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Politics of revenge, hatred to be put to end: Bilawal

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Bilawal-Bhutto
DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Jan 30 (APP):Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Tuesday vowed to put an end to politics of revenge.
He said 18 or 17 federal departments which were to be devolved after the 18th amendments were currently costing Rs 300 billion to the national exchequer and would divert schemes for the masses’ uplift.
Similarly, he said that the government of their opponents provided a subsidy worth Rs 1500 billion on an annual basis to the richest class of the country and this amount could also be utilized for the betterment of the poor.
He urged the people to vote for his party to remove their sense of deprivation and change the destiny of KP including Dera Ismail Khan.
He also called upon his workers to educate people about the importance of vote which determined the country’s future.
Thus, he suggested the people use the power of vote wisely.
He said the real contest was between only the two parties PPP and Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N).
He said the people had already witnessed that other parties badly failed to deliver and hoped that the PPP would emerge as the winning party based on its performance.
He also condemned the inappropriate language in politics.
Earlier, PPP Central Information Secretary Faisal Karim Kundi, while addressing the public gatherings thanked the people of Dera Ismail Khan for making the PPP program successful.
He said the participation of people in large numbers proved Dera Ismail Khan as Mini-Larkana for PPP. “The people of Dera announced their decision in the favour of PPP,” he said.
Kundi said the PPP whenever came into power initiated public-friendly projects. He recalled that different mega-projects including Chashma Right Bank Canal (CRBC), Gomal University, Radio Pakistan Station, Dera-Darya Khan Bridge and agricultural reforms were some major projects in Dera Ismail Khan on the credit of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto when he was prime minister.
He paid tribute to the women who participated in the event in large numbers saying, the women of Dera Ismail Khan were running PPP’s electoral campaign impressively. He claimed that the PPP would clean sweep the Feb 08 election in Dera Ismail Khan.

LESCO collects Rs 25.90m from 615 defaulters on 138th day of recovery campaign

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LESCO
LAHORE, Jan 30 (APP):Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) in collaboration with Tehsildars (Recovery) has recovered Rs 25.90 million from  615 dead defaulters in all the five districts- Lahore, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Kasur and Okara- on the 138th day of its recovery campaign.
A LESCO spokesman told media here Tuesday that on the 138th day, Chief Engineer O&M (T&G) Zafar Iqbal with the support of Tehsildar City Mujahid Zia and Tehsildar Shalimar Noreez Humayun recovered outstanding dues of Rs 10.82 million from 136 defaulters in Northern Circle and Rs 4.12 million from 86 defaulters in Eastern Circle respectively. Similarly, LESCO Manager (Material Disposal) Engineer Anwar Watto along with Tehsildar Model Town Rana Arsal and Tehsildar Cant. Sajjad Qureshi recovered Rs 2.69 million from 70 defaulters in Central Circle, and Rs 1.00 million from 27 defaulters in South Circle; while Manager (Technical) Engineer Muhammad Farooq with the assistance of Tehsildar Nankana Sahib Muhammad Iqbal Rasheed and Tehsildar Sheikhupura Muhammad Aslam Gujjar recovered Rs 0.61 million from 52 defaulters in Nankana Circle and Rs 4.55 million from 67 defaulters in Sheikhupura Circle. He added that LESCO Manager E&S (PMU) Engineer Abbas Ali in collaboration with Naib Tehsildar Kasur and Okara Mirza Zahid Baig recovered outstanding dues of Rs 0.68 million from 89 defaulters in Okara Circle and Rs 1.42 million from 88 defaulters in Kasur Circle.
Up till now during the recovery campaign, the LESCO with the help of Tehsildars (Recovery) recovered more than Rs 2.21 billion from 74,880 dead defaulters in its all circles of operation. He elaborated that LESCO recovered outstanding dues of Rs 318.61 million from 10,667 defaulters in Northern Circle; Rs 526.98 million from 9,723 defaulters in Eastern Circle; Rs 285.19 million from 8,448 defaulters in Central Circle; Rs 121.35 million from 4,356 defaulters in South Circle, Rs 189.69 million from 6,693 defaulters in Nankana Circle; Rs 332.19 million from 9,192 defaulters in Sheikhupura Circle; Rs 134.64 million from 11,847 defaulters in Okara Circle and Rs 304.81 million from 13,954 defaulters in Kasur Circle.
For the recovery campaign started on September 13, the Lahore Division’s Commissioner had assigned additional charge of Tehsildar Recovery (from LESCO defaulters) to relevant Tehsildar, while LESCO Chief Executive Officer Engineer Shahid Haidar has also designated four senior officers to assist them in the dues recovery from defaulters. LESCO Chief Executive Officer Engineer Shahid Haider said that the company is facing loss due to dead defaulters, and vowed to continue action against them.

