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Iqbal envisioned Muslims as a united global community: Mian Mujtaba

By
Asif Jalal
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LAHORE, Nov 09 (APP): Provincial Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman has said that Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal awakened the Muslims from stagnation and guided them toward faith, action, and self-respect.
He added that Iqbal envisioned Muslims as a united global community, transcending geographical boundaries — a vision reflected in his profound philosophy of Khudi (selfhood).
He was addressing a ceremony titled “Jashn-e-Iqbal” organized by Punjab Information and Culture Department to mark the birth anniversary of Poet of the East and Philosopher of Pakistan, Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal, here at Alhamra Arts Council on Sunday. Consul General of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Mr. Mehran Moheddfar, attended the event as special guests.
The ceremony commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran and the national anthem, followed by a heart-touching Naat-e-Rasool-e-Maqbool (SAW) presented by renowned Naat Khwan Marghoob Raza Hamdani.
Provincial Minister added that Allama Iqbal was not the poet of one region but a universal thinker whose message of self-awareness, conviction, and unity continues to inspire generations across the Muslim world. He said that Iqbal transformed the despair of the subcontinent’s Muslims into hope and self-belief, making his philosophy an enduring beacon of guidance for the entire Ummah.
Mian Mujtaba said that Punjab government is translating Iqbal’s ideals into action by promoting self-reliance, empowerment, and inclusive development. He said the Chief Minister’s social and economic reform initiatives are steering Punjab toward progress, prosperity, and self-sufficiency. “The vision of a prosperous, progressive, and self-reliant Punjab is, in fact, the true realization of Iqbal’s dream,” he remarked.
in his address, Iranian Consul General Mr. Mehran Moheddfar said that Pakistan and Iran are two brotherly Islamic nations bound by deep cultural, linguistic, and spiritual ties. He described Allama Iqbal as a timeless symbol of the shared intellectual and cultural heritage that unites the peoples of both nations.
Earlier, Secretary Information and Culture Punjab, Syed Tahir Raza Hamdani, extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guests, especially the Iranian delegation, and highlighted the importance of celebrating Iqbal’s legacy in strengthening Pak-Iran cultural ties.
He emphasized that historical and cultural relations between Pakistan and Iran span over centuries, strengthened by shared civilizational values. He said the “Jashn-e-Iqbal” beautifully reflects the spirit of Pak-Iran cultural harmony and friendship.
The event also featured mesmerizing performances by the Iranian traditional music band “Deerang” and renowned Pakistani vocalist Muhammad Sami, who enthralled the audience by presenting Iqbal’s poetry in both Persian and Urdu.
A calligraphy and art exhibition based on Iqbal’s poetry was also displayed by Alhamra Arts Council, receiving great admiration from participants and visitors alike.
In his concluding remarks, Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman said that Allama Muhammad Iqbal is a shared intellectual treasure of both Pakistan and Iran. He urged everyone to uphold Iqbal’s vision of a strong, enlightened, and self-reliant Pakistan. The Minister appreciated Chairman Alhamra, Razi Ahmed, and the team of the Information and Culture Department for successfully organizing the memorable event.

NA Speaker rejects immunity, under Article 248, stands firm on accountability

By
Asif Jalal
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ISLAMABAD, Nov 09 (APP): National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has categorically rejected any claim of privilege under Article 248 of the Constitution, declaring that no individual regardless of position or office should stand above the law.
The rejection came in response to a proposal put forward by Chairman of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Law and Justice, Mahmood Bashir Virk, during a joint meeting of the Senate and National Assembly’s Parliamentary Committee on Law and Justice.
The proposal suggested that constitutional officeholders such as the Chairman Senate and the Speaker National Assembly may also be granted immunity under Article 248 of the Constitution of Pakistan. Virk argued that since these offices are constitutional in nature, they should, in principle, enjoy immunity similar to that accorded to the Governors under Article 4 of the Constitution.
Virk argued that since these offices are constitutional in nature, they should enjoy parity and legal protection. However, Speaker Sadiq firmly dismissed the idea, emphasizing that accountability and transparency are the cornerstones of democratic governance.
“I am, first and foremost, a representative of the people and an office-bearer only afterward. I do not seek, nor will I ever accept, any form of immunity,” Speaker stated.
Sadiq underscored that public trust in state institutions depends on the personal integrity of their representatives. By refusing to endorse the immunity proposal, he reinforced the principle that democratic systems thrive only when all individuals remain subject to the same standards of justice.
Reiterating his stance, the Speaker stressed that leadership is defined by service and responsibility, not privilege or protection. He affirmed that all public officeholders must remain answerable to the Constitution, the rule of law, and the citizens who have entrusted them with their mandate.

