No change in Petrol, HOBC prices for Jan: Ishaq Dar

ISLAMABAD: Finance Minister, Ishaq Dar on Thursday announced that prices of petrol and High Octane Blending Component (HOBC) will remain the same for the month of January 2016. The new prices will become effective past midnight.

In a media statement, Ishaq Dar said the price of petrol is being kept unchanged at Rs78.26 per litre.

He further announced that the rate of kerosene oil has been slashed by Rs8.07 per litre and High speed diesel by Rs3 a litre. 

The Finance Minister said the deadline for filing tax returns has been extended by one month.

He said the government will present a scheme for filers and non-filers before the National Assembly.

Pak-India Foreign Secretaries meeting schedule being finalized: FO

ISLAMABAD: The meeting schedule between foreign secretaries of Pakistan and India is being finalized, Pakistan’s Foreign Office said Thursday.

Foreign Office Spokesman Qazi Khalilullah, in a weekly news briefing, said date is being finalized for the meeting to be b held January.

He said Foreign Secretaries of both the countries will finalise schedule of meetings of various segments of the comprehensive bilateral dialogue in accordance with the joint statement issued on December 9.

To a question, the Spokesman said, “Pakistan and India have serious issues and disputes that need to be resolved peacefully through dialogue.” All the issues of our concern will be raised in the Foreign Secretaries talks, he said.

The spokesman categorically stated that there were no signs of presence of Daesh in Pakistan, adding that security agencies were alert in this regard.

Global growth will be disappointing in 2016

BERLIN: Global economic growth will be "disappointing" next year, the head of the International Monetary Fund said in a guest article for German newspaper Handelsblatt published on Wednesday.

"In many countries the financial sector still has weaknesses and in emerging markets the financial risks are increasing. All of that means global growth will be disappointing and uneven in 2016," IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde said.

She added that low productivity, ageing populations and the effects of the global financial crisis were putting the brakes on growth, which has weakened the medium-term prospects.

FIA rounded up two human traffickers

Rawalpindi: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested two alleged human traffickers including a woman during a raid on a plaza.

On a tip-off, FIA officials raided the plaza on 6th Road and apprehended two human traffickers identified as Shabnam Bibi and Muhammad Amin.

The FIA officials also seized five illegal passports and other documents from their possession.

The alleged human traffickers have been shifted to an undisclosed location for further investigation.

Three suspected militants killed in Balochistan's Kech district

QUETTA: Security forces claim to have killed at least three suspected militants, including a militant commander in Balochistan's Kech district on Tuesday morning.

"Security forces launched a search operation against terrorists in Tump area of Kech district," said Khan Wasey, a spokesman for the Frontier Corps (FC).

"Three terrorists were killed during an exchanged of fire with security forces," Wasey stated.

The FC spokesperson added that the terrorists had recently targeted a school in the area with a hand grenade.

18 killed in suicide attack near Nadra office in Mardan

PESHAWAR: Eighteen people were killed and at least 40 injured when a powerful blast occurred near the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) office on Nisatta Road in Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on Tuesday.

Rescue 1122 sources that rushed to the site of the attack said at least 18 people were killed in the blast which took place at a time the office was crowded with people lining up to make applications for National Identity Cards (NIC).

Map showing the location of the office. ─ DawnNews.

'Suicide attack'

Deputy Inspector General Mardan Division Saeed Wazir told DawnNews the blast was a "suicide attack carried out by a bomber".

The DIG added that a security guard posted at the office stopped the bomber at the gate, after which he detonated his suicide vest. The suicide attacker was on a motorbike and rammed it into the gate after being denied entry, he said.

Conflicting reports suggest that explosives may have been planted on a motorcycle parked near the Nadra office.

Lahore gang-rape accused sent on three-day physical remand

Lahore: A judicial magistrate in Lahore on Monday sent key suspect Adnan and his other eight accomplices on a three-day physical remand in the Lahore girl gang-rape case.

The suspects were produced before the judicial magistrate by the police.

The police pleaded the court to hand over the suspects on a 10-day remand.

After arguments, the magistrate sent the suspects on a three day police remand.

The suspects had abducted the girl from near her home and took her to a guest house where they allegedly raped her umpteenth time.

