I refused in the court whereupon the announcement was deferred for consultation in the chamber where I again straightaway refused but surprisingly, my learned brother unilaterally announced his decision through his naib qasid granting bail to the petitioner,” he added in his dissenting note.”Source: dawn.com

Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid on Wednesday said that 210 first information reports (FIRs) registered against workers of the proscribed Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), including against its chief Saad Hussain Rizvi, would “go through the legal process”.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Rashid said 669 out of 733 workers of the banned party who were arrested following violent clashes last week had been released.

Most of these workers were from south Punjab and Faisalabad, he added.

He said the workers were released under the terms of an agreement between the government and the TLP, according to which workers arrested under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) law would be freed.

However, FIRs registered under the AntiTerrorism Act — 210 in number — would go through the courts, he said.

Giving further details, the interior minister said 30 cars were burnt in the clashes, while five vehicles taken by the TLP were returned. “The 12 people they had [taken hostage] were returned on April 19. The inspector general of Punjab police is distributing Rs400 million and certificates among the injured policemen.”

Regarding the ban on the TLP, Rashid said

‘Justice Asif Saeed Khosa stabbed me in the ‘Disgusting behaviour’: PTI lambasts PML-N’s Abback,’ says Justice Isa during SC review hearing basi for threatening to hit NA speaker with his shoe

Opposition terms cabinet changes ‘meaningless’

LHC bench gives split ruling on Shehbaz’s bail plea

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Ramadan 11, 1442 April 23, 2021

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AST week, President Joe Biden declared the end of what is described as America’s ‘forever war’ in Afghanistan.

The announcement came nearly two decades after president George W. Bush had initiated hostilities. Declaring that the US had long ago accomplished its mission, Biden said all the troops would be withdrawn from Afghanistan by Sept 11.

That would also mark the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on America that led to the start of the longest war the world’s greatest military power has been fighting. Biden said there was no longer any justification — if there ever was — to continue fighting an endless war.

He maintained that America went to war with clear goals and that those objectives have been achieved. But it’s not clear what those objectives were.

This may not be an admission of defeat, but neither is it a declaration of victory. It’s the humbling of the most powerful superpower on earth. After fighting for nearly two decades, the US is finally exiting an unwinnable war.

Three American presidents since 2001 — George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump, and their respective commanders — were not able to make good on their promises to win in Afghanistan, described as the “graveyard of empires”.

Tens of thousands of Afghans were killed in the war that cost close to a trillion dollars. Since 2001, over 775,000 US troops have been deployed in Afghanistan. A false perception was created that the US was winning the war when that was not the case.

It is an irony of history that yet another superpower was forced to face Continued from Page 1

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Ending the ‘forever war’

ignominy in Afghanistan.

Ironies abound in the US war that turned into a multi-generational one. Many analysts agree that the war could have ended far more quickly with far less human and financial costs. The rise of the Afghan Taliban that became a formidable insurgent force also owed itself to America’s imperial hubris.

Weeks after the US forces invaded Afghanistan in October 2001, the Taliban reached a surrender agreement with the newly appointed Afghan president Hamid Karzai in Kandahar that would have allowed the leaders of the ousted regime to go home.

“The Taliban are finished as a political force,” Mullah Zaeef, the Taliban ambassador in Islamabad declared. “I think we should go home.”

Under the agreement the Taliban abandoned the city — Kandahar — where the Taliban movement had originated and that was its stronghold. The relinquishing of Kandahar signalled the end of Taliban control of the country.

But then the US intervened and stopped Karzai from making any deal with the Taliban leadership.

America’s desire for revenge ended any possibility of a peace deal.

The then secretary of defence, Donald Rumsfield, rejected any negotiated end to the conflict. It brought an end to the efforts to win the war by negotiation. For the Bush administration, every Taliban was a terrorist and had to be annihilated. Many Taliban leaders who had surrendered and returned to their villages were later arrested and some of them were sent to Guantanamo prison.

In fact, the US didn’t have any understanding of the country when it went to war in Afghani-

stan in order to punish the perpetrators of the Sept 11 terrorist attacks. The ouster of the Taliban regime was not much of a problem for the mightiest military power on earth. For Washington, the Taliban had been defeated. But that was not the case.

By 2005, the insurgency had spread to large parts of the country. That was the beginning of what was described as the second American-Afghan war that the US forces could never win despite the massive surge of troops under the Obama administration which had come to power in 2009. It was an unwinnable war but there was no realisation in Washington about the deteriorating battlefield situation. It was the American hubris that would not accept that it was an unwinnable war.

Moreover, there had been fundamental disagreements on the objectives of the US operation in Afghanistan within successive US administrations. For some, it was turning Afghanistan into a democracy; for others it was about bringing a cultural change in the country. President Biden says that the main objective of clearing Afghanistan of Al Qaeda and other terrorist organisations that posed a direct threat to the US had long been achieved particularly after the killing of Osama bin Laden.

But it took 10 more years and thousands of more lives for an American leader to recognise this fact. It is not just Biden; his predecessor Donald Trump too had accepted the futility of the ‘forever war’. The February 2020 Doha agreement with the Taliban had laid the ground for the complete withdrawal of American forces.

In what could be termed as a re-

markable twist of fate, some 18 years after the start of the war US officials sat across the table to negotiate peace with the same insurgent leaders they had once declared as terrorists and sought to annihilate. Many in the Taliban negotiating team were former inmates of the infamous Guantanamo prison. America faced the awkward reality of having to accept some insurgent leaders who it had listed as terrorists and pursued relentlessly for years with its entire military might.

It is an irony of history that yet another superpower was forced to face ignominy in Afghanistan.

While the Russian forces pulled out in 1989, a decade after invading Afghanistan, the Americans were mired in the war there for two decades.

President Biden’s announcement has certainly not come as a surprise. Although there are still some elements in the United States — particularly its military establishment — who are sceptical, the decision has received overwhelming support. It may be true that the absence of an agreement between Afghan warring sides on a future political set-up has rendered the situation uncertain.

But an indefinite deployment of American troops won’t help improve the situation. In fact, the presence of foreign forces has been the basic cause of conflict in Afghanistan. Regardless of who the adversary was at any point, two generations of Afghans have known only war. Now it will be left for Afghans to decide about war and peace in their country.

The writer is the author of NoWin War — The Paradox of USPakistan Courtesy By: Zahid Hussain

“This resolution should have been unanimous. You adjourned the House yesterday and called it today. You and the government did not bother to talk to the opposition regarding the purpose of calling the [session],” Abbasi said, addressing Speaker Asad Qaiser. “You wanted to bring a resolution, the [right] way is to talk to the opposition.”

He reiterated that there was no difference of opinion on Tahaffuzi-Namoos-i-Risalat and Khatm-iNabuwwat.

“This resolution is inadequate,” the PML-N leader said, requesting that the opposition be given an hour to study the draft and suggest any additions so that the resolution could be passed unanimously today and a debate could be started.

He said there was no need for a special committee.“You have paralysed this House for three years and turned it into an arena of abuse and cursing,” he alleged, requesting that the opposition be allowed to present a comprehensive version of the resolution.

Responding to him, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Ali

Muhammad Khan said the government desired a debate on the issue.

He said the resolution based on the exact discussions held between the government and the TLP was moved by a private member and therefore the government did not plan to make changes to it, however, “whatever the entire House considers appropriate will be done.”

Earlier today, Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed announced that the government will present a resolution on the expulsion of the French ambassador in parliament.

On Monday, the NA session was adjourned to meet again on April 22, at 2pm. However, shortly after the minister’s statement, it was announced that the schedule had been changed and the session would take place on April 20.

The announcement came after a government delegation, comprising the interior minister and Religious Affairs Minister Pir Noorul Haq Qadri, met TLP workers for yet another round of talks in Lahore late on Monday.

In his remarks today, Maulana Asad Mehmood of the JUI-F said Prime

Minister Imran Khan had given the government’s policy statement in a national address on Monday evening, which he said the ministers could not do in the parliament. “[The prime minister] did a good job of adding fuel to the fire,” Mehmood alleged, saying it was surprising for his party who held negotiations with the TLP after the government had announced its policy (of cracking down on the TLP).

“We had demanded that you bring the agreements here ... there was a ban on media, the facts of what happened in Lahore three days ago were not shown. I demand that the media be given full freedom to show the blood-letting of TLP workers. The govt should be bound that Tahaffuz-i-Namoos-i-Risalat and Khatm-i-Nabuwwat is part of our belief,” he said.The JUI-F MNA said the House was united on the part about Namoos-i-Risalat in the resolution, but the opposition found its second part to be inadequate in light of the current situation in the country.

Source. dawn.com

Govt presents resolution for debate on expelling French envoy in NA

tailed discussions on the matter should be held with all Muslim countries and it should be taken up jointly on international forums.

A copy of the resolution presented in NA on Tuesday.

“This house also demands that the state should decide matters of international relations and no person, group or party can exert unnecessary illegal pressure in this regard,” Amjid said while reading out the resolution, which also called upon the provincial governments to allocate specific sites for protests in all districts so that citizens’ daily life was not disrupted.

The PTI lawmaker also sought the formation of a special committee to consider the resolution regarding the matter which he termed “highly sensitive”. This motion was adopted.

