306 dead in Karachi violence: Police to Supreme Court

Islamabad : The Pakistan Supreme Court was Monday told by police that a total of 306 people were killed in ethnic violence within one month in the country's southern port city of Karachi.

Pakistan's MQM chief Altaf Hussain hospitalised in London

Islamabad : Altaf Hussain, chief of Pakistani political party Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), is being treated at a London hospital for the past one week, a statement said Monday.

5 die in Pakistan train collision

Islamabad : At least five people were killed and 25 injured when two trains collided Tuesday morning in Lahore, media reports said.
The accident took place when a freight train rammed into a passenger train which had stopped after running over a child at a railway crossing in the city, reported Xinhua citing media reports.

Pakistan: Bomber, companion die in premature blast

A senior police official says a suspected suicide bomber riding on a motorcycle in Pakistan's largest city prematurely detonated his explosives, killing himself and his companion.

Some areas in Karachi are no go areas: IG informs Supreme Court

KARACHI: Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry has remarked peace stands ruled out in Karachi without deweaponization of the city.

PM vows not to let Karachi slip into hands of target killers

Regrets allegations regarding violation of judiciary’s decisions ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani Monday said the government was committed to restoring peace of Karachi and for that purpose was dealing with the target killers relentlessly.

Rangers arrest PO from Shah Faisal Colony

KARACHI: Rangers have arrested at least one criminal during action against the target killers in an area of Shah Faisal Colony, Karachi.

Pakistan Rangers sources told on Monday while taking strict action against the criminals, who were allegedly involved target-killing incidents, Pak Rangers personnel arrested Sana Ullah alias Charya, who belonged to a political party.

Altaf neither arrested nor restricted: UK High Commissioner

ISLAMABAD: British High Commissioner in Pakistan, Adam Thomson has clarified that Quaid of MQM Altaf Hussain has not been arrested nor any restrictions have been placed on his movements.

PML-N government for respectable job opportunities to every Pakistani: Shahbaz

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that PML-N government will provide respectable job opportunities to every Pakistani without any discrimination for earning Halal livelihood.

PM assures Taseer family early recovery of Shahbaz

LAHORE: Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani Monday visited the family of late Governor Punjab Salman Taseer and assured them of all efforts for the early recovery of Shahbaz Taseer.

Protest outside KESC head office turns violent

KARACHI: The CBA labour union protested outside KESC’s head office against the non-payment of salaries. Seven people were injured when KESC guards allegedly opened fire to disperse the protestors.

Asifa, Bakhtawar Bhutto, Faryal distribute Eid gifts

LARKANA: MNA, Mohtarma Faryal Talpur, Mohtarma Bakhtawar Bhutto Zardari, Mohtarma Asifa Bhutto Zardari distributed 200 Sewing Machines, Eid Gifts among the poor widows at President House Naudero on Monday.

Imperialistic forces are behind the target killings in Karachi, says spokesperson BNM

QUETTA: Central spokesperson of Balochistan National Movement (BNM) said that imperialistic forces are behind the target killings in Karachi.

Karachi issue be resolved by politicians: Shujaat

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Muslim League – Quaid (PML-Q) chief Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain on Monday said that the issue of Karachi was political and may be resolved by politicians.

SC should take action on Mirza’s disclosures: Qayyum

CHAKWAL: Ex-Chairman Pakistan Steel Mills and defence analyst Lt.Gen(R) Abdul Qayyum has said that Supreme Court should take notice on the revelations made by Zulfiqar Mirza as he opened debate on important national security issues.

Security beefed up ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr

PESHAWAR: The provincial government has taken strict and vigilant security measures against any possible acts of terrorism n Eid-ul-Fitr, with ban on entrance of heavy vehicles on important highways.

Security threat: Asfandyar not to visit Charsadda on Eid

PESHAWAR: The security agencies have denied to grant clearance to President of ANP Asfandyar Wali Khan for celebrating Eid at his native town at Charsada due to security threats so he will celebrate Eid at Peshawar.

Nisar demands judicial commission, NA debate on Mirza’s statement

ISLAMABAD: Opposition leader Chaudhary Nisar Ali Khan has said that a responsible leader of ruling party has not only exposed the entire government but also unveiled the intentions of some political leaders. Now the whole nation wants to know the truth.

ANP Sindh concerned over Zulfiqar Mirza’s outburst

KARACHI: Awami National Party met here today under the chair of ANP Sindh President Shahi Sayed and asked Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) to explain everything satisfactorily regarding the allegations leveled by Zulfiqar Mirza.

Pakistan train attack 'kills three, wounds 16'

QUETTA, Pakistan - Gunmen ambushed a passenger train in southwestern Pakistan on Sunday, killing three people and wounding 16 others, officials said.

Pakistan's Karachi faces tension after resignation

A ruling party minister in Pakistan's violence-plagued city of Karachi resigned Sunday, charging that the city's largest political party was behind the bloodshed and its leader was a "killer", allegations that could spark more trouble.

Pakistan court orders Pervez Musharraf's property seized

A Pakistan court has ordered that former President Pervez Musharraf's property be seized and his bank accounts frozen in connection with the legal case concerning the assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.

Torture cell closed, 20 held in Liyari operation

Search operation in Liyari has been concluded by the rangers successfully with 20 arrests and closure of torture cells.
Heavy contingents of Rangers took part in the 6-hour operation launched in the early hours. 20 suspects have been arrested in the operation while two torture cells have been closed down.

Speaker forms 17-member NA committee on Karachi, Quetta situation

Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has constituted a Special Committee on Law and Order situation in Karachi (Sindh) and Quetta (Balochistan). Notification to this effect has been issued by the National Assembly Secretariat on Sunday.

Karachi operations conducted without discrimination: Rehman Malik

Interior Minister Rehman Malik has said on Sunday that the government has proved that it is possible to conduct targeted operations in Karachi without any discrimination.

Cross-border attacks can damage relation: PM Gilani

Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that the possibility of foreign elements involved in the situation in Karachi and Balochistan can not be ignored.

Police fails to recover Shahbaz Taseer

The joint investigation team has been unable to locate Shahbaz Taseer, son of former Punjab governor Salman Taseer, who was kidnapped on Friday from Gulberg area of Lahore.

Forces can’t solve Karachi issue, say Shujaat

Muslim League-Q Chief Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain has said that Karachi’s problem is a political issue, only politicians could solve it and added that army, rangers or police force could not resolve this issue.

8 killed in firing on Quetta Express

At least 5 passengers have been killed and 18 got injuries when miscreants opened fire at Quetta Express near Mach city of Balochistan, when train was on its way to Quetta on Sunday.

PESCO negligence: Women, two children died

A woman and two children have been died when main power line fell on them in a Peshawar area.

Dr. Zulfiqar Mirza resigns from cabinet, Sindh Assembly, party posts

KARACHI: Sindh senior minister and PPP leader Dr Zulfiqar Mirza has resigned from party office, ministership and Sindh Assembly seat against the target killings, extortion and internal party policies.

Pak can face any threat to its national interests: PM Gilani

LAHORE: Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Sunday some elements did not want amicable relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan and were creating disturbance. He said this while condemning the cross-border attack held in Chitral a few days back.

The prime minister expressed the hope that relations between the two neighbouring countries would strengthen in near future and “such incidents cannot affect the brotherly ties between the two countries.”

People are waiting keenly for end of ‘Don’ Altaf: Muhajir Qaumi Movement

ISLAMABAD: If sensitive departments and police would indicate the real elements behind targeted killing in Karachi in the Supreme Court, then it is sure that the mafia, which has spread its legs from Karachi to London and involved in carnage would be unveiled.

4 killed, 18 injured in Quetta Express tragedy

QUETTA: Atleast three persons were killed and 18 sustained injuries on Sunday, when unknown armed men opened unprovoked firing on train, Quetta Express which was going to Rawalpindi from Quetta via Peshawar.

Karachi crisis, purely political in nature: Shujaat

KARACHI: The president of PML-Q, Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain has said that Karachi crisis was of a purely political nature, hence only politicians should resolve it.

Toll climbs 37 in Chitral attack

CHITRAL: The toll of martyrs in cross-border attack on Pak posts near Chitral has mounted to 37 as 5 more bodies were recovered on Sunday.

Army continues rescue, relief operation in flood-hit Kohistan: ISPR

KOHISTAN: Rescue and relief operation is under way in flood-hit Kohistan, where dozens of people were killed in recent days, military said on Sunday.

Scores arrested, two torture cells unearthed in Lyari

KARACHI: In a bid to restore peace in Karachi, heavy contingent of rangers conducted a targeted operation in restive Lyari area on Sunday.