Tourists rushed to Galyat as snowfall blankets the region

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APP43-130123 MURREE: January 13 – Commuters facing hurdle during heavy snowfall at the hilly town station. APP/ABB
NATHIAGALI, Jan 30 (APP):Heavy snowfall continued for the second consecutive day in Galyat and Thandyani on Tuesday blanketing the entire region.
After a two-month delay, the first spell of snowfall finally arrived, attracting tourists to Galyat. On the initial day, the region received up to 5 inches of snow, followed by an additional three inches on the second day. The Meteorology Department forecasts that the snowfall and rain will persist until Sunday.
The snow-covered landscapes of Galyat have captured the attention of tourists and a large number has arrived to witness the live snowfall and the serene beauty of the region.
Ahsan Hameed spokesperson for Galyat Development Authority (GDA), stated that their team, equipped with heavy machinery and trained staff, is working tirelessly to clear roads, extend hospitality to tourists, and remain vigilant to address any emergency situations.

Women hold full rights to cast vote in elections: Ashrafi

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APP32-300124 ISLAMABAD: January 30 - Special Representative to the Prime Minister for Religious Harmony & Islamic Countries and Chairman Pakistan Ullema Council Hafiz Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi addressing a press conference accompanied by Ulema and Mashaikh. APP/MAF/TZD
ISLAMABAD, Jan 30 (APP):Prime Minister’s Special Representative on Religious Affairs and Pakistan Diaspora in Middle East and Muslim Countries, Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi, on Tuesday said that women have full rights to cast vote in elections.
 Addressing a press conference, he emphasized the importance of voting as Pakistan is gearing up for general elections being held on February 8.
        He highlighted the ongoing preparations being observed across the country for the next polls.
        About recent discussions on social media regarding the Shariah status of voting, Ashrafi who is also the Chairman of Pakistan Ulema Council (PUC), underscored that voting was not only a civic duty but also a testimony, asserting, “If the testimony is known, it is a crime not to give it.”  He extended this principle to include women’s voting rights, and  emphasizing that women could not be deprived of their right to vote.
        He said Pakistan Ulema Council had already issued a ‘Fatwa’ (religious decree) affirming the legality of voting, with specific arrangements in place for women to exercise their voting rights. He clarified that Pakistan had a separate polling stations and polling staff will facilitate women voters, ensuring their participation in the democratic process.
         As the election day approaches on February 8, he urged all citizens to actively engage in the electoral process.                   He also emphasized the importance of assessing candidates based on their abilities, love, and loyalty to the country while casting votes. He reiterated that voting was a fundamental duty of every citizen, emphasizing the significance of democracy and urging all eligible voters to fulfill their civic responsibility on the election day.
        Ashrafi mentioned that in a significant diplomatic development, Iran’s foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian had held talks with Pakistan’s political and military leadership. He said the talks concluded with a commitment to continue dialogue and cooperation on regional matters besides reaffirming commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region.
        Supporting the joint statement issued following the meeting, Ashrafi emphasized the collective responsibility of all nations in combating terrorism, labelling it as a global menace that requires a unified approach.
        Regarding the escalating situation in Palestine, he raised concerns over it and reiterated the importance of Muslim unity in addressing such issues. Highlighting the domestic front, Ashrafi called for political leadership to come forward for resolving internal challenges through dialogue.  Regarding the legal developments, he stressed the importance of allowing the courts to carry out their duties independently and supremacy of law.

RPO reviews ongoing construction work at Safe City Project

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RAWALPINDI, Jan 30 (APP):Regional Police Officer (RPO), Syed Khurram Ali reviewed the ongoing construction work at Safe City Project and Khadimat Center Liaquat Bagh here on Tuesday.
According to police spokesman, the RPO issued instructions to the concerned authorities to complete the project within the stipulated time.
The police chief said that the project would prove to be an important milestone for the safety of life and property of the citizens of Rawalpindi, while the Khadmit Center would also play an important role in providing various facilities to the public under one roof.
On the occasion, SP Rawal Division Faisal Saleem gave a briefing about the daily progress on the construction work.

Motorcycle riders open fire on traffic warden in Samanabad

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ISLAMABAD, Jan 30 (APP):Three motorcycle riders on Tuesday opened fire on a traffic warden in Samanabad Lahore.
According to private news channel, the incident took place when the traffic warden stopped the motorcyclists, the motorcyclists opened fire after heated argument.
According to police sources, the warden was unharmed in the incident, while a search was started for the fled motorcyclists with the help of CCTV cameras.