Speaking during the session, PMLN MNA Shahid Khaqan Abbasi said the entire country was “unanimous” on the issue of the protection of Namoos-i-Risalat, and accused the speaker of making it controversial within the house.

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Ramadan 11, 1442 April 23, 2021

fait h •The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “There is a (place) in paradise . . .prepared for those who are polite in their speech, provide food (to the needy), fast frequently, and (pray) when (other) people are asleep.” Al-Tirmidhi

Ramadan during COVID-19: Is it safe to fast, get vaccinated?

By Saba Aziz, Globalnews

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or a second consecutive year, Muslims around the world are observing the holy month of Ramadan amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ramadan is the holiest Islamic month for Muslims, in which they refrain from eating, drinking, smoking and engaging in any sexual activity from dawn to sunset.

In Canada and elsewhere, Tuesday marked the beginning of Ramadan, which is determined by the sighting of the new moon.

We asked some medical experts about what fasting does to your body, what to expect with COVID-19 in the mix again this year and vaccinations during Ramadan.

What are the health benefits of fasting?

There is a growing body of research that shows multiple health benefits of fasting.

Experts say it can help control blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, hypertension, obesity, inflammation in the body, decrease blood sugar levels and increase metabolism.

“When you first start off in the month, there’s a shock to the system, said Dr. Balal Lone, a family physician and board member of the Muslim Medical Association of Canada.

“It does take a little bit (of time) for the body to get used to, but then as the month progresses, you develop into a steady state.”

How to take part in a healthy, active Ramadan?

Some studies show that fasting is also good for mental health as it can reduce depression, anxiety and the risk of dementia, Lone added.

“There is evidence that fasting can actually help regenerate some of the brain cells, so you actually have better cognition and cognitive memory,” said Dr. Aisha Khatib, assistant professor with the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the

E

our immune system either, Khatib added.

“In fact, with fasting, it has shown to decrease inflammation generally and over time it can even help improve the immune system.”

University of Toronto.

Fasting during Ramadan also gives Muslims a chance to cut out unhealthy habits, like smoking or consuming too much caffeine, she added.

“It’s almost like you’re detoxing your system,” Khatib said.

What are the risks of fasting?

However, it is not uncommon for people to indulge in fatty, fried foods and binge eat after a long day of starvation.

“There always is that risk of putting on weight if you’re not careful with what you’re eating,” said Khatib.

Muslims honour Ramadan in the midst of COVID-19 pandemic She recommended a protein-rich meal in the morning to keep the energy levels up throughout the day and eating fruits and vegetables to replenish and hydrate when breaking the fast in the evening.

There are also increased risks of fasting for people with advanced cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease and those who suffer with uncontrolled diabetes, Lone said.

Hence, it is important to seek the medical advice of your healthcare provider about whether you can safely fast.

Can you fast with COVID-19 symptoms?

Sick people, the elderly, pregnant, menstruating and nursing women are exempt from fasting, according to the Quran.

Most people who get COVID-19 develop mild symptoms or are asymptomatic, so they should be able to fast without difficulty, Khan said.

However, if you are battling more severe symptoms, then it is permissible to skip the fast, or break it if your health deteriorates while fasting, he added.

Khatib agreed.

“If you have COVID-19, if you’re having symptoms and you’re feeling unwell, that could actually put yourself at risk of hav

ing a more severe disease or feeling more unwell from it,” she told Global News.

Muslims can make up for the missed fast within a year after Ramadan or give charity instead.

In all cases, you should consult your doctor if you are unsure whether fasting is safe for you, or your local Imam (religious scholar) if you are unsure about exemptions to the fast, according to Ramadan guidelines published by the Canadian Muslim COVID-19 Task Force (CMCTF).

A Mississauga husband-wife duo spread joy with their inflatable decor for Ramadan and Muslim holidays What is the impact of fasting on COVID-19?

There is no evidence to suggest that fasting could increase or decrease the risk of developing COVID-19 illness.

“The risk is related to being exposed to someone who’s around you without enough measures in place, so enough Canadian Muslims should be able to fast, safely, as long as they’re not being exposed to others,” said Dr. Hashim Khan, a respirologist and medical co-chair of CMCTF. “And it (fasting) doesn’t necessarily increase their risk of developing COVID-19 or catching the virus responsible for it.”

Fasting does not have a negative impact on

Yes, you can get the vaccine and take a COVID-19 test while fasting.

Consuming any form of food and medication or drinking fluids is not permitted while fasting, but vaccinations and testing, which are not a source of nutrition, are acceptable.

“From a religious standpoint, there’s nothing that a vaccine intramuscularly, such as COVID vaccines are, would invalidate the first,” Lone said.

“The same goes for other vaccines as well.”

In the United States, Islamic leaders are using social media, virtual town halls and face-to-face discussions to spread the word that it’s acceptable to be vaccinated for the coronavirus during daily fasting.

Khatib said if you are scheduled to get vaccinated, make sure to hydrate well the night before and in the morning.

It is not uncommon to experience some side effects after vaccination, such a fever, body aches and sore arm.

If the effects are intolerable to the point that medication is needed then it is OK to break the fast, Khan said.

“If you do have a reaction or if you do feel unwell after your vaccine and you don’t feel that you can carry on fasting, it’s perfectly fine to break your fast and make your fast up another day,” Khatib said.

If possible, Khatib said it is also a good idea to opt to get the vaccine later on in the day so that it is closer to the end of the fast, so that you won’t have to purposely break it if there are some side effects.

Source: globalnews.ca/news

hours. Can I take the vaccine while fasting?” The answer is, “Yes, you should take it as it does not affect the fast.”

Tackling misinformation Anwer said he’s trying to tackle any confusion and misinformation, as well as encourage Muslims to get vaccinated.

“That is something that we are encouraging Muslims to take, as part of their commitment to their faith, as part of their commitment to their well-being.”

Referring to Islamic agencies in North America and internationally, Anwer said there is the understanding that “non-nutritious injections, for example vaccines, have no effect on the fast and will not invalidate the fast. A person can take this and their fast will continue to be intact.”

Nour Al-Farawi, a primary-care nurse practitioner, said it’s important for everyone, including Muslims, to get vaccinated as soon as they’re able to, even if it’s during the

month of Ramadan. ”It is well established that intramuscular injection is not a form of sustenance or food, and therefore is permissible,” he said. ”I do want to stress we are in the third wave of this pandemic and it’s important, now more than ever, to keep ourselves and others around us safe and healthy, and this vaccine rollout is unlike any we may have experienced in the past,” she said.

Source: cbc.ca/news

again in December.

It may sound bizarre, impossible or even outright crazy but it’s correct, even though it will mean two periods of fasting within one year.

The reason for this unusual occurrence is that Islamic dates follow the lunar cycle.

A lunar year is 354 days, shorter than the 365 days of the solar-based Gregorian calendar used by much of the western world.

So this means that all Muslim dates appear to move back by about 11 days a year.

In 2021, Ramadan is expected to start on April 13, depending on the visibility of the moon.

And in subsequent years it will get earlier and earlier. The predicted date for the start of Ramadan 2022 is April 2, while in 2023 it will begin on March 23 and so on.

So, by 2030, it will fall in January. But because the Islamic year is shorter than the

western year, it will also come round again at the end of that year.

The Saudi Arabian calendar for 2030 on the website timeanddate.com explains that Ramadan is likely to be observed on January 6, 2030, followed by Eid al-Fitr on February 5, and then a second Ramadan starting on December 26.

Sheikh Yahya Safi, Imam of Lakemba Mosque in Sydney, Australia, delivers an Eid al-Fitr prayer to a reduced congregation practising social distancing, during a live online prayer event on May 24, 2020 Hassan Ahmed Al Hariri, chief executive officer of the Dubai Astronomy Group, told Gulf News that observing two Ramadans in one year was not as strange or unnatural as it sounded but was down to the way calendars are worked out.

He said: “The solar calendar and the lunar calendar run separately from each other

and are different. The solar one is fixed with the sun, while the lunar calendar is always 11 days shorter. So having two Ramadans is a natural result of having two different calendars.

“Calendars were invented by humans so we could use them as a benchmark and count the time. People should see the two Ramadans as a natural thing.”

Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar and sees devout Muslims fasting every day between early morning and sunset.

They are not allowed to eat, drink, smoke or indulge in sexual activity during daylight hours, and must instead dedicate their time to prayer, religious study and spiritual reflection.

Ramadan is regarded as the holy month because it is when the Quran was revealed to the prophet Muhammad.

Source: birminghammail.co.uk

Can you get a COVID-19 vaccine and test while fasting?

COVID-19 vaccination won’t break your fast this Ramadan, say experts

By: Sara Jabakhanji · CBC News · xperts on Islam, health field questions from Muslim community about what’s acceptable during the month.

Aarij Anwer, interim imam and Islamic education co-ordinator with the London Muslim Mosque, said community members have asked him if they are permitted to get vaccinated while fasting.

“The question very frequently asked is, “I got an appointment during the fasting

Ramadan will happen twice in 2030 and here’s why there’s no reason to worry

T

By: David Bentley SEO Content Writer he holy month of fasting will occur twice in 2030 as lunar and solar differences bring an unusual double celebration that is sure to cause some confusion Ramadan is coming with the exact date it starts in 2021 to be confirmed by sightings of the first faint crescent of the new moon.