18th death anniversary of Shaikh Ayaz observed

SUKKUR: The 18th death anniversary of prominent Sindhi poet Shaikh Ayaz was observed here on Monday.

Ayaz introduced modern trends in Sindhi poetry and literature.

He wrote more than 50 books of poetry, plays, biographies and short stories in Sindhi and wrote articles and poetry in Urdu as well.

He was sung largely in his life time as well as after his death. He is read and respected in Pakistan and India very much along with all over the world.

He was awarded Sitara-i-Imtiaz for his literary works.

Nawaz and, now, Modi seem willing to try the unconventional.

WELL, who saw that coming? But now that we have seen it, there’s a big little question — does it make any sense? The reluctant, preliminary answer: it doesn’t really.

Welcome as an Indian PM is in Pakistan and enthusiastic as our PM was to host him, you get the sense that neither really understands all the moving parts and endless strands that is Pak-India.

The good news? It’s South Asia — rules don’t always apply here. And both Nawaz and, now, Modi seem willing to try the unconventional.

Let’s try and unpack this. Buried in the bilateral relationship since Mumbai has been a quite vexing question: how to move on from Mumbai?

میئر کے اختیارات کیلئے ہر پلیٹ فارم پر جائیں گے ، وسیم اختر

ایم کیو ایم کے نامزد میئر وسیم اختر کا کہنا تھا کہ بلدیاتی الیکشن سپریم کورٹ کے احکامات پر ہوئے ، اختیارات نہ ملے تو سپریم کورٹ کا دروازہ کھٹ کھٹائیں گے لیکن پھر بھی اختیارات نہ ملے تو سندھ حکومت نہیں چل سکتی ،سیاسی جماعتوں سے اتحاد کے سوال پر وسیم اختر نے کہا کہ ایم کیو ایم ایسی اینٹ ہے جس دیوار میں لگ جائے اسکو مضبوط بنادیتی ہے، وسیم اختر کا کہنا تھا کہ صرف کراچی نہیں ، پورے سندھ کے میئرز بے اختیارہیں ، تمام شہروں سے میئر اختیارات کے حصول کیلئے ہمارے ساتھ ہیں

6.2 magnitude earthquake jolts many parts of Pakistan

KARACHI: An earthquake rocked many parts of Pakistan late Friday night, creating panic among the people who rushed out of their houses and other structures to take safety under the open sky. 

However, no loss of life transpired from the earthquake that was recorded at 6.2 on the Richter scale. The epicenter of the quake was located 203 kilometer underground somewhere along the border area of Afghanistan and Tajikistan. 

The tremors jolted many parts of the country including Islamabad, Kasur, Sahiwal, Hafizabad, Pindi Bhatyaan, Jalapur Bhatyaan, Swat, Abottabad, Peshawar, Mansehra, Chiniot, Shaikhupura, Bhaira, Multan, Dirbala, Ghadar, Sialkot, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Muzaffarabad, Neelum Bagh and Rawlakot besides Gilgit-Baltistan. 

More than 40 people sustained injuries in Peshawar. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government issued a red alert soon after the earthquake. 

According to Indian media, the tremors were also felt in New Delhi where the magnitude of the quake was recorded at 6.5.

Case lodged for minor girl’s alleged rape in Lahore

LAHORE: A case has been lodged at Race Course police station against nine accused over an alleged abuse of a minor girl. Six persons have also been nominated in the case. 

According to police, a 15-year old girl, resident of Rana Town, Multan Road was recovered in a raid at a hotel located in Upper Mall. 

The girl in her statement to the police said that she was kidnapped and brought to the hotel where she was gang-raped. 

The girl’s sister has accused that named Adnan was responsible for the kidnapping. 

The girl has been shifted to services hospital for medical care. The initial medical report suggests that evidence collected so far indicates the girl was raped. 

Police has arrested six of the accused while raids are being conducted to apprehend their accomplices. 

DIG Operations Lahore, Dr Haider Ashraf said that teams have been formed for the arrest of accused.

Modi, PM Nawaz short meeting in Lahore today

ISLAMABAD: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a short meeting with his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif in Lahore today (Friday).

The Indian Premier, in a message on social media, said, “I am looking forward to meet PM Nawaz Sharif in Lahore today where I will drop by on my way back to Delhi from Afghanistan.” 

Indian Prime Minister arrived at Lahore airport where Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister warmly welcomed him.

