DNA OVERHAUL MUST TO FOSTER SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC GROWTH, SAYS FINMIN
g Says EFF help to bring permanence to macroeconomic stability and execut critical reforms
G the government s resolve to implementing homegrown structural reforms Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb here on Sunday emphasized the crucial need to bring fundamental changes in the DNA of country s economy, leading to an export-driven model, thereby fostering sustainable growth
“We need to adopt new approach If we are saying that this is going to be the last programme of IMF we have just embarked on, we have to change the DNA of economy fundamentally, the minister said while addressing a press conference here He was accompanied by Chairman Federal Board of Revenue Rashid Mahmood Langrial
g Stresses sustainable growth needs macroeconomic stability
Govt plans major cuts: 150,000 vacant posts to be eliminated
In a significant move to cut administrative costs the government has announced plans to eliminate 150,000 vacant positions, dissolve one ministry, and merge two others Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb made this announcement as part of the reforms tied to the $7 billion loan agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) The IMF Executive Board recently approved the loan, with the State Bank of Pakistan receiving the first tranche of approximately $1 03 billion under the 37-month Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program During a press briefing Aurangzeb stated that following federal cabinet approval, a rightsizing committee decided to scrap 60% of the vacant posts, a move aimed at reducing government expenditures significantly The Capital Administration and Development Division (CADD) will be dissolved as part of this initiative A government spokesperson confirmed that several high-ranking officials would also face job cuts “The rightsizing committee has reviewed six ministries with one ministry approved for dissolution and two others set for merging the spokesperson noted As part of broader reform efforts,
the cabinet committee on institutional reforms recommended not only the elimination of vacant positions but also a ban on contingency recruitment and the outsourcing of non-core services, such as cleaning, which may lead to a gradual phase-out of many lower-grade positions In a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif the finance minister presented recommendations for rightsizing federal government departments The Ministry of Finance has been tasked with overseeing the cash balances of other federal ministries Aurangzeb emphasized that these measures alongside the IMF bailout package aim to bring economic stability to the country He also highlighted the need to expand the tax net, noting that only 14% of retailers are currently registered for sales tax He warned that the government would have to block utility services for nonregistered individuals indicating that all tax exemptions have been revoked To enhance the efficiency of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), the government plans to hire 2,000 chartered accountants and tax audit experts to improve auditing capabilities These reforms represent a significant step towards addressing the country s economic challenges and streamlining government operations
He said there were two main reasons for going to International Monetary Fund (IMF) for Extended Fund Facility (EFF) which include bringing permanence to macroeconomic stability and executing critical reforms under homegrown economic agenda He said, macroeconomic stability, creates a foundation and “if foundation is not strong we cannot construct a house If we have to go for inclusive and sustainable growth it has to be on the background of the macroeconomic stability, he remarked The minister said the macroeconomic stability has continued during the first quarter of the current fiscal year however it needed permanence to lead to sustainable growth Macroeconomic stability is not an end in itself it is a means to an end, he remarked Hence, bringing structural reforms was not only a requirement by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) but Pakistan needed it He said Pakistan was in defining moment because it is going to determine the direction of the travel, and we are very clear, about the direction of travel For homegrown economic reform agenda he said we will always consult our thinktanks in country and take foreign advice into consideration as we go forward it is neither offence nor defence
S TA F F R E P O R T
JUI-F newly-elected Chief Mualana Fazlur Rehman on Sunday expressed serious concerns about the parliament’s capability to make significant legislation and emphasised the need for genuine elections to ensure that true representatives of the people are elected There is a need for consensus among political parties, including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), to draft proposed electoral reforms”, the JUI-F chief emphasized while talking to media person following the intra-party elections in which he was elected unopposed
Fazl claimed that it was need of the hour that new general elections should be held in the country and true representatives of the public should be allowed to come in the parliament Shedding light on intra-party election Fazl noted that JUI conducted member registration every five years, followed by elections, with the recent polls marking the
final stage of organisational restructuring He highlighted that the party s president and general secretary were also elected unopposed He reiterated that despite repeated claims of election mandate theft, JUI remains firmly grounded in the public sphere He criticised the current Parliament asserting that it does not deserve to enact significant amendments arguing that changes should not come from what he termed a fake parliament He stressed that amendments should not focus on individual personalities
The JUI-F chief lamented the lack of legitimate governance at both the federal and provincial levels describing the existing administrations as false governments He called for judicial reforms and urged constitutional avenues to protect fundamental rights He said that the government wanted to impose martial law in the country with proposed amendment that was why JUI-F did not support the government Fazl said that PPP and JUI-F were in talks over proposed document of the
amendments saying the PTI too was preparing new amendments bill
He said the JUI-F would not compromise on rule of law and the supremacy of the constitution, urging all the stake holders to share their proposed documents with each other He said the government was also brining new amendments
The JUI-F claimed that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was burning and all tribal areas were facing war-like situation, adding that the people of tribal areas were more concerned after their merger with KP
He blamed that US officer asked the government to merger these districts with the KP and he questioned how US can dictate the government to do so He told media that he had held meeting with General Bajwa and others and had advised them against the merger He reiterated his stance that the merger was premature and called for a referendum to correct what he sees as a mistake According to Fazlur Rehman, the people of FATA should be asked what they want through a referendum
resources per the ECC s November 2023 decision The textile sector has heavily invested in captive power generation to ensure uninterrupted production especially during periods of power instability These plants not only generate electricity but also produce steam essential for industrial processes However, the government’s push to phase out gas-based captive power has created significant obstacles
GOVT L AUNCHES RS500 BILLION T-BILL