But in 2030, the holy month will occur twice in one year: once in January and then

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PM Trudeau ‘hopeful’ he’ll be able to travel internationally for G7 in June

OTTAWA -- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says he is “hopeful” that he will be able to travel internationally come June, so he can attend the G7 Leaders’ Summit in the United Kingdom.

“I’m certainly hopeful that we’ll be able to attend in person. I know there are continuing to be restrictions and concerns, but as we get closer to June, hopefully it’ll become clear that I will be able to attend in person,” Trudeau told reporters on Tuesday.

Canada’s international travel restrictions were just extended until at least late May, including a mandatory 14-day quarantine upon entering Canada from abroad. It remains to be seen whether the domestic border controls will be loosened by the time the prime minister is looking to get on a plane, or whether the federal government rapidly moves on a policy update to allow people who are vaccinated to travel with more ease. Since the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, the federal government has advised against any non-essential travel and

Trudeau has not left the country.

Trudeau participated in the 2020 G7 leaders’ meeting virtually, but with global vaccination rates growing, including in the U.K., the nation is looking to host other world leaders to discuss how to “help the world build back better from the COVID-19 pandemic and create a greener, more prosperous future,” between June 11 and 13.“We’re going to make a final decision when the time comes,” Trudeau saidSource: vancouverisland.ctvnews.ca

‘We hope to help a little more’: Biden says he spoke to Trudeau about more vaccines

WASHINGTON -- U.S. President Joe Biden says the United States plans to provide Canada with more help in procuring COVID-19 vaccines. Biden says he spoke today with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on the subject. He says the White House is looking at what to do with vaccines that aren’t currently in use in the U.S. That’s likely a reference to the Oxford-AstraZeneca shot, which has been approved for use by Health Canada but not by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The U.S. has already provided Canada with about 1.5 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine, and gave 2.5 million doses to Mexico.

The president says he spoke with Trudeau

today for about half an hour, describing him as someone who is working hard to help his country deal with the pandemic.

Source:ctvnews.ca

at least one of the three main opposition parties to survive a vote of confidence and avoid the imminent possibility of tumbling the country into an election campaign as it juggles the COVID-19 pandemic and an economic recovery.Three New Democrats will vote in favour of the Bloc’s sub-amendment that seeks to beef up health transfers and old security payments, but the rest of the 24-member NDP caucus will vote against it in order to prop up the government on a confidence matter, said Leader Jagmeet Singh.

Source:ctvnews.ca

PM, opposition leaders booking AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine appointments Continued from Page 1

the plans for that.” Answering a similar question during a virtual meeting with pharmacists Tuesday morning, Freeland said she too, is looking to get into a pharmacy soon to receive an AstraZeneca vaccine.

“I’m going to get vaccinated as soon as I can,” she said. “I got my kids to get on the computer and they are working to make an appointment for me and my husband. My daughter

said we’re on a waitlist so I have to check on that.”Conservative Leader Erin O’Toole has had some luck already, telling reporters he has an appointment to be vaccinated this weekend.“I think it’s important for Canadians to get a vaccine when they can, do your part. We’re all frustrated by the fact that Can-

” Indianapolis: Half of the eight workers shot to death at an Indianapolis FedEx facility by a former employee before he killed himself belonged to the Sikh religious community, leading an advocacy group to urge a probe of possible racial or ethnic hatred as a factor.

Law enforcement officials said they have yet to determine what motivated the gunman, 19-year-old Brandon Hole, who was white, to carry out Thursday night’s rampage, at a FedEx operations centre near Indianapolis International Airport. The attack in Indiana’s state capital, the third most populous city in the Midwest, was the latest in a spate of at least seven deadly mass shootings in the United States over the past month.

It came a little over a year after Hole was briefly placed under psychiatric detention by police when his mother reported her concerns that he was contemplating “suicide by cop,” according to the FBI. A shotgun was seized from his home. FBI agents who interviewed the teenager last April found no criminal violation at the time and determined he possessed no “racially motivated violent extremism ideology,” said Paul Keenan, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis field office.

But the New York-based Sikh Coalition, a civil rights advocacy group, called for a full investigation into “the possibility of bias as factor” in the FedEx killings.

Four members of the Sikh faith — three women and a man — were among the dead in Thursday night’s shooting spree, and at least one Sikh individual was wounded, said Gurinder Singh Khalsa, a businessman and leader of the local Sikh community who said he was briefed by victims’ families.

Singh Khalsa said the majority of employees at the FedEx site are Sikhs, whose religion originated in the Punjab region of the Indian subcontinent. Source:dawn.com

President Joe Biden said Wednesday he will withdraw remaining U.S. troops from Afghanistan, declaring that the Sept. 11 attacks “cannot explain” why American forces should still be there 20 years after the deadliest terror assault on the United States.

His plan is to pull out all American forces — numbering 2,500 now — by this Sept. 11, the anniversary of the attacks, which were co-ordinated from Afghanistan.

The U.S. cannot continue to pour resources into an intractable war and expect different results, Biden said The drawdown would begin rather than conclude by May 1, which has been the deadline for full withdrawal under a peace agreement the Trump administration reached with the Taliban last year.

“It is time to end America’s longest war,” Biden said, but he added that the U.S. will “not conduct a hasty rush to the exit.”

“We cannot continue the cycle of extending or expanding our military presence in Afghanistan hoping to create the ideal conditions for our withdrawal, expecting a different result,” Biden said. “I am now the fourth United States president to preside over an American troop presence in Afghanistan.

Two Republicans. Two Democrats. I will not pass this responsibility to a fifth.”

The decision marks perhaps the most significant foreign policy decision for Biden in

the early going of his presidency. He’s long been skeptical about the U.S. presence in Afghanistan. As Barack Obama’s vice-president, Biden was a lonely voice in the administration who advised the 44th president to tilt towards a smaller counterterrorism role in the country while military advisers were urging a troop buildup to counter Taliban gains. Biden has also made clear he wants to recalibrate U.S. foreign policy to face bigger challenges posed by China and Russia.

Withdrawing all U.S. troops comes with clear risks. It could boost the Taliban’s effort to claw back power and undo gains toward democracy and women’s rights made over the past two decades. It also opens Biden to criticism, mostly Republicans and some Democrats, even though former President Donald Trump had also wanted a full withdrawal........Source: globalnews.ca

N’DJAMENA, CHAD -- Chad’s president of three decades died of wounds suffered during a visit to front-line troops battling a shadowy rebel group, the military announced Tuesday, just hours after he was declared the winner of an election that would have given him another six years in power.While the military quickly named President Idriss Deby Itno’s son as the country’s interim leader, the rebel group claiming responsibility for his death vowed to continue its fight for the capital -- setting the stage for a potentially bloody battle for political control of the oil-producing central African nation.

“Chad is not a monarchy. There can be no dynastic devolution of power in our country,” the rebels said in a statement late Tues-

day. “The forces of the Front for Change and Concord are heading toward N’Djamena at this very moment. With confidence, but above all with courage and determination.”..

Source ctvnews.ca

Biden to pull remaining U.S. troops from Afghanistan, end America’s longest war

Three confidence votes to determine fate of minority Liberal government OTTAWA -- A pair of proposed changes to Liberal government needs the backing of the federal budget put forward by opposition parties will determine whether the minority Liberal government will fall, triggering a process that could culminate in an election.

The government said it has informed opposition parties that two votes in the House of Commons -- on a Bloc Quebecois subamendment Wednesday and a Conservative amendment Thursday -- are considered confidence votes.A third opportunity to pass judgment on the massive budget comes next Monday, when the House votes on the main motion to approve the government’s budget policy.. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s

Sikh group demands probe of hate bias in Indianapolis rampage

ada doesn’t have sufficient supply,” O’Toole said. “But, it’s important when you can, get your vaccination, follow health rules, be part of us getting rid of the COVID-19 virus and getting Canadians back to work.”

According to his office, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh managed to secure an AstraZeneca vaccine appointment in Ottawa on Wednesday.Green Party Leader Annamie Paul is also looking to get her shot in Toronto where she lives, with plans being made to publicize it when she does. Ontario and other provinces have opened up their eligibility following reports of AstraZeneca doses sitting unused on pharmacy shelves, which some physicians and pharmacists have attributed to an increased amount of vaccine hesitancy surrounding the AstraZeneca shot due to concerns over the rare risk of blood clots. Source:ctvnews.ca/politics

Rebels vow to take capital after Chadian president killed

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Statement by the Prime Minister on Ramadan

“Tonight at sunset, Muslims in Canada and around the world will mark the start of Ramadan.

“This month-long religious journey is a time of spiritual contemplation, and an opportunity to show gratitude for the many blessings we share, through fasting, prayer, and charitable giving.