Sindh, Centre to resolve differences soon: Qaim

CM tells delegation of bar associations that his govt remains committed to fully implementing NAP  By our correspondent

Karachi

The chief minister said on Thursday that some legal misunderstandings between the province and the Centre on the issue of Rangers' policing powers would soon be removed amicably. "The Sindh government is committed to implementing the National Action Plan worked out with the collective wisdom of political and military leadership," Qaim Ali Shah told a delegation of three bar associations, the Sindh High Court Bar, the Karachi Bar and the Malir Bar at the Chief Minister's House.

The chief minister said he was thankful to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif for their support and cooperation in restoring peace in Karachi

Modi, PM Nawaz short meeting in Lahore today

ISLAMABAD: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a short meeting with his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif in Lahore in the afternoon today (Friday).

The Indian Premier, in a message on social media, said, “I am looking forward to meet PM Nawaz Sharif in Lahore today where I will drop by on my way back to Delhi from Afghanistan.” 

Gen Sharif discusses regional security with Gen Campbell

RAWALPINDI: General John F. Campbell, Commander Resolute Support Mission and United States Forces - Afghanistan and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif discussed issues relating to the regional security here on Monday.

According to Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of Pak Army, General Campbell called on General Raheel Sharif here at General Headquarters.

During the meeting, matters of mutual interest and regional security situation with particular reference to the reconciliation process in Afghanistan came under discussion

Infant's death: Bilawal orders inquiry into the incident

KARACHI: Hours after the death of a 10-month-old baby girl due to VVIP security protocol, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Wednesday said he is anguished over Bisma's death and is personally inquiring into this ‘heart breaking incident to ascertain what went wrong’.

Taking strong notice of the reports, he ordered the Sindh government for an impartial inquiry into the incident.

10 Indian vessels seized, 66 fishermen held

Karachi

Marine forces on Monday arrested 66 Indian fishermen for allegedly violating Pakistan's territorial waters in the Arabian Sea, police said.

Fida Hussain Janwari, a senior police official, said Pakistan's Maritime Security Agency also captured 10 boats belonging to the fishermen.

"These 66 fishermen were handed over to police today (on Monday). We have begun legal proceedings and they will be soon presented in a court," he told AFP.

The two countries frequently carry out such arrests as the maritime border in the Arabian Sea is poorly defined and many fishing boats lack the technology needed to be certain of their precise location.

The fishermen often languish in jail even after serving their term, as poor diplomatic ties between the two arch-rivals mean fulfilling official requirements can take a long time.

Hassan Setho, a senior prison official, said more than 400 Indian fishermen were currently detained in the southern city of Karachi

Technical objection delays City schools non-salary funds

LAHORE

Despite lapse of almost six months of the current fiscal year, the public schools of Lahore, the provincial metropolis, have yet to receive non-salary funds of around Rs500 million, it is learnt. 

The amount was supposed to be spent by schools through the School Councils for minor repairs, white washing, furniture repair and payment of utility bills etc. 

One wonders as to how the public schools have been managing such jobs when the funds are not available in a City where bureaucracy sits and decides fate of the entire province vis-à-vis reforms and development work.

Polling held for new Arts Council governing body On Breaking News

Karachi
Polling for the annual elections of the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi was held at its premises on Sunday.
Earlier, before the commencement of the polling process, a general body meeting of the organisation was held, in which the financial report of the year was presented before the members. As many as 5,720 registered voters of the Arts Council would elect five office bearers and 12 members of the governing body for the year, 2016.
The total number of members of the cultural organization is 7,049, however only those members who have paid the annual membership fee of Rs300 were eligible to cast their votes.
There was a straight fight between two panels. Ejaz Ahmed Faruqi of the Ahmed Shah-Ejaz Faruqi panel was contesting for the post of president against Rizwan Siddiqui of the Shehr-e-Quaid panel. Sahar Ansari contested for the vice-president’s post against M Zaheer Khan of the rival panel.
Huma Mir of the Ahmed Shah-Ejaz Faruqi panel was competing for the post of secretary against Najumuddin Shaikh while Athar Waqar Azim was vying for the joint secretary’s post against Khalid Arain of the Shehr-e-Quaid panel.
Shahnaz Siddiqui of the Ahmed Shah-Ejaz Faruqi panel was competing against Amjad Farid Sabri for the post of treasurer. Muhammad Ahmad Shah, while speaking to The News said the elections passed by without incident and said he was hopeful for a thumping victory for his panel. The election results are expected to be announced on Monday (today).

