President¡¯s Dual Office: Justice Azmat Pulls Out Of Bench

Pakistan News: Justice Azmat Saeed Sheikh of Lahore High Court has refused to hear the case challenging dual offices of President Zardari, Dunya News reported today. Earlier, a five-judge bench has been formed comprising Justice Azmat Saeed Sheikh, Justice Iftikahr Hussain, Justice Iqbal Hameed, Justice Umar Ata Bandial to hear the said case. Justice Azmat gave the plea that he used to be President Zardari’s counsel. However, after the refusal of Justice Azmat, the case has been sent to Chief Justice of Pakistan Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry. During the hearing, the Deputy Attorney General asked the court to adjourn the case, saying that the Attorney General could not make to the court due to his preoccupations. The court put off hearing till March 15.

Jamaat-e-Islami Leader House Was Taliban HQ: DG FC

DG FC Major General Tariq has said that the house of Jamaat-e-Islami leader Haroonur Rashid used to be a terrorists' sanctuary.

Talking to media in Damadola, Maj Gen Tariq said that from the material seized from the house of the son of a former MNA, showed his linkage with the Taliban. He noted that Taliban were holed up in 156 caves in Damadola, where Arabs, Sudanese, Egyptians and Afghans also resided. He said that the security forces have evacuated a large area, adding that operation in Tirah and Orakzai Agency would soon be started.

Five-Year-Old British Boy Kidnapped In Pakistan Is Safe:Police

JHELUM PAKISTAN: British boy kidnapped in Pakistan nearly a week ago is alive and police are making progress in the investigation, a police official said on Tuesday.

Sahil Saeed, who is of Pakistani origin, was abducted last Thursday after gunmen barged into his grandmother’s house, held the family at gun-point for hours and then left with some valuables and the boy.

“The child is safe. We made some progress and hopefully, we’ll sort out this case soon,” Khalid Mehmood, police superintendent for investigations in the city of Jhelum, told Reuters.

Interior Minister Rehman Malik said on Sunday that police were closing in on the kidnappers and that the abductors appeared to be close to the boy’s family.

Kidnapping is a major problem in Pakistan and many of the crimes go unreported. Police have said Taliban militants use ransoms from kidnappings to fund their insurgency against the U.S.-backed government.

No sign has emerged that the abduction of the boy, who is from the English town of Oldham, was linked to militants.

Police have said the gunmen took away 150,000 rupees ($1,750) and some gold and later demanded a 10 million rupee ($118,000) ransom.

Police said the kidnappers had been tipped off that the boy and his father were planning to fly home to Britain last Thursday after visiting relatives in Pakistan.

Constitutional Reforms Committee Key Meeting Today

ISLAMABAD: The constitutional reforms committee will resume its sitting today (Wednesday) with its chairman Senator Raza Rabbani in chair. The committee to deliberate on the contentious issues pending with the committee before finalising a proposed constitutional reforms package as Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) will submit new proposals with regard to the new name of NWFP and constitution of judicial commission for appointment of judges.

A decision to end deadlock between PML-N and ANP over the new name of NWFP and to iron out differences over judicial commission is expected in the meeting, sources said.

According to sources, in case PML-N and ANP fail to reach any decision over the new name of NWFP than the committee will be entitled to propose the new name of the province.

Adnan Sami Marries Afghan-German Woman, Singer Adnan Sami

Islamabad: Singer Adnan Sami has tied with the knot with an Afghan woman named Zoya Fariyabi in Mumbai, a private TV channel has claimed. The 36-year-old Khan's walima ceremony was organized in Islamabad.

Azaan, Sami's son from his first wife Zeba Bakhtiyar, made the arrangements for the ceremony, reports a daily news.

Zoya, a German by origin, told the channel that Adnan was perfect for her and that she loved him.

Zoya works as a project manager in a US-based company which functions from Germany.

Dancing with the stars results may 18th Finalist Revealed

Dancing With the Stars Results May 18, Who got kicked off Dancing With the Stars: The Dancing With the Stars Results on May 18 revealed the top three finalists as well as the couple who got kicked off Dancing with the Stars.

It was a tense moment, but when the results were announced, the first couple to become safe and enter the finals was Evan Lysacek and partner Ana. They were followed by Pussycat Doll Nicole and partner Derek.

Security On High Alert in Karachi

KARACHI: Security was put on high alert in Karachi following a suicide blast in Mohmand Agency, in which more than 50 people were killed and another 100 injured.

Special security measures were made in the city during Friday's prayers.

The Sindh administration beefed up security at sensitive locations and offices of the law enforcement agencies.

Meanwhile, City Government-led Command and Control Center is out of order due to technical faults developed in cameras.

All cameras installed at Sohrab Goth, Nagan Chorangi, Liaquat Abad Under Pass and Gharibabad are not functional

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Karachi: MQM MP Raza Haider Gunned Down

Pakistan News Karachi:Muttahida Qaumi Movement leader Raza Haider shot dead by firing of two unidentified gunmen in North Nazimabad 2. Raza Haider was a member of Sindh Assembly. Unseen forces are trying to target MQM, says Sabzwari Senior Muttahida Qaumi Movement leader Faisal Sabzwari while talking to Dunya News expressed grieve on the murder Raza Haider.