TO REDUCE DEBT COSTS
KP CM must know his limits and avoid vandalism in Punjab: Azma
India watchdog sued over antitrust probe
S ta f f R e p o R t
KHYBER Pakhtunkhwa Information Advisor Barrister Dr Muhammad Ali Saif announced that the PTI would no longer wait for No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to hold public gatherings Speaking at a meeting of the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), Dr Saif asserted that protest is their democratic right and that the PTI will not back down from this right
The CPNE meeting chaired by President Irshad Ahmed Arif focused on pressing issues, including the alarming state of press freedom in Balochistan and the nonpayment of government advertisements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Secretary of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Arshad Khan also attended the meeting Dr Saif reiterated the provincial government s commitment to upholding press freedom and democracy We support the freedom of the press and the struggle for democracy and the supremacy of the constitution Despite our efforts we face opposition and obstacles particularly in obtaining No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for public gatherings he remarked Regarding the long-standing issue of delayed advertisement payments to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa newspapers, Dr Saif expressed regret over the persistent issue, despite assurances made earlier He explained the delay was due to economic constraints and noted that the provincial government is heavily indebted to the federal
government which in turn owes the International Monetary Fund (IMF) He further informed the audience that Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and the Information Secretary were actively working to address the payment issues to the newspapers Secretary Arshad Khan acknowledged the issue of delayed advertisement payments and informed the CPNE that a committee has been formed to review and resolve these payments He attributed part of the problem to the involvement of now-defunct departments such as the District Council in the Local Government Department, which had been responsible for advertisements To address the issue more effectively the Information Department has appointed a dedicated Recovery Director Khan assured that the department would swiftly process claims if newspapers and journals present their cases through the CPNE CPNE President Irshad Ahmed Arif strongly condemned the attacks on press freedom in Balochistan and criticized the withholding of government advertisements due to personal disagreements He stated, Threatening journalists or withholding government advertisements and payments as a form of coercion is an attack on press freedom ” He urged the federal and provincial governments not to intimidate journalists warning that unnecessary delays in payment or advertisement withdrawal undermines the constitutional right to freedom of the press
During the meeting, the CPNE’s Standing Committee passed a resolution demanding the restoration of democratic
values and press freedom in Balochistan
They also called on the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government to immediately settle the outstanding dues to newspapers and journals In his remarks, General Secretary Aijazul Haq revealed that a meeting with the Chief Minister of Balochistan had been proposed to discuss the deteriorating state of press freedom in the province Senior Vice President Anwar Sajidi shared his personal experience of receiving threats due to fearless reporting in his newspaper, Daily Intikhab Kazim Khan, another senior member, viewed such threats as a badge of honor for journalists and encouraged continued courage in the face of adversity Receiving threats is a matter of pride for journalists; we must continue our journey he said Dr Jabbar Khattak expressed concerns about the worsening state of press freedom in Balochistan, urging the CPNE to take serious action He said “The situation is deteriorating day by day ” Amir Mahmood Chairman of the Sindh Committee provided updates on the committee s efforts to address press freedom issues He mentioned that two meetings were held, one attended by Federal Secretary Information Ambreen Jan, who assured the resolution of CPNE members’ concerns In the second meeting Sindh Information Minister Nadeem ur Rehman listened to the problems faced by Sindh s newspapers and journals and directed the Information Secretary to resolve the issues Ayaz Khan, President of the Punjab Committee informed the attendees that his committee had also held a meeting which
was attended by DGPR Punjab Dr Faisal Shahenshah Shahenshah assured that pressing issues would be resolved, but no
Amir Muqam acc uses KP CM of rebellion, warns against rising debt and insec urit y
deteriorating, and if the current situation persists Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will be burdened with a debt of Rs 3 000 billion in the next two to three years Addressing the province s law and order situation, Muqam highlighted the insecurity in the Chief Minister s area where people cannot leave their homes after dark He condemned the provincial government for prioritizing corruption and commissions over public safety stating that institutions have been ruined as a result Muqam also criticized the financial crisis in Swat University, where salaries are unpaid, and warned that many educational institutions are on the verge of closure He dubbed the Chief Minister as Chief Minister Saboteur for failing to promote peace or development in the province The federal minister challenged the provincial government to compete with Punjab in terms of performance stressing that progress cannot be achieved through criticism and rallies alone He also accused the Chief Minister of misusing government resources for political rallies
Muqam warned that the leadership of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is deceiving its workers and pushing an agenda that borders on rebellion against the Federation He criticized their inconsistent stance on negotiations with the Taliban and their alleged conspiracies to weaken Pakistan Muqam reaffirmed his commitment to peace, stating that sacrifices have been made in the past for the country s security, and they will continue to support those working for peace He warned the provincial government against surrendering to terrorists stating that the central government would not leave the people at their mercy In his concluding remarks, Muqam urged the Chief Minister to focus on public service rather than theatrics warning that if he fails there are other options to remove him from office He also accused PTI of lobbying in foreign parliaments against Pakistan particularly in the Canadian parliament, where they allegedly sought to block IMF loans to Pakistan Muqam stated that despite being in power multiple times PTI failed to
Upping the ante
Israel drags the world closer to war by killing Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah
BY its bombing of the Beirut headquarters of Hezbollah, and the killing of Hezb chief Hassan Nasrallah, Israel may have demonstrated its military prowess, but it has not brought itself closer to peace Instead, it has brought the world closer to war Its escalation of the conflict has been bad enough but the death of the deputy commander of the Iran Revolutionary Guards Corps has added a further more dangerous, dimension to a situation that shows every sign of spiralling out of control At present, the conflict is still local Israel is pounding Palestinians in Gaza The USA and Iran are at daggers drawn, circling around each other like two knife-fighters Israel has also begun pounding Hezbollah in Lebanon The Houthis in Yemen are occasionally active and have made the Red Sea unsafe However Hassan Nasrallah’s killing has changed the equation
