Polling process in Gilgit-Baltistan has been started

All preparations have been finalized to ensure a smooth polling process in Gilgit-Baltistan as the voters will elect members for the legislature today.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan Muslim League (Q), Jamiat-e-Ulema Islam, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM) are among the parties contesting the GB polls.

A three-pronged contest between the PTI, People’s Party and PML-N is expected as the opinion polls suggesting PTI ahead in the contest.

The registered voters in the area are 745361 and 1160 polling stations have been set up across GB among which 418 has been declared very sensitive and 311 as sensitive.

330 candidates from 23 constituencies will take part in the election. The process of polling will begin at 8:00 am and will continue without any interval till 5 pm. Deployment of staff and materials will be completed by 6 pm in 23 constituencies.

Gilgit Baltistan Election 2020: What voters want in each of the 24 constituencies up for grabs

Meanwhile, polling in constituency GBA-3 has been postponed due to the death of a candidate. The polling will now take place on November 22.

More than 15000 security personnel from GB, Punjab, KPK, Sind and Bolochistan have been sent to their respective polling stations across GB.

GB police chief Dr. Mujeeb ur Rehman has said that the military troops could also be deployed for assistance in the election if required, he added.

Election Commission Gilgit-Baltistan has prohibited to carry mobile phones and other such devices inside the polling stations and within the parameters of 100 meters.

The elections will be held in 23 constituencies in the region, each electing a member to the 3rd Gilgit-Baltistan Legislative Assembly. In the 33 members’ house, six seats are reserved for women and three for technocrats.

Here’s a look at all 24 GB constituencies

Gilgit Division:
The Gilgit region is divided into nine constituencies.

GBLA-1 Gilgit-1

A total of 25 candidates are contesting elections. In this constituency, former speaker and PML-N leader Jaffarullah, PPP candidate Amjad Hussain Advocate, Maulana Sultan Raees (Independent), PTI’s Johar Ali, Pakistan Rah-e-Haq Party candidate Himayat Ullah, Syed Mustafa Shah of Islami Tehreek are in the running.

GBLA-2 Gilgit-II

Of a total of 25 candidates, the real contest is expected between the former chief minister and PML-N candidate, Hafiz Hafeezur Rehman and PPP candidate Jamil Ahmed.

GBLA-3 Gilgit-III

The elections in this constituency have been postponed after the death of PTI President Syed Jaffer Shah.

GBLA-4 Nagar-1

A total of 18 candidates were initially in the run in this constituency.

Top contenders: Amjad Hussain Advocate (PPP) and Muhammad Ayub Waziri (ITP).

GBLA-5 Nagar-II

Total 26 candidates had filed nomination papers in the constituency.

A tough contest is expected between Rizwan Ali (MWM), Javed Ali Manva (Independent), and Mirza Hussain (PPP).

GBLA -6 Hunza

A close fight is expected between PTI’s Obaidullah Baig and Zahoor Karim of PPP.

GBLA-19 Ghizer-I

GBLA-20 Ghizer-II

Total of 12 candidates are contesting the election from this constituency.

Top contenders:

Ali Sher (PPP), Nazeer Ahmed (PTI), Safdar Ali Sherazi (Indp)

GBLA-21 Ghizer-III

In this constituency, the main contest is expected between PML-N’s Ghulam Muhammad, PPP’s Muhammad Ayub, PTI’s Raja Jahanzeb, Rehmat Rahim (Independent), Hafeez-ur-Rehman (Independent) and Abdul Saboor Khan (Independent).

Baltistan Division:
The Baltistan region has a population of 538,300 and consists of nine constituencies.

GBLA-7 Skardu-I

A close fight is expected between PTI’s Raja Zekeria and PPP’s Syed Mehdi Shah.

GBLA-8 Skardu-II

Gilgit-Baltistan: Bilawal Bhutto Zardari says people will vote against Pakistan PM Imran Khan's candidates | Indiablooms - First Portal on Digital News Management

Top contenders

Imtiaz Haider (Indp), Mohammad Ali Shah (PPP), Mohammad Kazim (MWM)

GBLA-9 Skardu-III

PTI candidate and former GBLA speaker Fida Muhammad Nashad and Wazir Muhammad Salem (Independent) are the leading candidates.

GBLA-10 Skardi-IV

Raja Nasir Ali (Independent), Wazir Hassan of PTI, Muhammad Sikandar Ali of Islami Tehreek Pakistan, Ghulam Abbas of PML-N and Najaf Ali, Independent are contesting election from this constituency.

GBLA-11 Kharmang

The contest is expected to be between PTI’s Syed Amjad Ali, Syed Mohsin Rizvi (Independent), PML-N’s Shabbir Hussain, and Iqbal Hussain.

GBLA-12 Shigar

Top contenders:

Imran Nadeem (PPP), Raja Azam Khan (PTI), Tahir Shigri (PML-N)

GBLA-22 Ghanche-I

Send the 'lotas', selected leaders home: Maryam Nawaz – MM News TV

PTI’s Muhammad Ibrahim Sanai, Mushtaq Hussain (Independent) and PPP’s Muhammad Jaffer are contesting from this seat. In this constituency, the PTI candidate is tipped to win the polls.

GBLA-23 Ghanche-II

In this constituency, the main contest is expected between Amina Ansari of PTI, Ghulam Hussain of PML-N, Abdul Hameed (Independent) and Ghulam Ali Haideri of PPP.

GBLA-24 Ghanche-III

A total of five candidates are contesting elections in this constituency and the main contest is expected between PPP’s Muhammad Ismail, PML-Q’s Muhammad Ibrahim Taban and PTI’s Syed Shamsuddin.

Diamer Division:
The Diamer region has total of six seats

GBLA-13 Astore-I

Top contenders:

Khalid Khurshid (PTI), Abdul Hamid Khan (PPP), Dr Ghulam Abbas (Indp),

GBLA-14 Astore-II

PTI’s Shamsul Haq, PML-N’s Rana Muhamad Farooq and PPP’s Muzaffar Ali Relay are contesting election from this constituency.

GBLA-15 Diamer-I

Candidates: Wali-ur-Rehman (JUI-F), Noushad Ali (PTI), Bashir Ahmed (PPP), Abdul Wajid (PML-N)

GBLA-16 Diamer-II

Eng Muhammad Anwar of PML-N, PPP’s Dilbar Khan, Attaulla (Independent) and Atiqullah of PTI contesting election from this seat.

GBLA-17 Diamer-III

Candidates: Haider Khan (PTI), Ghaffar Khan (PPP), Sardar Alam (PML-N), Rehman Khalid (JUI-F).

GBLA-18 Diamer-IV

The main tussle is expected between PTI’s Gulbar Khan, JUI-F’s Abdur Rasheed, Malik Kifayat-ur-Rehman (Independent), and PPP’s Sadia Danish.

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PSL 5: Karachi Kings won the toss and decides to bowl first

Karachi Kings won the toss and decided to put Multan Sultans into bat in the first playoff match of the fifth edition of Pakistan Super League here at the National Stadium.

The qualifier between table-toppers Multan Sultans and the league’s runners-up Karachi Kings will begin at 3pm PST which will be supervised by the ICC Elite Panel umpire Michael Gough and Rashid Riaz.

The event had been halted on March 17, 2020, because of the outbreak of COVID-19 in the country.

The winners of the qualifier between Multan and Karachi will qualify for the November 17 final. The losers of the qualifier will get another chance and will meet the winners of the first eliminator between Zalmi and Qalandars in the second eliminator to be played on Sunday.

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COVID-19 positivity rate has jumped to 7.5pc: Murtaza Wahab

Sindh government spokesperson Murtaza Wahab has said on Saturday that the Covid-19 positivity rate has risen above 7per cent in Sindh, urging people to cooperate with the authorities in following coronavirus precautionary measures.