The operation lasted around eight hours. According to rangers, two torture cells and cache of arms were recovered from Lyari. Rangers said 80 suspects have been apprehended.

Mirza’s revelations, accusations shock the nation: Imran

ISLAMABAD: Imran Khan, Chairman PTI, has expressed shock at the revelations and accusations made by PPP leader Zulfiqar Mirza who is a close confidant of President Asif Zardari.

KPK govt for separate electricity quotas for AJK, FATA

PESHAWAR: The Provincial government OF Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa (KPK) has referred to federal government for detaching FATA and AJK from PESCO (Peshawar electric supply Co).

3 killed, 18 injured in Quetta Express tragedy

QUETTA: Atleast three persons were killed and 18 sustained injuries on Sunday, when unknown armed men opened unprovoked firing on train, Quetta Express which was going to Rawalpindi from Quetta via Peshawar.

NA Speaker finalizes 17-member parliamentary committee to review situation of Karachi, Balochistan

ISLAMABAD: Speaker NA Fehmida Mirza has finalized the 17-member parliamentary committee to review the deteriorating law and order situation of Karachi and Balochistan.

Islamabad police devises special traffic plan

ISLAMABAD: Islamabad Traffic Police devised a special traffic plan for Chand Raat and Eid-ul-Fitr and decided to carry out special security measures around markets, shopping centers, public places and mosques for the normal traffic flow.

2 children electrocuted

PESHAWAR: High-tension wires snapped and fell on Sunday that electrocuted two kids in Khushhal Town.

Karachi search operation: Rangers held several from Lyari

KARACHI: Several people were arrested when Rangers’ personnel cordoned off Lyari and carried out a grand search operation against miscreants in the locality while five persons were killed in firing incident in Nayabad area on early Sunday.

Flood sweeps away 4 in Khyber Agency

KHYBER AGENCY: At least 4 people were killed and several wounded as heavy rains hit the agency, officials said on Sunday.

According to media reports, three women,

Special prayers offered on 27th night of Ramazan

KARACHI: Muslims on Saturday observed a holy night which falls between Ramazan 26 and 27, in the city with religious fervour and respect.

HEC extends deadline for applicants of indigenous fellowship programme

ISLAMABAD:The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has asked the applicants, who have submitted their online forms under the scholarship scheme “Indigenous 5000 PhD Fellowship” Batch-VII ,

Torrential Rain, Floods Kill at Least 42 in Pakistan

Pakistani officials say massive floods triggered by torrential rain have killed at least 42 people in the country's northwest.

26 Pakistan troops die in cross-border attack

A Pakistani police official says the number of paramilitary soldiers and police killed in a cross-border attack by hundreds of militants from Afghanistan has risen to 26.

Conn. Sen. Blumenthal on Pakistan mission

HARTFORD, Conn.—U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, on his first mission abroad as a senator, said Friday he and three other congressional members are urging Pakistani officials to stop the flow of materials into Afghanistan that are being used to make deadly roadside bombs.

Supreme Court Shifts violence case in Karachi registry

Supreme Court of Pakistan (SC) has sought detailed reports from the Attorney General (AG), advocate general of Sindh and Inspector General Police Sindh with details of target killings in Karachi.

Balochistan: strike observed on Nawab death anniversary

Fifth anniversary of former governor Balochistan and leader of the Bugti tribe, Nawab Akbar khan Bugti was observed in Balochistan on Friday with a complete shutter-down in different areas of Balochistan including Quetta.

JI observes Karachi Solidarity day

Karachi Solidarity Day was observed on the Jumatul Wida all over the country on the appeal of the Jamaat e Islami Chief, Syed Munawar Hasan.

Rangers empowered to take action: Rehman Malik

Interior Minister Rehman Malik has said that Rangers have been empowered to take action anywhere and anytime.

During the visit of Korangi federal minister said that more than 12 suspects have been arrested during a house-to-house search operation launched in various areas of Karachi.

SC takes special Security steps in Karachi registry

Special security arrangements in Supreme court Karachi branch registry have been taken for the hearing Karachi violence case.

According to statement issued by SC for proper Court decorum and smooth functioning of the Supreme Court, entry into Court room No 1 at Branch Registry Karachi on 29.08.2011 (Monday),

PM approves additional benches of NIRC for Sukkur, Multan

Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Friday has approved the establishment of additional benches of National Industrial Relations Commission (NIRC)

Finance Division allows resumption of NCA allowance

As per directions of the Prime Minister, the Finance Division has allowed the resumption of NCA Allowance to the employees of National College of Arts Lahore on the rates,  Lecturers Rs. 5,000 per month,

PNCA organizes National Exhibition of Calligraphy

A National Exhibition of Calligraphy organized by Pakistan National Council of the Arts began at National Art Gallery Islamabad on Friday. The event, which is a regular annual feature of PNCA in the last week of Ramzan every year, is aimed at promoting and projecting this fine art form.

Swat: attack on mosque foiled

An attempt of a suicide attack on a mosque was foiled as the people of Aman Lashkar killed attacker here on Friday.

Pakistan values ties with Azerbaijan, says Naek

Chairman Senate, Farooq H. Naek has said that Pakistan greatly values its close brotherly relations with Azerbaijan which is based on historical, cultural and religious commonality.

Violent incidents claim 5 lives in Swat

At least five people including a woman have been shot dead in separate incidents of violence in scenic Swat valley on Friday, police said. 

The police said that a man killed his daughter, Samina, and Muhammad Akram with the help of his sons in the name of honor in Kalam. 

In another incident, unidentified assailants killed three people in Bahrain town of Swat. The victims were identified as Khush Rang, Sanaullah and Mohdam Ayaz. 

Salman Taseer’s son abducted from Lahore

LAHORE: Sahahbaz Taseer, son of slain ex-governor Punjab Salman Taseer has been abducted from Lahore’s Gulburg area on Friday.

According to initial Reports, son of Taseer was traveling with his friend when four armed men abducted them on gunpoint and later released Shahbaz’s friend.

FIR of Shahbaz Taseer’s abduction registered

LAHORE: Police have registered an FIR into abduction of Shahbaz Taseer, son of the late governor of Punjab Salman Taseer at Gulberg police station under the registration no 1036/11. According to media reports, police have registered the case on the complaint of Ayesha, aunt of the abductee.

Khosa terms Taseer’s abduction failure of Punjab govt

LAHORE: Punjab Governor Sardar Latif Khan Khosa, Friday, expressed serious concerns over the law and order situation in the province and termed the abduction of Shahbaz Taseer, son of the late governor of Punjab Salman Taseer, reflective of the poor state of law and order in the province.

CJP sends letter to President pointing out 7 charges of corruption, irregularities against AGP

ISLAMABAD: Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry has written a letter to President Asif Ali Zardari in connection with appointment of Buland Akhtar Rana as Auditor General of Pakistan (AGP) pointing out 7 allegations of corruption and irregularities against him.

HRCP condemns abduction of Taseer

LAHORE: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed alarm at the abduction of Shahbaz Taseer, son of assassinated Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer, and called upon the government to ensure his early and safe recovery.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Commission said: “HRCP is alarmed by the abduction of Shahbaz Taseer, which highlights the government’s inability to afford security and protection even to those known to be at high risk.”

Civil bureaucracy holds key to improve lot of common man, changing destiny of nation: PM Gilani

ISLAMABAD: PM, Yousaf Raza Goilani has said that the leadership in the civil bureaucracy held the key to improving the lot of the common man and changing the destiny of this Nation.

PM giving bad name to Multan: Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan

ISLAMABAD: Opposition leader in National Assembly Ch Nisar Ali Khan has expressed his sorrow over the bad reputation PM has caused to his own hometown through picking corrupt persons (for key posts) from the city which is otherwise known as home to Sufis and saints.

In a press release issued here Friday, the opposition leader said that it was not the fault of Multan City,

Quetta shuts down to mark 5th death anniversary of Nawab Akbar Bugti

QUETTA: The Fifth death anniversary of Nawab Akbar Bugti was observed as a black day in Balochistan on Friday.

A shutter-down strike is being observed in Quetta and other parts of Balochistan on the call of baloch nationalists parties. Tight security arrangements have been and contingents of police,

CJ seeks early resolution of Karachi issue

ISLAMABAD: Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry Friday expressed grave concerns over uncontrolled volatile situation in Karachi, saying the governmental apparatus seemed to have broken down in the city to contain violence.

President urges ADB to start financing Diamer Bhasha Dam

LAHORE: Director General Health services Dr Aslma ch has said that the dengue situation of Punjab is under control, while the diagnosis and treatment facilities are provided free of cost to everyone with out any discrimination.