It has brought the threat closer to Iran than before With the killing of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, Israel had upped the ante, showing that its reach was up to Tehran and that it was ready to kill the heads of its opponents This is meant to scare opponents but if they were scared easily they would probably not have engaged in activities directed at Palestinian liberation The Red Sea and the Straits of Hormuz constitute global chokepoints, and any war involving them can be expected to have a massive impact on the rest of the world Another factor, which means global disruption is that this is an oil-producing area which means the price of oil is going to go up which is bad news for the poor countries which import oil such as Pakistan
The hands-off attitude of the USA has done much to allow the Israeli government to engage in such murderous behaviour There is an international groundswell of support against the Israeli slaughter of Palestinians now over 42 000 but the USA continues to use kid gloves in its treatment of Israel This groundswell is likelier to grow because the attacks on Lebanon seem so unprovoked No one wants the situation to get any further out of control, but then, it is not likely that anyone, even the Israelis, had realized that matters would get this much out of control The problem is that there are no voices of sanity which can pull back the world from the brink being heard Those with the power to do something are in slavish thrall to Israel
Dedicated to the legac y of late Hameed Nizami Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor
M A Niazi Editor Pakistan Today Babar Nizami Editor Profit
pecially through
agreements and
partnerships, gives it a pivotal role in shaping the future of the IOR Pakistan, on the other hand, while geographically positioned at the heart of the region has not effectively leveraged
MANY countries have established both a constitutional court and a supreme court to handle different aspects of their legal systems, particularly separating constitutional matters from other judicial issues
For instance Germany Italy Spain Austria South Africa and Poland have constitutional courts dedicated to ensuring laws comply with their constitutions while their supreme courts handle civil and criminal cases France s Constitutional Council oversees constitutional matters, whereas the Court of Cassation deals with criminal and civil cases Similarly, Russia, Turkey, Colombia, South Korea, Chile and Portugal follow this model with constitutional courts focusing on constitutional disputes and supreme courts addressing broader legal matters This dual court system prevalent in many European, Latin American, and African countries, allows for specialization in constitutional interpretation, unlike countries such as the USA, Canada, and the United Kingdom where a single supreme court manages both constitutional and non-constitutional cases
Though the concept of establishment of a Constitutional Court is not new, the purpose of setting up the constitutional court differs in intent and purpose In Pakistan as against larger public good, the government is determined to neutralize the Supreme Court’s powers to challenge wrongdoing by the government parliament the Election Commission and their associated institutions
This effort aims to ensure the government s survival and circumvent the Supreme Court's decisions, particularly those restoring PTI as a fully functional party, resolving election disputes on merit, and re-
claiming women and minority seats allocated as political spoils to the ruling parties Implementing the Supreme Court's decisions would jeopardize the survival of the federal and Punjab provincial governments as well as the Election Commission and the President s office
The government and the forces supporting the current political system are left with no choice but to employ all means legal or illegal, constitutional or unconstitutional to salvage a system whose foundations have been deeply shaken by the Supreme Court s judgment
Having failed to coerce the judiciary through force, the government is now intent on stripping the Supreme Court of its powers It plans to establish a parallel "constitutional court," under the pretext of expediting cases pending before the Supreme Court despite many of these cases being of minor significance with little impact on the broader societal good
In a desperate attempt to preserve its survival, the government has sought to introduce constitutional amendments that would not only alter the entire structure of the judiciary but also reshape the Constitution and the country’s democratic framework The government appears determined to revert to a colonial system where both executive and judicial powers fall under governmental control effectively granting the establishment absolute authority over the judiciary authority that the judiciary had recently reclaimed by asserting its independence
This move would most likely jeopardize democratic governance and potentially lead the country toward a totalitarian era posing serious and dangerous implications for the nation and its people
In our constitutional scheme, the Supreme Court acts as the ultimate arbiter of constitutional matters and has the authority to check the excesses of the executive and legislative branches By creating a parallel "constitutional court " the government could essentially sideline the Supreme Court whenever it finds its rulings inconvenient leading to a subordination of the judiciary to the executive s whims For example in Poland, the government s interference with the Constitutional Tribunal led to concerns from the European Union about a lack of judicial independence resulting in democratic backsliding
A constitutional court would most likely be composed of judges aligned with the government s interests allowing it to legitimize any unconstitutional actions essentially turning the judiciary into
its strategic location With Duqm s strategic location near the Strait of Hormuz, India can monitor maritime traffic and potentially disrupt routes vital to Pakistan’s economy particularly those tied to CPEC The prospect of India using Duqm as a naval base would dramatically shift the regional balance of power, threatening Pakistan s maritime security and diminishing its ability to protect its interests in the Arabian Sea and beyond Moreover India’s growing ties with the Gulf nations through economic and military partnerships give it a significant edge For Pakistan the lack of a coherent strategy to counterbalance India s presence in the region is a cause for concern While Islamabad has focused on its relationship with China, it has yet to fully engage with Gulf nations on maritime security or explore collaborative ventures that could strengthen its position in the IOR The rise of India in the Indian Ocean poses several strategic challenges for Pakistan India s involvement in the Gulf, particularly with the UAE and Oman, signals a deepening of ties that could marginalize Pakistan in the region If India continues to expand its influence it may eventually dominate the key maritime routes that connect the Persian Gulf to South and Southeast Asia For Pakistan, the implications are multifold First, Pakistan s reliance on Gwadar as a strategic counter to India’s naval dominance could be undermined if India strengthens its presence in