“Cases are rapidly rising in winter and the COVID-19 positivity rate has jumped to 7.5pc”, Wahab said in his statement.

Murtaza Wahab recalled that the COVID-19 positivity rate was 2.5pc in the first wave of the pandemic and remained intact as masses were following SOPs. Ruling out the impression of elimination of the virus from Pakistan, he urged people to strictly ensure adherence to the SOPs to contain deadly virus spread.

He called for ensuring a balance between business and precautionary measures to fight the virus.

The statistics of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has shown that 2,165 new cases of COVID-19 and 17 more deaths were recorded across the country during the last 24 hours.

Meanwhile, visitors had been barred from entering the Chief Minister House Sindh in the wake of rising COVID-19 cases in the province.

The directives came after a fresh advisory haD been issued for the chief minister’s house on Friday.

Under the new guidelines, wearing a facemask is mandatory within the CM House besides strict instructions for the employees to use hand sanitizers and maintain social distancing.

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Bakhtawar Bhutto to get engaged on November 27

The daughter of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto and former president Asif Ali Zardari, Bakhtawar Bhutto is all set to engage with the son of business tycoon Younas Choudhry.

Mehmood and Bakhtawar Bhutto Zardari would be engaged on November 27 in a ceremony to be held at Bilawal House Karachi.

Invitations have been given to the guests. The attendants of the ceremony are advised to have a COVID-19 test before 24 hours of the engagement ceremony and submit the report with the Bilawal House.

The move has been taken in the wake of coronavirus spread in the province, especially in Karachi.

The guests are also advised not to carry their cellphones. Only the officially deputed photographers will cover the event.

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Live: FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi and DG ISPR joint press conference

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Saturday presented a dossier containing details of India's state-sponsored terrorism being carried out in Pakistan.

"Today we have irrefutable facts that we will present before the nation and International community through this dossier and I am presenting it today," said the foreign minister in a press conference along with Director General Inter Services Public Relations Major General Babar Iftikhar at the Foreign Office.

The press conference comes a day after the ISPR said that the Pakistan Army inflicted substantial losses on Indian troops. It had also said that the losses were also reported by the Indian media.

"You are seeing that its their pattern that they are constantly carrying out ceasefire violations," said Qureshi. He added that the dossier has many details but some things are missing and will be used at the "time of need".

"World knows that when Pakistan was busy and partnering in world peace, India was surrounding Pakistan with a web of terrorism," said the country's top diplomat.

"India was allowing its land to be used against Pakistan for terrorism," said the foreign minister. He added that New Delhi not only used its own soil but also made use of neighbouring countries to "attack Pakistan".

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5.1 magnitude quake jolts Quetta and vicinity

A 5.1 magnitude earthquake struck Quetta and adjoining areas on Saturday morning. No loss of life or property was reported.

According to Pakistan’s National Seismic Monitoring Centre, the depth of the quake was recorded 38 kilometres while the epicentre 38 kilometres in the west of the Balochistan capital.

Feeling the tremors people in Quetta, Pashin, Harnai and other areas came out of their houses by reciting Kalma-e-Tayyaba.

Earlier on October 8, a moderate intensity earthquake had jolted Mingora in Swat and adjoining areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The intensity of tremors recorded 4.7-magnitude at the Richter Scale, according to a report. The earthquake tremors were felt across Mingora town and adjoining areas.

The depth of the quake was 100 kilometres with epicentre in Hindukush Mountain range, according to seismological reports.

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PM Imran Khan wishes happy Diwali to Hindu citizens of Pakistan

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday wished a happy Diwali to all the Hindu citizens of Pakistan.

PM Imran took to Twitter to congratulate the Pakistani Hindus for the festival of lights.

"Wishing all our Hindu citizens a happy Diwali," said the premier.

Wishing all our Hindu citizens a happy Diwali.

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) November 14, 2020

 Pakistani Hindus are celebrating Diwali, also known as Deepavali or the festival of lights, across the country with zeal and fervour, with families and the community decorating their houses and temples with colourful lights.

Special "poojas" will be held in different temples while sweets will also be distributed among the people during observance of religious festivity of Hinduism.

Diwali is celebrated at the end of every autumn to commemorate the victory of Hindu god Lord Rama — or Ramachandra — over evil Ravana and how he spent 14 years in tranquillity. Celebrated for five days, it also marks the start of the new year of Hindu calendar.

The Pakistani Hindu community also lit earthen lamps in the night and fireworks were also be exhibited to celebrate the festival.

Apart from Karachi, Lahore, and other major cities, festivities will also be held in Matiari, Tando Allahyar, Tando Muhammad Khan, Jamshoro, Badin, Sanghar, Hala, Tando Adam, and Shahdadpur.

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Fazlur Rahman accuses PTI govt of pre-poll rigging in Gilgit-Baltistan

Pakistan Democratic Moment (PDM) chief Maulana Fazlur Rahman has accused the PTI government of pre-poll rigging in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and said the election results were being prepared in advance.

“The fake government has drawn up a pre-poll rigging plan in Gilgit-Baltistan. The political bribes are being doled out for that,” said the JUI-F ameer, while speaking at a news conference here on Friday.

He alleged that wheat was being distributed in a large number of trucks, which carried banners with the portraits of Prime Minister Imran Khan. The PDM chief said various tactics were being employed to ensure the win for the ruling PTI in the election.

Fazl claimed that the Election Commission and the state agencies were not performing their assigned duties.

The PDM chief said the PTI government was hiding behind the coronavirus pandemic, adding that the opposition alliance would go ahead with its planned public meetings. “If the coronavirus did not spread when the [PTI] arranged public meetings at Swat, Turbat and Hafizabad, it would not when the PDM holds gatherings in Peshawar, Multan and Lahore,” he asserted.

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Main accused confesses to crime in Kashmore gang-rape case

The main accused in Kashmore gang-rape case has confessed to the crime on Friday.

Rafique Malak during interrogation confessed to his crime before the investigation police. “Three people raped mother and daughter for three days”, he said in his statement before the police.
Malak was arrested by the Kashmore police, yesterday, whereas raids are being conducted for the arrest of the remaining two accused. A case has been registered against him at the Kashmore police station under section 7ATA.

Giving details about the painful incident, the SSP Kashmore said the minor girl was molested by a man who married twice just for the sake of the child.

He further said that the rape-victim is under treatment at the Larkana hospital. Her condition is improving after the operation, the SSP said and added they are extending every possible help to the family.

On November 10, it was reported that a woman and her four-year-old daughter were sexually assaulted by a gang. The victim woman, who works in Karachi, was lured with a job promise in Kashmore. When she reached there with her four-year-old daughter, the alleged assaulters gang-raped both mother and daughter and left them there for dead.
A video, apparently recorded by police officials, was shared on social media, showing the child struggling to respond as her mother asked what had been done to her. Her murmur, though not clearly audible in the recording, made her mother scream and burst into tears.

Meanwhile, a protest demonstration was held at Kashmore’s NADRA chowk demanding exemplary punishment to the accused in the heinous crime of rape.

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Civilian martyred in unprovoked firing by Indian troops at LoC: ISPR

Indian army troops resorted to unprovoked ceasefire violation in the Khanjar and Rakhchakri sectors of Kashmir along the Line of Control (LoC) on Friday, targeting the civilian population.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Indian troops targetted civilian population in village Tariband and Samahini in Khanjar and Rakhchakri sectors. As a result, a citizen was martyred while three others including two women got injured.

#IndianArmy troops #CFV in Rakhchikri & Khanjar Sectors along #LOC targeting civil population with rockets & mortars in Tari Band & Samahni villages. 1 citizen embraced shahadat, 3 civilians incl 2 women got injured. #PakArmy responded effectively targeting Indian Army posts.

— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) November 13, 2020

“Pakistan Army troops responded effectively to Indian firing and targetted their checkposts,” the military’s media wing said.

This year, India has committed 2660 ceasefire violations to date, resulting in 20 shahadats and serious injuries to 203 innocent civilians.

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COVID-19: 2,304 new cases, 37 deaths reported across the country

The statistics of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has shown that 2,304 new cases of COVID-19 and 37 more deaths were recorded across the country during the last 24 hours.

The tally of deaths reached up to 7,092 in Pakistan, whereas, the number of active cases of COVID-19 reached up to 23,641 and the total count of infections stood at 352,296. 1,219 patients are in critical condition due to the virus.

36923 tests were conducted during the last 24 hours and the country has so far carried out 4,847,105 tests. 714 more patients recovered from the virus, whereas, the total number of recoveries stands at 321,563 patients.
Earlier on Thursday, it emerged that Prime Minister Imran Khan had approved specific funding for the advance purchase of the Covid-19 vaccine, according to a statement released by the Ministry of National Health Services Regulation.

The health ministry, in a statement, said PM Imran showed special interest in ensuring quality vaccines at the earliest and has approved specific funding in this regard.

According to a statement issued by the ministry, under this strategy, the government has prioritized the groups most likely to be the initial recipients of a potential vaccine.

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Chairman NDMA tests positive for COVID-19

National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Chairman Lieutenant General Mohammad Afzal has tested positive for the coronavirus.

According to the details, NDMA on its Twitter handle confirmed that Lt General Muhammad Afzal had tested positive for the novel coronavirus. “He has been in quarantine since 9th of November and being treated by Brigadier Arshad,” it added.

“He will continue office work from home.”

Earlier on November 9, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Punjab chapter President Qamar Zaman Kaira had tested positive for coronavirus.

The sources had said that Qamar Zaman Kaira got tested for COVID-19 yesterday night and the results came back positive on Monday.

After contracting the coronavirus, the PPP leader had immediately left the election campaign in Gilgit-Baltistan and reached Islamabad. The sources had said that he went into self-isolation for 15 days.

Chairman NDMA, Lt Gen Muhammad Afzal tests Positive for Corona. He is quarantined since 9th Nov and being treated by Brig Arshad. He will continue office work from home. pic.twitter.com/2CZLpXGivO

— NDMA PAKISTAN (@ndmapk) November 12, 2020

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Chief Justice PHC Waqar Ahmad Seth died in Islamabad

Peshawar High Court (PHC) Chief Justice Waqar Ahmad Seth died of coronavirus.

Justice Waqar Seth was under treatment at Kalsoom International Hospital in Islamabad. 

According to family sources, Sethi was hospitalized a week back with coronavirus-related complications.

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IHC issues notice to NCOC over indoor wedding Ban

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday issued a notice to the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) on Covid-19 on a petition challenging a ban on gatherings at wedding halls.

A single bench comprising Chief Justice Athar Minallah directed the official respondents named in the petition to submit their comments on the petition by November 18.

Petitioner Mukhtar Abbas’s lawyer stated before the court that there is no rationale behind the NCOC’s notification imposing the ban on indoor wedding ceremonies from November 20.

Justice Minallah questioned whether the coronavirus was not spreading because of big public gatherings being held by political parties.
On November 6, the NCOC placed a ban on gatherings at wedding halls. However, it allowed people to hold weddings in open spaces with a maximum of 1,000 attendees.

The decision was aimed at stemming the second wave of the coronavirus. Besides, the NCOC called for cutting workforce at government and private offices in half. It instructed that only 50 per cent of the employees be allowed to work at offices while the rest from home.

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Extremists ideologies, phobias a threat to democracies worldwide: experts

Center for Strategic Perspectives (CSP) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) organized a panel discussion on “Islamophobia and How to Deal with It?”

The panel comprised of esteemed academics and scholars including: Dr. Todd Green, Associate Professor of Religion, Luther College, Iowa; Dr. Charles Powell, Director of the Elcano Royal Institute, Spain; Prof. Dr. Anis Ahmad, VC Riphah University, Islamabad; Prof. Dr. Samina Yasmin, Director, Center for Muslim States and Societies, The University of Western Australia; and Mr. Ahmad Naeem Salik, Research Fellow, CSP-ISSI.

The interactive discussion began with introductory remarks by Director CSP and Editor at ISSI, Mr. Najam Rafique. Defining “Islamophobia” as fear of Muslims and Islam to pathological degree, Mr. Rafique described it bias of Western a society that reflects in everything associated with Islam and its followers. French-led Islamophobia and Hindutva ideology, he opined, are two sides of the same coin. Elaborating upon the background of the panel discussion, he mentioned Prime Minister Imran Khan’s strategy for countering Macron’s remarks and the Muslim world to unite on this particular issue.

Meanwhile, Director General ISSI, Amb. Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry joined the discussion and posed some important questions to the worthy panelists.

While referring to famous American Political Scientist Fukuyama’s book, “Identity”, he was particularly keen to know the reasons behind Islamophobia.

Responding to this question, Dr. Todd Green said that the reasons behind tensions between western and Muslim populations are various. He highlighted the political dimension of this unfortunate phenomenon which lies at the core of far-right political sections in the European and American societies.

Calling attention to remarks by French President Macron, Mr. Najam asked Mr. Powell whether it is right for political leaders and opinion makers to endorse religious discrimination in the name of secularism and freedom of speech, and shouldn’t there be a red line for such expressions? Calling Macron’s remarks unfortunate, Dr. Powell stated that it is utmost necessary for a political leader to strike a delicate balance between freedom of expression and incitement to hatred especially if it is a multicultural society like France.

Prof. Anis Ahmad stressed upon the need for ethical revival worldwide. Islamophobia is not a Muslim problem, Prof. emphasized, but a human problem which media, both in eastern and western societies, have failed to address properly and effectively. In his opinion, only societies can come together to put an end to this menace.
 Dr. Samina Yasmin, was of the view that aftermath of 9/11 accelerated this phenomenon. She suggested that saner and pacifist sections in both Muslim and western societies must come forward for building an enabling environment of inter-faith harmony, understanding and knowledge.

Ahmad Naeem Salik, proposed to conduct meaningful and comprehensive discussions to reap the fruits of diversity in human societies all over the world.
Describing the role of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in promoting peaceful narratives of Islam, Chairman BoG ISSI, Amb. Khalid Mahmood said that OIC has played its role in this regard but its efforts are far from satisfactory.

All the panelist agreed that it is not just Islamophobia but all forms of extremists ideologies and phobias are a threat to democracies worldwide.

They particularly referred to Modi’s India which is becoming a hot spot of Muslim prosecutions. They were also in agreement that it is not Islam but Muslims that the xenophobes are afraid of. They all pointed towards a solution based on education and dialogue for creating mutual understanding.

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NAB court to hear LNG reference against Shahid Khaqan Abbasi

An accountability court in Islamabad will conduct the hearing of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) scam reference against the former prime minister and Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) senior vice president Shahid Khaqan Abbasi today.

Judge Azam Khan of the accountability court will hear the corruption reference against Shahid Khaqan Abbasi at 12:00 noon today.

Earlier, the court had directed for submission of the original report in compliance with the orders, whereas, the high commission had apprised the court yesterday regarding the compliance of its orders.

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COVID-19: Pakistan records 1,808 new cases, 34 deaths

The statistics of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has shown that 1,808 new cases of COVID-19 and 34 more deaths were recorded across the country during the last 24 hours.

The tally of deaths reached up to 7,055 in Pakistan, whereas, the number of active cases of COVID-19 reached up to 22,088 and the total count of infections stood at 349,992.
36,686 tests were conducted during the last 24 hours and the country has so far carried out 4810182 tests.