Ammonium nitrate smuggling from Pak of concern: US General

WASHINGTON: A top American general in Afghanistan has expressed serious concern over the continued smuggling of ammonium nitrate, a key ingredient for making bombs, from Pakistan into the strife-torn country.

Complete independence of Palestine Abbas to take up issue at UN on September 28: Ambassador

ISLAMABAD: Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan Hazem Hussain Abu Shanab Friday said that Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas would take the issue of independent Palestine to the United Nation on September 28.

World should remember sacrifices of Pakistan: Farzana Raja

BEIJING: Federal Minister and Chairperson Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Madame Farzana Raja met Chinese vice Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin here in Beijing and discussed avenues of bilateral cooperation in social sector.

President, PM directs IG Punjab to recover abducted Shahbaz Taseer

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday telephoned the widow of former governor Punjab Salman Taseer and said all out efforts would be made to recover her kidnapped son.

Senator Abidi denies having issued statement against PTCL

ISLAMABAD: PPP Central leader Senator Faisal Raza Abidi has strongly condemned statements published in some section of media quoting a news agency (not Online), that he (Abidi) had given any statement against PTCL or any individual.

The senator said the PTCL was the country’s leading telecom company and doing a great work.

Monsoon rains trigger floods, kill 33 in Pakistan

Flash floods triggered by heavy monsoon rains swept through a village in northwestern Pakistan, killing 33 people and leaving dozens others missing, disaster management officials said Friday.

Punjab Governor's son Shahbaz Taseer is kidnapped in Lahore

Lahore:  Shahbaz Taseer, son of Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer - who was killed for opposing Pakistan's controversial blasphemy laws - was today abducted by four gunmen near his office here.

Pakistan says suspected US drone down near border

A spokesman for Pakistan's paramilitary force says a suspected U.S. surveillance drone has crashed in a military area near the Afghan border.

But NATO says it has no report of such an incident.

Libyan Embassy in Pakistan raises rebel flag

The Libyan Embassy in Pakistan has raised the rebel flag above its compound in Islamabad following the fall of Moammar Gadhafi's 42-year autocratic regime.

Coalition partners responsible for Karachi violence: Shahbaz Sharif

Chief Minister Punjab Mian Shahbaz Sharif has said that the coalition partners are responsible for worsen situation of Karachi and peace cannot be restored till the punishment to the of miscreants who are killing innocent citizens.

Bomb Disposal Squad declares Supreme Court as safe zone after bomb threat

The Supreme Court premises have been declared safe zone by the Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) after checking the grounds for an explosive device on Thursday.

Sectarian, ethnic, political elements, extortionists, drug & land mafia behind recent incidents of violence in Karachi: Rehman Malik

Interior Minister Rehman Malik has said that sectarian, ethnic and political elements, extortionists and drug and land mafia are behind the recent incidents of violence in Karachi.

Zardari signs an amendment in Senate (Election) Rules 1975 to reserve four seats for non-Muslims in Senate

President Asif Ali Zardari has signed an amendment in the Senate (Election) Rules 1975 to reserve four seats for the non-Muslims in the Upper House of the Parliament.

MQM assures full cooperation to SC in Karachi violence case

Mutahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) has assured the Supreme Court (SC) of rendering full cooperation in the hearing of the suo motu notice case of violence in Karachi.

Removal of Sindh Governor, ousting MQM from ruling alliance essential to bring Karachi situation under control: Munawar Hasan

The Jamaat-e-Islami Amir Syed Munawar Hasan has said that Karachi situation could be improved only by removing the Sindh Governor, forcing the MQM to sit on the opposition benches in the Sindh Assembly, putting behind the bars all law breakers and starting their trial in the law courts. He was replying to questions at the concluding ceremony of the Daura-e-Quran organized by the JI women wing on Thursday.

Decision to start search operation in Karachi was not easy for democratic govet: Chandio

Federal Minister for Law and Justice Maula Bukhsh Chandio has said that to take decision of Karachi search operation for the democratic government was not so easy, adding that the Sindh government step has full backing of the masses.

Talking to media persons at parliament house after participating in the Senate Standing Committee on Privileges, Maula Bukhsh Chandio said that the government is facing no difficulties regarding the judiciary, adding that the judiciary is announcing verdicts independently.

Zardari to leave for three-day China visit on 30th of this month: FO

President Asif Ali Zardari will undertake a three day visit to China from 30th of this month to attend China-Euro-Asia Expo being held in Urumqi.

33 die in Kohistan flood

At least 33 people have been killed in devastating flash floods in Kandiyan Valley of Kohistan.

CM Sindh summons APC today

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah has called all-parties conference today (Friday) over law and order situation in Karachi.

SHC accepts Rangers personnel appeals in Sarfaraz murder case

Sindh High Court (SHC) has accepted the pleas of the convicted Rangers’ personnel for the hearing in the Sarfaraz Shah murder and would hear the appeal against the verdict of Anti Terrorism Court (ATC).

Only eight patents plate let were short from 1000 CBS tests in Services Hospital during last 24 hours: Dr Javed

During the last 24 hours Services Hospital has conducted nearly 1000 CBS tests for the preliminary treatment of the dengue virus and after the tests only eight patients plate let were found less than requirement.

Special powers of rangers’ extended for three months in Karachi

Special powers of Rangers have been extended for three more months to deal with the situation in Karachi. Provincial Home Ministry has issued a notification to this effect.

President approves confirmation of seven additional judges of LHC, PHC

President Asif Ali Zardari approved the confirmation of seven additional judges of the Lahore and Peshawar High Courts on Thursday.

Shopping trend starts getting momentum in Sialkot district for Eidul Fitr

The shopping trend has started getting momentum in Sialkot, Daska, Sambrial and Pasror as rush of the families especially women and children is being observed at all the main markets, business points after Traveeh prayers.

National interest dearest, peace in Karachi, a foremost desire: PM Gilani

ISLAMABAD: PM, Yousaf Raza Gilani has expressed that National interest was dearest to government, and peace in Karachi was foremost desire, which necessitated the recent operation.

President signs amendment: Upper house to have one non-Muslim member from each province

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari Thursday signed, at a ceremony, amendment in the Senate (Election) Rules 1975 in compliance with provision in the 18th Constitutional Amendment to reserve four seats for the non-Muslims in the Upper House of the Parliament--the Senate of Pakistan.

Sardar Yaqoob Khan sworn in as AJK president

MUZAFFARABAD: Sardar Yaqoob Khan was sworn in as the 8th president of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

According to Media Reports, Chief Justice Azad Kashmir Chaudhry Azam administered oath to Sardar Yaqoob Khan at the AJK Legislative Assembly building.

Military operation affects 25,000 people in Kurram Agency

KURRAM AGENCY: As many as 25000 people were affected during the military operation carried out in Central Kurram Agency said Political Agent (PA) Kurram Shahab Ali and Commandant Militia Colonel Sharjeel.

Pakistan respects Libya’s sovereignty, India should end the atrocities in IHK: FO

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan respects sovereignty and territorial integrity of Libya even in a transition which is being closely monitored, said Foreign Office Spokesperson Tehmina Janjua during her weekly media briefing.

ADB’s Vice President meets Prime Minister

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has appreciated the role of the Asian Development Bank in undertaking the projects in various sectors in Pakistan and expected that this partnership would continue, so critical for improving the quality of life of the people of Pakistan.

India, Pak should learn to live with each other: Hina Rabbani Khar

BEIJING: India and Pakistan should learn to live with each other’s positions and talk so that "issues" between the two countries do not pass on to the next generation, Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar has said.

Army Chief General Kayani arrives in Karachi

KARACHI:Army Chief General Ashfaq Pervez Kayani arrived in Karachi on Thursday morning.

Bloodiest wave of terrorism in Karachi takes 106 lives

KARACHI: Last week has proven to be the bloodiest week in the history of Karachi, in which 15 persons per day and 106 people in the whole week were killed.

BISP, China to collaborate for emergency relief package to tackle impacts of disasters

BEIJING: Federal Minister and Chairperson Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Farzana Raja said that China would provide emergency relief package to tackle natural disastrous impacts.

India frees seven Pakistanis

LAHORE: Indian authorities handed over seven Pakistanis to the rangers at Wagah Border Thursday after they completed their sentence in jails.

Khar committed to establishing stable, peaceful relationship with neighbors

BEIJING: Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar has said that “when a new challenge emerges, it only bring China and Pakistan more closer.

Suo motto: MQM vows all-out support to SC

ISLAMABAD: MQM has said it would fully assist Supreme Court with regards to suo motto notice of Karachi carnage.