Oman Second, the growing alignment between Gulf nations and India threatens to isolate Pakistan diplomatically especially as Islamabad has struggled to forge deep long-term partnerships with the Gulf states beyond remittance flows and occasional financial assistance Third India s growing role in the IOR, combined with its strategic partnerships with the USA and the Gulf nations, raises the prospect of a new regional security architecture in which Pakistan has limited influence Pakistan cannot afford to remain passive in the face of these developments India s growing influence in the IOR and the Gulf region is reshaping the strategic environment, and Islamabad needs to recalibrate its diplomatic and military approach accordingly Pakistan must engage Gulf nations on issues of mutual interest particularly in the realms of energy trade and security A deeper engagement with countries like Saudi Arabia the UAE and Oman is essential to ensure that Pakistan is not left out of the evolving regional dynamics Maritime security should be a key focus
has been expanding its naval presence Pakistan s own naval capabilities need strengthening Islamabad should explore joint naval exercises and maritime security agreements w
Asia and China Pakistan also needs to diversify its economic partnerships While China remains a vital ally, over-reliance on Beijing could limit Islamabad’s ability to manoeuvre diplomatically By fostering stronger relationships with other key players in the IOR such as Gulf and ASEAN nations Pakistan can enhance its
standing and
fluence
The writer may be
at skhattak792@gmail com
a rubber stamp for executive actions, which is characteristic of authoritarian regimes For example in Venezuela President Hugo Chávez packed the Supreme Tribunal of Justice with loyalists enabling the government to override legal challenges consolidate power, and effectively dismantle checks and balances This allowed the executive branch to rule without constraint, moving the country toward authoritarianism The existence of two competing judicial authorities can create confusion undermine the rule of law and lead to constitutional chaos When decisions are issued by a court that is seen as politically motivated, public trust in the judiciary and legal system diminishes, which is detrimental to democracy For example in Turkey, the erosion of the Constitutional Court’s powers along with the establishment of specialized courts that served the interests of the ruling party led to arbitrary arrests and a compromised rule of law pushing the country further into authoritarian rule This move would allow the government to circumvent legal challenges, enforce controversial decisions, and even alter constitutional provisions without opposition Over time this paves the way for totalitarianism where the separation of powers is merely cosmetic For example in Egypt President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi s government passed constitutional amendments that expanded executive power and weakened judicial oversight This led to a more authoritarian regime, with diminished democratic freedoms and civil liberties By sidelining the Supreme Court through a constitutional court the
Useless Syllabus
shafiQ KhattaK
Credibilit y of Indian-Held Kashmir Elections
or the exclusion of eligible voters EVMs have been criticized for malfunctioning and tampering with claims of
THE situation in Indian-Held Kashmir is also deteriorating with numerous reports of human rights abuses and atrocities The conflict over Jammu and Kashmir originating from the 1947 partition of British India, remains unresolved The princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, which had a predominantly Muslim population but a Hindu ruler became a contentious issue
Its accession to India led to the first of several wars between India and Pakistan and has been the epicentre of ongoing conflict In August 2019, India abrogated Article 370 of its Constitution, which had granted special autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir
This move heavily criticised by Kashmiris Pakistan and various international entities led to heightened security measures and a communications blackout in the region Numerous human rights organizations, international bodies, and local activists have documented diverse atrocities in Indian-Held Kashmir Frequent reports highlight extrajudicial killings often termed "encounters" by Indian security forces involving innocent Kashmiris killed without trial There are also cases of individuals killed under questionable circumstances, raising concerns about due process and accountability
Enforced disappearances, where individuals are taken by security forces and their whereabouts remain unknown are reported frequently causing prolonged uncertainty and distress for families Arbitrary detentions of political activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens without formal charges or trials are also significant issues in Indian-Held Kashmir Reports suggest that detainees in Indian-Held Kashmir frequently endure severe conditions and torture including physical mistreatment
and psychological distress The Indian government has enforced stringent limitations on freedom of expression and the press in the region Journalists and media outlets covering the situation face censorship harassment and even arrest The communications blackout following the abrogation of Article 370 has further restricted information flow and hindered journalists and activists from documenting and reporting on abuses
The ongoing conflict and security operations have profoundly impacted the civilian population in Indian-Held Kashmir with curfews lockdowns and frequent internet shutdowns disrupting daily life and affecting access to education healthcare and economic activities
Internationally, concerns about the situation have been raised Human rights organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have condemned the reported abuses and called for independent investigations The UN has voiced concerns about human rights violations and urged for a peaceful resolution to the conflict
Addressing the reported atrocities presents several challenges Limited access for independent observers and journalists makes it difficult to document and verify abuse reports
The communications blackout and movement restrictions further complicate accurate assessment of the situation Additionally India s legal framework and the complex security environment create obstacles to holding perpetrators accountable, with investigations and prosecutions often facing bureaucratic and political barriers
The call for self-determination in IndianHeld Kashmir is deeply rooted The region s predominantly Muslim population has long felt politically and economically marginalized
The abrogation of Article 370 and subsequent changes to the region's status have intensified disillusionment and alienation Many residents view these developments as undermining their special status and autonomy For a significant portion of the population the aspiration for self-determination and affiliation with Pakistan is closely linked to their cultural, religious, and political identity The majority Muslim population aligns more with Pakistan, seeing it as a natural ally culturally and historically Economic development in Indian-Held Kashmir has lagged behind other regions of India resulting in widespread unemployment and underdevelopment Many believe joining Pakistan could offer a more promising economic future
Meanwhile Indian-Held Kashmir continues to encounter major challenges with its
electoral processes Despite being part of one of the world s largest democracies, India has faced criticism for how elections are managed in Indian-Held Kashmir The electoral process there is hindered by both historical and current issues including insurgency separatist movements and a significant security presence These often result in delays or postponements of elections contributing to ongoing instability and uncertainty