Barrister Daniyal urges youth to adopt Iqbal’s teachings, contribute to Pakistan’s bright future

By
Asif Jalal
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0
RAWALPINDI, Nov 09 (APP): Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Broadcasting, Barrister Daniyal Chaudhary on Sunday urged the youth to adopt Iqbal’s teachings, recognize their self-worth, and contribute to Pakistan’s bright future through diligence, faith, and action.
On 148th Birth Anniversary of the Poet of East and the great philosopher Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the Parliamentary Secretary said “Iqbal’s message instills in every generation the belief in self-confidence and the importance of working for collective welfare,”
Barrister Daniyal Chaudhary said that the thoughts and philosophy of Allama Muhammad Iqbal continue to serve as a guiding light for Muslims in the subcontinent and remain crucial in strengthening Pakistan’s ideological and intellectual foundations.
He said that through his poetry, Iqbal awakened a sense of freedom and selfhood among Muslims and imparted lessons in self-respect, faith, action, justice, and democracy. “Iqbal’s ideas not only guided Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and his mission but also inspired the youth with enthusiasm and a sense of purpose,” he added.
Barrister emphasized that true love for Iqbal is reflected through the practical application of his philosophy of Khudi (selfhood). He said that by embracing Iqbal’s ideals, Pakistan can be transformed into a progressive, enlightened, and welfare-oriented state.
He urged the nation to renew its commitment to Iqbal’s vision, stating that the poet-philosopher’s concept of Pakistan forms the foundation of the country’s national identity and stability. Recalling the historic 1930 Allahabad Address, he said it gave Muslims a new direction toward self-determination, ultimately laying the groundwork for the creation of Pakistan.

Senate witnesses heated debates over proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 09 (APP): The Senate on Sunday witnessed heated debates over the proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill, with the treasury benches hailing it as a historic step toward strengthening the constitutional framework, enhancing judicial transparency, and ensuring inclusive representation across all federating units. However, opposition members outrightly rejected the proposed amendment, arguing that it would undermine the independence of the judiciary.
Taking part in the debate, senior leader of Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) Senator Pervaiz Rashid said that the struggle for judicial independence in Pakistan had always been led by political workers and democratic forces rather than the judiciary itself.
He appreciated the amendment bill, saying that judicial independence must not translate into unaccountable authority.
He recalled how political workers had struggled for judicial freedom, which should now serve the people instead of power groups.
He said opposition members who boycotted the committee’s deliberations missed the opportunity to contribute their recommendations at the proper forum.
Senator Syed Masroor Ahsan of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) stressed that parliamentarians should pursue constructive engagement to prevent any institution from exceeding its constitutional mandate.
He urged chairpersons of the committees to actively convene meetings to ensure accountability of ministries.
While taking part in the debate, Senator Talha Mahmood of PPP termed the amendment as a timely reform to strengthen the state structure amid internal and external challenges.
He lauded the creation of a Federal Constitutional Court to reduce case backlogs and maintain a balance between federal and provincial jurisdictions.
Senator Dr. Afnan Ullah Khan of PML-N criticized opposition parties for politicizing the debate, urging them to participate in committees rather than boycotting legislative work.
He said the amendments were meant to restore the powers of parliament that had been eroded over time and to ensure transparent judicial appointments.
Afnan Ullah Khan also lamented Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkwa for his irresponsible and inappropriate statement against armed forces that are rendering supreme sacrifices to defend the motherland.
Senator Sarmad Ali Khan of PPP said that the idea of a Federal Constitutional Court was not new but part of the Charter of Democracy and the PPP manifesto since 2008.
He said the amendment would not weaken the judiciary but reinforce parliamentary oversight, adding that “parliament is being strengthened, not the courts weakened.”
Senator Danish Kumar emphasized the inclusion of minorities in decision-making.
He proposed that every federal and provincial cabinet include at least one minority member, highlighting that Pakistan’s identity is rooted in tolerance and Sufi traditions.
The debate reflected a broad parliamentary consensus that the proposed reforms aim to institutionalize accountability, reinforce democratic governance, and restore the spirit of cooperative federalism envisioned by the 1973 Constitution.
Responding to points raised by Mohsin Aziz and Dr Zarqa Suharwardy Taimur. leader of the House in Senate, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar clarified the historical background of the reforms.
He said the concept of a Federal Constitutional Court was first conceived between 2002 and 2006 during consultations between Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, later formalized in the Charter of Democracy (CoD) signed in London on May 13, 2006.
He said that the idea was endorsed by all major political leaders, including Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Asfandyar Wali Khan, and Imran Khan, during subsequent follow-up meetings. “This is a shared national vision—common ownership of all political forces,” he said.
Other members Syed Ali Zafar, Faisal Javed, Mohsin Aziz, Noorul Haq Qadri also spoke on the occasion and opposed the constitutional amendment.  Later the House was adjourned the meet again on Monday at 11:00 am.