Speaking to the media in Islamabad, MQM leader Farooq Sattar said he along with Haider Abbas Rizvi met Supreme Court Registrar Faqeer Hussain to ask what assistant the party should extend to help the court do justice.

Qaim for, Sharjeel against APC on Karachi situation

KARACHI: Chief Minister Qaim Ali Shah has called All-Parties Conference for Friday to discuss Karachi situation.

A Sindh government spokesman said that Chief Minister Qaim Ali Shah has decided to call APC in order to brainstorm with the leaders of key parties to restore peace in the city.

BHC disqualifies Senator Muhammad Ali Rind

QUETTA: Balochistan High Court (BHC) has declared NAB convicted senator Muhammad Ali Rind disqualified.

Akram Baloch of National Party had filed constitutional petition against senator Muhammad Ali Rind and it was pursued by Nadir Chalakri advocate.

Two decomposed dead bodies recovered from Turbat

QUETTA/TURBAT: Two dead bodies were recovered form Gogadan area of Turbat, one of them is said to be decomposed dead body of the nephew of leader of National party Ayub Baledi Shaheed.

Operational training must to meet future challenges: Rao

SARGODHA: The nature of aerial warfare continues to change and increase in complexity oth in area of operations and scale of hostilities adding that our force structure and operational training must continue to evolve progressively to meet the future challenges .

Haideri for joint efforts to foil anti-state elements designs

ISLAMABAD: Opposition leader in senate Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haidri has said government and law enforcement agencies have failed miserably to ensure protection of life and property of people of Karachi , therefore, all political and social forces should evolve joint mechanism to foil nefarious designs of anti state elements.

33 killed as flood wreaks havoc in Kundiyaan

KOHISTAN: At least thirty-three people have killed, dozens have gone missing and more than eighty houses have been destroyed as flood wreaked havoc in Kundiyaan, area of Kohistan here on Thursday.

Monsoon rains trigger floods, kill Six in Pakistan

Police say flash floods triggered by heavy monsoon rains have swept through a village in northwest Pakistan, killing six people and leaving a dozen others missing.

Pakistanis in denial 10 years after 9/11

The young Pakistani officer sighs when he thinks about what happened to Osama bin Laden. "Was he really here?" he says. "All that, it's like 9/11, we don't even know if it really happened."

Taliban fight takes heavy toll on Pakistani troops

Capt. Qasim Abbas had finished a six-month stint fighting the Taliban close to the Afghan border and was heading home to get engaged when the militants struck, ambushing his convoy, pitching his vehicle off a 90-foot cliff and leaving him with brain injuries that make speaking and walking a daily battle.

Pakistani police deny kidnapped American freed

A Pakistani police chief denied Thursday that a kidnapped development expert had been safely recovered, only hours after saying that officers had freed the American in an early morning operation.

Federal Cabinet endorses decision of Sindh Govt for targeted & across the board operation in nine areas of Karachi

Federal Cabinet has endorsed decision of the Sindh Government for targeted and across the board operation in nine areas of Karachi.

SC to hear Karachi target killing case tomorrow

Supreme Court of Pakistan (SC) has constituted five-member larger bench for hearing of suo moto notice taken regarding Karachi target killing and notices has been issued to attorney general of Pakistan, president supreme court bar association and president Sindh high court bar association to appear and assist the court in Karachi target killings case fixed tomorrow (Friday).

People calling army deployment in Karachi are not well wishers of army: Chaudhry Nisar

Leader of the Opposition in National Assembly Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan has said that those people who are calling army deployment in Karachi are nor well wishers of army, adding that if the army would enter into the thick streets of the city it would not be abler to come out again.

Pak-China agree to further bolster ties

Pakistan and China have agreed to further bolster their cooperation in different fields including economic and defense.

Nine areas identified for operation: Wassan

Provincial Home Minister Manzoor Hussain Wassan has said that nine different areas of Karachi have been identified to launch a ‘surgical operation’ at the initial stage and every possible step would be taken to restore peace in the city.

Unknown gunmen kill seven hunters in Musakhel

Seven hunters have been killed by unidentified gunmen in Musa kingri area an adjoining area of district Musakhel in Balochistan province here on Wednesday.

Senator Abbas, Raheela Baloch calls on Gilani

Senator Abbas Khan Afridi and Ms. Raheela Baloch, MNA separately called on Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani at Prime Minister’s Secretariat here on Wednesday.

Chairman PAC dissolves sub-committees

Chairman Public Accounts Committee (PAC) Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan has dissolved all the PAC’s special and sub-committees, criticizing the appointment of Akhter Buland Rana as the Auditor General of Pakistan.

IPDF & CDA join hands to develop waste to energy for Islamabad on Public Private Partnership basis

In order to address the current and future problems related to solid waste management in the city, CDA in collaboration with Infrastructure Project Development Facility (IPDF) has a conceived a modern Municipal Solid Waste Management Project under public private partnership model.

ATC acquits 34 accused of Anjum Aqeel case

An Anti Terrorist Court (ATC) of Rawalpindi has acquitted 34 accused who were included into the FIR later in Anjum Aqeel escape case.

Two Germans kidnapped in Afghanistan

Afghan officials have said that fears are growing that two Germans who went missing after setting off to climb snow-capped mountains in war-torn Afghanistan could have been kidnapped.

Cabinet approves operation in 9 areas against target killers in Karachi

ISLAMABAD: Federal cabinet while endorsing Sindh government decisions has accorded approval to conduct targeted operation in 9 areas of Karachi.

4 alleged target killers, two extortionists physically remanded to police custody

KARACHI: Subordinate courts of Karachi have physically remanded four alleged target killers and two extortionists into police custody.

Surgical operation continues in Karachi: 83 miscreants arrested

KARACHI: Rangers and Police have recovered illegal weapons and drugs from 83 miscreants in Karachi on Wednesday while Interior Minister Rehman Malik has vowed that people sabotaging peace in Karachi would be brought before the public and the miscreants would be dealt with iron hand Police.

LHC cancels bail of 9 accused of Sialkot lynching

LAHORE: A division bench of the Lahore High Court has cancelled bail to nine accused in the Sialkot lynching incident on Wednesday.

Pakistan facing difficulties in meeting its energy requirements: President Zardari

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari Wednesday directed that procedural formalities concerning Guddu & Uch transmission line projects should be completed in time so that the signing agreement could take place in September this year.

This he said when a leading Chinese company dealing in power transmission projects called on him at the Aiwan-e-Sadr.

The delegation was headed by Ye Jun, the head of the company called TBEA. He was accompanied by Country representative of TBEA in Pakistan Mr.Zhou Liliang and Mr. Chen Qinliang.

Pak side included Syed Naveed Qamar, Federal Minister for Water & Power,Secretary General Mr. M. Salman Faruqui, Secretaries Finance and Economic Affairs divisions, Chairman WAPDA Mr. Shakeel Durrani, and other senior officials.

The President said that Pakistan was facing difficulties in meeting its energy requirements. To improve energy resources, the President said, we are focused on building mega hydropower projects in Diamer Bhasha and Bunji. The President said that developing Thar coal fields and electricity generation through gasification of coal was also on cards to meet energy requirements.

The President, during the meeting, appreciated TBEA’s interest in Pakistan and its $3.5 billion agreement with Pakistan’s NTDC (National Transmission & Despatch Company) and China Development Bank to supply transmission equipment to Pakistan. He also welcomed company’s interest in acquiring Heavy Electrical Complex saying that the greater business ventures of the company in the country would contribute towards further strengthening Pak-China relationship.

Zardari to visit China on 29th

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari would visit China on August 29 where he would sign different projects with China.

Pakistan and China would struck various projects including making Gilgit-Baltistan economic zone, to construct gas and railway line on Shahra-e-Karakuram,

Hina calls on Chinese Premier

BEIJING: Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar called on Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao in Beijing on Wednesday.

According to state media, the duo discussed bilateral relations and matters of mutual interest.

Ch Nisar lambasts appointment of AG: dissolves special, sub committees of PAC

ISLAMABAD: Chairman Public Accounts Committee, Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan vehemently criticizing the appointment of Akhtar Buland Rana as Auditor General by the government has dissolved all special and sub-committees of Public Accounts Committee here on Wednesday.

Anjum escape case: 34 accused set free

RAWALPINDI: A local Anti-Terrorism Court Wednesday released 34 accused including Pakistan Muslim League’s MNA Anjum Aqeel in case of escape from police custody.

Nawaz meets King Abdullah

MAKKAH: PML-N Chief Nawaz Sharif met Saudi King Shah Abdullah in Makkah to discuss bilateral relationship and various other affairs of mutual interest.