The dissolution of the state assembly and direct rule from New Delhi have introduced political uncertainty leading to delays in election scheduling The lack of an elected government has contributed to these delays Persistent allegations of electoral manipulation, including voter suppression and intimidation, undermine the fairness of the process and deter participation Claims of vote rigging and electoral fraud suggest the process is manipulated to benefit specific political parties or candidates damaging the credibility of elections Transparency is essential for fair and credible elections, yet issues have been reported The presence of independent observers is crucial for ensuring transparency, but in Indian-Held Kashmir restrictions on observer access both domestic and international have raised concerns about the process s impartiality and integrity Periodic communication blackouts, often imposed for security reasons, have hindered media and civil society efforts to monitor and report on elections, leading to accusations of hidden agendas and diminished public confidence
The abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019 which ended Jammu and Kashmir s special status has significantly altered the region s political landscape and electoral process The reorganization of Indian-Held Kashmir into two union territories Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has centralized control and shifted political dynamics further delaying elections and complicating efforts to establish representative governance The increased Indian military presence since the abrogation has created an environment of heightened surveillance and control, which impacts citizens' ability to participate freely in elections Reports indicate that this military presence fosters fear and intimidation
Many local political parties and leaders have boycotted elections citing concerns over the process's fairness and legitimacy This boycott adds complexity to the political situation and impedes efforts to conduct inclusive and representative elections The electoral issues in Indian-Held Kashmir have drawn sig-
nificant attention from both international and domestic observers International human rights organizations have raised concerns about the electoral process in Indian-Held Kashmir, citing problems such as voter suppression lack of transparency and accusations of electoral manipulation Domestically there have been calls for reforms to ensure that elections in Indian-Held Kashmir are fair and transparent India has a track record of irregularities in conducting elections in IndianHeld Kashmir The integrity of the electoral process has been intensely debated with the area's ongoing conflict and complex territorial disputes contributing to numerous allegations of electoral rigging These claims suggest that various strategies and tactics may have been used to influence election outcomes and undermine the democratic process Its electoral history is deeply linked to its political and territorial conflicts The 1987 assembly elections the 2014 legislative assembly elections and more recent local body elections in Indian-Held Kashmir have all faced allegations of manipulation, reflecting broader concerns about the fairness and transparency of the electoral process in the region The 1987 elections are frequently cited as a critical case of alleged electoral rigging with widespread criticism for irregularities such as ballot stuffing vote tampering and manipulation of voter lists Opposition parties, especially those challenging the National Conference, encountered significant obstacles, including systematic falsification of results and voter coercion The 2014 assembly elections were also marred by controversy with allegations of discrepancies in voter rolls malfunctioning Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), and voter and candidate intimidation Reports indicated issues such as long delays at polling stations and problems with voting technology fueling scepticism about the legitimacy of the results and the overall fairness of the process Local body elections in 2019 and 2020 faced similar scrutiny Allegations included manipulation of voter lists, biassed allocation of polling stations, and voter intimidation Irregularities such as problems with ballot handling and results reporting were reported raising concerns about the effectiveness of local governance and the ability of elected representatives to genuinely reflect their constituents' will Recurring patterns in allegations of electoral rigging in Indian-Held Kashmir include discrepancies in voter lists with reports suggesting the inclusion of deceased individuals
After Nasrallah’s death, the Middle East braces itself
Restrictions on
Persistent
a deft ability to divide and rule that no Lebanese government could survive without his acquiescence And that most could barely function even with it The region now braces itself for the next decisions made by the hardliners in Iran and Israel Many are fighting for their own survival not the interests of the people they claim to represent In New York last week, Iran had signalled hard to western diplomats that it did not want to escalate, leaving Hizbollah seething that they were being abandoned Iran’s major strategic fear of a wider normalisation between Israel and the Gulf has for now been buried in the catastrophic conflict following Hamas s attack on Israel on October 7 last year Some in Tehran think that they should not interrupt their enemy in the process of making a mistake, arguing that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has isolated his country for a decade and made inevitable the outcome he has fought throughout his turbu-
lent career: a Palestinian state Meanwhile Israeli decisions will continue to be driven by internal politics rather than international pressure Netanyahu has sought to move the story on from domestic and international criticism of the conduct of the Gaza war Israel has hit Hizbollah very hard physically and psychologically Some in Tel Aviv are arguing that a ground invasion what hardliners call mowing the grass could further degrade or destroy Hizbollah But calmer voices recognise the immense damage that more massive civilian casualties would do to Israel’s reputation A ground invasion would allow Hizbollah to rebuild the popularity and confidence that has drained away because of their actions against critics in Lebanon and in propping up Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad For the Lebanese there will be mixed emotions Parts of the community will celebrate the removal of a man who has for years kept a brutal grip on the country But there is also widespread horror at the loss of civilian life and trepidation at whether Hizbollah which
will not remain leaderless for long now has no choice but to unleash whatever remains of its arsenal towards Israel bringing a further bloody cycle of retribution Diplomats have talked for months of the danger of war between Israel and Hizbollah We are now past that point There had been genuine confidence in New York this week following the UK’s swift call for a ceasefire and the statement from US European and Arab leaders pressing for a 21-day cessation of hostilities But hope ebbed away as Netanyahu shook a public fist at the world from the UN podium, and then raised the stakes so dramatically The mood is now despondent Yet those working hardest to pull the region back from the brink know what is needed First the implementation of UN resolutions and consistent pressure to stop the escalation Then to get the Lebanese army alongside the UN on the Israel/Lebanon border and the return of Lebanese state not Iran or Hizbollah authority to south Lebanon A Gaza ceasefire agreement that gets the Israeli hostages out and aid in remains critical: this could create the conditions for the two-state solution that Hamas, Hizbollah and Israeli hawks want to bury Security justice and opportunity can only be achieved through coexistence not the zero sum cycle of fear and destruction of which Nasrallah was such a part Above all despite the growing feeling of impotence and despair, the international community