Sindh govt resolution on Rangers powers misses ‘terrorism

KARACHI: Sindh government forgot to add the most relevant word ‘terrorism’ to its resolution granting extension to Sindh Rangers. 

However, the provincial government in its second letter to the Federation added the word ‘terrorism’. The letter proposed to reduce the term of extension in Rangers powers from four to two months and to limit the use of these powers to Karachi. 

The second letter proposes that the conditional powers to the paramilitary force will be meant for Karachi only. 

It also proposed to cut down the term of extension in the special powers from four to two months (from December 6, 2015 to February 5). 

Imran Khan sees PTI’s govt in near future

MIANWALI: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Chairman Imran Khan on Sunday said he can see his party’s government in the country in the near future.

Addressing the 3rd convocation of NUML University here, Imran Khan regretted that in the present system only the rich can get quality education while it is very difficult for a kid of the poor to achieve growth.

Imran Khan advised the students ‘never to use money to achieve something, nor be used in exchange for money or lose respect for it’.

He said only big dreams and thinking add to the height of a human being. “There is a big thinking behind the idea of making new Pakistan,” he added.

Dean Jones deportation: Ch Nisar orders action against private airline

ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister, Chaudhry Nisar on Sunday ordered action against Emirates airlines, hours after Australian former cricketer Dean Jones was deported from Islamabad for lacking the required traveling documents including the visa. 

“The airlines must be fined in the same manner Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) gets fined in other countries,” Chaudhry Nisar said in a statement, adding, PIA is made to follow the law of the land in other countries. 

He refuted the impression that Pakistan’s Interior Ministry can allow entry to a foreigner without a visa. “No foreigner lacking the required visa can enter Pakistan,” he added. 

Man dies, as he tries to take selfie with moving train in Rawalpindi

ISLAMABAD: A young man was killed on Tuesday after being hit by a fast-moving train as he tried to take a selfie with it in Rawalpindi, officials said.

Jamshaid Khan, 22, who was an employee of the railways department, tried to take the photo on his phone while standing on the track in front of the train.

"Jamshed Khan, a resident of Dhok Ratta area in Rawalpindi city, died after getting hit by a train while taking a selfie in front of it," Deeba Shahnaz, a senior official of the rescue department, told AFP.

"The train crushed him and he was killed on the spot," she added.

APS martyrs anniversary: Holiday announced by provincial govts

KARACHI: Punjab and Balochistan have announced public holiday for Wednesday which marks anniversary of the martyrs of Army Public School (APS), Peshawar. 

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has announced holiday in Peshawar while in Karachi all educational institutions will remain closed. 

A number of programs have been chalked out in many cities and towns of Pakistan to pay tribute to the APS martyrs, most whom were young students. 

Spokesman Sindh government announced that all public and private educational institutions will remain closed on the anniversary of APS martyrs.

Journalists in Pakistan face challenging conditions: US Consul General

KARACHI: US Consul General Brian Heath has stated that the journalists in Pakistan face challenging and dangerous conditions.

Brian Heath was talking to journalists during his visit to Karachi Press Club (KPC) on Friday.

US Consulate General Karachi donated three computer, network and printer systems and software to the Karachi Press Club to support Karachi-based journalists in their day-to-day reporting.

He said the media plays a very important role in a free society. “Journalists in Pakistan face challenging and dangerous conditions. That is why I wanted to come here today to express my gratitude and appreciation for all of your hard work and dedication.”

Corps Commanders express solidarity with families of APS martyrs

RAWALPINDI: A Corps Commanders meeting presided over by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif on Tuesday was given comprehensive briefings on internal and external security situation of the country. 

According to Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of Pak Army, the participants of the conference also took holistic view of the emerging geo strategic environment and its relevance to security of Pakistan. 

While recounting successes of Operation Zarb-e-Azb, the meeting also expressed solidarity with bereaved families and paid rich tributes to the sacrifices of APS Peshawar Shuhada who laid their lives in a tragic terrorist act on December 16, 2014.

