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NCSW launches crucial medico-legal reform drive with first national consultation

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 27 (APP):National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) has kicked off consultations on the Islamabad Capital Territory Medico-Legal Regulation Act, 2025 — a draft law aimed at overhauling the way medico-legal services are delivered, particularly in cases of gender-based violence.
Chaired by NCSW Chairperson Ms. Ume Laila Azhar, the first national consultation brought together representatives from the Ministries of Human Rights, Law and Justice, National Health Services, ICT Administration, major hospitals including PIMS and Polyclinic, as well as legal and forensic experts.
The initiative marks a significant move by the NCSW under its constitutional mandate to review laws affecting the rights and status of women.
“This is not just about drafting another law,” said Ms. Azhar. “It’s about confronting a broken system where survivors of violence often face further injustice at the hands of procedures meant to protect them. Let this be a national moment to ask: Are we doing enough?”
The proposed legislation aims to establish a standardized, rights-based, and gender-sensitive medico-legal framework in Islamabad. Participants at the consultation stressed that Pakistan must now seriously consider shifting to a victim-centered forensic model, particularly in cases of sexual and gender-based violence (GBV).
Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani, addressing a parallel national dialogue, called for urgent legal-medical reforms, echoing the NCSW’s call for justice, dignity, and accountability in the medico-legal system.
The Ministry of Human Rights highlighted the need to balance the rights of both victims and the accused, cautioning against rigid timelines that might compromise due process.
PIMS proposed revising forensic terminology — including replacing the binary “fabricated/non-fabricated” with more nuanced options and reconsidering the use of terms like “friendly injuries” to avoid misinterpretation.
The Ministry of Law recommended analyzing similar laws in Sindh and Punjab to ensure legal coherence and avoid jurisdictional confusion.
Polyclinic and NCSW stressed the importance of digital tools, public education, and outreach mechanisms to ensure implementation and accessibility of medico-legal services.
Participants repeatedly flagged the vulnerability of medico-legal officers, especially in GBV cases, and called for stronger legal protection and security measures.
There was broad consensus on involving police, judiciary, and frontline health workers in upcoming consultations to ensure a more comprehensive and enforceable law.
A special drafting committee is now under consideration, and the second national consultation is scheduled for early August 2025.
This session will include judiciary, police, and gender units and focus on practical implementation, including analysis of real-life case studies.
Experts say the draft Act comes at a critical time for Pakistan’s justice system. With rising reports of violence against women and a backlog of forensic cases, rights advocates argue that systemic reform is long overdue.
“This proposed legislation could redefine forensic justice in Pakistan,” said one legal expert at the consultation. “But only if it’s followed by real commitment from institutions and accountability from stakeholders.”
NCSW is calling on civil society, legal professionals, journalists, and citizens to engage with the reform process, share feedback on the draft, and help shape a system that upholds dignity, justice, and medical ethics.
The draft law, once finalized, is expected to be tabled for legislative review later this year.

Abbasi highlights global respect for Pakistan, announces major reforms in Railways