PRA chairman pays tribute to Allama Iqbal

By
Asif Jalal
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0
LAHORE, Nov 09 (APP): On the occasion of Iqbal Day, Chairman of Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) Moazzam Iqbal Sipra said that the poetry and philosophy of Allama Iqbal, the Poet of the East and the Sage of the Ummah, hold timeless guidance for every generation.
Iqbal’s contributions to the Pakistan Movement and the reformation of the Muslim community are truly unforgettable.
“To change our tomorrow, we must work today with dedication and honesty. Let us pledge to follow Iqbal’s philosophy and strive to make ourselves and our society better,” he added.

Lahore Chamber SVP pays homage at Mazar-e-Iqbal

By
Asif Jalal
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LAHORE, Nov 09 (APP): Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI) Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmad Sheikh visited the mausoleum of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal on the occasion of Iqbal Day here Sunday.
He laid floral wreaths, presented flowers, and offered Fatiha while praying for the progress, unity, and prosperity of Pakistan. On his arrival, a ceremonial guard of honour was also presented.
Tanveer Ahmad Sheikh recorded his remarks in the visitors’ memoir book, expressing admiration for the Poet of the East whose teachings inspired the creation of Pakistan. He said that the business community remains committed to promoting economic independence and national dignity in line with Iqbal’s vision.
He added that strengthening Pakistan’s economy is the greatest tribute to Allama Iqbal’s dream of a strong and self-reliant nation.

Education Minister vows to boosts sports in Balochistan Schools

By
Asif Jalal
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QUETTA, Nov 09 (APP): Balochistan Minister for Education, Raheela Hameed Khan Durrani has reaffirmed commitment to promoting sports in schools, calling it a vital tool for youth development and social reform.
Her remarks came during the final match of the Intra-School Hockey Tournament, held in connection with Defence Day commemorations.
Raheela Durrani presented awards and medals to the winning players, commending their performance and the spirit of competition.
Addressing the ceremony, the Minister emphasized the need to integrate extracurricular activities especially sports into the formal education system.
She noted that the initiative aligns with Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti’s vision to expand sporting opportunities, particularly in remote areas of Balochistan.
Raheela Durrani expressed pride in hockey as Pakistan’s national sport, sharing her personal connection as a former player. She praised the Provincial Hockey Federation and school management for organizing the tournament and assured them that their proposals for sports development would be considered seriously.
The Minister highlighted the broader social impact of sports, stating that active engagement in physical activities helps protect youth from negative influences, including drug abuse.
She stressed that sports foster discipline, teamwork, and resilience, making them essential for shaping a productive and responsible generation.

Sports promote teamwork, discipline, and wellness: Chaudhry Majeed

By
Asif Jalal
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ISLAMABAD, Nov 09 (APP): Chairman Faisal Town Group, Chaudhry Abdul Majeed on Sunday said that sports promote teamwork, discipline, and wellness in the society.
He was addressing the prize distribution ceremony of the final match of the ICCI–IEAA Tape Ball Cricket Tournament as the Chief Guest.
The event was jointly organized by the ICCI and the Islamabad Estate Agents Association (IEAA), concluded with great enthusiasm and true sportsmanship.
Chaudhry Abdul Majeed along with President Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry Sardar Tahir Mehmood presented the championship trophy along with a cash prize of Rs. 2.5 million to the winning team, Gondal Tigers in recognition of its commendable performance.
A total of 24 teams participated in the tournament, which was played under the knockout format, drawing vibrant participation from the business community and sports enthusiasts across the capital.
In his address, the Chief Guest while announcing Rs10 lakh cash award for the winning team, Gondal Tigers and Rs. 5 lakh for the runner up team, Gulberg Greens Eleven emphasized the vital role of sports in promoting teamwork, discipline, and a healthy lifestyle.
He said that such activities always foster leadership qualities and unity among the youth, which are essential for nation-building. He also appreciated the ICCI and the IEAA for organizing such a significant healthy activity which is in fact a true national service.
In his address Sardar Tahir Mehmood reaffirmed ICCI’s commitment to encouraging positive and healthy initiatives that strengthen community bonds and engage the youth in constructive pursuits.
Sardar Tahir Mehmood also appreciated the IEAA and the organizing committee for their excellent arrangements and praised the players for demonstrating high standards of passion, performance, and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
The event concluded with a message of unity, enthusiasm, and a reaffirmed commitment by ICCI to promote sports and recreational activities alongside business development in the federal capital.