784 more patients recovered from the virus, whereas, the total number of recoveries stands at 320,849 patients.

Earlier on Wednesday, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Health Dr Faisal Sultan had said the number of COVID-19 cases surged in Pakistan during the recent few weeks and time has come to take tough decisions.

 

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JUI-F removed party spokesman Hafiz Hussain Ahmed

The Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) on Wednesday removed party spokesman Hafiz Hussain Ahmed over opposing the narrative of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif۔

The JUI-F has appointed Aslam Ghauri as the acting spokesman of the party besides also issuing a show-cause notice to Hafiz Hussain Ahmed over his remarks against Nawaz Sharif’s narrative.

According to sources, the decision to remove Hafiz Hussain Ahmed was taken during the meeting of the top consultative body of the JUI-F, Majlis-e-Shura, where an inquiry committee under Maulana Abdul Qayyum was also formed to probe into the matter.

Hafiz Hussain distanced himself from the narrative of the PML-N leader during the Quetta rally as the JUI-F at that time termed the remarks of their party spokesman as a personal comment.

The sources said that JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, who headed the Majlis-e-Shura meeting, also briefed the party regarding the decisions taken by the PDM.

Although Hafiz Hussain Ahmed is the first one to openly oppose the narrative of the PML-N leader from the JUI-F and sent packing, there are many top leaders within PML-N who had opposed the narative and shared the same fate.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Balochistan chief Abdul Qadir Baloch on November 01 announced to part ways with the party citing rhetoric against Pakistan Army from the platform of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM).

“The only reason I have decided to part ways with the PML-N is its narrative against Pakistan Army,” he said while terming the act as unacceptable for him.

Later another top party leader, Sanaullah Zehri also announced resignation from the PML-N over a similar reason.

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PPP, PML-N workers clashed in Gilgit-Baltistan

A clash reportedly broke out between workers of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) during the election campaign rally in Gilgit District on Wednesday.

As per details, former chief minister Gilgit Baltistan (GB) Hafiz Hafeez-ur-Rehman, who is also president of the PML-N GB chapter has accused PPP of opening fire on PML-N workers in Jaglot town of Gilgit District.

 He levelled these allegations during his address to a public rally in Gilgit district which was also attended by PML-N Vice President Maryam Nawaz.

The PML-N Jaglot Youth Wing President, Imran Amir, has accused PPP of opening fire on his car. The PML-N leader said he will register an FIR against PPP workers.

It is pertinent to mention here that PPP leader Bilawal Bhutto and PML-N Vice President Maryam Nawaz are staying in Gilgit and running their parties election campaigns for upcoming GB polls to be held on November 15.

Earlier today, Maryam Nawaz and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari held a one-on-one meeting today (Wednesday) in Gilgit Baltistan.

Both leaders discussed the overall political situation of the country. The one-on-one meeting was followed by a delegation-level meeting between PPP and PML-N party leaders.

The PPP delegation includes Sherry Rehman, Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar, and President PPP Gilgit Baltistan Amjad Hussain.

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PM expresses condolences on the fatalities in Iran due to Covid-19

Iran’s foreign minister Dr Mohammad Javad Zarif called on Prime Minister Imran Khan in his two-day visit to Pakistan as they discussed on Wednesday prospects of bilateral interests and trade prospects.

In the meeting wherein Pakistan-Iran relations were cherished and deliberated over, the PM expressed his condolences on the fatalities in Iran due to Covid-19 pandemic.

The PM said the smart lockdown strategy implemented in Pakistan alongside other steps taken to contain viral spread proved beneficial for Pakistan.

Matters such as bilateral cooperation and economic relations between the neighbouring states were brought up in the scheduled meeting today, as well.

Reportedly, Iranian FM conveyed the message of their supremo to Pakistani premier expressing his interest in enhancing bilateral trade.

FM Zarif said Iran is interested in increasing the bilateral cooperation with Pakistan in some sectors.

On the other hand, both of them concurred that with peace in Afghanistan, which is contiguous to both the countries, the region will see rising economic cooperation and growing trade aspects.

Prime Minister Khan said there was no military solution to the Afghan conflict and noted efforts by Pakistan to contribute to the peace process in long-embattled Afghanistan. He maintained Pakistan will continue its support up until Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process has come to fruition.

Furthermore, the Iranian foreign minister Javad Zarif, on behalf of his government, said their support to Pakistan for Kashmir cause remains unhindered. Both PM Khan and Iran’s FM noted that in order to maintain peace in the region, both countries will have to work together.

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MDCAT 2020 cancelled, SHC orders PMC to form academic board and authority

The MDCAT 2020 examinations have been cancelled as the Sindh High Court (SHC) on Wednesday ordered the Pakistan Medical Commission (PMC) to form an academic board and examination authority and finalise the syllabus for the Medical and Dental College Admission Test before asking the candidates to appear for the test.

Following a hearing earlier today, the SHC underlined that since the National Medical & Dental Academic Board had not been formed under the Pakistan Medical Commission Act, 2020, the "MDCAT cannot be conducted".

According to the court ruling, the Board will have "the powers to formulate the examination structure and standards for the MDCAT for approval of the Council".

The SHC further criticised a notification issued October 23, 2020, by the PMC regarding the syllabus, in which it said candidates would have the option to mark any questions they believed were beyond the syllabus in an objection form to be provided at the examination center, saying it "created uncertainty and gross confusion and perplexity in the minds of all applicants" and terming it "unreasonable and nonstandard".

"This is quite a unique idea that every applicant will be provided objection form at the time of entering into examination hall, so first he should be obliged to do audit exercise as to how many questions are out of his syllabus.

"Much time of the candidate would be lapsed and consumed to go through the entire question paper as an examiner and then filling the objection forms.

"No further mechanism has been provided in the above announcement as to how and when the students appearing in the MDCAT will come to know whether objections raised by them were considered and the question considered by them to be outside the identified syllabus have been removed from scoring or not.

"Such unreasonable and nonstandard conditions amount to create hardship, distress and uncertainty amongst the candidates and their future is also on stake unless the proper syllabus is made out by the competent authority with due deliberation and examination of FSC syllabus of the country to make out a common syllabus without any doubts so that the candidates should not be asked to fill objection forms in the examination hall," the order read.

According to the court, orders issued by the PMC earlier for temporary appointment of members of the National Medical Authority were "beyond the scope and compass of the said transitory provision".

"The constitution of the commission is provided under Section 3 of the PMC Act 2020. According to sub-section 4 of Section 3 of the Act, the Pakistan Medical Commission is consist of (a) the Medical and Dental Council; (b) the National Medical and Dental Academic Board and (c) the National Medical Authority consisting of members as provided under Section 15," it said.

"In the absence of a validly constituted National Medical Authority and not constituting the National Medical & Dental Academic Board, the Pakistan Medical Commission is restrained from holding the MDCAT scheduled to be conducted on 15-11-2020.

"However, the competent authority under Sections 10 and 15 of the PMC Act, 2020 shall within 15 days hereof appoint the National Medical & Dental Academic Board and the National Medical Authority in line with the said provisions; thereafter, within 10 days, the National Medical & Dental Academic Board shall review the formulation of the examination structure and standards for the MDCAT and announce common syllabus thereafter MDCAT shall be conducted through National Medical Authority on a date to be fixed and announced afresh at the earliest.

"All applicants who had applied to the PMC and their application forms were accepted before the cut-off date shall be allowed to attend the MDCAT with their same registration and admit cards if any issued to them."

The Sindh High Court also lambasted the fact that the Board could not be constituted just because there was no representative from the government of Sindh.

"The Sindh Government failed to nominate their representative to the National Medical & Dental Academic Board, and therefore the Board was not constituted. It is beyond comprehension that merely due to no nomination by the Government of Sindh the Board could not be constituted despite it is clearly provided [...] that no act done by the Board shall be invalid on the ground merely of existence of any vacancy in or any defect in the constitution of the Board.