April 12, 2021, Ottawa, Ontario he Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, “Over the coming month, while fasting today issued the following statement during the daytime, many Muslim Canadians will continue to be on the front lines of on Ramadan:

T Premier’s statement on Ramadan V

ICTORIA - Premier John Horgan when Muslims are especially mindhas issued the following statement ful of giving back to their commuin honour of the month of Rama- nities through zakat and volunteerism. dan: “Ramadan will again look different with “Tonight at sunset, Muslims in British Co- mosques holding prayers online and familumbia and around the world will mark the lies having iftars virtually. I want to combeginning of Ramadan - a holy month of mend the Muslim community for its efforts fasting, prayer and spiritual reflection. in keeping people safe while continuing to “Traditionally, Ramadan is a time for fam- serve through curbside food hampers and ily and friends to gather, share stories and online mental health support. break bread at iftar after sunset. It’s a time “There are better days ahead.

our fight against COVID-19. During these exceptional times, I invite all Canadians to recognize the many contributions Muslim communities have made to our country since the pandemic began, as they have for many generations.

“As we continue to follow public health guidelines to keep each other and our communities safe, Muslim Canadians will turn to virtual ways to come together and enjoy iftar with family and friends. Many will

also take this time to reflect on the values of gratitude, compassion, and generosity at the heart of Islam. These values, which many Canadians of all backgrounds share, are central to building a safer, healthier, and stronger country for everyone.

“On behalf of our family, Sophie and I wish all those celebrating a blessed and peaceful Ramadan.

“Ramadan Mubarak.”

Source:pm.gc.ca/en/news

However, the threat of new COVID-19 variants means we cannot relax our layers of protection as we near the finish line of this pandemic. During a crisis, the Islamic values of self discipline, generosity and sacrifice resonate more than ever and will go a long way to help us get through this difficult final push. holy month a safe and peaceful time of re“On behalf of the Government of British flection. Ramadan Mubarak.”

Columbia, I wish everyone observing this Source:https://news.gov.bc.ca/24220#translations

Feds secure 8 million more Pfizer doses, as Moderna cuts coming shipments

OTTAWA -- The federal government has secured an additional eight million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine coming over the next few months, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Friday, just as Moderna revealed coming shipments will be smaller

than promised.

These coming Pfizer shots will be on top of the existing doses Canada has already purchased, and will see four million additional doses arrive in May, two million additional shots in June as well as moving up 400,000 doses from the third quarter into that month, followed by an additional two million more doses being added to the July deliveries.

Prior to this update, Canada was scheduled to receive more than one million doses a week through to the end of May, and starting in June Pfizer had committed to sending closer to two million doses. With the new contract, Canada is now on track to have a total of 24 million doses of the two-shot vac-

cine between April and June.

After shortages in the winter due to an expansion at Pfizer’s European manufacturing facility, Canada has consistently been receiving the promised shipments from the pharmaceutical giant, something Trudeau thanked them for on Friday.

“More doses arriving sooner means more people getting their vaccines faster,” Trudeau said Friday.This increase though, follows on the heels of Procurement Minister Anita Anand confirming that late on Thursday that Moderna informed Canada that the next expected vaccine shipment scheduled for the end of April will be 650,000 doses instead of the more than 1.2 million expected.

Premier John Horgan received his AstraZeneca vaccine at a local pharmacy in Victoria on Friday (April 16) to encourage British Columbians to get one when it’s their turn.

The vaccines are safe and helping to save lives, and the best vaccine is the first one offered to you.

B.C. is making significant progress on the vaccine rollout. More than 1.2 million eli-

gible people have received one - more than 27% of eligible people in B.C. Nearly 170 mass vaccinations clinics are now operating throughout the province.

British Columbians can register online in three easy steps at http://gov.bc.ca/getvaccinated.

Catherine Chan Director, Community & Media Relations

Further, Moderna is now saying that up to two million of the total 12.3 million doses promised to come to Canada this quarter “may” be delayed until the third quarter due to a “slower than anticipated ramp up of their production capacity” that is affecting a number of countries. The government had already signalled that while the delivery was supposed to arrive the week of April 1925, it could be later, meaning it may be early May before the deliveries make it out to the provinces and territories.

“This news is obviously very disappointing.

Our government will however continue to bring vaccines into the country in the face of volatile supply chains,” Anand said Friday.

Premier John Horgan received his AstraZeneca vaccine at a local pharmacy

P

rovincial restrictions are in place to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

Some restrictions are made by the Provincial Health Officer (PHO) under the Public Health Act and others are made under the Emergency Program Act (EPA).

Most orders can be enforced by police and compliance and enforcement officials.

Last updated: April 19, 2021 Do your part to keep B.C. safe PHO order on gatherings and events PHO order on restaurants and bars EPA order on masks in public indoor settings Enforcement Do your part to keep B.C. safe Stronger province-wide restrictions The PHO has strengthened province-wide restrictions. These restrictions came into effect March 29 at 11:59 pm and last to May 25 at midnight. They include: The variance allowing indoor religious gatherings and worship services between March 28 and May 13 is suspended Indoor low intensity group exercise classes are cancelled Restaurants, pubs and bars are closed for indoor dining. Outdoor patio seating and take-out or delivery is allowed

Whistler Blackcomb ski resort is closed Workplaces with a COVID-19 exposure may be ordered to close for a minimum of 10 days Avoid all non-essential travel. Review the current travel advisory.

Safety recommendations In addition to the orders, the PHO strongly recommends: Working from home whenever possible, unless it is essential to be in the workplace Keeping your child home from school if they feel sick or have any sign of illness Getting testing immediately if you or anyone in your family feels sick Masks in schools All K to 12 staff and all students in grades 4 to 12 are required to wear non-medical masks in all indoor areas, including: At their work stations (desks) On school buses Within and outside learning groups PHO order on gatherings and events This content is a summary of the PHO order – Gatherings and Events (PDF) document.

It is not legal advice and does not provide an interpretation of the law. In the event of any conflict or difference between this webpage and the order, the order is correct and legal

Province-wide restrictions and must be followed.

Social gatherings, Indoor gatherings No indoor social gatherings of any size at your residence with anyone other than your household or, if you live alone, your core bubble. For example: Do not invite friends or extended family inside your residence or vacation accommodation Do not host a party or event inside your house Outdoor gatherings Up to 10 people can gather outdoors. e.g Up to 10 people can gather at a park or beach Up to 10 people can gather in the backyard of a residence Do not gather with several groups of new people. Stick to the same people. Continue to use COVID-19 layers of protection and maintain physical distancing. Patios and outdoor areas at restaurants, pubs and bars are not included as places to gather with 10 people at one table

Outdoor religious gatherings and worship services

Religious worship services may be held outdoors (including in open-sided tents and under overhead coverings). Before, during and after the service, people must not gather or socially engage.

Up to 50 people may attend, plus 2 extra

the next 5 weeks.

people to make sure rules are followed Participants must be 2 metres apart unless they live in the same private residence Drive-in worship events can continue to operate (No more than 50 vehicles may be present, and people who attend in a vehicle must remain in the vehicle) Musical groups of up to 5 musicians may performThe only people who can sing are soloists and worship leaders. The only people who can chant are worship leaders Masks are required at all times by everyone in attendance.Masks can only be removed by soloists (when singing), worship leaders (when speaking, singing or chanting), readers (when reading out loud), or musicians who need to do so to play their instrument.

They must maintain 3 metres of spacing or use a physical barrier Masks are not required for people who can’t wear a mask due to a condition or impairment or kids under the age of 12 Organizers must: Collect information for contract tracing Supply hand sanitizer Caution those at risk, including seniors and those with underlying medical conditions or compromised immune systems, from attending.

Source: 2.gov.bc.ca

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Opposition leaders disappointed in budget, Iran giving Houthis ‘significant’ and ‘lethal’ but NDP support means no election expected support: US envoy TORONTO -- Leaders from the other federal parties are responding to the Liberal government’s newly proposed budget ahead of the first day of debate, with reactions ranging from support to skepticism.Three opposition leaders appeared on CTV’s Your Morning on Tuesday to discuss the budget. Conservative leader Erin O’Toole would not say whether his party will support the budget or not, but NDP leader Jagmeet Singh has said his party will support it in order to avoid an election during the pandemic.

The budget is expected to pass with the support of the NDP. O’Toole said the budget, in his party’s view, both spends too much and does not address enough problems, saying it suffers from a “lack of focus.”

He said the budget supplies only “Band-Aid” support for businesses, and that they will require “some specific supports” beyond what the budget promises.

“We knew there was going to be a deficit in the pandemic, of course,” he said, but added that the deficit of $354 billion is too much, in his view.“Mr. Trudeau has no plan to ever get close back to some sort of fiscal balance.”

He believes there should be more of a focus on how to get people working again during the pandemic.“Get the economy moving and then lower the emergency spending,” he said.

The Conservatives will table amendments to the 700 page budget today. The Bloc Quebecois, as the third-largest party, will also add a sub-amendment. The Bloc has stated that they want more support given to provinces for health-care transfers.

While the NDP expressed early on that they would support the budget, Singh’s concerns are that the budget leaves off many items his party has fought for, such as pharmacare and a universal basic income. Source: ctvnews.ca

US special envoy on Yemen Tim Lenderking says fighting in Marib is ‘the single biggest threat to peace efforts’. Iran’s support for Yemen’s Houthi movement is “quite significant and it’s lethal”, US Special Envoy for Yemen Tim Lenderking said on Wednesday, as he called a battle for Yemen’s gas-rich Marib region the single biggest threat to peace efforts.

Lenderking told US lawmakers that Iran supports the Houthis in several ways, including through training, providing lethal support and helping them “fine-tune” their drone and missile programs.