SC issues notices to AG, Presidents SCBA and SHCBA

ISLAMABAD: Supreme Court (SC) has issued notices to Attorney General for Pakistan to appear and submit a comprehensive report about the incidents which have been taking place in Karachi for the last more than one month.

President confirms additional judges of LHC, PHC

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday confirmed four additional judges of the Peshawar High Court (PHC) and three additional judges of the Lahore High Court (LHC).

’UK wants every Pakistani kid at school’

ISLAMABAD: UK wants every Pakistani kid of school going age to study at school even by supporting low cost private education pacing up British educational assistance to Pakistan.

Rulers do not want to restore peace in Karachi: Nisar

ISLAMABAD: Opposition leader in National Assembly, Chaudhary Nisar Ali Khan has said that the rulers are playing stage drama on Karachi situation to hoodwink the people. Parties in government alliance are behind every gang involved in fighting.

In his statement on Wednesday he said that if once army would enter into narrow and dark streets of Karachi, it could neither stay there nor come out from it. Those who decide to hand over Karachi to army are not well-wishers of armed forces. Karachi would prove a trap for army , which would have the dare consequences for the country as well as Pak army.

President sends bouquet to injured KP minister

PESHAWAR: On special directives of President Asif Ali Zardari, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Senior Minister for Planning & Development, Rahim Dad Khan visited the residence of Minister Education, Sardar Hussain Babak at Peshawar and presented him a bouquet on behalf of the President of Pakistan.

Asma Jahangir opposes calling in army at Karachi

ISLAMABAD: President Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) Asma Jahangir has opposed calling in army in Karachi saying the fundamental rights of people will stand suspended on the arrival of army.

USAID plans to launch training for 8 DISCOs employees

ISLAMABAD: The US Government sponsored Power Distribution Improvement Program (PDIP) has prepared a comprehensive trainings program for the employees of eight power sector distribution companies (DISCOs) starting immediately after Eid in September.

Provincial govt fails to protect Pakhtuns’ rights: Sherpao

PESHAWAR: Chairman, Pakistan People’s Party (Sherpao), Aftab Ahmed Khan Sherpao has demanded that the arrears of Net Hydel Profit should be given in accordance with the principles of AGN Qazi Formula.

Senate committee approves bill on fresh demarcations of new constituencies

ISLAMABAD: Senate standing committee on law and justice has unanimously approved amendment bill on fresh demarcation of proposed constituencies.

Karachi bleeding; PM telephones Malik

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani on Wednesday telephoned Rehman Malik and discussed with him unremitting situation of Karachi and the ongoing operation against militants.

UET Professor wins Prime Minister Award for Research work

LAHORE: Professor Dr Zahid Ahmed Siddique, Head of Department of Civil Engineering, University of Engineering and Technology, won Prime Minister Award for conducting research on "Bond strength of Model Steel and other steel".

SHC adjourns hearing of Afaq’s petition

KARACHI: A single bench of Sindh High Court (SHC) adjourned the hearing of petition, filed by the chief of MQM -H Afaq Ahmed for quashment of proceeding in murder case against him.

PM greets Ukrainian counterpart on National Day

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has greeted the Prime Minister of Ukraine Mykola Azarov on their National Day on Wednesday.

Political parties submit representations for committee investigating Karachi, Balochistan crisis

ISLAMABAD: Political parties have submitted names of their representatives for committee formed to investigate the deteriorating law and order situation in Karachi and Balochistan.

UK High Commissioner awards Chevening scholarships to Pakistanis

ISLAMABAD: UK High Commissioner to Pakistan, Mr. Adam Thomson, hosted a reception at the British High Commission to present certificates to 23 Pakistanis awarded with Chevening Scholarship to study in Britain in 2011-12.

Farzana signs 2 vital MoUs with Chinese organizations

BEIJING: Federal Minister and Chairperson Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Farzana Raja has signed two significant MoUs with Chinese organizations working in the field of public welfare, education economy and energy.

President promulgates new Ordinance for Health personnel Doctors remain public servants, their perks revamped

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari Wednesday singed the Career Structure for Health Personnel (CSHP) Ordinance there by giving incentives to the doctors while retaining their status as public servants.   Briefing the media persons, spokesperson to the President Farhatullah Babar said the Ordinance addressed the longstanding demand of medical practitioners and was applicable to the doctors under the federal government.

Three arrested in Pakistan over US man's abduction

Police say they have arrested three people suspected of belonging to the gang that abducted a 70-year-old American development expert in Pakistan earlier this month.

Pakistan mounts operation against Karachi killings

Pakistan police and paramilitary rangers have launched a major operation in the biggest city Karachi to quell bloodshed that has claimed more than 100 lives in the past week, officials said Wednesday.

Pakistan, China ties are unique: Hina Rabbani Khar

Islamabad : Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar, who is on a visit to Beijing, has said Pakistan and China enjoy a unique relationship and dialogue was an ongoing process between the two countries.

Talking to mediapersons on arrival in Beijing, Khar said the leadership of both countries had invested immensely for the enhancement of existing strong bonds of friendship.

Khar arrived late Tuesday evening on a two-day visit at the invitation of her Chinese counterpart Yang Jiechi.

She said President Asif Ali Zardari was carrying forward the ties to new heights by frequently visiting China, reported Associated Press of Pakistan.

Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani also paid several visits, she added.

She pointed out that Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao's visit to Pakistan in December last year was historic as it helped in further enhancing the bilateral relations.

The foreign minister said the visit of Premier Wen played an important role in further deepening the the strong relationship.

Khar said: "The relationship strongly exists among peoples and governments of two countries and now we want to commensurate these ties with trade, economic and investment cooperation."

Target killers, extortionists asked to leave Karachi: Rehman Malik

KARACHI: Interior Minister Rehman Malik said on Tuesday that target killers and extortionists will not be forgiven and that both will be punished equally.

Pak, US share common objectives in region: President Zardari

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari in a meeting with the US delegation on Tuesday said that Pakistan and United States shared common objectives in the region for stabilizing peace.

PM Gilani calls for taking US-Pakistan relations beyond anti-terror fight

ISLAMABAD: Senator Carl Levin, Chairman Armed Services Committee called on Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani here Tuesday in which the Senator underlined the importance of bringing back US-Pakistan relations on even keel because both the countries were fighting a common enemy.

President appoints Akhtar Buland as new AGP

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Zardari has appointed Akhtar Baland Rana , the new Auditor General of Pakistan.

He was working in BPS-22 in Audit and Accounts Group.

PM Gilani calls Cabinet meeting today over Karachi situation

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has convened the meeting of federal cabinet today (Wednesday) to discuss law and order situation at Karachi in detail.

General Kayani directs best medical facilities for soldiers

RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani Tuesday visited Armed Forces Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine Tuesday and met the officers and soldiers who had sustained injuries involving loss of limbs during active operations.

Zardari urges regional solutions to regional problems CA countries envoys call on President

ISLAMABAD: A delegation comprising ambassadors of the central Asian countries called on President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr on Tuesday.

PAC declares FBR performance unsatisfactory

ISLAMABAD: Special Committee of Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has termed the performance of Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) unsatisfactory saying FBR should rectify its administrative matters within a month.

ECC imposes levy on LPG

ISLAMABAD: Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has approved to impose levy of Rs 10 to Rs12 per kilogram on indigenous production of liquid petroleum gas (LPG).

Fake degree: EC orders registration of case against MPA

ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission (EC) has rejected the appeal of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa MPA Khalifa Abdul Qayyum in fake degree case and ordered to register a case against him.

President, PM issued notices in Mehran base attack case

KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) on Tuesday issued notices to the country’s top political and military leadership in the Mehran base attack case.

Hazare sticks to August 30 deadline for passage of bill

NEW DELHI: Indian activist Anna Hazare on Tuesday stuck to his August 30 deadline for passage of anti-corruption Jan Lokpal Bill and asked his supporters to intensify the protest by blocking the houses of Parliamentarians if government failed to do so.

Addressing his supporters after nearly a break of 40 hours, Hazare, who entered the second week of his fast, accused government of betraying all along the civil society on the issue of a strong Lokpal Bill.

Merging FRs into settled areas: Recommendations sent to Ministry

PESHAWAR: Final recommendations have been sent to ministry of SAFRON for merging FRs into settled areas.

Governor Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa (KPK) Barrister Masood Kausar will give special briefing to the president and prime minister this month on merging FRs into settled areas.

PML-N threatens to move SC on non-devolution of profit earning departments to provinces

ISLAMABAD: Deadlock persists between PML-N and PPP on non handing over of fit earning departments to the provinces in respect of the ministries devolved to them under 18th amendment and PML-N has threatened to move Supreme Court on this matter.