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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LAHORE, Jul 27 (APP):Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi said that Pakistan had earned unprecedented global respect, crediting Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal General Syed Asim Munir for the nation’s elevated international standing.
Speaking at the “Meet the Press” event at the Lahore Press Club on Sunday, Abbasi asserted, “Pakistan today is a changed Pakistan. We now walk in the world with our heads held high.” Highlighting Pakistan’s foreign policy successes, Abbasi said that countries like Türkiye and Russia view overseas Pakistanis with respect, and nations such as China, Türkiye, Azerbaijan, Malaysia, and Bangladesh have stood by Pakistan in difficult times. He took a jab at India, alleging its “proxy war” in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and claiming that the U.S. confirmed five Indian aircraft were shot down in the May conflict . “India is licking its wounds,” Abbasi remarked, sarcastically thanking India for “uniting the entire Pakistani nation.”
The minister also addressed domestic critics, accusing some of ingratitude despite benefiting from Pakistan’s resources. “Those who went from riding bicycles to owning BMWs are now badmouthing the country,” he said, criticizing jailed individuals for “screaming and hurling abuses” unlike his own conduct in prison.
On the economic front, Abbasi claimed inflation has dropped from 38 per cent to zero due to government policies, though tough decisions were necessary to stabilize the economy. He vowed to crack down on “big crocodiles” looting the country and announced the closure of ten Independent Power Producers (IPPs), with fifteen more to follow.
Turning to Railways, Abbasi outlined sweeping reforms to modernize the sector. He highlighted improvements such as outsourcing cleaning services at seven stations across Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Lahore, enhancing food quality, and installing free Wi-Fi at Lahore Railway Station. Escalators and information desks have been introduced at stations, and a 105-kilometer railway track for coal transport is set to be completed by April 30, reducing electricity costs from Rs. 15 to Rs. 4.5 per unit. Additionally, a Business Train with Wi-Fi-equipped coaches and high-quality dining will be inaugurated on July 29 to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.
Abbasi emphasized infrastructure upgrades, including a soon-to-be-finalized agreement for the Rohri-Karachi railway section and a Rs 50 billion allocation from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to improve the Lahore-Rawalpindi track, cutting travel time to two hours. He also announced plans to digitize the railway system, link sixteen banks to the Railway’s app, and install ATMs at 348 stations. To address inefficiencies, three railway companies have been shut down, and long-leave employees will be recalled.
“Pakistan Railways is the pride of Pakistan,” Abbasi declared, promising to make it profitable if the federal government covers pensions and salaries. He stressed that the railway’s issues stem not from laborers but from unnamed individuals who looted the system.
Reflecting on his personal journey, Abbasi shared that he was born in Lahore, studied at FC College, and began his political career as a student. He praised the Lahore Press Club as the largest in Pakistan and reaffirmed his good relations with journalists.
He emphasized the need for investment in Railways to boost the national economy, warning that major reforms are imminent and bureaucratic inefficiencies will not be tolerated. Hanif Abbasi announced that Pakistan Railways remains resolute in the face of challenges, emphasizing the continued operation of the Jafar Express and Bolan Express as a bold message to adversaries. “We are not afraid,” Abbasi declared, highlighting the resilience of the railway network.
He outlined several initiatives to strengthen and modernize Pakistan Railways. Sports development is a key focus, with plans to promote football, cricket, and hockey. “Sports are among our priorities, and we will devise a comprehensive plan to support them,” he stated.
Addressing employment concerns, Abbasi revealed a compassionate approach to contract workers. “We could dismiss contract employees with a one-month salary, but instead, we are considering reassigning Railway sanitation staff to their local areas,” he shared, signaling a commitment to employee welfare.
The “Suthra Punjab” initiative will be extended to Railway colonies, aiming to enhance living conditions for staff and their families. Abbasi also claimed unprecedented improvements in cleanliness across the railway system, stating, “The level of cleanliness we have now achieved in Railways has never been seen before.”
Cracking down on illegal activities, Abbasi issued a stern warning against ticketless travel and related offenses. “Smuggling and theft used to plague Railways. Now, anyone traveling without a ticket or aiding such activities will face imprisonment,” he cautioned.
To bolster security, Pakistan Railways has recruited 500 new personnel for the Railway Police and plans to acquire scanners and metal detectors using the department’s own budget. Abbasi also noted that outsourcing is a common global practice for railway operations, hinting at potential modernization strategies.

Fresh monsoon spell to begin from July 28 as authorities brace for potential flooding