Let's not be frozen in the past, Pakistan NSA tells Indian newspaper

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan's national security adviser Lieutenant-General (R) Naseer Khan Janjua Janjua has termed his recent meeting with his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval a "good beginning", saying it is important for both countries to "not be frozen in the past". 

"Let's think of the future. Let us do it ourselves. Let us not leave it to our children," Lt-Gen Janjua told the Hindustan Times via telephone from Islamabad in his first interview since the secret meeting between the NSAs in Bangkok on December 6. 

"Let us not be dogged about our disputes. We understand that we have to move forward," urging a positive continuation of dialogue and forward movement in the India-Pakistan engagement process.

Pakistan confirms joining Saudi-led counter-terror bloc

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Thursday confirmed joining the Saudi Arabia's 34-nation coalition against terrorism, however it said the extent of participation in counter-terrorism activities was yet to be decided.

"Yes, we are part of the coalition. We have decided, and we welcome it," the Foreign Office Spokesman Qazi Khalilullah said in response to a question whether Pakistan was part of the alliance announced by Saudi Arabia against terrorism.

Earlier, Pakistan on Wednesday welcomed the move and said it is awaiting further details to decide the extent of its participation in different activities of the alliance.

The foreign office spokesman said, as is well known, Pakistan has consistently supported all regional and international efforts to combat militancy, extremism and terrorism and, to this end, has extended its full support and cooperation to international community.

ISPR’s new song pays tribute to martyred APS students

RAWALPINDI: Two days ahead of the first death anniversary of students who had embraced martyrdom in an armed attack on Peshawar's Army Public School, the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) released a song to pay tribute to the departed souls.

The song in the memory of martyred students conveys a message to the enemies of Pakistan that the country will not give up and continue to educate people to get rid of the scourge of terrorism. "Mujhe Maa Us Se Badla Lenay Jana He ... Mujhe Dushman Ke Bachon Ko Parhana He" (Mother, I have to go and take revenge ... Will educate the children of enemies).

Sindh Assembly resolution trims Rangers’ special power

KARACHI: Days after the deadline of Rangers paramilitary force’s special police-like powers expired, Sindh Assembly on Wednesday adopted a resolution, extending its stay in Karachi and the province but with limited powers than before amid uproar from the opposition benches.

According to the resolution, the Sindh Rangers will have to seek the chief minister’s approval before taking any action against government institutions and personalities. This condition however would not apply while arresting criminals and terrorists.

Opposition parties strongly protested against the resolution tabled by Sindh Home Minister Sohail Anwar Sial and tore up copies of the bill chanting “no corruption no”.

The stay of the paramilitary force, which has been carrying out an operation against criminals and terrorists along with police in Karachi for the last two years, was however extended for further 12 months.

PM announces to observe Dec 16 as ‘National Education Resolve Day’

PESHAWAR: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has announced to observe December 16, the day when terrorists attacked Army Public School Peshawar and martyred more than 140 people including 132 children, as a ‘National Education Resolve Day’ to promote education.

Addressing the ceremony at the APS to pay homage to the martyrs and the injured children, staff members and their families, the Premier also announced to upgrade the Army Public School Peshawar to a university.

Malala for quality education to end terrorism

BIRMINGHAM, UNITED KINGDOM: Nobel prize winner Malala Yousafzai has stressed for quality education to end terrorism and defeat the mindset of terrorism mentality and of hatred.

Malala was speaking at the ceremony, organized to express solidarity with the heirs of Army Public School martyrs and pay tribute to the victims, in the city of Birmingham.

She said, "There are these terrorist attacks happening, for example what happened in Paris or what happened in Peshawar a year ago."

It´s not just needed in Pakistan but across the world. If we want to end terrorism we need to bring quality education so we defeat the mindset of terrorism mentality and of hatred.

Man dies, as he tries to take selfie with moving train in Rawalpindi

ISLAMABAD: A young man was killed on Tuesday after being hit by a fast-moving train as he tried to take a selfie with it in Rawalpindi, officials said.

Jamshaid Khan, 22, who was an employee of the railways department, tried to take the photo on his phone while standing on the track in front of the train.

"Jamshed Khan, a resident of Dhok Ratta area in Rawalpindi city, died after getting hit by a train while taking a selfie in front of it," Deeba Shahnaz, a senior official of the rescue department, told AFP.