Aitzaz sees no harm in deploying army in Karachi

LAHORE: Key member of Pakistan Peoples Party and former president Supreme Court Bar Chaudhry Aitzaz Ahsan favored army’s deployment in violence-hit Karachi and it is not unconstitutional.

UAE embassy hosts iftar dinners

ISLAMABAD: The UAE embassy in Pakistan with the collaboration of UAE charities mainly Red Crescent Authority organized series of extended iftari programs in the holy month of Ramadan in different cities of Pakistan especially Islamabad and Rawalpindi, right from the first of Ramadan.

Zia Mohyeddin calls on President

ISLAMABAD: Chairman of the National Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA) Zia Mohyeddin Tuesday called on President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr.

Farzana signs MoU for provision of scholarship worth $100,000 for BISP beneficiary families

BEIJING: Pakistan and China here Wednesday signed a cooperative Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance the friendship and exchanges between the people of two countries. The MoU was signed by the Federal Minister and the Chairperson of Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) Madame Farzana Raja and Secretary General of China Foundation for Peace and Development (CFPD) Dr. Xu Zhensui. Mr. Masood Khan, Pakistan’s ambassador to China was also present on the occasion.

CDA team to trap aggressive monkeys

ISLAMABAD: An aggressive monkey attack in sector G-6 of the federal Capital leaves seven children injured and is still in Islamabad to make more victims.

Karachi back to normalcy after MQM’s day of mourning

KARACHI: Shops, markets and petrol pumps of the city are being opened after a day’s closure due to the Muttahida Qaumi Movement’s (MQM) day of mourning on Tuesday.

Pak police officer wins ‘International Women Police Peace Award 2011’

NEW YORK: United Nations has decided to confer “International Women Police Peace Award 2011” to Pakistani woman police officer upon her fantabulous performance in UN Peace Mission.

Citizens of Karachi move towards KPK for celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr

PESHAWAR: Citizens of Karachi have started moving towards their native towns in Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa for celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr due to poor law and order conditions in Karachi.

FIR registered against NATO tankers’ torching

QUETTA: The Balochistan government has registered a case against the unidentified people who torched 19 NATO oil supply tankers yesterday near Dasht Tehsil of Mastung in Quetta.

Altaf thankful to workers for peaceful mourning day

KARACHI: Chief, Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), Altaf Hussain paid his deep gratitude to the people of Karachi particularly traders, transporters, industrialists, religious clerics, civil society and political parties for observing a peaceful day of mourning across the country against the bloodshed of innocents in Karachi.

Zafar Baloch wants British, American govts to ban Altaf’s entry

KARACHI: PPPP, Karachi leader, Zafar Baloch has demanded of the British and American governments to declare Altaf Hussain as a terrorist and ban his entry in their country.

Pak, US share common objectives in region: Zardari

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari in a meeting with the US delegation on Tuesday said that Pakistan and United States share common objectives in the region for stabilizing peace.

Zardari hosts Iftaar dinner for Muslim countries’ ambassadors

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari hosted Iftaar dinner for the ambassadors of the Muslim countries here at Aiwan-e-Sadr on Tuesday.

US drone attack kills four militants in Pakistan: officials

A US drone strike targeting a vehicle in Pakistan's northwestern tribal belt on Monday killed at least four militants, local security officials said.

Now Karachi frets over dengue outbreak

At least 14 cases of dengue were detected in Karachi, already battered by a wave of violence, and the authorities are now worried over its outbreak.

Karachi violence claim another 11lives

At least 11 persons were lost their lives in the result of the ongoing target killing incidents here on Monday in Karachi including four employees of Karachi Water and Sewerage Board (KWSB) pushing the toll to 91 in six days. 

ANP hints at parting ways with govt

Awami National Party Khyaber Pakhtoonkhawa President Senator Afrasayab Khattak has hinted at parting ways with the government, adding that the party would discuss the issue in the meeting going to be held on 28th of this month, adding that the party would also discuss the demand of deployment of army in Karachi.

President briefed on up-gradation of telecom sector

A briefing meeting was held in the presidency on Monday on the on the up-gradation of telecom sector of the country.

ECP reminds political parties for submission of details of assets

The Election Commission has once again drawn attention of Political Parties to the provisions of Article 13 of the Political Parties Order, 2002 which provides that every political party shall submit to the Election Commission, within 60 days from the close of each financial year, a consolidated statement of accounts of the party, duly audited by a Chartered Accountant. 

4 Eid holidays

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has approved the summary for four holidays during Eid-ul-Fitr. According to media reports, the Eid holidays will be celebrated from Aug 31 to September 4.

CJP takes suo moto notice of Karachi bloodshed

ISLAMABAD: Chief Justice of Pakistan Iftikhar Muhammad Chuadhry has taken suo moto notice of Karachi unrest where 9 more people have been gunned down on Monday morning.

US refutes reports of its personnel escape from Peshawar

ISLAMABAD: US Embassy on Monday refuted media reports concerning U. S. officials “escape” from a Peshawar motorway check point and taking refuge in the U.S. Consulate in Peshawar

PM directs indiscriminate action against culprits in Karachi

KARACHI: Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani met Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ibad Khan and Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah at Governor’s House in Karachi on Monday and discussed the city’s situation and the measures taken by the provincial government to bring peace to the provincial metropolis.

MQM to observe Day of mourning today

KARACHI: Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) announced Monday that it would peacefully observe a Day of Mourning and Condemnation today (Tuesday) against the killing of innocent citizens in Karachi.

105 vehicles deployed for security of PM meeting

KARACHI: As many as 105 vehicles have been deployed in connection with security of the meeting held here under the Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani in the scenario when massacre is continuing on the other side.

Petition filed in SHC seeking army’s assistance in Karachi

KARACHI: Following a petition filed in Sindh High Court, regarding Army’s assistance in Karachi crisis, a petition has also been filed in the Supreme Court, regarding the issue.

The petitioner, a citizen of Lahore Tariq Asad advocate, while nominating PM, interior minister, chief secretary Sindh, and Provincial home minister Sindh, as defendants has prayed in his constitutional petition that Law and order situation had gone beyond the control of Sindh police and Rangers.

He also cited requests by various political parties, including MQM, ANP, and PML-N, asking for Army’s help in containing the crisis, while federal government was trying to stall the issue under various pretexts.

The petitioner has requested the Apex Court to help maintain law and order in the Metropolis, and while evoking article 232, should declare emergency in Sindh province and order deployment of Army in Karachi in accordance with article 245. Online

September to be more awful, Pagara predicts imposition of martial law

KARACHI: Chief of Pakistan Muslim League-Functional (PML-F), Pir Pagara has predicted that the month of September would prove to be terrible and hinted at imposition of martial law in Karachi in the coming month of September.

ADB to give $36.8m to help overcome energy crises

ISLAMABAD: Asian Development Bank’s (ADP) report revealed that Pakistan’s financial progress had to face huge loss due to acute load shedding and announced to give 36.8 million $ aid by keeping in view the prevailing energy crises in the country.

Tripoli falls to rebels, crowds celebrate in streets

TRIPOLI: Fighters streamed into Tripoli as Muammar Kadhafi’s forces collapsed and crowds took to the streets to celebrate, tearing down posters of the Libyan leader.

PML-N, MQM, JUI-F sends names of their members for inclusion in PC

ISLAMABAD: THREE political parties have sent the names of their members to speaker National Assembly (NA) in connection with parliamentary committee to be constituted to probe into lawlessness in Karachi and Balochistan.

PJC approves regularization of 7 additional judges of high courts

ISLAMABAD: Parliamentary Judicial Committee (PJC) has regularised services of 7 additional judges of Lahore High Court (LHC) and Peshawar High Court (PHC).

ECC to discuss levy on CNG and LPG

ISLAMABAD: An important meeting of Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) would be held today (Tuesday) in which new policy for 2011 regarding LPG and CNG would be discussed.

19 NATO supply tankers torched

MASTUNG: Unknown men set fire to 19 NATO supply tankers, Geo News reported. According to sources, the NATO supply tankers which were transporting oil were attacked by unknown gunmen on the Sibi-Quetta highway.

Dialogue between Parliamentarians of Pakistan, India progressing: Kundi

ISLAMABAD: Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly during his recent visit to India met with Jai Siraiki Community originally hailing from Dera Ismail Khan and who were migrated to India in 1947 at SKR Public School Bohrianwala Thailla, Inderpuri, New Dehli.