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 27 (APP):The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast another spell of widespread rain, wind, and thundershowers across the country beginning July 28, as monsoon currents continue to affect upper and central parts of Pakistan.
These currents are likely to intensify in the coming days, while a fresh westerly wave is expected to enter the country on July 29, further strengthening the weather system and extending the duration and coverage of rainfall activity.
According to the PMD officials l, rain-wind/thundershowers with isolated heavy falls are likely in various districts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, including Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Poonch, Hattian, Bagh, Haveli, Sudhanoti, Kotli, Bhimber, and Mirpur during July 27 to 31 with occasional gaps. Similar conditions are expected in Gilgit-Baltistan across Diamir, Astore, Ghizer, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Ghanche, and Shigar.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rain is likely in Dir, Chitral, Swat, Kohistan, Shangla, Battagram, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Buner, Malakand, Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Orakzai, Kurram, Kohat, Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Mardan, Swabi, Hangu, Karak, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, North and South Waziristan, Tank, and Dera Ismail Khan from July 28 to 31.
In Punjab and Islamabad, scattered rain-wind/thundershowers with occasional heavy falls are expected in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree, Galliyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Wazirabad, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Narowal, Sahiwal, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Khushab, Sargodha, Mianwali, Nankana Sahib, Chiniot, Faisalabad, Kasur, and Okara from July 28 to 31. In southern Punjab, areas including Dera Ghazi Khan, Bhakkar, Layyah, Multan, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Khanewal, Pakpattan, Vehari, Lodhran, Muzaffargarh, Rajanpur, Rahim Yar Khan, and Kot Addu are also likely to receive rain from July 29 to 31.
In Balochistan, rain-wind/thundershowers with isolated heavy falls are expected in northeastern and southern districts including Barkhan, Musakhel, Loralai, Sibi, Harnai, Dera Bugti, Kohlu, Lasbela, Awaran, Khuzdar, Quetta, Zhob, Qilla Saifullah, Qilla Abdullah, Ziarat, Kalat, and Sherani during the night of July 29 to July 31.
Sindh will mainly remain hot and humid; however, rain-wind/thundershowers are likely in Tharparkar, Umerkot, Mirpur Khas, Mithi, Khairpur, Dadu, Jacobabad, Kashmore, Sanghar, Sukkur, Ghotki, and Larkana on July 30 and 31 with occasional gaps.
The PMD has also issued an impact-based advisory highlighting that heavy rainfall may cause flash flooding in local nullahs and streams of Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Mansehra, Kohistan, Abbottabad, Buner, Charsadda, Nowshera, Swabi, Mardan, Murree, Galliyat, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and in hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan and adjoining areas of northeast Balochistan, northeast Punjab, and Kashmir from July 29 to 31.
Urban flooding is likely in low-lying areas of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Lahore, and Sialkot during July 28 (night) to 31. There are also chances of landslides and mudslides leading to road blockages in hilly areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Murree, Galliyat, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir during this period.
Windstorms and lightning during the spell may damage weak structures including kacha houses, electric poles, billboards, solar panels, and parked vehicles. The PMD has advised the general public, tourists, and travelers to avoid unnecessary travel and exercise caution, especially in vulnerable areas.
All concerned authorities have been advised to remain alert and ensure all precautionary measures are in place to mitigate any risks or disruptions that may arise due to the weather conditions.
This advisory comes at a time when parts of the country are still recovering from earlier monsoon spells which caused significant damage. According to the National Disaster Management Authority, over 270 lives were lost due to rain-related incidents from June 26 to July 25, including fatalities in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and other regions.
Several homes were damaged, and infrastructure including roads and bridges was affected. In light of this, the authorities remain vigilant as the next phase of monsoon activity begins.
The weather experts and climate researchers have linked the increasing frequency and intensity of such rain spells to the broader effects of climate change.
The rising trend of erratic monsoon patterns, flash floods, and unseasonal downpours reflects a changing climate that is placing growing pressure on disaster response systems and community preparedness across the country.
The PMD continues to monitor the system and will provide regular updates. The public is encouraged to stay informed through the official PMD website, Pak Weather App, or social media platforms.

ICT Police launches ‘1INFO’ App for emergency support

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jul 27 (APP):In line with the vision of Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Raza Naqvi and the directives of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad, Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police has launched a citizen-friendly mobile application titled 1INFO to enhance public safety and facilitate prompt communication between citizens and law enforcement.
A police spokesperson told APP on Sunday that the app is available for download through the official Islamabad Police website, the Apple Store, and Google Play Store.
The 1INFO app offers two core features: an Emergency Panic Button and an Information Sharing Button.
The emergency panic feature allows users to seek immediate police assistance with just one press. Once activated, Islamabad Police’s rescue teams are instantly alerted and dispatched to the user’s location without delay, he said.
Through the information sharing feature, citizens can send critical tips or concerns to the police via voice messages, videos, or photographs. This allows individuals to confidentially report any crime, suspicious activity, or seek assistance regarding public safety concerns, he added.
The ICT Police urged all residents of the capital to install the 1INFO app to ensure quick access to emergency response and seamless communication with police authorities. The app is part of the broader efforts to modernize policing and bring digital convenience to the public, according to the press release here.