"The train crushed him and he was killed on the spot," she added.

Bilawal Bhutto pays rich tribute to APS martyrs

KARACHI: Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has paid glowing tributes to 132 children among 140 innocent people who were martyred in a horrific terrorist attack on Army Public School, Peshawar a year back on December 16.

In his message on the first anniversary of the APS Peshawar attack, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that these innocent souls had united the entire nation through their blood and sacrifices.

This attack brought, even those who wept at the deaths of notorious terrorists, to the page created by Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto through her first salvo of fight against terrorism, he added.

Pakistan successfully test fires Shaheen 1A ballistic missile

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan on Tuesday conducted a successful flight test of Shaheen 1A ballistic missile, capable of delivering different types of warheads to a range of 900 kilometers.

The flight test was aimed at re-validating several design and technical parameters of the weapon system.

The launch with impact point in Arabian Sea was witnessed by senior officers from Strategic Plans Division, strategic forces, scientists and engineers of strategic organizations.

Director General Strategic Plans Division, Lieutenant General Mazhar Jamil,​​ congratulated the scientists and engineers for their dedication, professionalism and commitment towards yet another display of strengthening Pakistan’s defence.

Pakistan’s strategic capabilities are based on Credible Minimum Deterrence and desire for peaceful co-existence in the region.

25 killed, 70 injured in Parachinar market blast

LeJ Al-Alami claims responsibility

PARACHINAR: At least 25 people were killed and 70 others sustained injuries in a bomb explosion triggered by a remote-controlled device in a second-hand clothes market here on Sunday, official sources said.

The sources said the people were busy buying used winter clothes when the blast took place. Buyers and shopkeepers, mostly poor people, were caught in the blast that devastated the area and caused death and destruction. The sources said the explosive device had been planted near the busy Eidgah Market located close to the Thall bus stand in Parachinar, headquarters of Kurram Agency.

Let’s see whether MQM backs Rangers’ powers: Sindh CM

KHAIRPUR/LARKANA: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah said that the Rangers “are with us, and they will remain with us in the future as well” and that the tendency to create a controversy over the matter of granting extension to their powers should be avoided.

He said that a resolution in this regard will be presented before the Sindh Assembly on Monday (today).

“We’ll see whether the MQM supports the Rangers’ powers or not,” the chief minister said.

He said that it was unfortunate that Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar overlooked the sacrifices rendered by the police in Sindh during the Karachi operation. He said it was also wrong to talk about bringing a video and saving one person.

PM Sharif, regional leaders perform groundbreaking of TAPI pipeline

ISLAMABAD/ASHGABAT: Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif along with other regional leaders performed the ground-breaking ceremony of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline project in Turkmenistan on Sunday.

Parachinar market explosion leaves 18 dead

PESHAWAR: At least 18 people were killed when a bomb ripped through a crowded Sunday bazaar near the Eidgah market in Parachinar, the capital of Kurram tribal agency, officials said.

Independent sources are however putting the death toll much higher at 25.

According to political administration officials, over 70 persons were also wounded in the blast, with at least 15 of them said to be in critical condition.

Rangers’ ‘special powers’ likely to be...

• 

  Rangers’ ‘special powers’ likely to be...

  HYDERABAD: Terming the matter of Sindh Rangers’ ‘special police-like powers’ as Constitutional, Sindh’s Information Advisor Maula Bakhsh Chandio on Saturday said Rangers’ powers are likely...
  

183 hardened terrorists among 3,400 killed in Zarb-e-Azb: DG ISPR

• 

  183 hardened terrorists among 3,400 killed in Zarb-e-Azb: DG ISPR

  Bajwa said support of the entire nation for its valiant armed forces and resolve expressed against terrorism after the Army Public School (APS) attack on December 16 last year had been the bed rock of the Operation Zarb-e-Azb. Overall improvement in security and law and order situation was owed to the operation, said the DG ISPR, adding that festivities and national events were being celebrated and stability has...
  

Bomb kills FC soldier, wounds four in Quetta On Breaking news

QUETTA: At least one soldier was killed and four others wounded including a passerby when a bomb exploded at a paramilitary checkpoint in the Balochistan capital, police said on Saturday.

The bomb, planted close to the Frontier Corps (FC) checkpoint went off early Saturday when soldiers reached the site for daily duty in Quetta, senior police official Abdul Waheed Khattak told AFP.