Punjab Emergency Service receives 10, 88,235 obnoxious/irrelevant calls

RAWALPINDI: The Punjab Emergency Service, Rescue 1122 received 10, 88,235 obnoxious/irrelevant calls at emergency number 1122 since its inception in District Rawalpindi. The data revealed that out of 10,88,235 obnoxious calls included 537623 calls from girls, 462705 from boys, 32437 from kids, 2460 musical calls, 51450 abusing calls and 1560 were obnoxious/irrelevant calls.

Farzana Raja leaves for China

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister and Chairperson Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Farzana Raja left for People Republic of China on a week visit.

No go area does not exist in Karachi: Malik

KARACHI: Interior minister Rehman Malik has said there is no go area in Karachi and it is essential to de-weaponize the city.

He said this while talking to media men after his meeting with acting DG Rangers Brig Zafar at National Crisis Management Cell here Monday.

Ansar Burney announces Anna Hazare-style anti-corruption campaign in Pakistan

Pakistani human rights and civil rights activist Ansar Burney has announced plans to kick off a massive Anna Hazare-style anti-corruption campaign in Pakistan after Eid.

PM Gilani rules out military action to tackle Karachi bloodbath

Pakistan Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has ruled out the military action in Karachi, saying it was not a solution to the ongoing bloodbath, as the problem could be tackled by other means.

Aaqib Javed should be Pak cricket coach: Mudassar Nazar

Former Pakistani opener and coach Mudassar Nazar feels Aaqib Javed should be the next coach of the national squad, and adds that current coach Waqar Younis can leave the position with his head held high.

FO fails to get visas for 12 Senate members for offering Umrah

Foreign Ministry failed to get visas for the 12 members of the Senate for offering Umrah in Saudi Arabia; meanwhile meeting between Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar and Senate Chairman Farooq Hameed Naek was also remained fruitless.

Senate chairman is very concern over the issue; meanwhile a privilege motion for the investigations of the matter has also been submitted in Senate.

PM Gilani says no hesitation calling in-camera session on Karachi situation

Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that there is no hesitation in calling the in-camera session of the parliament over the Karachi issue, adding that the time of mid-term elections in the country has gone and parliament should complete its constitutional term.

Foreign hands trying to destabilize Karachi: Rehman Malik

Interior Minister Rehman Malik has said that external hands are trying to destabilize Karachi, adding that the government would take every possible step to solve the issues of business community of the city.

Musharraf for military intervention to solve Karachi issue

Former President General (retd.) Pervez Musharraf has supported calls for military intervention in Karachi, where a fresh wave of violence killed over 90 people in a few days. 

Karachi violence claim another 9 lives

Despite government’s claims of action against miscreants, nine more citizens were shot dead in Karachi on Sunday.

According to reports, Shehryar, 10, and Zeshan, 15, were shot and killed in Chanisar Goth locality of Mehmoodabad. While a third person, Tahir, was injured.  An unidentified man was gunned down near Safari Park. 

Sheikh Rashid asks karachiites to take joint action against miscreants

Awami Muslim League (AML) chief Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed has urged the people of Karachi to stand up like India’s Anna Hazare against the present system, adding that all political parties should initiate joint action against the people involved in Karachi target killings. 

JI for ending of political patronage to law-breakers in Karachi

The Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General, Liaquat Baloch, has stressed upon the PPP, the MQM and the ANP to stop patronage of the law breakers in Karachi to pave way for peace in the city.

Solder, 5 militants die in clashes in NWA & SWA

One soldier was killed and seven others suffered injuries in separate militant attacks in restive tribal agencies on Sunday.

The first attack took place in South Waziristan Agency (SWA), where militants attacked a check post, killing one security personal. 

Armed clash between two banned groups claim six lives in Terah Velly

At least six persons were killed and several others injured in the result of the armed clash between the two banned outfits in Terah Velley of Khayber Agency here on Sunday.

Ghafoor Haidery demands resignation of Sindh govt over failure to main law & order in Karachi

Leader of the Opposition in Senate Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haidery has asked the Sindh government to resign immediately by accepting its failure to maintain law and order situation in the Karachi, adding that three coalition partners are responsible for the violence in Karachi.

Musharraf to be convicted in BB murder on 27th August

The former president general (retd) Pervez Musharraf alleged accused in Benazir Bhutto murder case maybe convicted on August 27.

Senate body shows concerns over non-rehabilitation of flood affectees

The Senate Standing Committee on Communication shows concerns over the non-rehabilitation of flood affectees and appealed the internationality community to fulfill its promises of rehabilitation.

Wassan announces compensation money of two million each for three martyred police personnel

Sindh Home Minister Manzoor Hussain Wassan has announced the compensation money of two million rupees for the heirs of each of the policemen martyred in incident of Chakra Goth Korangi.

Nawaz left for SA to perform Umrah with family

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz President Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif on Saturday left for Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah with family.

Police cop deployed in presidency commits suicide

Police constable deployed on security of the Aiwane-e-Sadar has committed suicide after shooting himself.

The high officials after taking the notice of the incident have ordered investigations into the matter.

One died two hurt in result of firing in Quetta; one attacker killed in police firing

At least one person was shot dead while two other sustained critical injuries at Joint Road in the result of the firing of unknown persons; meanwhile one attacker was killed in the result of the firing of police here on Saturday.

Held Kashmir inquiry confirms mass graves

SRINAGAR: An Indian government inquiry has said dozens of graves in Indian Held Kashmir holds more than 2,000 unidentified bodies. According to the media reports, an Indian government inquiry says dozens of unmarked graves in Indian-held Kashmir (IHK) hold more than 2,000 unidentified bodies.

Karachi carnage may result in revenue fall of Rs100 billion

ISLAMABAD: A careful estimate by Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) reveals that this year revenue targets may fall down considerably to Rs 100 billion due to deteriorating law and order situation in Karachi.

India may unblock concessions on Pak products access to EU markets

ISLAMABAD: India is likely to withdraw objection regarding access of Pakistani products to the markets of European Union in the next meeting of WTO’s general council.

Iran sentences 2 US hikers

TEHRAN: The two US citizens arrested more than two years ago while hiking along the Iraq-Iran border have been sentenced to eight years in prison on charges that include espionage.

Pak moves Court of Arbitration over Kishenganga project

NEW DELHI: Pakistan has moved the Court of Arbitration asking it to direct India to stop work at the 330-MW Kishenganga hydro power project in Jammu and Kashmir.

Anti-corruption campaign: Indian PM takes steps for a talk with Anna team

NEW DELHI: After sea of people gathered at Ramlila ground here, where Anna Hazare is on an indefinite fast, the government took its first awkward little steps for a dialogue with the civil society leaders.

India releases more water into Sutlej River , inundating villages

BADIN/LAHORE: After release of further water in Sutlej River by India, a 57,000-cusec water is currently reportedly flowing through Gunda Singhwala junction.

US supports democracy in Pakistan: Grossman

WASHINGTON: US Special Envoy Marc Grossman has said that the killing of Osama bin Laden in Abbottabad gives us the opportunity to now finish Al-Qaeda.

Bloodshed continues in Karachi, 7 more killed

KARACHI: Despite government’s claims of action against miscreants, six more citizens were shot dead in Karachi on Sunday.

According to reports, Shehryar, 10, and Zeshan, 15, were shot and killed in Chanisar Goth locality of Mehmoodabad. While a third person, Tahir, was injured.

Protesters demand inclusion of 21 districts in Seraiki province Seek two districts from KPK

ISLAMABAD: Protesters from Seraiki belt have rejected formation of Seraiki province on administrative basis saying 21districts across Pakistan should be combined into a new province.

JuD has no links with suicide bombers, al-Qaeda: Hafiz Saeed

LAHORE: Amir of Jamat-ud-Dawa (JuD) Prof Hafiz Muhammad Saeed has said that JuD is against suicide attacks and has no links with al-Qaeda.

Strategic assets well protected; Secretary of Defence

Secretary of Defence Lt. Gen ® Syed Athar Ali on Saturday explained to an Inquiry Commission on Abbottabad Operation that our strategic assets are well protected and an elaborate defensive mechanism is in place. The fourth meeting of the Inquiry Commission on Abbottabad Operation was held on August 20,

Over 2 Million Affected by Monsoon Rains, Flooding in Pakistan

Heavy monsoon rains and flooding have reportedly affected over 2 million people in Pakistan's southern Sindh and eastern Punjab provinces. Local meteorological department predicts more rains in the days ahead, posing a threat to more people in the country.

2 Pakistani soldiers, 5 militants die in gunfight

PESHAWAR, Pakistan - At least two Pakistani soldiers and five militants died in a shootout in a northwestern tribal area Saturday, where a suicide bomber killed 51 people at a mosque a day earlier, officials said.

