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Petition moved in IHC for PTI founder’s medical examination

By
Kamran Muraad
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IHC
ISLAMABAD, Dec 03 (APP):A petition has been moved to Islamabad High Court (IHC) seeking medical examination of PTI founder by the doctors of Shaukat Khanum Hospital.
Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sohail Khan Afridi has filed the case. The petition said that PTI founder is a former prime minister and he is facing some medical problems.
It said that to fulfill the demands of justice, better medical facilities should be provided from Shaukat Khanum Hospital to the PTI founder. The petitioner had named the Punjab’s Home Department as respondent in the case.

ISA seminar highlights Iqbal’s selfhood philosophy, literary vision for contemporary youth

By
Kamran Muraad
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ISLAMABAD, Dec 03 (APP):The Information Service Academy (ISA) on Wednesday hosted a seminar titled “The Contemporary Relevance of Iqbal’s Thought and the New Generation” at its auditorium, bringing together scholars, students, and officers to reflect on Allama Muhammad Iqbal’s enduring philosophical and literary vision.
In her opening remarks, Executive Director General of ISA, Ms Imrana Wazir, highlighted Allama Iqbal’s role as a guiding intellectual force for the Muslim world and emphasized the Academy’s commitment to promoting literary and cultural awareness among officers and youth.
The scholarly sessions featured presentations by Dr Rashid Hameed and Prof Munir Fayaz, who explored Iqbal’s poetry and philosophy, emphasising his message of khudi (selfhood), intellectual awakening, and social responsibility.
A special poetic reflection was also delivered by Mehboob Zafar, focusing on Iqbal’s relevance in contemporary governance and national development. The event also included poetic and literary presentations by the students of Federal Urdu University of Art, Science & Technology and F.G. Post Graduate College H-8, Islamabad.
The seminar concluded with remarks by the Chief Guest, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Ashfaq Ahmad Khalil, who appreciated ISA for organizing an intellectually rich event.
He stressed that Iqbal’s philosophy must be actively imparted to the new generation, especially in an age of digital distraction and rapidly changing socio-cultural dynamics.
He added that Iqbal’s message of character-building, creativity, and moral strength provides a timeless framework for youth development and nation-building.

Islamabad moves toward tech-driven crackdown on illegal foreign nationals

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 03 (APP): Islamabad is set to tighten monitoring of undocumented foreign nationals through a combination of door-to-door surveys, digital data integration and curbs on utility access, officials decided at a high-level meeting of the Special Task Force on Wednesday.
Islamabad moves toward tech-driven crackdown on illegal foreign nationals
Chaired by Chief Commissioner and CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa at the CDA Headquarters, the meeting underscored a shift from conventional enforcement to a centralised, tech-supported system aimed at identifying and removing illegally residing foreigners from the capital and adjoining districts.
Islamabad moves toward tech-driven crackdown on illegal foreign nationals
Senior officials, including IGP Islamabad Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi and Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon, attended the meeting. Police and administration representatives from Rawalpindi, Attock, Haripur and Murree joined via video link along with officers from the Interior Ministry, NADRA and PTA.
Islamabad moves toward tech-driven crackdown on illegal foreign nationals
Officials briefed the forum that the repatriation process for undocumented foreign nationals was progressing rapidly and that most had opted for voluntary departure.
Action was also underway against landlords who continued to rent out their properties to illegal residents.
To tighten monitoring, the Chief Commissioner ordered consolidation of all district-level data into the Interior Ministry’s central dashboard, stressing that no accommodation, employment or utility services — including electricity — should be provided to those living in the country illegally.
The capital police chief said strict measures would be taken to dismantle informal settlements and pursue cases involving foreigners seeking medical treatment using forged identification.
In a significant digital move, authorities reported that a door-to-door data collection drive was accelerating across the capital. Survey teams have already covered more than 25,000 families, with the target of documenting nearly 100,000 households in the coming months.
To support the drive, a self-enumerator mobile app has been launched, allowing residents to submit information about their families, tenants, employees and any foreign nationals living with them. All information is being stored securely with NADRA, officials said.
The meeting was also informed that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority had begun blocking SIM cards issued to undocumented individuals, while more than 52,000 vehicles in Islamabad had already been issued M-Tags under a widening digital identification system.
Randhawa said the integrated measures aim not only to enforce immigration laws but also to strengthen surveillance and security mechanisms across Islamabad. “The objective is to make the capital a safe and secure city,” he added.