Towards the end of its judgement, the court wrote: "The Medical & Dental Council shall make Regulation to set criteria for admission priority in the scenario where marks/score of applicants are the same/equal."

Human rights activist Jibran Nasir also shared F, congratulating the students.

"Students already registered will be eligible to sit for MDCAT," Nasir said on Twitter.

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Gilgit Baltistan Election 2020 11. 11. 2020

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Sindh reports 720 new corona cases in the past 24 hours

Sindh reported 720 new cases in the past 24 hours, bringing the provincial tally to 152,072.

A total of 720 new coronavirus cases were reported across Sindh in the past 24 hours, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah said on Wednesday.

The chief minister said 14 people died due to the virus bringing the provincial death toll to 2,704. With 449 people recovering from the virus since yesterday, the total number of recovered patients stands at 141,446.

CM Murad said 11,146 tests were conducted across the province.

 

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Pakistan announces squad for New Zealand tour

Head Coach Misbah-ul-Haq on Wednesday announced the 35-player squad for Pakistan’s tour to New Zealand.

Addressing a press conference in Lahore, Misbah said that the upcoming series is “crucial” for the team as it will help Pakistan improve its T20I rankings and gain valuable points in the ICC World Test Championship.

“Against this background and taking into consideration recent player performances, we have selected the best available players,” said Misbah.

The head coach stated that the tour schedule has been designed in such a way that the players “play tough intra-squad matches”.

“While the national side will be involved in one format, Shaheens will be in action in the other format. This means all the players will be busy and playing competitive cricket,” he said.

The former captain added that the “COVID-19 times” have provided a “unique opportunity” to the best performers of the domestic circuit to represent the national and Shaheens squads against [high] quality opposition, like New Zealand.

He added that the tour will provide “valuable experience and exposure” to the players to improve their skills and strengthen their “claims for international call-ups”.

“I want to congratulate uncapped Amad Butt, Danish Aziz, Imran Butt, and Rohail Nazir who have impressed the selectors with their form, technique, temperament and ability to secure places in the 35-player pool,” said Misbah.

He also clarified that the four players have been "selected specifically" for Shaheens as part of PCB’s strategy to build the team’s “bench strength”.

This is the last time that Head Coach Misbah-ul-Haq has announced the squad as a chief selector. The former captain had resigned from the post last month.

Asad Shafiq, Mohammad Amir, Shoaib Malik dropped

The head coach-cum-chief selector also spoke about the omissions of Asad Shafiq, Shoaib Malik, and Mohammad Amir.

Misbah explained that Asad Shafiq has been dropped due to “lack of form” as he had only scored 510 runs in his last 15 innings.

“Asad is an experienced batsman and I am sure he will utilise this time to work harder on his game in the domestic first-class matches so that he, like Sarfaraz Ahmed, can reclaim his form and be back in contention for the upcoming Tests against South Africa and Zimbabwe,” said Misbah.

On Malik and Amir, Misbah said that they have been excluded as the PCB has decided to “invest, develop and focus on the promising and emerging players who are likely to be available to Pakistan for all formats”.

 

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Gilgit: Bilawal, Maryam to discuss country’s political situation today

Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari to meet Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) vice president Maryam Nawaz today.

Both leaders are in the northern region and are staying at the same hotel for the past several days on a campaign trail ahead of the Sunday polls for the GB Legislative Assembly.

The meeting will take place today’s evening on the cup of tea. Matters related to the current political situation of the country, upcoming polls in GB will come under discussion.
The PPP chairman will be accompanied by senior party leaders, Sherry Rehman and Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar, while Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Marriyum Aurangzeb and Ahsan Iqbal will join the meeting along with Maryam Nawaz.

Earlier in the day, it was reported that Maryam Nawaz has sought time from Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for a meeting.

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Electric transports to handle on Lahore roads

Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar on Wednesday gave the go-ahead to ply electric buses on Lahore roads to curb the menace of air pollution.

Presiding over a meeting regarding public transport in Lahore, he approved the plan that will see electric buses plying 103-kilometre long six routes and directed the relevant authorities to put forth proposals after weighing all options to materialise the scheme.

 

وزیراعلیٰ پنجاب @UsmanAKBuzdar کی زیر صدارت ٹرانسپورٹ سے متعلق خصوصی اجلاس: وزیراعلیٰ پنجاب نے گرین الیکٹرک بسیں چلانے کی اصولی منظوری دے دی۔

لاہور میں 103 کلومیٹر طویل 6 روٹس پر الیکٹرک بسیں چلائی جائیں گی۔
•الیکٹرک بسیں چلانے کے لیے ضروری امور جلد طے کرنے کی ہدایت۔ pic.twitter.com/Go5vcZAmgR

— Government of Punjab (@GovtofPunjabPK) November 11, 2020

Besides, CM Buzdar called for the vehicle certification system to be made operational to curb smog. He said Lahore Transport Company will be transformed into Punjab Transport Company with transport inspectors, sub-inspectors and sergeants to be recruited for the organistaion.

He said electric buses will also ply in other cities of the province.

The CM further directed the authorities to ensure cleanliness at Orange Line Metro train stations and warned that he won’t compromise over the issue. He said he will pay surprise visits to these stations to review cleanliness measures.

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PM Imran to chair CCI Meeting today

Prime Minister Imran is scheduled to chair meeting of the Council of Common Interests (CCI) today.

The meeting will be attended by chief ministers of all the four provinces and federal ministers.

As per the agenda, the government officials will review steps taken to implement decision take in the last CCI meeting. The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) report for 2018-19 will be presented and the Ogra Ordinance will also come under discussion.

The CCI is expected to decide on release of census results. The body will also discuss transferring control of lower portion of the Chashma Right Bank Canal from CRBC to Punjab.

Matters pertaining to importing LNG and granting NOC to CJ Hydropower will also be deliberated upon while the attorney general's recommendation on water accord will also be considered.

The CCI will also be briefed on the state of various industries of the country.

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1,708 new corona cases reported across the country

A total of 1,708 new cases of the coronavirus were confirmed during the last 24 hours, bringing the national tally to 348,184.

With 21 more deaths reported overnight, the country’s death toll from the disease has surged to 7,021, according to the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC).

Thus far, a total of 320,065 people have recovered from the infection while the number of active cases stands at 21,098. With 31,989 samples tested during the past 24 hours, the number of tests so far conducted across the country has reached 47,73,496.

Earlier, the NCOC said the Covid positivity rate has exceeded five per cent after a gap of over three months.

 

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Ch Shujaat is feeling better now and his health is improving, Pervez Elahi

Speaker Punjab Assembly Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi said the health of Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) chief Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain is improving.

“He is feeling better now and his health is improving with every passing day,” Pervaiz Elahi said.

Pervaiz Elahi said that the PML-Q chief is now feeling well, doctors have advised him to take more rest and would be discharged soon.

It is pertinent to mention here that Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) leader Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain was admitted to a hospital on Friday due to a chest infection.

PML-Q MNA Moonis Elahi tweeted: “Ch Shujat sb has a chest infection and has been shifted to hospital. AH he is not in danger and is recovering. Thank you for all the prayers. ”

Besides the top political leadership of the country, Prime Minister Imran Khan also telephoned the son of Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain to inquire about the health of the PML-Q leader, who is currently admitted to hospital.

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NEPRA approves blueprint for introducing competition in electricity market

National Electric Power Regulatory Authority has approved a blueprint to introduce competition in the power market which is likely to distribute energy on competitive price.

NEPRA has given go-ahead to Competitive Trading Bilateral Contracts Market (CTBCM) which according to the regulatory body, is the development of the wholesale competitive electricity market.