“Unfortunately all of this is working to very strong effects as we see more and more attacks on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – and potentially other countries – more accuracy and more lethality. So this is a great concern to us,” Lenderking told a hearing of the US House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee.“Iran’s support to the Houthis is quite significant, and it’s lethal,” Lenderking

Turkey postpones Afghanistan peace summit over Taliban no-show

international conference, deemed esB.C. will soon restrict non-essential travel outside of The sential for war-torn country’s future amid violence, now to be held after health authority regions, put up signs on Alberta border escalating Ramadan. Turkey says it is postponing a

VANCOUVER -- The provincial government is working on regulations that will restrict the non-essential travel of British Columbians outside their own health regions.

Speaking at a news conference Monday, Premier John Horgan said regulations are being developed by the public safety minister that will restrict movement within the province.

“If we can’t do it without an order, we’re prepared to bring an order in… non-essential travel should be confined to local travel only,” the premier said. Additionally, B.C. will be putting up signs along the Alberta border, the premier said. These signs will remind travellers coming into B.C. that, as Horgan put it, “unless they’re coming for essential business, they should not be here. They should be back in their home communities.”

When it comes to British Columbians’ travel within the province, Horgan said Minister Mike Farnworth will issue the orders Friday under B.C.’s Emergency Program Act. “This will be conducted through random audits, not unlike roadside stops for a counterattack during the Christmas season. They will be susceptible to all travellers, not just a few travellers… there will be a fine if you are travelling outside of your area without a legitimate reason,” Horgan said.

He did not say how much that fine would be.

The premier added authorities will be consulting with the BIPOC community to make sure the restrictions are put in place “in a way that does not give anyone fear that there will be additional repercussions.

“This is about travel. There will be no addi-

said.Iran’s mission to the United Nations in New York did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Lenderking’s remarks. Iran has denied supporting the Houthis.“It’s been, frankly, very difficult to intercept ships,” Lenderking said. “We need our international partners to join us. … We need countries like Oman to help make sure that their border remains close to any of this type of traffic from Iran.”

Source:aljazeera.com

much-anticipated Afghan peace conference in Istanbul until the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.“We thought that it would be beneficial to postpone it …

We consulted Qatar, the United States and the United Nations and decided to hold it after Ramadan and Eid festivities,” Turkish

Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told the Haberturk news channel on Tuesday.

Cavusoglu added that there is “no need to hurry” after the recent decision by the US to withdraw its troops from Afghanistan.

The Eid al-Fitr holiday follows Ramadan, which ends this year in mid-May. The international conference, deemed essential for the war-torn country’s future amid escalating violence, was scheduled to be held from April 24 until May 4.

At least 97 people injured after four carriages derailed in the city of Qalyubia, north of Cairo. Eleven people were killed and 98 injured in a train accident in Egypt’s Qalyubia province north of Cairo, the health ministry said in a statement.

The train was heading from Cairo to the Nile Delta city of Mansoura when four carriages derailed at 1:54pm (11:54 GMT), about 40km (25 miles) north of Cairo, Egyptian National Railways said in a short statement.

More than 50 ambulances rushed to the site and moved the injured to three hospitals in the province, the health ministry said.

Videos on social media purportedly showed carriages overturned and passengers escaping to safety along the railway.

Egypt has seen several railway tragedies in recent years.At least 20 people were killed and nearly 200 were injured in March when two trains collided near Tahta, about 440km (275 miles) south of Cairo.

Earlier this week, 15 people were injured after another train derailed in the northern province of Minya al-Qamh.

Egypt’s transportation minister Kamel al-

Wazir, a former army general, has faced calls to resign from some Egyptians on social media. He has rejected these and said he would keep working on developing the ageing rail network.In February 2019 an unmanned locomotive slammed into a barrier inside Cairo’s main Ramses railway station, causing a huge explosion and a fire that killed at least 25 people. That crash prompted the then-transportation minister to resign.Egypt’s deadliest train crash was in 2002, when more than 370 people were killed after a fire broke out in an overnight train travelling from Cairo to southern Egypt.Source: aljazeera.com

Egypt: 11 dead, 98 injured after train derails near Cairo’

tional authority given to police. This will be a random audit to ensure people are following the guidelines.” Among the measures put in place to help enforce the new rule is that representatives from the tourism industry are helping to eliminate any travel bookings from people outside of the particular area, including from outside the province.

“This is not the time to load up the Winnebago and travel around British Columbia,” Horgan said.“If you live in the Fraser Health area, by all means, take a few days, get outside, perhaps go to a campground in your local area.

But do not try and book somewhere outside of your area because the tourism operator in that community will not book your passage.”

Additionally, at the end of the week, BC Ferries will no longer be accepting bookings for recreational vehicles such as campers and trailers. The service provider will also be contacting passengers who’ve already booked sailings to ensure that the purpose of their trip is considered essential. Source: ctvnews.ca

Coronavirus infections over 144 million worldwide Coronavirus Cases:

Deaths:

Recovered:

123,367,534

Last updated:

April 23, 2021, 06:04 GMT www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/?

145,363,446

3,085,833

Coronavirus Cases:

Deaths:

Recovered:

CANADA Last updated:

Coronavirus Cases:

Deaths:

Recovered:

BC;CANADA Last updated:

1,155,834 122,757

23,822 1,550

1,045,244 112,235

April 23, 2021, 06:04 GMT

April 23, 2021, 06:04 GMT

https://experience.arcgis.com

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info

The Net Worth Of The North America &UK Politicians, See How Rich They Really Are: and was reelected again in 2012. With the current net worth of $4 million, Johnson is the second Prime Minister born outside the British Isles.

DONALD TRUMP –

U

POLITICIAN, $2.1 BILLION ndoubtedly, Donald Trump is counted as the first billionaire who served as Vice President of the United States. His current net worth is $2.1 billion, as per the data from Forbes. Being a real estate giant, he owns dozens of buildings in New York, parking spaces, wineries, golf courses, and several companies located in different corners of the world.

Besides this, he makes a fortune in millions from his investments in different industries and the Trump brand. He lives in Mar a Lago, a spatial and luxurious 62,500-squarefoot property situated in Florida; it’s the Trump family’s primary residence.

GEORGE W BUSH

POLITICIAN, $40 MILLION George W Bush, also known as Junior Bush, is a prosperous businessman, author, and American politician. Even before starting his political journey, Bush ventured into the oil business and made few investments, which earned him massive profit in millions.

The total net worth of George W Bush is $40 million. After leaving the oval office in 2009, he published “Decision Points” in 2010, resulting in his wealth escalation.

Currently away from politics, Bush lives in Texas with his family and enjoys happy times. The lifetime achievements of Bush proclaim he is a self-made millionaire and man of different talents.

He was elected to Canada’s House of Commons somewhere around 2012. Before that, he served the Royal Canadian Air Force and was also a lawyer. O’Toole earned his degree in law from the Dalhousie University, Nova Scotia.

With such a strong portfolio, O’Toole was able to gain a stunning net worth of $1 million. Talking about his personal life, he grew up in Ontario, Canada. O’Toole’s father was a Progressive Conservative politician and a He is the Leader of the Liberal Party and the legislator. Additionally, he has also been associated with several charitable works. prime minister-designate of Canada.

Salary and Benefits: As a member of Parliament for Papineau, Justin Trudeau earns a base salary of $178,900 (which is around $140,000 USD). He ALSO earns another $178,900 for his role as Prime Minister of Canada. In total his salary is $357,800 CAD which is equal to around $270,000 USD. Technically he also receives a $2,000 annual car allowance which may not go very far on maintenance for his 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300SL. (Last Updated: 2020)

JAGMEET SINGH

ERIN O’TOOLE

POLITICIAN, $1 MILLION Erin O’Toole is a Canadian politician born in 1973. O’Toole is the leader of the Con- Source:wittyreporter.com/trending/ servative Party of Canada since August 2020. net-worth-richest-politicians

BARACK OBAMA

POLITICIAN, $40 MILLION In his early days, Barack Obama was not very wealthy, but now his affluent lifestyle portrays a different story. His current net worth is a whopping $40 million. After leaving the white house as a former president, he wrote several books, spoke at different events, and partnered with Netflix. Netflix is all set to produce series and documentaries under the Higher Ground Productions label, founded by Michelle and Barack Obama.

As an author, his book “Audacity of Hope ‘ turned out to be the bestseller and earned him millions through royalties. He currently receives a pension of $200,000 as of the former president and lives in Washington with his clan.

BORIS JOHNSON

PRIME MINISTER OF THE UNITED KINGDOM, $4 MILLION When Theresa May stepped down as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdoms in 2019, Queen Elizabeth II appointed Boris in her place. Boris was born in the year 1964 in Manhattan. A few years later, his family shifted to the U.K., and that’s where he has spent the majority of his life.