Kyrgyz president in Islamabad for two-day maiden state visit

By
Kamran Muraad
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ISLAMABAD, Dec 03 (APP):President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Nurgozhoevich Zhaparov on Wednesday arrived here on his maiden state visit to Pakistan, at the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Kyrgyz president in Islamabad for two-day maiden state visit
As the Kyrgyz president came out of his special aircraft at Nur Khan Airbase, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif warmly received him.
Two children attired in traditional dresses presented bouquets to the Kyrgyz President as a gun salute boomed in the backdrop to herald the arrival of the dignitary.
Kyrgyz president in Islamabad for two-day maiden state visit
Young children wearing traditional dresses, were waving the flag buntings of Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan. The flags of both countries also fluttered along the road where the motorcade of President Zhaparov passed.
The smartly turned out contingent of Presidential Body Guard presented the static salute.
The Kyrgyz president is accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising senior cabinet ministers, high-ranking officials, and business leaders.
During the visit, he is expected to meet the President Asif Ali Zardari, hold a tête-à-tête followed by delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and address the Pakistan-Kyrgyzstan Business Forum.
The two sides will review the full spectrum of bilateral relations and explore new avenues to further deepen cooperation across diverse sectors, including trade, energy, defence, education, people-to-people exchanges, and regional connectivity.
The last presidential visit from the Kyrgyz Republic took place in January 2005.

SC reaffirms commitment to citizen-centric justice system

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Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 03 (APP):The Chief Justice of Pakistan and the Chairman of the National Judicial (Policy Making) Committee (NJPMC) has reiterated the judiciary’s firm commitment to building a citizen-centric, transparent, and equitable justice system, emphasizing that the integration of modern technology is no longer optional but essential for delivering accessible and efficient justice across the country.
The Chief Justice of Pakistan expressed these views while addressing participants at the Consultative Workshop on “National E-Court Reform Agenda: Requirements and Challenges,” held at the Federal Judicial Academy, Islamabad. The event brought together Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Judge, supreme Court of Pakistan,  Secretary, Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, Chairman of the Pakistan Digital Authority, Secretary, National Commission on Status of Women, Secretary, law and Justice Commission of Pakistan, Registrars of the Supreme Court and all High Courts, IT experts, and senior Judicial Officers from across Pakistan to deliberate on the national digital transformation agenda for Pakistan’s judiciary.
The Chief Justice highlighted the pivotal role of the National Judicial Automation Committee (NJAC), chaired by Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, in spearheading the digital transformation of the judiciary. He noted that the NJAC, functioning under the NJPMC, provides the institutional backbone for harmonizing digital initiatives across all courts in Pakistan.
Earlier during the workshop, the Registrars of the High Courts and members of the Pakistan Digital Authority presented detailed assessments of the existing technological landscape, digitization progress, and the challenges faced by courts at various tiers. Their presentations focused on establishing an integrated national e-court ecosystem, developing a unified digital master plan, and promoting interoperability among judicial institutions.
The workshop concluded with a roadmap for next steps, including detailed system-requirements gathering, user-centred design sessions, and the development of a national digital justice framework under the guidance of the NJPMC and NJAC.