According to the details, such a development will bring down power prices as it will quash the monopoly and let power producers attract consumers by offering minimum possible rates.

The CTBCM is likely be materialized by April 2022 which will ensure transparency in business, growth in power generation and regulations in distribution, the press statement of the electric power regulatory body said.

NEPRA said that industries would be the biggest beneficiaries of CTBCM alongside other consumers, as the competitive wholesale market in place, they will make for crucible for the retail power sector as well.

NEPRA will monitor the progress of CTBCM each step of the way to guarantee its smooth completion.

However, in a separate development, it may be noted that just yesterday, the regulatory body NEPRA raised power tariff by Rs 0.48 per unit, putting an overall burden of Rs5 billion on the consumers.

According to NEPRA, the increase in tariff by Rs 0.48 per unit was made on account of variations in fuel charges for the month of August 2020.

The increase of Rs0.48 per unit will be applicable to all consumer categories except lifeline consumers of all distribution companies, said the power regulator. However, it will not be applicable to the consumers of K-Electric.

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We must oppose divisive policies based on prejudice and discrimination: PM Khan

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday addressed the Council of Heads of State (CHS) during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit 2020 via video link.

Pakistan, PM Imran Khan said, was on the forefront of the struggle against terrorism.

"It’s critical to address terrorism in all its forms," the premier said. "We welcome the SCO’s data security initiative, especially China’s initiative.

"We must also continue to steadfastly oppose extremist and xenophobic tendencies — including racist ideologies inspired by neo-Nazis — and Islamophobia.

"We must resolutely oppose divisive policies based on prejudice and discrimination and focus on building interfaith and cross cultural bridges," he added.

PM Imran Khan appealed to the SCO Summit 2020 to call "for mutual respect for all religions and beliefs", building up on his demand for peace and harmony across the world.

The premier had earlier decided to raise at international forums the issue of controversial caricatures in France that has angered Muslims across the world. In a letter shared on Twitter last month, he had urged leaders of the Islamic world to "take the initiative to call for an end to this cycle of hate and violence”.

At the SCO Summit 2020, PM Imran Khan continued that his government was particularly focused on alleviating poverty in Pakistan. "We are thankful to all the SCO members for helping us," he said.

The prime minister underscored that Pakistan stood with the SCO’s commitment toward climate change, noting that the South Asian country was "mitigating the adverse effects of climate change".

"We have launched an eco-system restoration initiative to plant 10 billion trees in the country," he said.

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Officers involved in 'Karachi incident' to be removed: ISPR

The Court of Inquiry formed on the orders of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa has recommended the removal of Pakistan Rangers and Inter-Services Intelligence (IS) officials involved in the 'Karachi incident' for creating "an unwarranted situation that led to misunderstanding between two state institutions".

A statement issued by Inter-Services Public Relations notified that an inquiry "pertaining to the issue of redress of Inspector General of Police Sindh's grievances" has been completed and that it had recommended the removal of all security agencies' officers found involved in the events of October 18 and 19, 2020.

"The Court of Inquiry has established that on the night of October 18/19, officers from Pakistan Rangers (Sindh) and the ISI sector Headquarters Karachi were considerably seized with the fallout of the desecration of Mazar-e-Quaid," the statement read.

"They [the security officers] were under increasing public pressure to ensure prompt action as per the law. Assessing the response of police authorities against this developing yet volatile situation to be slow and wanting, in a charged environment, the concerned ISI/Rangers officers decided to act, rather over-zealously," the statement added.

"They were indeed experienced enough to have acted more prudently and could have avoided creating an unwarranted situation that led to misunderstanding between the two state institutions," it said.

The ISPR statement said that "it has been decided to remove the concerned officers from their current assignments for further departmental proceedings and disposal at [the Army's] General Headquarters (GHQ)."

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Accountability Court extends judicial remand of Hamza Shehbaz

An accountability court in Lahore has extended the judicial remand of Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) leader Hamza Shehbaz till November 17 in Ramzan Sugar Mills case.

Judge Amjad Nazir Chaudhry remarked that the accountability court will give a verdict on the reports about non-production of Hamza Shehbaz in the next hearing.

The accountability court’s judge Amjad Nazir Chaudhry heard the Ramzan Sugar Mills reference. Hamza Shehbaz has been produced before the court by the jail officials in today’s hearing.

During the hearing, the judge questioned the reason for not producing Hamza in the previous hearing.

To this, Superintendent Police (SP) Headquarters said that the accused rejected to sit inside the bullet-proof vehicle. The squad staying inside the jail for around two hours, however, Hamza rejected to travel through the vehicle.

The judge remarked that how could it be possible for an under trial person to refuse to appear before the court which should be meant as the failure of the state.

Hamza Shehbaz said that he was appearing before the court for 17 months, but it has never happened earlier. He added that jail officials were informed about his backache, but they deliberately brought a bullet-proof vehicle. Hamza said that he waited for around 2.5 hours, however, the vehicle was not changed. The accused also complained against the jail officials for not providing him timely medical assistance after he contracted coronavirus.

Chaudhry said that political matters should not be discussed when the accused has been granted permission to clarify his position.

Later, the court directed additional secretary home for devising standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the production of prisoners and adjourned the hearing till November 17.

The court also decided to give a verdict on reports submitted by the home secretary, Punjab Prisons Inspector General (IG) and others over non-production of Hamza Shehbaz in the previous hearing.

Earlier on October 31, the accountability court had taken notice of the absence of Hamza Shehbaz in the hearing of Ramzan Sugar Mills case today and sought written response from the jail officials. The court had ordered the jail officials to submit a written response to clarify the reasons for not producing him.

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PMC gives "final call" to the MDCAT applicants to submit examination fees

The Pakistan Medical Commission (PMC) on Tuesday gave the "final call" to the MDCAT 2020 applicants to submit their examination fees by November 11.

"We have taken notice of several MDCAT applicants who registered for the examination in time but were unable to deposit their fees for various reasons," said the PMC in a statement shared on Twitter.

Last and final call for those MDCAT applicants who have registered for the examination but have not deposited the fee. pic.twitter.com/jTnszPtybb

— Pakistan Medical Commission (@pmc_org) November 10, 2020

 

The commission directed all "such applicants" to deposit the fees and upload it on the online portal by 5:00pm on November 11. It also warned that extensions will not be granted after the date.

"This is applicable only to students who registered before midnight, 6th November," clarified the PMC.

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Russia announces cease-fire between Armenia, Azerbaijan

With the Nagorno-Karabakh ceasefire agreement facilitated by Russia on Tuesday, Azerbaijan citizens celebrated 'Victory Day' after fierce clashes with Armenia and Baku's victories in its war to retake the disputed region.

Hundreds of Russian peacekeepers were en route to the ethnic Armenian territory, which broke from Azerbaijan's control during a war in the 1990s, just hours after an early morning ceasefire took effect.

But the agreement sparked outrage in Armenia, with angry protesters storming the government headquarters in the capital Yerevan where they ransacked offices and broke windows.

Crowds also entered parliament and demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, who earlier described his participation in the accord as "unspeakably painful for me personally and for our people".

"I have taken this decision as a result of an in-depth analysis of the military situation," he added.

Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev said Pashinyan had been left with no choice but to agree. "An iron hand forced him to sign this document," he said in televised remarks. "This is essentially a capitulation."

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Co-creator of the famous cartoon Scooby-Doo, Ken Spears passes away

Co-creator of the famous cartoon Scooby-Doo, Ken Spears passed away at the age of 82 on Friday.

The news was confirmed by his son Kevin who told Variety that his father breathed his last following complications that arose from Lewy body dementia.

“Ken will forever be remembered for his wit, his storytelling, his loyalty to family and his strong work ethic,” said Kevin.