4th annual Urs of Hazrat Sakhi Sultan Badshah’s Sahibzada Qazi Muhammad Qasim to be held in Tumair Sharif

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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RAWALPINDI, Jul 27 (APP):The 4th annual Urs and sacred commemoration of the revered Sufi saint Hazrat Sakhi Sultan Badshah, Sahibzada Qazi Muhammad Qasim, a devout disciple of Sultan al-‘Arifin Hazrat Maulana Sain Muhammad Ashraf Badshah Qadri Qalandari (RA), will be observed on Monday, July 28, 2025 at Dargah ‘Aliyah Qadriah Qalandariyah, Tumair Sharif.
The spiritually enriching event will be presided over by Sahibzada Khawar Ali Sarkar, custodian of Dargah ‘Aliyah Kamra Sharif, and renowned educationist Professor Qazi Habibur Rahman.
A special keynote address will be delivered by Hafiz Muhammad Jameel Naqshbandi, the authorized spiritual successor (Khalifa Mujaz) of Astana ‘Aliyah Morgah Sharif.
Sahibzada Taimoor Ahmad Qadri will perform the duties of stage secretary and host.
The Urs will commence at 4:00 PM with recitation of Holy Qur’an (Qur’an Khwani), followed by a spiritually charged Mahfil-e-Naat and a collective prayer (Du‘a). World-famous and gold-medalist Naat Khawan Qari Rehan Habib Suharwardi, along with other distinguished reciters, will present tributes in honour of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).
The gathering is expected to draw scholars, spiritual leaders, religious devotees, educationists, and notables from various segments of society. The event aims to revive and celebrate the teachings of divine love, remembrance of the Ahl al-Bayt (RA), and the values of peace, humility, and service that marked the life of Hazrat Sahibzada Qazi Muhammad Qasim.

President Al-Khidmat inaugurates hospital block in Dir Lower, Banu Qabil Program

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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PESHAWAR, Jul 27 (APP):President, Al-Khidmat Foundation Pakistan, Prof. Dr. Hafeez-ur-Rehman Sunday completed two-day visit of northern areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa North and inspected ongoing projects in Buner, Swat, Malakand and Lower Dir, disaster centers, hospitals, aghosh homes, orphan study centers.
He also inaugurated the newly constructed block in Al-Khidmat Hospital located at Zawar Baba in Dir Lower. Former Senior Provincial Minister and Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami North Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Inayatullah Khan, President of Al-Khidmat Foundation North Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Fazal Mahmood and Provincial General Secretary Dr. Khalid Farooq and General Manager Programs Al-Khidmat Foundation Pakistan Hammad Akhtar also accompanied him during the visit.
During his visit, Prof. Dr. Hafeez-ur-Rehman also inaugurated second phase of Al-Khidmat Banu Qabil Program to provide decent employment opportunities to youth through free IT courses.
In addition to attending a dinner hosted by the Doctor Community in Swat, he also inaugurated the new office of Al-Khidmat Foundation Khyber Pakhtunkhwa North in Gulabad, Chakdara.

Marka-e-Haq is symbol of national unity: Tessori

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
KARACHI, Jul 27 (APP):Governor Sindh Kamran Khan Tessori has said that “Marka-e-Haq” (Battle for Truth) was not just Independence Day event but a vibrant symbol of renewed commitment, national unity and public inclusion.
He expressed these views during a meeting with a 66-member delegation of MQM Pakistan Labour Division, led by Rizwan Babar here Sunday. Senior leaders including Dr. Farooq Sattar, Anees Qaimkhani and other officials were also present.
The meeting featured detailed discussions on the Independence Day event Marka-e-Haq”, the challenges faced by the working class, employment opportunities, welfare initiatives, and the strategy for future joint actions.
The Governor Sindh instructed the participants to ensure active, organized and enthusiastic participation of labourers in the celebrations, so their representation could be highlighted effectively at every level.
Appreciating the role of the working class, the Governor Sindh said that the foundation of national progress lied in the relentless efforts of labourers, and their welfare must be the government’s top priority. He assured the delegation of full support in addressing the issues faced by workers.
Kamran Khan Tessori told that the Governor House was no longer merely a government building, but a symbol of public representation, inclusion and partnership. Its doors remain open at all times for workers and all sincere Pakistanis, he added. He further expressed his desire to see Pakistan’s labour force become empowered, dignified, and prosperous  a class that not only drives the economy but also holds a strong voice and active role in policy making.
He termed this meeting as a practical and positive step towards the promotion of labour rights, highlighting their issues at the highest level, and ensuring their robust participation in national celebrations.