DPM Dar, Kyrgyz Minister reaffirm commitment to strengthen bilateral ties

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 03 (APP):Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Wednesday held a meeting with Kyrgyz Minister of Foreign Affairs Zheenbek Kulubaev, who is accompanying the Kyrgyz President on his State visit to Pakistan.
During the meeting, the two sides reiterated their commitment to further strengthen and diversify bilateral cooperation in all areas of shared interest.
They also reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations, with a particular focus on trade, energy, connectivity, education, and ppl-to-ppl contacts, as well as enhanced cooperation at multilateral forums.
The two leaders also exchanged views on recent regional and international developments of mutual interest.
They also reviewed various bilateral instruments which will be signed during the visit.
The two sides agreed to hold regular meetings of Pakistan-Kyrgyzstan Bilateral Political Consultations and Bilateral Inter-governmental Commission to unlock the full potential of bilateral relationship.
Both leaders agreed to enhance the bilateral economic cooperation and noted with satisfaction convening of business forum on the sidelines of the visit.
The two leaders also hoped that early finalization of the Transit Trade Agreement would help achieving the bilateral trade target of US$ 100 million.
Both sides reiterated their shared vision of timely and effective implementation of the CASA-1000 project. They also highlighted the importance of secure, sustainable and diversified connectivity routes between Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan for further enhancement of bilateral as well as regional trade.
The deputy PM also expressed appreciation for the government and people of the Kyrgyz Republic for being gracious hosts to Pakistani students and workers and agreed to take measures to institutionalize and enhance cooperation in people-to-people sphere.
The DPM/FM underscored the threats to peace and security in South Asia and emphasized the importance of restraint and responsible conduct by the regional countries.
He highlighted that the peaceful settlement of Jammu and Kashmir dispute, in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, was imperative for lasting peace in South Asia.
The Deputy Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to address the threat of terrorism and prevent the use of Afghan soil against Pakistan and any other country.
 He underscored Pakistan’s desire to see a stable and regionally connected Afghanistan, at peace with itself and all its neighbours.
The two leaders agreed to continue to work closely at all forums, including at the UN, SCO, OIC and ECO for peace and security as well as progress and prosperity of the region.

Inspirational voices of resilience spotlighted at TUF on Day of Special Persons

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Kamran Muraad
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0
FAISALABAD, Dec 03 (APP): The University of Faisalabad (TUF) has marked the International Day of Persons with Disabilities with a dignified and purpose-driven ceremony which sent a powerful message of courage, self-belief and inclusion to students, as persons with disabilities from diverse walks of life shared their remarkable journeys of struggle and success.
Department of Rehabilitation Sciences in collaboration with Departments of Occupational Therapy and Speech & Language Therapy organized the event.
Chairperson Institute for Rehabilitation of the Disabled Mrs. Rubina Imtiaz attended the ceremony as chief guest while special guests included the individuals who have transformed physical challenges into life-defining achievements through sheer determination and perseverance.
A keynote speaker Dr. Anwar Ali who despite being visually impaired completed his PhD pursued a successful teaching career and represented Pakistan as an international blind cricket player, earning several accolades for the country.
International wheelchair handball player Yasir Naveed, who lost a leg yet rose to compete globally for Pakistan, also inspired the audience with his story of discipline and resilience.
Mueez Shaukat, who was born with a physical disability and later founded Humanets and counselling Services after attaining higher education, shared how purpose and persistence can reshape destiny.
The speakers candidly narrated their life experiences, hardships and triumphs, urging students never to lose hope in the face of adversity.
They emphasized that every human being possesses unique potential which, if provided with opportunity and encouragement, can create meaningful change.
They highlighted that persons with disabilities do not seek sympathy but rather positive attitudes, motivation and equal opportunities to prove their capabilities in every field.
Addressing the ceremony, chief guest Mrs. Rubina Imtiaz appreciated the university management, particularly the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, for organizing a meaningful and socially impactful event.
She said that such programs play a vital role not only in the personality development of students but also in strengthening social awareness, harmony and inclusivity.
Head of Department of Rehabilitation Sciences Dr. Maryam Zafar reaffirmed her department’s commitment to continue taking practical steps for the encouragement, empowerment and rehabilitation of persons with disabilities.
She said that the core objective of the program was to create awareness among youth, highlight the rights and abilities of persons with disabilities, and promote the message of inclusion, tolerance and equality in society.
Later, the special guests were presented with tributes and tokens of appreciation in recognition of their extraordinary services and inspirational contributions.

SCBAP condemns targeted killings of lawyers, calls for immediate action

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 03 (APP): The Supreme Court Bar Association of Pakistan (SCBAP) on Wednesday expressed grave concern over a series of targeted attacks that have claimed the lives of several lawyers and left others critically injured across the country.
In a joint statement, SCBAP President Haroon Ur Rashid, Secretary Malik Zahid Aslam Awan, and the 28th Executive Committee strongly condemned the killings of former Jhang Bar Association President Mehar Muhammad Munir Sandhana, Vehari-based advocate Muhammad Zeshaan Dhuddi, and, most recently, Ali Hassan Barohi in Shikarpur.
The statement said the SCBAP leadership was deeply saddened by the repeated tragedies, extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, and prayed for the swift recovery of those injured.
The Executive Committee noted that these attacks form part of a longstanding pattern of violence against members of the legal fraternity—an issue the Association has repeatedly highlighted. Despite this, it said, authorities responsible for maintaining law and order appear “oblivious” to the loss of precious lives.
SCBAP said the continued recurrence of such “heart-wrenching events” was extremely alarming. “The safety and security of lawyers is a prerequisite for justice to be better dispensed,” the statement read, adding that lawyers must be able to carry out their professional duties without fear or intimidation.
The Association said such gruesome acts of violence constitute “direct strikes on the rule of law and the independence of the legal profession,” which it declared unacceptable.
The SCBAP demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible, urging relevant governments and law enforcement agencies to ensure that the perpetrators do not evade justice.
Reaffirming its solidarity with Pakistan’s security forces, the Association once again extended condolences to the families of the victims.