“Ken has not only made a lasting impression on his family, but he has touched the lives of many as co-creator of ‘Scooby-Doo.’ Ken has been a role model for us throughout his life and he will continue to live on in our hearts,” he went on to say.

Spears had created the iconic cartoon series Scooby-Doo, Where Are You! back in 1969 alongside his writing partner and cartoonist Joe Ruby who had also passed away earlier this year in August.

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Pakistan reports 1,637 more corona positive cases in last 24 hours

The statistics of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has shown that 1,637 new cases of COVID-19 and 23 more deaths were recorded across the country during the last 24 hours.

The tally of deaths reached up to 7,000 in Pakistan, whereas, the number of active cases of COVID-19 reached up to 20,045.

31,904 tests were conducted during the last 24 hours and 319,431 patients recovered from the virus, whereas, the total count of infections stands at 346,476.

Two departments including Computer Science and Information Technology (IT) of the University of Lakki Marwat have been closed till November 16 after the emergence of COVID-19 cases.

Earlier on November 8, it emerged that Quaid-e-Azam University Islamabad had cancelled scheduled examinations of BA, BSC, and B.com amid a sharp increase in coronavirus cases. The examinations were scheduled to take place from November 9 till 13.

According to the administration of the university, the new date of the examinations of BA, BSC and B.com would be announced later.

In a wake of Covid-19 second wave, the Ministry of Interior had issued new guidelines on Monday for federal government offices.

As per details, the interior ministry has issued a notification according to which only 50 percent of employees of all federal government offices should be allowed to attend their offices from November 10.

The new order will remain in effect from November 10 to Nov 25, the notification stated.

The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) in its session, held in Islamabad yesterday, had expressed concern over the soaring rate of COVID-19 positive cases in the country.

The NCOC meeting expressed concern over the increasing ratio of positive cases in the country, which has reached to 4.5 per cent.

“Positive rate of coronavirus cases rapidly increasing in big cities, which is at maximum in 15 major cities of the country,” it was observed in the NCOC meeting. “Maximum positive rate of coronavirus cases has been reported 16.59 per cent in Hyderabad,” the meeting observed.

“The rate of positive cases in Gilgit is 15.38 per cent and Multan at 15.97 pct,” the meeting was informed. Mover the rate of positive cases in Muzaffarabad was recorded at 14.12% and 11.11% in Mirpur Azad Kashmir.

“The corona positive cases ratio in Peshawar reached to 9.63 and in Quetta 8.03 per cent,” the meeting was briefed. Islamabad have 7.48 pct, Karachi 7.12 per cent, Lahore 5.37 pct and Rawalpindi 4.63 per cent ratio of positive coronavirus cases

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Russian military helicopter shot down over Armenia accidentally by Azerbaijan forces

A Russian military helicopter was shot down over Armenia on Monday accidentally by Azerbaijan forces. Two crew members of the helicopter were killed in the incident.

In a statement, the Russian Defense Ministry said that the helicopter had been shot down as a result of man-portable air-defense system close to Armenia;s border with Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry admitted the helicopter had been shot down and offered an apology to Moscow for the "tragic incident".

"The Azerbaijani side offers an apology to the Russian side in connection with this tragic incident," the statement read. The ministry further clarified that the attack was "not aimed at" Moscow.

The incident takes place as Azerbaijan and Armenia are locked into an armed conflict over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh territory which, by law, is part of Azerbaijan but has been occupied by Armenian groups.

The crash reportedly occurred near the border with Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, some 70 kilometers (43 miles) from the border to Nagorno-Karabakh.

Armenia said the helicopter had crashed in a gorge near the village of Yeraskh.

Russia, which has a military alliance with Armenia, has managed to stay out of the military conflict between the two traditional rivals.

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Newly appointed Chinese Ambassador Nong Rong calls on COAS

Newly appointed Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Nong Rong called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa here on Monday.

Matters of mutual interest, including regional security, were discussed during the meeting, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military’s media wing, said in a Twitter statement.

The two noted “exceptional relations” between both countries and pledged to further improve the same. The visiting dignitary acknowledged and appreciated Pakistan’s contributions to conflict prevention in the region.

Mr Nong Rong, Chinese Amb 2 Pak met COAS. Matters of mutual interest incl regional security discussed. The 2 noted exceptional relations between both countries & pledged 2 further improve the same .Visiting dignitary ack & aprc Pak’s contributions 4 conflict prevention in region. pic.twitter.com/ZXbsJrslKq

— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) November 9, 2020

 

On November 5, the Chinese envoy had called on Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi at the Foreign Office in Islamabad. FM Qureshi congratulated Nong Rong over taking over as China’s ambassador to Pakistan.

Matters pertaining to bilateral ties, coronavirus situation, Pak-China friendship, CPEC and other issues came under discussion in the meeting. The foreign minister hoped that the relations batten Pakistan and China will further improved during his tenure.

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GB Appellate Court suspends Verdict on expulsion of public office holders

The Supreme Appellate Court has suspended the verdict of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) Chief Court which ordered the expulsion of national, provincial lawmakers and senators from the region, barring them from taking part in the campaign for November 15’s elections.

The Supreme Appellate Court suspended the Chief Court’s orders till November 12 besides issuing notices to the parties to appear in the hearing on November 12.

Earlier on November 7, the chief court directed members of Parliament and other public office holders to leave Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) region within 72 hours for violating the election code of conduct.

The verdict was challenged by Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in the Supreme Court (SC). A two-member bench heard the case today.

The court suspended the chief court’s verdict till November 12 which ordered all parliamentarians including lawmakers from provincial, national and Senate to leave the region to bar them from running election campaigns in GB.

The top leadership of all political parties are heading to Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) ahead of the election scheduled on November 15 and organising large public gatherings.

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NCOC expresses concern over soaring rate of COVID-19 positive cases

The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) in its session on Monday expressed concern over soaring rate of COVID-19 positive cases in the country.

A review meeting of the NCOC, chaired by federal minister Asad Umar, thoroughly discussed soaring rate of novel coronavirus positive cases and enforcement of precautionary measures in the country.

The NCOC meeting expressed concern over the increasing ratio of positive cases in country, which has reached to 4.5 percent.

“Positive rate of coronavirus cases rapidly increasing in big cities, which is at maximum in 15 major cities of the country,” it was observed in the NCOC meeting. “Maximum positive rate of coronavirus cases has been reported 16.59 percent in Hyderabad,” the meeting observed.

“The rate of positive cases in Gilgit is 15.38 percent and Multan at 15.97 pct,” the meeting was informed. Mover the rate of positive cases in Muzaffarabad was recorded 14.12% and 11.11% in Mirpur Azad Kashmir.

“The corona positive cases ratio in Peshawar reached to 9.63 and in Quetta 8.03 percent,” the meeting was briefed.

Islamabad have 7.48 pct, Karachi 7.12 percent, Lahore 5.37 pct and Rawalpindi 4.63 percent ratio of positive coronavirus cases.

Provincial chief secretaries briefed the meeting about the steps taken in the context of recent guidelines and implementation of the SOPs in sensitive cities including use of face masks and outdoor weddings.

The meeting was told that micro-smart lockdowns have been enforces at 4136 spots across the country.

The meeting was also informed that 2811 oxygen beds have been provided to hospitals to enhance their working capacity, while 13,000 oxygen cylinders have also been supplied to the provinces and the federal territories.

The meeting was informed that present health guidelines will remain in force in the country till January 2021.

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Govt decides to apologise to ANP over Ijaz-ul-Haq's statement

Federal Defence Pervez Khattak will visit Awami National Party’s headquarters today on the directives of Prime Minister Imran Khan to apologise for the recent controversial remarks by Interior Minister Brigadier (retd) Ijaz Shah.