ECP takes measures to curb frauds in voting

Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has decided to introduce water marked ballot papers aiming to eliminate fraudulent voting, Secretary ECP Ishtiak Ahmed Khan said Saturday.Addressing a news conference here he said, Printing Corporation of Pakistan has been asked to print water marked ballot papers. ECP was pursuing a mission to plug loopholes in the country’s electoral system and prepare transparent and authentic voter lists, rule of ballot not bullet would be ensured in the country.

Pakistani rupee makes record low at 87

The Pakistani rupee fell to a fresh record low on Saturday on negative sentiment about the country's economic outlook, as well as the deteriorating security situation in Pakistan's financial hub Karachi.

‘Pakistanis, Indians realise war no solution to problems’

The people of Pakistan and India have now realised that war is no solution but the dialogue is an effective way to settle down their mutual conflicts.

Goverment to provide modern liver transplant facilities: PM Gilani

Prime Minister, Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani Saturday said the government was committed to provision of best medical facilities to the people including affordable liver transplant.He was talking to a delegation of Royal Free Hospital, London here at the PM House which discussed progress on the Liver Transplant center at the PIMS Hospital.The medical team from London comprising two Surgeons, one Anesthetist, Operation Theater Nurse and a Team Manager are in Islamabad imparting training relating to the Liver Transplantation Centre.

PM Gilani asks political parties to play role for Karachi peace

Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Saturday called upon the political parties and patriotic elements to play role in controlling the law and order situation in Karachi.

Government taking measures to restore peace in Karachi: Rehman Malik

Interior Minister A Rehman Malik has said that government and law enforcing agencies were taking serious measures to control criminal activities in Karachi.He said efforts are being made to restore peace in Karachi, a business hub of the country.He said that several meetings had been held with law enforcing agencies and stakeholders to improve law and order situation in the mega city.

Ministry of Finance increases credit ceiling of Pakistan Railways to Rs.2 billion

The government has increased the existing line of credit of Pakistan Railways to Rs. 2 billion through Pakistan State Oil (PSO).According to a letter issued by Finance Division here on Saturday,

PM’s Directive; NDMA distributes 12,700 tents, 3 water plants in rain hit areas

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on the directive of Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has distributed relief items including 12,700 tents, three water purification plants and 23,000 family ration packs, to the flood-affected people in Sindh. 

Pakistan key to realizing Central-South Asia trade dream: US

Pakistan lies at the heart of tremendous trade prospects between Central and South Asia and Pakistan-India relationship will also be integral to realizing regional economic integration, a senior U.S. official said.

Two Pakistani soldiers killed in ambush: Official

A government official says suspected militants have ambushed a Pakistani security convoy in a tribal region along the Afghan border, killing two soldiers and wounding eight.

Waqar Younis resigns as Pakistan coach

Waqar Younis has stepped down as Pakistan cricket team coach citing personal reasons and said the upcoming tour of Zimbabwe will be his last assignment.

Karachi violence continues, toll rises to 77

At least 11 people, including six policemen, were killed Saturday in Pakistan’s port city of Karachi as the new wave of violence in the metropolis continued for the fourth day, taking the toll to 77.

US gives aid for hydroelectric dams in Pakistan

The US has provided funds to Pakistan to complete construction of two hydroelectric dam projects in the country, a media report said Saturday.

Pakistan Determined to Defeat Terrorism: President Zardari

Condemning the suicide bombing at a mosque in northwest Pakistan that left over 50 people dead, President Asif Ali Zardari termed it an abhorrent act and said the government was determined to defeat terrorism.

Imran Khan blames Pak misgovernance, corruption for Karachi bloodbath

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan has blamed misgovernance and corruption for the ongoing bloodbath in Karachi.

UN chief condemns Pakistan mosque suicide attack

United Nations : UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has condemned in the strongest terms the suicide attack at a mosque during Friday prayers in Pakistan where at least 50 people were killed.

65 killed in Karachi violence: officials

KARACHI : Ethnic and criminal violence blamed on gangs has killed 65 people in Pakistan's financial capital of Karachi, with police the latest victims shot dead in a brazen ambush, officials said Saturday.

Govt not to call army in Karachi

A high level meeting chaired by President Asif Ali Zardari has decided not to call army in the violence hit economic hub of the country Karachi.

No let up for Karachiites; 14 more killed in fresh incidents of violence

The number of people killed in a fresh spate of violence in Karachi rose to 48 as another 14 people were killed in the economic hub of the country here on Friday and death toll in tree days has reached 68.

President set ups three member committee to solve Karachi problem

President Asif Ali Zardari formed a three-member committee consisting of Governor Sindh Dr Ishratul Ebad Khan, Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah and provincial Interior Minister Manzoor Hussain Wassan to solve the Karachi problem on political and administrative bases.

Rehman Malik asks extortionists to release six kidnapped persons in 24 hours or face action

Interior Minster Rehman Malik said that 18 mission persons reached their homes, adding that six more persons are still missing a warn the extortionists to release them in 24 hours otherwise strict action would be taken against them, adding that political parties should throw out assailants from their parties.

Pak-India parliamentarians urge both govt’s to implement nine recommendations

The Parliamentarians from India and Pakistan met in New Delhi on August 18-19 in their second round of the India-Pakistan Parliamentarians Dialogue. They were in complete agreement that it is in the joint and respective interest of both countries that peace, security and stability be established between the two countries, adding that Pakistani and Indian governments should implement the nine recommendations reached in the dialogues.

PM Gilani calls upon Muslim countries to work together to build a strong Islamic intellectual base

Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has called upon Muslim countries to work together to build a strong Islamic intellectual base, carve out an Islamic vision of a political and economic order and participate positively in the shaping of the world.

Police & Rangers to conduct operations in five areas of Karachi: Malik

Interior Minister Rehman Malik has said that police and Rangers will conduct operations in five areas of Karachi.

Talking to newsmen in Karachi on Friday, all out efforts are being made to restore peace in the city.

No need of calling army in Karachi: Wasan

Sindh Home Minister Manzoor Hussain Wasan on Friday ruled out the need to call military in Karachi in order to bring law and order situation under control in the metropolis.

Fehmida urges international humanitarian agencies’ philanthropic organizations to help rain & flood affectees in Badin, other areas

Speaker National Assembly Dr. Fehmida Mirza has urged upon the International humanitarian agencies, philanthropic organizations and affluent segments of society to immediately come forward and help the rain and flood affectees in Badin and other areas.

6 dead as passenger bus plunged in floodwater in Musakhel

At least six passengers were killed, when a passenger bus plunged into floodwater of Sameji Stream on Friday at Mosakhel area of Balochistan.

International financial institutions reigning Pak: Fazalur Rehman

Amir Jamiat Ulema Islam-Fazal Moulana Fazlur Rehman has said that America and the world financial institutions have supremacy over the political and economic system of Pakistan, adding that the Foreign Minister and Finance Minister are nominated on the recommendations of America.

Defence secretary to brief Abbottabad Commission today

The Defence Secretary Lieutenant General (retd) Syed Athar Ali would give a briefing to the Abbotabad Commission on the American raid of 2nd May in Abbotabad to kill Osama bin Laden, here today (Saturday); meanwhile the commission would also be informed about the view point of government.

Sindh seeks Balochistan’s permission to hunt fleeing gangsters

ISLAMABAD: The Sindh government will approach the government of Balochistan for working out arrangements to allow pursuit by the Sindh police of gangsters, and criminals fleeing from Karachi besides stepping up surveillance of the routes leading to Karachi to keep an eye on the criminal elements and illegal movement of weapons.

President for expediting currency swap agreements, floating infrastructuure bonds

ISLAMABAD: A Meeting of Finance team of the government held today in the Presidency with President Asif Ali Zardari in the chair took stock of the overall financial and economic situation of the country and the various measures being undertaken to address the economic issues facing the country.

Malik gives 24-hour deadline to kidnappers in Karachi

KARACHI: Interior Minister Rehman Malik Friday directed the security forces to get ready for final operation against the terrorists and kidnappers in various localities of the city.

5 NATO oil tankers gutted

QUETTA: At least five NATO oil tankers were destroyed Friday in two separate attacks by militants. In the first attack, four NATO oil tankers were torched Friday afternoon by unidentified people near Quetta.

5 NATO oil tankers gutted

QUETTA: At least five NATO oil tankers were destroyed Friday in two separate attacks by militants. In the first attack, four NATO oil tankers were torched Friday afternoon by unidentified people near Quetta.

Nawaz for intelligence services’ briefing on Karachi situation to Parliament

LAHORE: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz’s (PML-N) Chief Nawaz Sharif has said that the secret services should submit their reports, analysis and proposals, on Karachi’s conditions, to the Parliament.