SSP Malir for strict security measures amid Election-2024

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KARACHI, Jan 30 (APP): Senior Superintendent Police (SSP) district Malir Tariq Elahi Mastoi has directed all the officials concerned to make fool-proof security arrangements at highly sensitive polling stations during the general election 2024.
He said this while chairing a meeting to discuss the security arrangements for the election to be held on February 08, in a meeting held at the SP office Malir, said a spokesperson on Tuesday.
He directed the DIB In-charge Malir district to prepare and release the contingency plan regarding the polling station immediately. He further directed that all DSPs and SHOs should provide fool proof security arrangements to political gatherings, rallies and processions held in their respective areas.
Tariq Elahi Mastoi said that effective security arrangements be adopted at the  polling stations. The polling staff and staffers responsible for transportation of election material on the polling day be also provided full security, he directed.
He directed to establish monitoring office immediately at SSP Malir office and also ensure availability of the staff round-the-clock.
The SSP also directed all the officers to keep in touch on day-to-day basis with the Returning Officers, District Returning Officers and Presiding Officers. SP Malir Shoaib Memon, all DSPs and all SHOs of the district attended the meeting.

Ahmad Ishaque Jehangir assumes as DG FIA

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ISLAMABAD, Jan 30 (APP): Ahmad Ishaque Jehangir, PSP, PPM, a seasoned and highly esteemed officer hailing from the Police Service of Pakistan (PSP), officially assumed the charge as the Director General of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).

According to the press release issued here Tuesday, Ahmad Ishaque Jehangir brings a wealth of experience and a distinguished career in law enforcement to his new role, having previously served as the Additional DG in FIA’s Cybercrime Wing.

With an illustrious career marked by exemplary service in various capacities across all four provinces of Pakistan, he is widely recognized for his professionalism, honesty, and commitment to upholding the law.

Upon assuming office at the FIA Headquarters in Islamabad, he paid homage to the sacrifices made by the agency’s martyrs at the Martyrs’ Memorial. Subsequently, he engaged with the ADGs and Directors, expressing his firm determination to enhance the institution’s capabilities and better service delivery.

In a statement, the Director General outlined his vision for the FIA, emphasizing the core values of honesty, duty and effective law enforcement.

He pledged to take urgent measures to enhance public service delivery and declared that under his leadership emphasis would be to provide the best services to the people.

Addressing immediate challenges, he highlighted the need to combat human trafficking, cybercrimes, money laundering, corruption and other white collar crimes in the country.

He asserted that stern action would be taken against individuals spreading fake, objectionable, and hateful content on social media, in accordance with the law.

He emphasized the Agency’s commitment to preventing human trafficking and ensuring public awareness, and announced a joint strategy with national and international organizations to tackle international crimes such as human trafficking.

Recognizing the critical role of professional training, the Director General FIA issued orders to focus on the specialized training of investigation officers and senior officers within the agency.

He emphasized a zero-tolerance policy against misconduct and stressed the importance of performing professional duties diligently.

Any negligence in the performance of professional duties will not be tolerated. Stringent legal actions will be taken against officers involved in misconduct and negligence, he said.

Tight security ordered for polling stations

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FAISALABAD, Jan 30 (APP):Divisional Commissioner Madam Silwat Saeed directed the deputy commissioners of the division to take appropriate steps for ensuring tight security arrangements at all polling stations across the division.
Chairing a video-link meeting held here on Tuesday regarding arrangements for the general election 2024, she said that a close liaison would be established among all departments including district police, army, rangers and other law enforcement agencies so that the people could be provided with safe and secured atmosphere on the Election Day.
She said that Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had already released the election code of conduct and it would be implemented in letter and spirit. She directed the deputy commissioner of all four districts of the division to cancel leave of the employees of Rescue 1122, Civil Defence, Health and other departments and keep emergency services at high alert in their respective jurisdiction.
She directed to convene a meeting of District Intelligence Committee on a daily basis and devise a comprehensive transportation plan in addition to ensuring installation of CCTV cameras at sensitive polling stations.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Faisalabad Abdullah Nayyar Sheikh and DCs of others district joined the meeting through video-link and briefed the commissioner about the latest situation regarding election arrangements and security.

At regional moot, Pakistan reiterates commitment to Afghan peace, prosperity

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KABUL, Jan 30 (APP): As the representatives from 10 regional countries gathered here for a Regional Countries Conference on Afghanistan, Pakistan reiterated its commitment to peace and prosperity in the war-torn country.

The conference titled “Afghanistan’s Regional Cooperation Initiative” was hosted by the Afghan caretaker government.

The international event was attended by diplomats from Pakistan, Russia, China, Iran, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Turkey and Indonesia.

Ambassador of Pakistan in Kabul Ubaid Nizamani, who represented Pakistan in the moot, wrote on X that he reiterated his country’s commitment to a peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan.

He emphasized that the region must work together to harness mutually beneficial connectivity potential and address shared concerns.

“Represented Pakistan in Regional Countries conference on Afghanistan in Kabul. Reiterated our commitment to a peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan. Region must work together to harness mutually beneficial connectivity potential and address shared concerns,” the ambassador wrote on the social media platform.