“It was an IED (improvised explosive device) which exploded the moment soldiers reached the checkpoint,” Khattak said.

He added the blast killed one soldier and wounded four others including a teenager passing the site at the time of the explosion.

“(The) condition of another soldier is also critical,” Khattak said.

Sajjad Ahmad, a senior official from FC, confirmed the attack and casualties.

Thousands of paramilitary troops are deployed in troubled areas of the country to carry out security checks and to help police in maintaining law and order.

No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack.

NP’s Bizenjo, Malik Baloch assure full support to Zehri as Balochistan CM On Breaking news

QUETTA: Assuring full support to PML-N’s Sanaullah Zehri , who has been nominated by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif as next chief minister of Balochistan, National Party (NP) chief Mir Hasil Bizenjo on Saturday said his party is leaving the government in accordance with the Murree agreement.

The prime minister had nominated Zehri as the next CM last week. Under the Murree agreement, Dr Abdul Malik Baloch of National Party was to serve as CM Balochistan till December 4, 2015 and after this date the PML-N was to nominate its own chief minister for the province for the rest of two-and-a-half-year term.

Speaking at a press conference here today, Bizenjo said a new precedence was being set through abidance of the agreement in the country, which he added was his party’s moral responsibility. He said the NP was leaving the government today and assured nominated CM Zehri his full support.

Talking to media men on the occasion, outgoing chief minister Dr Baloch said he did whatever he could for the progress and development of the province, adding that he was leaving behind his performance only.

He said he would welcome the new chief minister and vowed to continue his role for strengthening democracy and political stability in Balochistan.

Mark Zuckerberg says 'will fight to protect’ Muslims rights on Breaking news

WASHINGTON: Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg wants to protect the rights of Muslims, saying they should not fear being "persecuted for the actions of others." 

Zuckerberg said in a Facebook post that the Muslim community should not face discrimination following attacks in Paris and elsewhere linked to extremists. 

"If you´re a Muslim in this community, as the leader of Facebook I want you to know that you are always welcome here and that we will fight to protect your rights and create a peaceful and safe environment for you," Zuckerberg wrote. 

His comments appeared aimed at countering the call by Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump to ban Muslims from entering the United States. 

Rangers extension: Only CM Sindh to decide how, when, says Chandio On Breaking News

KARACHI: Sindh Minister for Information, Maula Baksh Chandio, Thursday said only Sindh Chief Minister Qaim Ali Shah is the competent authority to decide as to how and when Rangers ‘special powers’ are to be granted extension. 

In a statement released here today, Maula Baksh Chandio in a sarcastic remark pointed at Interior Minister Chaudhry Ali Khan, said rather than Sindh government the latter had better keep his focus on the performance of federal ministers. 

The provincial Information Minister described the issue of granting approval to the extension in special powers of the paramilitary force as a sensitive matter, adding, however, that a decision in this connection would be made in a day or two. 

The special powers granted to Sindh Rangers to strictly deal with the criminal elements as part of the Karachi operation were last renewed for four months in August. 

The extension expired six days ago and the Sindh Chief Minister is yet to make up his mind whether or not to renew it again. 

Earlier, Corps Commander Karachi called on CM Sindh Qaim Ali Shah and discussed the matter of renewal of special powers to the paramilitary force.

Lawmakers want Pak-India ‘understanding’ discussed in NA On Breaking News

ISLAMABAD: Opposition parties and Moulana Fazl-ur-Rehman on Thursday demanded of the government to take the National Assembly into confidence over what bilateral matters were agreed upon between Pakistan and India on the sidelines of ‘Heart of Asia conference’. 

Federal Minister Riaz Pirzada said restoration of cricket ties between Pakistan and India is the litmus test of the bilateral dialogues. 

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) member of National Assembly Shireen Mazari asked the government to brief the legislature over the outcome of meeting between Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Adviser to Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz and also the matters discussed during ‘Heart of Asia Conference’. 

Another PTI lawmaker Shafqat Mehmood said the intentions of India need to be monitored as visiting Indian Minister didn't say a single word on Pakistan-India cricket series despite promising it earlier.

SHC summons MQM’s Waseem Akhtar over defamation suit filed by Rangers

KARACHI: Sindh High Court has served notice to Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) leader Waseem Akhar and summoned him in a defamation suit filed by Sindh Rangers.