Johnson was elected to the Parliament in the year 2001. He has worked under various prominent leaders. Additionally, he was elected as the Mayor of London in 2008

POLITICIAN, $4 MILLION Jagmeet Singh was born on January 2, 1979 in Scarborough, Canada. Canadian politician and attorney who is recognized for having been the head of Canada’s New Democratic Party. He also served in the Legislative Assembly of Ontario from 2011 to 2017. On October 21, 2019, Singh was re-elected to the Burnaby South riding.[70] The NDP won 24 seats, down from 44 seats at the 2015 election.Jagmeet Singh is a member of Politician Source: idolnetworth.com &

STEPHEN HARPER

POLITICIAN, $7 MILLION Stephen Harper net worth: Stephen Harper is a Canadian politician who has a net worth of $7 million. Stephen Harper has became famous through his years in politics, as the MP of Calgary, the head of the Canadian Alliance and helped to form the Conservative Party of Canada. Stephen Joseph Harper was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada in April 1959. Harper is the former Prime Minister of Canada and also the former Leader of the Conservative Party. He earned a master’s degree in economics in 1993. His political career started in high school as he was a part of the Young Liberals Club. He switched from liberal to conservative after disagreeing with Pierre Trudeau’s National Energy Program. He has been a Member of Parliament for Calgary Southwest in Alberta since 2002. He was the MP for Calgary West from 1993 to 1997. Harper was one of the founding members of the Reform Party.

He helped the Conservative Party form in 2003 as a merger of the Canadian Alliance and the Progressive Conservative Party. He has made visits to China, Australia, and Afghanistan. He received the Woodrow Wilson Award in 2006 for his public serve in Calgary. He was named by Time magazine as Canada’s Newsmaker of the Year in 2006. He received the World Statesman of the Year award in 2012. He is married to Laureen Teskey and they have two children, Benjamin and Rachel.

Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, dead at 99

Husband of Queen Elizabeth was longestserving royal consort in British history.

Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh and husband of Queen Elizabeth, died today at 99. He was the longest-serving royal consort in British history, and deeply devoted to his duty in that role. His death, announced by Buckingham Palace, came more than 3½ years after Philip formally stepped back from public life, a retreat that had been happening gradually for several years.

In an interview in June 2011 with the BBC, the no-nonsense Philip spoke about “winding down” and reducing his workload as a member of the Royal Family.“I reckon I’ve done my bit so I want to enjoy myself a bit now, with less responsibility, less frantic rushing about, less preparation, less trying to think of something to say,” he said.

His final official public engagement came on Aug, 2, 2017, when he attended a parade of Royal Marines at Buckingham Palace and met servicemen who had taken part in a charity race. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued a statement Friday calling Philip “a man of great service to others” who mainJUSTIN TRUDEAU tained a special relationship with the CanaPOLITICIAN, $10 MILLION Justin Trudeau net worth and salary: Justin dian Armed Forces and was a patron to more Trudeau is a Canadian politician and teach- than 40 Canadian organizations.

“Prince Philip was a man of great purpose er who has a net worth of $10 million.

and conviction, who was motivated by a sense of duty to others,” he said. “He will be fondly remembered as a constant in the life of our Queen – a lifelong companion who was always at her side offering unfailing support as she carried out her duties.”

Queen Elizabeth, in Deep Mourning, Arrives at Husband Prince Philip’s Funeral

The day after Prince Philip’s death, Sophie, Countess of Wessex tearfully said “the Queen has been amazing” Queen Elizabeth is laying her husband of 73 years to rest.

Dressed in black, the monarch arrived at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle on Saturday for husband Prince Philip’s funeral. The Duke of Edinburgh died on April 9 at the age of 99. The Queen was accompanied by Lady Susan Hussey, her lady-in-waiting, and followed the procession in her State Bentley.

In keeping with pandemic guidelines, the Queen and members of the congregation wore face masks and sat six feet apart. Sitting inside the chapel, the Queen could be seen with her face down, only the top of her black hat visible. The day after Prince Philip’s death, the Queen’s daughter-in-law Sophie, Countess of Wessex tearfully told people gathered outside Windsor Castle that “the Queen has been amazing.” Source: people.com

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Ramadan 11, 1442 April 23, 2021

H e a l th / w om e n / yo u th

Latest VAERS Data Show Reports of Blood Clotting Disorders After All Three Emergency Use Authorization Vaccines

V

By :Megan Redshaw AERS data released today showed 795 reports related to blood clotting disorders with 400 attributed to Pfizer, 337 to Moderna and 56 to Johnson & Johnson between Dec. 14, 2020 and April 8, 2021. The Defender is experiencing censorship on many social channels. Be sure to stay in touch with the news that matters by subscribing to our top news of the day. It’s free.

Data released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on the number of injuries and deaths reported to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) following COVID vaccines revealed reports of blood clots and other related blood disorders associated with all three vaccines approved for Emergency Use Authorization in the U.S. — Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson (J&J). So far, only the J&J vaccine has been paused because of blood clot concerns.

VAERS is the primary mechanism for reporting adverse vaccine reactions in the U.S. Reports submitted to VAERS require further investigation before a causal relationship can

F

By: Asma Shums, or many, this lockdown period has given us more time on our hands than we’ve ever had. Time which we never thought we would have.

This free time presents us with opportunities to do things which we’ve always wanted to do or like to do more of depending on our individual circumstances. I think it makes sense for us to be productive with this time and do things that are meaningful to us.

First on the list, is very much where you should be starting. I like nothing more than immersing myself in a book, concentrating fully on the book, its characters and its storyline without distractions. We have that opportunity now. Books exercise the brain,

be confirmed.

Every Friday, VAERS makes public all vaccine injury reports received through a specified date, usually about a week prior to the release date. Today’s data show that between Dec. 14, 2020 and April 8, a total of 68,347 total adverse events were reported to VAERS, including 2,602 deaths — an increase of 260 over the previous week — and 8,285 serious injuries, up 314 since last week.

Of the 2,602 deaths reported as of April 8, 27% occurred within 48 hours of vaccination, 19% occurred within 24 hours and 41% occurred in people who became ill within 48 hours of being vaccinated.

In the U.S., 174.9 million COVID vaccine doses had been administered as of April 8.

This includes 79.6 million doses of Moderna’s vaccine, 90.3 million doses of Pfizer and 4.9 million doses of the J&J COVID vaccine.

This week’s VAERS data show: 19% of deaths were related to cardiac disorders.

55% of those who died were male, 43% were female and the remaining death reports did not include gender of the deceased.

The average age of those who died was 77 and the youngest death was an 18-year-old. There are a few reported deaths in children under 18, but these reports contained errors.

As of April 8, 408 pregnant women had reported adverse events related to COVID vaccines, including 114 reports of miscarriage or premature birth.

Of the 678 cases of Bell’s Palsy reported, 59% of cases were reported after Pfizer-BioNTech vaccinations, 38% following vaccination with the Moderna vaccine and 24 cases (4%) of Bell’s Palsy were reported with J&J. There were 77 reports of Guillain-Barré Syndrome with 55% of cases attributed to Pfizer, 40% to Moderna and 10% to J&J. There were 20,021 reports of anaphylaxis with 47% of cases attributed to Pfizer’s vaccine, 46% to Moderna and 7% to J&J. Reports of blood clotting disorders in VAERS Children’s Health Defense queried the VAERS data for a series of adverse events associated with the formation of clotting disorders and other related conditions. VAERS yielded a total of 795 reports for all three vaccines from

How to best spend your time at home

Dec. 14, 2020, through April 8.

Of the 795 cases reported, there were 400 reports attributed to Pfizer, 337 reports with Moderna and 56 reports with J&J — far more than the eight J&J cases under investigation, including the two additional cases added Wednesday.As The Defender reported today, although the J&J and AstraZeneca COVID vaccines have been under the microscope for their potential to cause blood clots, mounting evidence suggests the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines also cause clots and related blood disorders. U.S. regulatory officials were alerted to the problem as far back as December 2020. Source: childrenshealthdefense.org

build our vocabularies, lowers stress and also enhances the imagination. Whether you prefer fiction or non-fiction, buy yourself some books and start reading more this week. There really is no excuse as you can buy used books on Amazon for next to nothing.

Second is watching a documentary on Netflix. This activity is a potential trap. Whilst watching a stimulating TV series on Netflix passes time, it can do so in an unproductive manner and you might find yourself bingewatching programmes that won’t really help you in any way, other than waste the free time you have. I’d suggest that, alongside your normal TV watching habits, invest time in watching documentaries and learn about your favourite subjects. You may choose to watch a documentary series on Netflix which you have never taken an interest in

before, which is great. The cost of a Netflix subscription is minimal and there are many factual programmes which you can get stuck into during quarantine.

Thirdly, remember we are isolated from the people we usually spend time with but we can be connected with them via more means more than ever before. Make time to catch-up and have a virtual drink with your friends and family. Use the time to speak to relatives that you might not have spoken to in a while - maybe look to find out via those family members about great-great-grandparents who lived through wars as well as pandemics.

I also feel that reconnecting with past colleagues is a great idea. You would have spent a lot of time with these people in previous roles and might have grown apart as you move on in your career. But make that effort

to find those who you’d love to catch up with - they’re in the same position as you so a virtual beer is likely an appealing idea for both.

Yes, I’m afraid now is the time to attend those garden jobs and chores. Your busy lifestyle usually means that things in the garden do not get done but now you don’t have that excuse. I had to face up to this reality, but once I had started doing some basic work in the garden I actually started to enjoy it. Tidying up your garden, repainting your fences and any other jobs that need doing in your garden can be done over a period of time when you feel like it and when the weather is good.