Embassy participates in functions related to Iqbal Day in Tehran

By
Asif Jalal
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0
TEHRAN, Nov 09 (APP): Embassy of Pakistan, Tehran celebrated 148th birth anniversary of Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal popularly known as Iqbal Lahori in Tehran, in collaboration with Department of Urdu, University of Tehran and Hoze Honari, Art Counsel of Tehran on Sunday.
Embassy participates in functions related to Iqbal Day in Tehran
Muhammad Mudassir Tipu, ambassador of Pakistan in Tehran said that Iran has five thousand years old cultural history and the way Iran has persevered its culture is marvelous.
Ambassador Mudassir said that Dr Iqbal not only belongs to Pakistan but his poetry and ideas has inspired lots of nations around the world.
In Iran he is very much respected and no dialogue or cultural event is complete without mentioning Iqbal. He further said that all the Iranian leadership from Late President Raisi, President Pezeshkian and Speaker Muhammad Bagher Ghalibaf during their visit to Pakistan specially visited Mazar-e-Iqbal to show their respect to Iqbal Lahori.
 He further said that the concepts of Iqbal on Khudi, Shaheen and Renaissance of Muslim Ummah are timeless.  Embassy of Pakistan in Tehran is celebrating year 2027 as year of Iqbal and will organize various functions to highlight his teachings, said the ambassador. He also invited Hoze Honari to participate in these programs.
In another program at Urdu Department University of Tehran, Iqbal day was celebrated in a befitting manner. Dr Janullah Karimi, Rais Danishkuda-e-Adbeat o uloom-e-Insaani, faculty members, university students, Officers from the Embassy of Pakistan participated in the event.
Speaking at the event Ms. Ismat Hasan, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Pakistan said that thoughts of Iqbal are universal and metaphysical in nature.
His concept of Khudi, Shaheen and his devotion for Muhammad are matchless. In this era of globalization where cultural identity is diminishing, the thoughts of Iqbal are beacon to stay connected to our roots, cultural values and civilization, she added. Iqbal rightly said to be “The Poet of the East”, as he has summarized the cultural values of entire East including Iran, Arab, Turkey and Pakistan through his poetry.
University students paid tribute to the great Philosopher poet by reciting his poems.The ceremony was attended by a large number of students, scholars and Pakistani diaspora.

Pakistan’s resolutions adopted by UN marks significant milestone in global efforts to strengthen peace, security: Prof Cheng

By
Asif Jalal
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0
BEIJING, Nov 9 (APP): The unanimous adoption of Pakistan’s four disarmament-related resolutions by the UN General Assembly’s First Committee (Disarmament and International Security) marks a significant milestone in global efforts to strengthen peace and security, and also reflects international recognition of Pakistan’s diplomatic wisdom and acumen, and strong yearning for pragmatic disarmament solutions rooted in regional realities.
These views were expressed by Prof Cheng Xizhong, Senior Research Fellow at the Charhar Institute,a non-governmental Chinese think-tank on diplomacy and international studies based in Beijing.
In a statement on Sunday, he said that for decades, Pakistan has been trying to promote issues of nuclear disarmament, regional disarmament, conventional arms control, and Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs). Unlike one-size-fits-all global disarmament frameworks, these resolutions prioritize regional ownership, a principle long advocated by Pakistan.
In regions marred by historical rivalries, CBMs serve as vital bridges to reduce miscalculations, while regional disarmament initiatives address unique security dynamics that global bodies often overlook. This approach resonates with the UN’s own emphasis on contextualized security, making the resolutions far more actionable than abstract declarations, he added.
Pakistan’s persistent advocacy on this front amplifies the voices of non-nuclear states, pushing nuclear powers to honor their implicit commitments. Meanwhile, regional conventional arms control addresses the primary security threats faced by most nations, from border skirmishes to illicit arms trafficking.
For Pakistan, the resolutions are a culmination of decades of consistent engagement in disarmament diplomacy. Contrary to occasional misconceptions, its focus on regional approaches stems from firsthand experience of security complexities, not parochial interests, he said.
Prof Cheng highlighted that the international community’s appreciation for these initiatives validates Pakistan’s role as a responsible stakeholder in global security governance.
As the resolutions head to the General Assembly for endorsement next month, they offer a timely reminder that disarmament succeeds when it is inclusive and context-driven. Pakistan’s achievement sets a precedent for middle-power leadership, proving that targeted, region-centric initiatives can advance even the most intractable global security agendas.
It is now incumbent on all UN members to translate these resolutions into tangible action—strengthening CBMs and curbing conventional arms flows—to turn the promise of peace into reality, he concluded.
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