it Case in point: Abbas al-Musawi
Hezbollah’s co-founder and second secretary-general was assassinated in 1992 in southern Lebanon by Israeli helicopter gunships which also killed his wife and fiveyear-old son On this occasion too Israel was quick to congratulate itself on its bloody feat – yet the celebration was woefully premature Following al-Musawi’s assassination, Nasrallah was elected secretary-general and went on to turn Hezbollah into a formidable force not just in Lebanon but throughout the region
Under his leadership Hezbollah expelled Israel from Lebanese territory in 2000, thereby putting an end to a brutal 22year occupation, and successfully fought back during the 34-day war on Lebanon in 2006 dealing the Israeli military humiliating
blows
Meanwhile Israel s continuing obsession with killing Hezbollah figures did little to weaken the group The 2008 joint Mossad-CIA assassination in Syria of Hezbollah military commander Imad Mughniyeh for example simply propelled the man to ever more mythical status in the Hezbollah Hall of Fame
Then of course there are the myriad assassinations of Palestinian leaders going back decades – none of which have deterred the
Palestinians from wanting to, you know, exist The Associated Press notes that several leaders of the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) were killed in their Beirut apartments in 1973 by Israeli commandos in a night-time raid led by Ehud Barak, who later became Israel s top army commander and prime minister” As per the AP report, Barak’s team “killed Kamal Adwan, who was in charge of PLO operations in the Israeli-occupied West Bank; Mohammed Youssef Najjar a member of the PLO s executive committee; and Kamal Nasser a PLO spokesman and charismatic writer and poet This took place one year after Ghassan Kanafani – respected Palestinian author, poet and spokesperson for the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) – was assassinated by the Mossad in Beirut along with his 17-year-old niece These and other assassinations of prominent Palestinian figures hardly stifled the Palestinian resistance movement As the first and second Intifadas demonstrated in the 1980s and 2000s Palestinians can launch mass popular uprisings even without political or military leaders to organise them And as Israel endeavoured to violently rout traditional resistance groups, new ones emerged This was the case with Hamas, which the Is-
raeli occupation authorities in Gaza were only too happy to encourage in the beginning as a counterweight to the PLO Eventually Hamas too found itself on the receiving end of Israel s assassination strategy, which as usual failed to achieve its purported objectives In 1996, the Israelis killed Hamas engineer Yahya Ayyash by planting explosives in his mobile phone – a precursor, perhaps to Israel’s recent terrorist undertaking in which it detonated pagers and other electronic devices across Lebanon Then there was the March 2004 assassination by helicopter strike in Gaza City of Sheikh Ahmed Yassin, a wheelchair-bound cleric and a founder of Hamas His successor Abdel Aziz Rantisi was killed less than a month later in an Israeli air strike And yet despite enduring three apocalyptic wars in addition to regular Israeli military assaults and constant assassinations, Hamas managed to build enough capacity to carry out the October 7 attack on Israel Now the July 2024 assassination of Hamas s political chief Ismail Haniyeh –one of the main negotiators for a ceasefire deal in Gaza and regarded internationally as a “moderate” – has done nothing to diminish Palestinian resistance to genocide but plenty to underscore Israel s commitment to derailing any opportunity for a pause in mass killing As for Nasrallah s demise, it bears
ABdul BAsiT Alvi
CHINA CALLS FOR ‘INDEPENDENT PALESTINIAN STATE’ AT UN
From S prawl to S kyline: Punjab's Call for Ver tic al Living
Moreover, vertical living fosters a sense of community Residents of high-rise buildings often share amenities and communal spaces, resulting in increased social interaction and stronger neighborhood ties For young individuals who place a premium on connectivity and community engagement this living arrangement can significantly enhance their urban experience and contribute to a more vibrant and engaged civic life Sustainability is another pivotal consideration; vertical living aligns with environmental
in their home cities
necessitates a diverse workforce ranging from construction labor to architectural design and project management This demand can create thousands of jobs, providing vital opportunities for young people entering the labor market Furthermore, high-density living encourages local commerce As vertical living increases population density in urban areas, local businesses from
which the young generation flourishes in affordable, connected, and environmentally friendly communities The real estate sector through vertical living can play a pivotal role in revitalising the economy generating employment and ultimately transforming the urban landscape of Punjab The writer is the CEO of a real estate development firm based in Lahore recognized for delivering numerous successful projects that reshape urban landscapes
SYED MUBASHER HUSSAIN
In an era marked by escalating urban challenges including crime prevention traffic congestion and environmental pollution the Smart Safe City initiative in Punjab stands out as a beacon of hope Spearheaded by Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, this initiative transcends mere policy and embodies her personal commitment to fostering secure and vibrant urban environments for all citizens Recognising the initiative s profound importance in enhancing urban safety and combating crime Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has expressed, on various occasions, that this project is exceptionally close to her heart reflecting her dedication to the well-being of the community and making her vision of a Safer Punjab a reality Currently, the Safe City project is operational in three cities: Lahore, Nankana, and Kasur Significant progress has been made in Sialkot and Sheikhupura where almost all major work has been completed In the provincial capital cities such as Rawalpindi Gujranwala Multan and Faisalabad Smart Safe City projects have been launched in a
record timespan using the province’s own technical team, resources, and technology The forthcoming inauguration of the Smart Safe City projects in Sialkot and Sheikhupura marks a pivotal moment in urban safety and good governance for Punjab This initiative not only strengthens law enforcement capabilities but also establishes a comprehensive framework for public safety incorporating advanced surveillance technology artificial intelligence facial recognition traffic management and environmental monitoring A cornerstone of the Safe City initiative is its robust approach to crime prevention The extensive network of CCTV cameras acts as the eyes and ears of law enforcement and the government continuously monitoring different locations throughout the cities including crime hotspots This proactive strategy has led to significant reductions in crime rates fostering a sense of security among the citizens of Punjab A report indicated a 10% decrease in robbery-related calls to emergency helpline 15 and a 20% drop in vehicle theft calls from January to August this year compared to the previous year Overall registered cases of crime against property have decreased by 34%, with robbery cases experiencing a remarkable 34% decline These impressive statistics underscore the initiative's effectiveness and the enhanced performance of the Punjab Police as highlighted by Inspector General of Police Dr Usman Anwar Central to the Safe City initiative is the Integrated Command Control and Communication (IC3) Centre This nerve centre receives live feeds from CCTV cameras and coordinates responses to incidents, enabling real-time monitoring of traffic crime and public safety By integrating technology into policing the IC3 Centre ensures that law enforcement and emergency services can respond swiftly and effectively to incidents, enhancing the overall safety and security of urban spaces One notable instance of the initiative’s impact occurred during a tragic incident involving a bomb blast at Faisal Chowk on Mall Road Lahore in February 2017 which claimed the lives of DIG Captain (Retd ) Ahmad Mobeen, SSP Operations Zahid Nawaz Gondal, and several other police officials The CCTV footage captured by Safe City cameras was pivotal in documenting the crime scene and assisting law enforcement in apprehending the perpetrators Such rapid responses underscore the initiative s efficacy