Meditate, learn a new hobby, and spend your time wisely. Finally, and perhaps most importantly… be sure to write down a routine (with timescales) of the activities which you will be doing and trying for the first time on a weekly basis. Stick to your routine and form the habits to keep your working and keep you productive during this pandemic .

Email info at: asmashums@gmail.com

even more because I balance my homeland culture, Canadian culture and my religion which is completely different from the former two. But there’s three sure ways I use to keep my faith strong.

I always make sure to participate in any debates or discussions regarding my religion because learning from others’ experiences is extremely beneficial. I’ve never been left out of the conversation and I think that’s an essential part of my confidence in my faith. But contesting what we’re taught by tradition is also so important. Just because something your grandparents told your parents is now being communicated to you does not mean that it is islamically accurate. Your family is definitely a source for information and assurance but always be fact-checking because it could benefit more than just you. If you’re not sure if something is right, research it.

We’re lucky because we also have access to so many sources provided from around the world and within our religion. First and foremost comes the Holy Qur’an itself, sunnahs which are the doings of the Prophet (PBUH) and hadiths which are records of the words, actions and approvals of the Prophet (PBUH). And then to understand all of this are our Imams and Scholars who help us recognize and understand the deeper meanings of our sources. I find it enlightening to find tafseer (translation and explanations) of surahs online. Having a deeper understanding of our religion and the reasons behind why we do things the way we do helps us appreciate our religion in a different light. Of course, it’s important once again to question and make sure wherever we get our information is reliable.

And finally, read and try to understand the Quran. Everything in the Quran is irrefu-

table and just reading the Quran is such a meaningful experience that really helped me personally deepen my faith. Knowing so much about my religion makes me more comfortable with my faith and carrying that knowledge with me enables me to educate others as well. The Quran covers everything, and is such a beautiful part of our religion.

Having crisis in faith is not something to be ashamed of, in fact the more you try to discover your faith’s role in your identity, the more your eyes will be opened to the beauty and wisdom of Islam.

My Take On: How Your Faith Relates To Your Identity as a Teenager?

By:Khadija

Nadeem Gr 9

S

e t t i n g boundaries and keeping within limits is always a struggle, especially when we’re young. That’s because as teenagers we’re surrounded by so many different people with different beliefs, opinions and customs. We’re already so easily influenced in terms of our personalities, and silently our faith is also under attack. “In a society with so many different cultures, religions, values and morals, how do I make sure I’m doing what I’m supposed to and staying true to me?” It’s a common question asked among youth. As an immigrant I relate to it

from Feds secure 8 million more Pfizer doses, as Moderna .............. Continued Page 7 ONE BEDROOM PARTLY FURNISHED FOR RENT

While Moderna met its first quarter dose commitments and moved its shipment intervals up from every three weeks, a “quality assurance processes backlog” has meant the latest shipments to Canada have been inconsistent. The last Moderna shipment to arrive on time and in full was on March 11.

“We will continue to press Moderna, and all of our other suppliers to do everything possible to respect their delivery targets, and to provide more consistent delivery schedules,” said Anand. The opposition party health and procurement critics expressed frustration Friday with the Moderna delays, and

hesitancy over celebrating the additional Pfizer shots until they land.“Although we are glad to hear about this news, we will hold off celebrations until doses are received.

This government has a long track record of misleading Canadians and not delivering on promises,” said Conservative MP Pierre Paul-Hus.The Conservatives have tabled a motion to summon Moderna Canada representative Patricia Gauthier to testify at the House of Commons Health Committee to explain the delayed shipments.....

Source: ctvnews.ca

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Ramadan 11, 1442 April 23, 2021

Timetable Source BCMA & Fiji Islamic Centre Surrey, Canada & Sahur & Iftr Time Differences Maghrib Fiji April Fajr / Ramadan Fiji Days / May Sahur Centre Sunrise Zawaal Dhur Asr / Iftar Centre Isha Date 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30*

Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed

23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 May 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

3:55 3:52 3:49 3:46 3:44 3:41 3:38 3:36 3:33 3:31 3:28 3:26 3:24 3:21 3:18 3:15 3:13 3:10 3:07 3:04

4:20 4:18 4:15 4:13 4:10 4:08 4:05 4:03 4:00 3:58 3:56 3:53 3:51 3:48 3:46 3:43 3:41 3:38 3:36 3:34

6:03 6:01 6:00 5:58 5:56 5:54 5:52 5:51 5:49 5:47 5:46 5:44 5:42 5:41 5:39 5:38 5:36 5:35 5:33 5:32

1:13 1:13 1:13 1:12 1:12 1:12 1:12 1:12 1:12 1:12 1:12 1:11 1:11 1:11 1:11 1:11 1:11 1:11 1:11 1:11

1:20 1:20 1:20 1:19 1:19 1:19 1:19 1:19 1:19 1:19 1:19 1:18 1:18 1:18 1:18 1:18 1:18 1:18 1:18 1:18

6:07 6:07 6:08 6:09 6:10 6:11 6:12 6:13 6:14 6:15 6:16 6:17 6:17 6:18 6:19 6:20 6:21 6:22 6:23 6:23

8:21 8:22 8:24 8:25 8:27 8:28 8:30 8:31 8:33 8:34 8:36 8:37 8:39 8:40 8:41 8:43 8:44 8:46 8:47 8:48

8:20 8:22 8:23 8:25 8:26 8:28 8:29 8:31 8:32 8:34 8:35 8:37 8:38 8:39 8:41 8:42 8:43 8:45 8:47 8:48

9:59 10:01 10:03 10:05 10:07 10:10 10:12 10:14 10:16 10:19 10:21 10:23 10:25 10:26 10:27 10:29 10:31 10:32 10:34 10:36

*1 Shawwal 1442 AH EID UL FITR 2021

RAMADAN TIMETABLE, 2021- 1442 AH May Allah bless everyone with peace and happiness in this Ramadan

Please follow your Masjid /Centre or Musalah Ramadan Timetable

12

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Ramadan 11, 1442 April 23, 2021

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‫‪Ramadan 11, 1442‬‬ ‫‪April 23, 2021‬‬

‫‪13‬‬

‫مجھے کیسے پتہ چلے گا‬ ‫کہ‬ ‫کی‬ ‫ویکسینیں محفوظ ہیں؟‬ ‫ہیلتھ کینیڈا صرف محفوظ‪ ،‬موثر اور ٰ‬ ‫اعلی ترین معیار کی حامل ویکسینوں‬ ‫کے استعمال کی اجازت دیتا ہے۔ کینیڈا کو اپنے ٰ‬ ‫اعلی معیارات اور سخت گیر‬ ‫ویکسین کے جائزہ کے عمل کی بدولت دنیا بھرمیں مانا جاتا ہے۔‬ ‫‪COVID-19‬‬

‫‪Canada.ca/covid-vaccine‬‬

‫‪1-833-784-4397‬‬

‫‪COVID-19‬‬

‫کی ویکسینیں‬ ‫اور آپ۔‬

‫‪2021-04-05 5:26 PM‬‬

‫‪PHAC-VAX-Print02-10X15_Urd.indd 1‬‬

14

Ramadan 11, 1442 April 23, 2021

‫هل أنت قادم جديد إىل كندا؟‬

‫سوف نساعدك‬ ‫عىل إكتساب الثقة‬

‫ز‬ ‫نجل�ية‬ ‫لتعلم اللغة ا إل ي‬ ‫دروس بع� ا إل تن�نت تم تصميمها‬

‫لبناء مستقبلك‬

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Ramadan 11, 1442 April 23, 2021

P akistan

Banned: What does the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) want?

A

look at the demands put forward by the group, its negotiations with the government and the violence that ensued.

Protests erupted across major cities in Pakistan on April 12 after the now-proscribed Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) chief Saad Hussain Rizvi was detained by security forces in Lahore as a “pre-emptive measure” ahead of the party’s April 20 deadline to the government.

The deadline pertains to the party’s demands from last year; in October, a history teacher who had shown blasphemous sketches of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in class was decapitated and his assailant shot dead by French police as they tried to arrest him. In the days that followed the beheading, the caricatures were projected onto the facade of a building in one French city and people displayed them at protests around the country.

Following the killing, French President Emmanuel Macron criticised Islamists and vowed not to “give up cartoons” depicting Prophet Muhammad. Prime Imran Khan as well as other leaders of Muslim countries had denounced the French premier’s comments while countrywide protests were held calling for boycott of French products.

Here, Dawn.com looks at the demands put forward by the TLP after the publication of the blasphemous caricatures in France and a timeline of its negotiations with the PTI-led government and the ensuing violence that led to the party being banned:

Karachi rally against France,Nov 7, 2020

The TLP rally makes its way down Sharea Faisal.

TLP stages a big rally on Sharea Faisal in Karachi, demanding cutting of diplomatic ties with Paris and a boycott of French products.

The TLP asks the federal government to take “practical steps” otherwise it would be compelled to take “extreme action”.

The rally is led by then-TLP chief Allama Khadim Hussain Rizvi, who urges the federal government to “declare jihad” against France.

Talks starts ahead of march — Nov 12, 2020 TLP announces the ‘Tahafuz Namoos-i-Risalat’ march from Liaquat Bagh Rawalpindi to Faizabad in Islamabad on November 15.