Speaking at a recent ceremony at his hometown Nankana Sahib, Punjab, the interior minister had said the proscribed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan had in reaction to the ANP policies on terrorism attacked the party leadership and killed many of the party leaders, including Bashir Ahmad Bilour and Mian Rashid Hussain, the lone son of Mian Iftikhar Hussain.

The statement had stirred a strong reaction from the ANP, which had on November 2 called for the interior minister's resignation and formation of a truth commission, saying his statement had belittled the sacrifices of the ANP leaders and activists in the war against terror.

The ANP provincial spokesperson, Samar Haroon Bilour, had said if the interior minister did not resign or was not removed from his office within 10 days, the party would stage a march to Islamabad on November 11 to seek his removal.

Talking to this scribe on Sunday, Khattak said he would visit the Bacha Khan Markaz on the directives of Prime Minister Imran Khan and offer an apology to the ANP leadership and try to remove the misunderstandings created after the statement of the interior minister.

Pervez Khattak said he would be accompanied by Interior Minister Brigadier (retd) Ijaz Shah, Chief Minister Mahmood Khan and other ruling party members during a visit to the Bacha Khan Markaz.

The federal minister said he would meet the ANP leaders as this party along with other parties suffered a lot in the war on terror.

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143rd birth anniversary of Allama Iqbal being observed today

The nation is observing the 143rd birth anniversary of Dr Allama Muhammmad Iqbal, the Poet of the East, with national zeal and fervour today.

A change of guard ceremony was held at the mausoleum of Dr Allama Iqbal on his birth anniversary where a contingent of the Pakistan Navy assumed guard duties at the mausoleum. Pakistan Navy’s Station Commander, Commodore Naimatullah, was the chief guest.

In connection with his birth anniversary, special programmes will be organised today by political, social and cultural organisations in order to pay tribute to the national poet.

Allama Muhammad Iqbal was born in Sialkot, Punjab in 1877 AD. He received his early education in the traditional maktab and went to Sialkot Mission School, from where he passed his matric exams.

He obtained his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Government College, Lahore in 1897and secured his Masters Degree two years later. He was appointed as a lecturer of history, philosophy and English in Lahore’s Oriental College.

Allama Iqbal conceived of the idea of Pakistan and used poetry to motivate the Muslims, especially the youth of the sub-continent in their struggle against their British rulers and their demand for a separate homeland.

Unfortunately, he did not live to see the dream of a separate homeland for Muslims come true and passed away on April 21, 1938.

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"If you don't vote, then a puppet will rule you", Bilawal Bhutto

PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Sunday urged the people of Gilgit-Baltistan to shape their own fate by making the right choice on election day and to exercise their right to vote instead of abstaining from it.

"If you don't vote, then a puppet will rule you," he warned.

Bilawal said that voices demanding the construction of roads and threatening a boycott of voting have been growing louder. "I hear slogans such as 'no road, no vote' are being raised. Removing yourself from the voting process is not the path to success," he said.

The PPP chairman urged the people to vote for his party, saying: "I will resolve all your problems."

Bilawal, inaugurating the party's election campaign office in the district's Nasirabad area, said: "I'm moving around every nook and corner of Gilgit-Baltistan".

He said: "I have to fulfil the mission of Shaheed Bibi. We will give the people of this area their rights."

"We are related to the people of this area for the last three generations and we have to revive again this relationship," Bilawal said.

The PPP chairman promised to provide jobs to local residents in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project.

He said that Gilgit-Baltistan is at the doors of CPEC but people here ask where CPEC is.

Bilawal also vowed to make Gilgit-Baltistan a constitutional province.

He promised that the party will play its due role to save the people from difficulties, especially at a time when coronavirus is raging in the country.

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Chief Minister Punjab surprising old picture of United States

Chief Minister Punjab Usman Buzdar on Sunday shared surprising images of a visit to the United States he took in 2002.

In a post on Instagram, Buzdar said that he was a state guest of the country that year.

 

The three images show the Punjab chief minister mingling with a diverse group of people.

Pakistan is looking forward to healthy relations with the United States with president-elect Joe Biden promising to Muslims he will lift the "vile" ban on immigrants from certain countries as well as root out the "poison" of Islamophobia from the country.

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Quaid-e-Azam University Islamabad cancels scheduled examinations of BA, BSC

Quaid-e-Azam University Islamabad on Sunday has canceled scheduled examinations of BA, BSC, and B.com amid a sharp increase in coronavirus cases.

The examinations were scheduled to take place from November 9 (tomorrow) till 13.

According to the administration of the university, the new date of the examinations of BA, BSC and B.com would be announced later.

Earlier in the day, five neighborhoods of Islamabad were put under a smart lockdown after they reported a surge in cases of the coronavirus.

Deputy Commissioner Hamza Shafqaat tweeted these areas will be sealed in the next 24 hours for “emerging as covid hotspots.” The areas that will be locked down include G-6/2, G-9/1, G-10/4, I-8/3, and I-8/4.

“Schools, Mosques, Shopping centers, parks etc would remain closed,” he said. However, essential services and supplies like pharmacy, ration, drinking water and medical emergency, are exempted from the lockdown restrictions.

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Babar Azam accepts to lead Pakistan in all three formats

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to hand over the leadership of the Test team to limited-overs captain Babar Azam.

According to sources, the 26-year-old has agreed to lead the national team and will be appointed skipper in all three formats till the upcoming World Cup.

Meanwhile, top PCB officials have assured full cooperation to Babar and his recommendations as skipper will be given importance too in the new selection committee.

The final announcement will be made after the approval of chairman PCB Ehsan Mani. The captaincy matter will also be discussed in 59th PCB’s Board of Governers (BoG) meeting tomorrow.

Mohammad Rizwan will be named as vice-captain of the Test side. The announcement is expected on November 11.

Following the announcement, the squads for New Zealand tour will be named on the same date.

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Bank Manager sent to jail for harassing women

An official of a private bank arrested after sexually harassing a woman in Islamabad has been sent to jail on judicial remand.

The accused named Usman Gohar was arrested by police after a video shared on social media went viral, showing him harassing the woman.

The bank official was presented before the court after the registration of the case against him by the police. The court sent Usman Gohar to jail on judicial remand.

The incident was reported at a bank located in the F-10 area of Islamabad.

A police team led by ASP Shalimar police station took action and arrested the accused.

In a similar case in Islamabad on Saturday, police said they have safely escorted three female officials working for United Nations Organization whom three suspects allegedly assaulted on their way through Sinyari Forest.

The three women who belong to Norway, Italy, and Turkey are here in Pakistan on the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) assignments. It may be noted that both FAO and WHO are UNO agencies.

Reportedly, three men assaulted the three women, however, when the victims put up resistance the alleged harassers ran away.

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Mustafa Kamal blames PPP for the issues faced by the Sindh province

Pak Sarzameen Party (PSP) Chairman Mustafa Kamal on Sunday lamented the opposition alliance-Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM)- and said that none of their leaders spoke on the issues faced by the city during their Karachi rally.

Addressing a public gathering of PSP at Bagh-e-Jinnah, Mustafa Kamal blamed Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) for the issues faced by the Sindh province especially Karachi.

“PPP remained in power in Karachi during the past 12 years, however, a speech from Bilawal Bhutto during the PDM rally gave an impression that his party had never ruled in the province,” he said while lamenting the provincial government.

He said that more than seven million children are out of schools in the province and there is a shortage of dog-bite vaccines even after the 12-year rule of the PPP in the province. “We have not witnessed such a situation in the history of this province,” he said adding that Bilawal Bhutto lied during the PDM rally and now Karachi would respond to him.

While terming PSP as the real stakeholder of the city, Mustafa Kamal said that gone are the days when the city was forced to shut down on a single call and when Karachi issues were set aside for political gains on a single call from Rehman Malik.

“We now own this city,” he said while announcing the PPP rule from Sindh is over from now onwards.

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