in responding to and preventing crime during critical events Safe City Lahore has actively supported public safety during major events including national and international gatherings sports events and hypersensitive cultural and religious activities The deployment of advanced surveillance technology enables law enforcement to monitor activities in realtime ensuring swift responses to any potential threats As the city prepares to host the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy the Safe City initiative will play a crucial role in implementing robust security measures, ensuring the safety of players, officials, fans, and participants so that they can enjoy the event in a secure environment In addition to its focus on crime prevention the Punjab Safe Cities initiative addresses pressing traffic management concerns By utilising cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, the Safe City project has implemented an AI-based e-challan system targeting 19 different types of traffic violations Launched
CORPORATE CORNER
Hamza Malik drops new Punjabi Track ‘LOCO’ featuring Laiba Khurram
LAHORE
S TA F F R E P O R T
Pakistani R&B and pop sensation Hamza Malik has revealed his latest track LOCO a vibrant Punjabi dance anthem featuring the debut vocals of actress and social media star Laiba Khurram
Released and distributed by Giraffe Music, "LOCO" is a playful and energetic exploration of flirtation and attraction
The song presents a spirited flirtation between Malik and Khurram where Hamza showers the girl with compliments, trying to win her over with his charm, while Laiba confidently counters his sweet talk, refusing to be easily swayed The catchy chorus, "Tu ban meri loco coco cocorina " invites listeners to embrace the madness of love With its infectious beat and energetic vibe the song is composed by Hamza Malik Hassan Hashmi and Atif Khan with lyrics by Raamis and Hamza Malik, music by Atif Khan, while Rupendar Venkatesh handled the mixing and mastering The visually dynamic music video, directed by Hamza Khan Baande further amplifies the song's bold flamboyant vibe LOCO is about having fun and embracing the thrill and playfulness of romance Laiba brought an incredible energy to the track, and I think listeners will really feel that spark between us," said Hamza Malik about his latest release "I ve always been passionate about blending different musical influences and this song really captures that fusion between R&B pop and desi beats Laiba Khurram who steps into the music scene with LOCO expressed her excitement about her debut, saying, "Singing was something new for me, but I loved every moment of working on this song Hamza and I had such a great time playing off each other s energy I think 'LOCO' perfectly captures that fun and playful vibe that people are going to love
Baked Meat
Restaurant
The Carnivore opens its doors in Karachi
After the resounding success of its branches in Islamabad, Lahore and Riyadh, The Carnivore –Baked Meat Restaurant opened its doors here earlier today in a grand launch event in the presence of the who s who of the city Among the notables spotted at the event were Consul General Italy HE Danilo Giurdanel Vice Consul General Kuwait, Mr Abdullah M Almansour, Hon Consul General Morocco Mr Ishtiaq Baig, Sheema Kermani, Ameena Saiyid, Seemi Pasha, Angie Marshal Tapu Javeri Asim Battal Aziz Hasan Shamyl Mooraj Kamran Sani Marzi Munaf Ahmed Godil Javed Iqbal Satish Anand Jawed Khan Nina Kashif Obaid Sheikh Rasikh Ismail Sabira Tapal, Sajeeruddin, Hasan Rizvi, Maya Khan, Zubia Motiwala, Shuja Sami, Captain Aqeel, Asad Sidiqui, Usman Mazhar and Ahmed Chinoy After a bustling red carpet the guests were ushered to their seats where they were treated to a high-end sit-down dinner of their choice and had the opportunity to relax and enjoy the elegant ambience and scrumptious cuisine
PAKISTAN, OMAN AGREE ON EARLY FINALIZ ATION OF MOU FOR MANPOWER EXCHANGE
K I S TA N and Oman have agreed to expedite the finalization of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing the exchange of labor and manpower This initiative is designed to facilitate the movement of Pakistani workers to Oman, creating better job opportunities for them in the Gulf nation The agreement was reached during a meeting in Muscat between Pakistan s Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Salik and Dr
TIK A official visits Luminar y Learning Circle Foundation
KARACHI
The Luminary Learning Circle Foundation (LLCF) was honored to welcome Mr Khalil Ibrahim Basaran, a distinguished representative from the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA), under the Republic of Turkiye’s Ministry of Culture & Tourism On the occasion LLCF Chairman and former MNA Mohammed Najeeb Haroon, MQM MNA Syed Hafeezuddin Advocate were also present Mr Basaran experienced firsthand LLCF s holistic approach to providing quality early and primary education to over 400 students at the Javed Miandad Campus One highlight of the tour was LLCF s Organic Kitchen Garden, where students have planted their own vegetables in carefully labeled pots each bearing their names Mr BASARAN was particularly fascinated by the fact that the students not only planted the vegetables but also take responsibility for nurturing them This hands-on learning expe-
rience instills a sense of ownership and environmental stewardship in the children while promoting healthy sustainable living practices
Mr BASARAN also explored the school s other unique features, such as the White Room for grooming and personal development and the in-house kitchen providing daily meals to students He was introduced to LLCF s comprehensive healthcare initiative which ensures that students and their families have access to essential medical services “With great admiration, I must
that we are excited to replicate in other schools that TIKA supports as well The student-teacher ratio is outstanding, and I was delighted to see how happy and engaged all the students are ” Mr BASARAN shared with enthusiasm He further emphasized The brotherhood between Turkey and Pakistan runs deep and I look forward to supporting more initiatives in Pakistan in the future, strengthening our bond through impactful collaboration ”
Per vaaz Digital Campaign educ ates Pakistani youth on safer migrations prac tices
by the European Union the digital campaign is implemented through its local partner, Cirrus Pakistan The multi-tiered campaign is successful in raising awareness about the safe migration practices and empowering the people of Pakistan to explore viable sources of income within the country The digital campaign is educating the masses on skills development, empowerment and benefits of building a future in Pakistan and has resonated strongly with the youth With a growing online presence under the handle: PervaazPK , the campaign has seen significant en-