Talks between the capital administration and TLP leaders start while the party seeks security cover for the protest rally.

A team of administration officers try to convince the TLP leaders and organisers of the rally to call it off due to Covid-19 spreading all over the country, including Islamabad.

Security tightened, arrests madeNov 14, 2020 A view of Murree Road blocked with containers before TLP activists approach Islamabad. — Mohammad Asim/White Star Blockades are installed at different entry points of the capital, including Faizabad, with the deployment of police and the paramilitary force to stop the protest rally of TLP

from entering the city.

Meanwhile, police and other law enforcement agencies detain 181 leaders and activists of the TLP in different parts of Rawalpindi and send 65 of them to Adiala jail after producing them in courts.

TLP activists, police clash,Nov 15, 2020

Security personnel stand at Murree Road to prevent violence by TLP activists camped at Faizabad. — Mohammad Asim/White Star Liaquat Bagh presents a scene of a battleground as police and stick-wielding activists of TLP clashed throughout the day.

The protesters, whose number was officially given at about 3,000, manage to reach Faizabad Interchange where they stage a sit-in.

Riot police resort to teargas shelling against the stone-pelting protesters. During the clashes, dozens of police personnel and several TLP activists are injured and shifted to hospitals.“Heavy teargas shelling also affected residents of the adjoining areas with many complaining of difficulty in breathing,” a resident of a locality near Liaquat Bagh says.

Govt accepts ‘all demands’Nov16, 2020 TLP announces that the government accepted all its four demands and releases a copy of the handwritten agreement carrying signatures of Minister for Religious Affairs Pir Noorul Qadri, Interior Minister Ijaz Shah and Islamabad deputy commissioner.

The agreement says government will take a decision from the Parliament regarding expulsion of the French ambassador within three months not appoint its ambassador to France release all the arrested workers of the TLP not register any case against the TLP leaders or workers even after it calls off the sit-in There is no immediate confirmation from the government of the agreement, but the interior ministry issues a notification regarding immediate release of all those arrested during the past two days from different parts of Punjab.

does not fulfil its promise of expelling the French ambassador by Feb 17.

“We’re bound to honour the agreement till Feb 17. A war for (protecting) the honour of the Prophet (SAW) has been waged. If someone has some misunderstanding, it must be removed as we pledge that there shall be no delay in taking a decision after February 17,” the newly appointed leader of the TLP says at the chehlum of his father.

“If you have forgotten the promise, see our history [...] You’ve got time until Feb 17 to expel the French ambassador,” Saad warns the government while addressing thousands of the TLP workers attending the chehlum.

TLP’s new agreement with govt , Feb 11

TLP calls off its protest after a new agreement is signed between the party leaders and the government in which it is decided that the latter would present the terms of an agreement signed between them last year in the parliament before April 20.

Prime Minister Imran Khan also says that as decided in the renewed agreement, his government would take the matter to parliament before April 20. The prime minster reminds the TLP that it must not forget that no one has done more than him to internationally highlight the issue of blasphemy, not because of the TLP but because it was an article of his faith.

According to the TLP, the government team expressed its inability to “implement” the agreement and wanted the TLP leadership to stop protesting. “The TLP, however, refused to budge and warned the government to act or risk protest,” says party. After protracted rounds of negotiations, the government team agrees to meet all the demands by April 20.

If the parties involved undertake any activity that is contradictory to the spirit of the agreement before April 20, it shall be considered void, the text of the agreement says.

Activists and supporters of TLP gather for the funeral prayer of Khadim Hussain Rizvi in Lahore.

The party’s new young leader, Hafiz Saad Rizvi, is appointed as his father’s successor shortly after the death of TLP founder Allama Khadim Rizvi on November 19, 2020.

In the first week of the new year, TLP threatens to relaunch its protest if the government

Social media temporarily blocked ,Apr 16

The Ministry of Interior directs the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to temporarily block access to social media platforms — Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp, YouTube and Telegram — from 11am to 3pm.

“It is requested that immediate action may be taken on the subject matter,” the ministry directs the PTA chairman, after which the PTA releases an official statement saying: “In order to maintain public order and safety, access to certain social media applications has been restricted temporarily.”

Later, in a video message, Sheikh Rashid apologises to the public for the hours-long blockage of the applications, saying the government will “try not to [restrict] social media in the future”.

TLP chief Saad Rizvi detained Apr,12

TLP chief Saad Rizvi being taken into custody in Lahore. — Screengrab TLP naib emir Syed Zaheerul Hassan Shah says the government “completely deviated from” the agreement it had reached with the TLP regarding Namoos-i-Risalat.

Shah calls upon TLP leaders and workers to “come out on the roads” in their areas in protest against the government action.

TLP member Khalid Awan tells Dawn that government had “turned back on its promise” to expel the French ambassador by April 20 and took Rizvi into custody. “We will not step back from our mission because of Saad Rizvi’s arrest.”

Protests continue, LEAs clear twin cities — April 13, 14

New leader, fresh warning — Jan 3

four while the French embassy in Pakistan advises all French nationals and companies to temporarily leave the country.

A notification declaring TLP as a proscribed organisation says government “has reasonable grounds to believe that Tehreek Labbaik Pakistan is engaged in terrorism, acted in a manner prejudicial to the peace and security of the country, involved in creating anarchy in the country by intimidating the public, caused grievous bodily harm, hurt and death to the personnel of Law Enforcement Agencies and innocent by-standers [...] blocked essential health supplies to hospitals, and has used, threatened, coerced, intimidated, and overawed the government [and] the public and created sense of fear and insecurity in the society and the public at large”.

Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid says the government “tried its best” to resolve matters through negotiations but TLP’s “intentions were very horrifying”.

“They did not want to step back from their agenda for April 20 at any cost.”

Policemen detain a TLP supporter in Rawalpindi. — AFP At least one police constable is martyred and 40 other personnel injured in Lahore as violent protests continue for a second day.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Rangers, Elite Force, Punjab constabulary and district police clear Liaquat Bagh of TLP activists by using tear gas shells and rubber bullets. According to sources, 135 law enforcement officials, including six Rangers were injured in the violent clash in Rawalpindi division.

Life in capital returns to normalcy as the local police succeed in removing TLP activists from Barakahu, Tarnol and Rawat.

Lahore becomes battleground as 5 policemen taken hostage — April 18

Security personnel walk back after having a talk with TLP supporters during a protest along a blocked street in Lahore. — AFP TLP workers “brutally torture” a deputy superintendent of police (DSP) and take him as well as four other officials hostage, says spokesperson for Lahore CCPO Rana Arif.

Police say the violence occurred after “miscreants” attacked a police station and abducted the DSP, adding that it acted only in “self-defence”.

An official report shows 15 injured police personnel under treatment at different hospitals in the city. Meanwhile, at least three protesters killed and several others injured Govt bans TLP as death toll rises ,April 15 during the clash, according to the party’s The federal government formally bans TLP workers. Source: dawn.com as death of martyred police official rises to

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Radiothon for Guru Nanak Diversity Village raises $470,965!

Surrey – Progressive Intercultural Community Services (PICS) Society in collaboration with ConnectFM 91.5 organized a Vaisakhi Radiothon on Tue, 13th Apr 2021 to raise funds for Guru Nanak Diversity Village (GNDV), an upcoming long-term care facility that would provide culturally-sensitive care for our seniors. This Radiothon was the first fundraising event of 2021 for this facility and through the community’s overwhelming support over $470,000 were raised in 13 hours! In September 2020, the Provincial Government announced the approval of this 125-bed, 3-storey long-term senior care home to be built in Surrey. GNDV is a $58.3 million project, with $5 million to be raised by the community as community’s contribution to the project.

This facility’s name is a dedication to Guru Nanak Dev ji, who advocated and preached ideals which were based on diversity and equality for all. The Radiothon held on 13th Apr 2021 coincided with other community festivities of Vaisakhi, Ramadan, Navratri, and various other harvest celebrations, truly signifying community connections while bringing them together for supporting and contributing towards GNDV.

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“On behalf of PICS Society, I want to thank and commend all the volunteers, guest speakers, staff, management and Hosts of ConnectFM, as well as the PICS staff and the organizing team for the success of this Radiothon,” said Satbir Cheema, President and CEO of PICS. “I also want to express my sincere thanks to all the donors for their contributions, especially Premier John Horgan and Mayor Doug McCallum for kick-starting our Radiothon with their donations for Guru Nanak Diversity Village.”

This event was organized and held keeping all COVID-19 health precautions and guidelines as outlined by the Provincial Health Authority. There was an overwhelming response from the community and we continue to receive donations. If anyone was unable to join the Radiothon and contribute towards GNDV, you may still send in your donations directly to PICS Society. Tax receipts will be issued for all eligible donations.

For further information, please contact: Mr. Jagtar Singh Dhaliwal (JD), Director Community Engagement and Employment Services: Tel: 604-596-7722 Ext. 110 Cell: 604-719-4681 Email: jagtar.dhaliwal@pics.bc.ca Or, Ms. Ankita Grewal, Fundraising Officer – Guru Nanak Diversity Village: Tel: 604-596-7722 Ext. 103 Cell: 236-818-9490 Email: ankita.grewal@pics.bc.ca

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Pakistan Last updated:

April 23, 2021, 06:04 GMT