Punjab govt prioritising interfaith, inter-Muslim harmony: Minister Salman

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Kamran Muraad
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0
LAHORE, Dec 03 (APP):Punjab Health Minister and Chairman of the Cabinet Committee on Law and Order, Khawaja Salman Rafique, has said that the Punjab government is actively promoting interfaith harmony and inter-Muslim unity across the province, as ensuring peace remains its top priority.
He expressed these views during a meeting with a delegation of religious scholars at the Home Department on Wednesday. The meeting was held as part of an ongoing series of engagements with scholars on the directions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. Provincial Minister for Irrigation Kazim Pirzada was also present.
The meeting reviewed the overall law and order situation and discussed measures to strengthen unity among various Muslim schools of thought.
Khawaja Salman Rafique said that fostering inter-Muslim unity is the need of the hour, noting that the chief minister herself regularly monitors the law and order situation. “Promoting peace and harmony is essential for stability in society,” he added.
Speaking on the occasion, Irrigation Minister Kazim Pirzada said Pakistan is increasingly being recognized globally as a strong nation. He highlighted the vital role scholars play in maintaining peace, saying, “Our scholars, who follow the commands of Allah Almighty and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH), are the pride of the Muslim Ummah.”
Punjab Home Secretary Dr. Ahmed Javed Qazi praised the scholars’ consistent efforts to promote peace and discourage violence. He emphasized that safeguarding the lives, property and dignity of citizens is the fundamental duty of the state. He added that guiding people on the true spirit of religion is a noble service.
The scholars affirmed that the current environment demands peace, stability and security, pledging their support to the Punjab government in strengthening unity among Muslims. They also shared recommendations to improve coordination between government institutions and the madrassa system.
Those present included Secretary Auqaf Socrat Aman Rana, Chief Executive Officer Punjab Charities Commission, and other officials. The delegation was led by Chairman Markaz Wilayat Ali Pakistani Abuzar Bukhari and included Punjab President Kaleem Gilani, Coordinator Allama Rai Muzammil Hussain, Syed Akram Ali Bukhari, Syed Muhammad Ali Lal Shah, Syed Afraz Ali Rizvi, Syed Ali Hussain Shah and Asad Naqvi.

FCCI welcomes abolishment of EDS

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Kamran Muraad
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0
FAISALABAD, Dec 03 (APP): Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FCCI) President Farooq Yousuf Sheikh has warmly welcomed the Government of Pakistan’s decision to formally abolish the Export Development Surcharge (EDS) through an official notification.
In a statement here on Wednesday, he said that this long-awaited step reflects the government’s commitment to reducing the cost of doing business and uplifting Pakistan’s export sector.
He explained that exporters had been continuously highlighting the negative impact of additional surcharges on their competitiveness, especially in the face of rising global competition, high input costs, and fluctuating international market conditions. “The abolition of this surcharge will therefore provide immediate financial relief and enable exporters to focus more on value addition, product diversification, and expansion into new markets”, he added.
The FCCI President further noted that this measure will help improve cash flow for export-oriented industries particularly SMEs, which is crucial for maintaining production cycles and fulfilling international orders on time.
He said that the policy shift is expected to contribute to an increase in Pakistan’s overall export volume, helping the country earn more foreign exchange and strengthen its economic stability in addition to minimizing the trade deficit.
He also appreciated the government’s consultative approach, acknowledging that the decision was made after taking inputs from trade bodies and industry stakeholders.
Such collaboration, he said, builds confidence between the business community and policymakers.
Farooq Yousuf Sheikh expressed hope that the government will continue introducing similar business-friendly reforms, remove other bottlenecks affecting exporters, and ensure a more conducive environment for industrial growth and international trade.
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