Al-Shifa Trust treats 1.8 million yearly, bringing light and hope to underprivileged

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jul 27 (APP):Major General (Retd) Rehmat Khan, President of Al-Shifa Trust, said on Sunday that Pakistan faces a significant eye health crisis, with nearly two million people exposed to preventable blindness, 80 percent of which is curable.
Addressing the media at the National Press Club, he stated that last year, Al-Shifa Trust treated more than 1.8 million patients, including 100,000 surgeries. Approximately 83% of patients received treatment at no cost.
“Every day we carry out about 450-500 surgical procedures,” Khan said, adding that Al-Shifa Trust carries out about 1,000 corneal transplants every year, which is approximately 50% of the total corneal transplants in the country. He stated that Al-Shifa Trust is the only chain of eye hospitals that treats eye cancer patients at no cost.
Regarding future endeavours, the president of Al Shifa Trust stated that a modern and the largest eye hospital in the country is being built in Lahore. An American architectural firm is designing the hospital, and the ground-breaking is scheduled to take place in September 2025.
What began as a modest initiative in 1985 has evolved into Pakistan’s most comprehensive humanitarian eye care network, transforming countless lives and restoring hope, he underlined.
Khan noted that an estimated 12.64 million people, 61 percent of whom are women, struggle with reading and close-up tasks. Limited access to simple reading glasses severely hinders education, work, and overall well-being for many.
Major General Rehmat Khan explained that Refractive errors and diabetic retinopathy significantly contribute to vision loss. He also cited poor hygiene, polluted air, adverse environmental conditions, financial hardships, lack of awareness, insufficient facilities, and entrenched cultural barriers as critical factors.
He stated that the Trust’s humanitarian mission extends beyond conventional care, encompassing accessible healthcare that transcends economic barriers. Its growth, from treating 25 to 5,000 patients daily over three decades, reflects unwavering commitment.
Technological advancements have enhanced Al-Shifa’s capacity to serve underserved communities. The Chakwal hospital expansion, for instance, dramatically increased daily patient capacity from 150 to 650 individuals, reflecting an adaptive approach to meeting growing demand.
Khan emphasized that while many patients cannot afford treatment, those with resources can support the mission. By combining advanced technology with compassionate care, Al-Shifa continues to transform lives, proving that even the most challenging crises can be effectively addressed with proper dedication and community support.
He stated that Trust’s hospital in Haweli Lakha is nearing completion, while GB Hospital is under construction, and a temporary arrangement is fully operational for treatment and surgeries.
Dr. Najam, General Manager of the Outreach Program, also spoke on the occasion. He shared the details of free eye camps established in far-flung areas of the country. He said that our vision to fight against blindness is beautifully augmented by an outreach program that provides eye care treatments, including surgeries, directly to the underprivileged community.
Last year, our outreach department established approximately 1,500 eye camps in all provinces, including AJK and GB, benefiting over 650,000 patients. We are fully committed to the vision to reach the unreached.
Before the press briefing, officials from the National Press Club informed the President of Al-Shifa Trust that hundreds of journalists had received treatment, and dozens had undergone operations in a state-of-the-art mobile operation clinic, where free glasses and medicines were also provided.

‘Police Station on Wheels’ to facilitate citizens across Islamabad

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jul 27 (APP):Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police’s ‘Police Station on Wheels’ initiative will continue to provide on-site policing services to citizens at various public locations across the federal capital throughout the coming week, from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM daily.
A police spokesperson told APP on Sunday that the mobile facilitation van will be stationed at F-9 Park on Monday (July 28), while on Tuesday (July 29), it will be available outside the District Court G-11. He said that on Wednesday (July 30), the van will be located at I-8 Markaz, followed by I-10 Markaz on Thursday (July 31).
He further informed that the mobile van will serve citizens near Faisal Masjid on Friday (August 1), at Pakistan Monument on Saturday (August 2), and at Daman-e-Koh Chowk on Sunday (August 3).
He said the Police Station on Wheels provides various services including lodging of complaints, character verification, criminal record checks, and general information assistance. The initiative, launched under the special directions of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, aims to improve access to police services and strengthen community engagement./

Sindh Governor, CM pay tributes to Captain Muhammad Sarwar Shaheed

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
KARACHI, Jul 27 (APP):Sindh  Governor Kamran Khan Tessori and Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah have paid rich tributes to Captain Muhammad Sarwar Shaheed Nishan-e-Haider on his 77th martyrdom anniversary on Sunday.
In their separate messages, they said that the supreme sacrifice of Captain Sarwar is a shining and unforgettable chapter in our national history.
They said that Captain Sarwar Shaheed set an exemplary standard of bravery, faith, military strategy and devotion to duty that will continue to inspire generations to come.
The Governor and Chief Minister further said that the nation still pays homage to its first recipient of the Nishan-e-Haider, who laid down his life on July 27, 1948, during the First Kashmir War at the Tithwal front.
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