The paramilitary force had filed Rs500 million defamation suit against former provincial home minister and MQM leader Waseem Akhar for hurling baseless allegations at Rangers during an interview on a private TV channel on September 29, which had severely damaged the reputation of Rangers.

The notice, as per the PRO, was served under Section 8 of the Defamation Ordinance 2002.

The paramilitary, in the notice, asked MQM leader to furnish evidences or pay Rs. 500 million as damages.

The court served notice to Waseem Akhtar and summoned him on next hearing.

US stresses for dialogue between Pak, India to work out bilateral issues

WASHINGTON: The United States has appreciated Pakistan for successfully hosting ‘Heart of Asia Conference’ in Islamabad and said that the US always wanted a safe, secure, prosperous Afghanistan that can defend itself and its citizens.

In a daily briefing, John Kirby, the spokesperson for the US State Department said, “We’re grateful to Pakistan for hosting Heart of Asia talks in Islamabad.”

To a question, John Kirby stressed for talks between Pakistan and India to bilaterally work out the issues between them and to continue to have a dialogue and to discuss and to reach diplomatic solutions to some of the thorny problems which the two countries still face.

ملٹری پولیس حملہ کیس، گرفتار 2 موٹر سائیکل سواروں کو رہا کردیا گیا

کراچی ، تفتیشی حکام نے ایم اے جناح روڈ پر ملٹری پولیس پر حملے کیس میں گرفتار 2 موٹر سائیکل سواروں کو رہا کردیا ہے۔ تفتیشی حکام کے مطابق دونوں افراد کو بے گناہ ثابت ہونے پر رہا کیا گیا ہے۔ تفتیشی ذرائع کے مطابق گارڈن کے رہائشی رحمان عرف بھولا اور خالد کو تمام اداروں نے بے گناہ قرار دیا ہے۔ رحمان عرف بھولا کا پان کا کیبن ہے جبکہ خالد اس کا دوست ہے۔ دونوں نوجوان بے گناہ ثابت ہونے پررہائی پانے کے بعد بہت خوش نظر آرہے تھے۔دونوں افراد سی سی ٹی وی ویڈیو میں ملٹری جیپ کے ساتھ چلتے نظر آئے تھے۔ دوسری موٹر سائیکل پر سوار افراد ممکنہ طور پر حملہ آور ہوسکتے ہیں۔ تفتیشی حکام کے مطابق دونوں افراد کی تلاش جاری ہے۔

شہر کی قائدکی ساحلی پٹی پر زلزلے کے جھٹکے

کراچی، شہرقائد ساحلی پٹی پر زلزلے کے جھٹکے محسوس کیے گئے۔ریکٹر اسکیل پر اسکی شدت دو اعشاریہ صفر ریکارڈ کی گئی جس کا مرکز سمندر میں تھا۔ ساحلی پٹی صبح دو بجکر چھیالیس منٹ پر لرز گئی ،مکین خوف کے عالم میں گھروں سے باہر نکل آئے۔کورنگی،ابراہیم حیدری اور لانڈھی میں زلزلے کے جھٹکے محسوس کیے گئے۔ابراہیم حیدری کے کچھ گھروں میں دراڑیں پڑ گئیں۔زلزلہ پیما مرکز کے مطابق زلزلہ کی شدت ریکٹر اسکیل پر دو اعشاریہ صفر ریکارڈ ہوئی جس کی گہرائی دس کلومیٹر تھی۔ کراچی کی ساحلی پٹی سے تیس کلومیٹر دوری پر سمندر میں اسکا مرکز تھا۔ایک سو انتیس کلومیٹر طویل ساحلی پٹی پر زلزلہ کے جھٹکے محسوس کیے گئے۔

Kill me in an encounter but don’t torture me: Dr Asim

Kill me in an encounter but don’t torture me: Dr Asim

KARACHI: Former federal minister Dr Asim Hussain, who was produced before the administrative judge of an anti-terrorism court on Monday, said that he should be killed in an encounter rather than be given such treatment. He said he was being harassed, tortured and at the same time being ‘given lollypops’ so that he became an approver in the case.
He denied the charges of being a facilitator of criminals and terrorists and prayed to the court not to remand him in the Rangers’ custody
.