gagement attracting widespread support and participation Sharing his thoughts Mr Haris Naveed Chief Operating Officer Cirrus Pakistan said The PervaazPK initiative's success reflects our commitment to empowering Pakistani youth and providing them with safe viable alternatives to irregular migration By combining impactful digital campaigns with on-the-ground sessions we re fostering a brighter future for young people across the country "
V E R Y B U L L ET, S H E L L , B AT O N T O B E
Tarar slams G andapur ’s threats
litical, or parliamentary about the Pak-
ISLAMABAD S
Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting National Heritage and Culture Attaullah Tarar on Sunday said Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ali Amin Gandapur had made his intention clear to create another May 9 like chaos in the country by announcing his plans to march on Islamabad and Punjab by force The minister in a news statement condemned the alleged remarks made by the KPK CM about use of force in the protests calling it an admission of his own failure to govern the province effectively
He further said that some Punjab police personnel fell into their hands, but he had instructed for their release ’ Gandapur said that his message is clear and ‘not intended as a threat rather a final warning Addressing institutions Gandapur said If they cannot listen to the voice of the people or respect their opinions, then they should step aside Let the people make their own decisions, and allow political decisions to be made by political leaders do not interfere ” The Gandapur-led convoy remained stuck at the interchange for several hours due to closure of roads as the authorities had placed containers at Burhan Interchange
Thousands mourn Hezbollah leader death in
Israeli strike
Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strong statement on Sunday condemning the Israeli action Pakistan strongly condemns the growing Israeli adventurism in the Middle East, the ministry said The reckless act of killing the Secretary General of Hezbollah in Lebanon constitutes a major escalation in an already volatile region ” Hezbollah had begun low-intensity cross-border strikes on Israeli forces shortly after its ally Hamas launched a massive attack on Israel on October 7 Since then the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel has intensified, with Israel recently announcing a renewed focus on its northern front Hamas’s October 7 assault, which took Israel by surprise, left 1,205 people dead, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures that include hostages killed in captivity on the other hand Israel s ongoing military campaign in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of at least 41 595 people, primarily civilians, as reported by Gaza s health ministry The United Nations has verified these figures
“The Chief Minister ’s threat of firing bullets for a bloodshed is a clear manifestation that he is incapable of running the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government His threats to march on Islamabad and Punjab with force are nothing but an attempt to repeat the May 9 He further criticised the KP Chief Minister ’s transition from verbal abuse to hurling threats of violence warning that this approach would only harm him not anyone else There is nothing democratic po-
Govt would’ve
to face consequences for violating Pindi agreement: Hafiz Naeem
KARACHI
Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan Emir Hafiz
Naeemur Rehman lambasted the government for the high electricity costs and oppressive taxes imposed on the public and traders and accused it of violating the Rawalpindi Agreement, warning that it would face consequences for its actions
Addressing a press conference at the Noor Haq Institute on Sunday hafiz Naeem announced the launch of next phase of the Haq Do Awam Ko (Give Rights to the People) movement which includes nationwide protests against unprecedented electricity tariff and unjust taxes imposed on public
He indicated that the movement has options for a long march to Islamabad and a potential strike lasting one to three days From October 23 to 27 a public referendum will also be conducted regarding the non-payment of electricity bills across the country He outlined plans to show solidarity with the people of Gaza and to protest against Israeli aggression
Major events are scheduled including public gatherings in Chitral on October 2 and Faisalabad on October 4, culminating in a sig-
nificant Gaza and Lebanon Million March on October 6 in Karachi On October 7, participants from all walks of life will take to the streets at noon to protest against Israel Hafiz Naeem urged the government to officially announce a nationwide protest on October 7 to send a clear and effective message against Israeli aggression and terrorism
He stressed that the liberation of the Al-Aqsa Mosque is a matter for the entire Muslim community not just a single political party He said he plans to engage with both the government and opposition parties to unite on a single agenda regarding Israel He asserted that if the Muslim community, especially its leaders, were to unite Israel would lack the courage to continue its bombings in Gaza He criticised the silence and cowardice of current rulers suggesting that it has emboldened Israel to extend its aggression into Lebanon JI chief highlighted the historical resistance of Hamas and Hezbollah against Israeli and American forces He condemned discussions surrounding a twostate solution for Palestine, stating that such talks merely serve to appease the United States and Israel He further criticised Prime
Minister Shehbaz Sharif s recent statements at the United Nations regarding Kashmir and Palestine, arguing that by endorsing a twostate solution the prime minister was attempting to placate the US and Israel which contradicts Pakistan s national stance JI announces plans to stop paying electricity bills after October referendum Meanwhile, the Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Pakistan staged a protest in Lahore against unjust taxes on electricity bills and called for the termination of Independent Power Producers (IPPs) The party also held a memorial prayer for Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was recently killed in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut During the protest Deputy Amir Liaqat Baloch announced that a public referendum would be conducted in October to ensure citizens rights He stated that the demonstration was a clear message to the government that they could not evade their commitments Baloch asserted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had completed negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and no obstacles were remaining for implementing relief measures for the public
MQM-P threatens to quit govt, demands PML-N fulfill promises
Muttahida Qaumi Movement – Pakistan (MQM-P) a key ally of the federal government has issued a stern warning threatening to withdraw from the coalition and resign from the National Assembly Speaking on the party s growing dissatisfaction, MQM-P’s National Assembly member, Mustafa Kamal, expressed frustration over the lack of respect and recognition from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government since it assumed power eight months ago Kamal criticized the federal government for instructing MQM-P to negotiate directly with the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) on the quota system despite their initial agreement being with the PML-N He emphasized that MQM-P currently lacks a mayor and insisted that it is the federal government s responsibility to engage with the PPP on the party s behalf Reflecting on the sacrifices made by MQM-P members to restore peace in Karachi Kamal highlighted the loss of lives during the process He issued a warning that if MQM-P decides to step away from its current role in the government, it could jeopardize the fragile peace in the city