Sabzwari said that "Raza was my colleague in the provincial assembly. He was closely affiliated with MQM. Most MQM leaders receive threats on regular intervals."

"We are trying to gather information at the moment. All we know is that Raza went to a funeral where he was shot," Sabzwari added.

Sabzwari was of the view that unseen forces are trying to target MQM. He urged that MQM will publish all findings into the killings.

Malik requests people remain calm

Interior Minister Rehman Malik speaking on the occasion said that people should avoid speculation. He said that proper investigations will be carried out into the matter. He further said that forces are trying to initiate a fresh wave of violence in our economic hub Karachi.

Malik was of view that earlier terrorist tried to destabilize the country by adopting tactics to initiate sectarian violence.

"I will request people to stay calm. I request everyone to cooperate with the authorities. All those involved will be brought to justice."Interior Minister said.

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PM Telephones Altaf Hussain, Condoles Upon Dr. Imran¡¯s Murder

Pakistan News: PM Gilani telephoned MQM leader Altaf Hussain and condoled upon the death of Dr. Imran Farooq.

While talking to Altaf Hussain on telephone, PM said that Dr. Imran's murder is a great loss for MQM. Whoever did this inhuman act, is indeed a very cruel person. Pm also said that all Pakistanis are sad upon the murder of Dr. Imran Farooq. On this occasion, MQM leader Altaf Hussain said that Dr. Imran's murder is a great loss for the whole country.

Asif Ali Zardari Says, Affluent Class To Pay One-Time Flood Tax

Pakistan News: Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday said that one-time flood tax will be imposed on the well-to-do to help shore up the relief and rehabilitation efforts. He said this while speaking to a women round-table meeting of federal ministers, women parliamentarians and representatives of non-governmental organizations for the flood affected people at Aiwan-e-Sadr. "Unless we are prepared to share bread with our grief and disaster stricken brethren, we should not expect others to help us," he added.

He said that he has already advised the government to tap indigenous resources wherever there is room for taping such resources, adding that it should be done in a transparent and above board manner. The President said that the entire aid received and disbursed will be done in a very transparent manner and every citizen will have access to information relating to the aid received and distributed.

The President said that women's voices must be heard and their concerns must be taken into account in shaping any disaster response strategy. He said that giving adequate representation to women in all forums would help in understanding women and girls' specific needs and actions to be taken in this regard.

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Chief Of The Army Staff General Ashfaq Pervaiz Kayani Call On PM Yousaf Raza Gilani

Chief of the Army Staff General Ashfaq Pervaiz Kayani called on Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani in which different matters including national security came under discussion. According to sources, regional security issues were also discussed in the meeting. The COAS informed the PM about the ongoing operation against the militants in the country.

Naseem Baig To Be Made Prime Minister¡¯s Finance Advisor

Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani would appoint Naseem Baig as his finance adviser.

Naseem Baig is the head of Arif Habib Investment and his work experience covered around 35 years in several national and international financial institutes.

According to PM Secretariat sources, the notification in this regard would be issued within two days. Born in 1947, Baig is a FCA degree holder from Institute of Chartered Accounts. He was also part of a task force of the Securities and Exchange Commission's voluntary pension scheme. Currently, he is a member of Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council.



Dialogue With Taliban Underway: Karzai

Afghan President Hamid Karzai has said that the dialogue with the Taliban is underway, and added that reconciliatory process would be continued to maintain peace in the region.

Karzai said that Taliban were being provoked to fight against their own country, adding that talks would be held only with those Taliban who have got no links with al-Qaeda. He noted, "Both Afghanistan and Pakistan have been bearing terrorism for the last two years, however, now we have realised that the Pakistan's loss is greater.

Replying to a question, the Afghan President said that despite huge financial aid from India, his government gives more importance to its ties with Pakistan. Later, Karzai called on Army Chief Ashfaq Kayani and is also scheduled to meet Prime Minister Gilani today.

Peshawar: 11 killed including 8 POs, 3 Cops

Some 11 people including 8 proclaimed offenders (POs) and three cops killed in a crossfire in Peshawar, on Saturday. On a tip off, the police conducted raid at a house. On seeing the police the Pos opened fire which claimed SHO Riaz, ASI Markalam Marwat and Constable Shakirullah Jan, while an FC personnel also got injured.

The retaliatory fire by the police killed eight POs.

The injured have been shifted to hospital.

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No Operation Against Civilians in Kala Dhaka: Rehman Malik

SLAMABAD: Interior Minister Rehman Malik Friday assured National Assembly that no innocent citizen shall suffer during action against outlaws in Kala Dhaka, a tribal area adjacent to Hazara region. “This operation is against the proclaimed offenders, terrorists are hiding there after Swat operation and some hardened criminals,” he said in response to a point of order by Laik Muhammad Khan.

The member had mentioned to assurance of NWFP Chief Minister that operation will be stopped and those arrested shall be released. But, the commitment was yet to be fulfilled.

Rehman Malik in response, mentioned to 10 to 15 groups operating there who comprised proclaimed offenders as well as the terrorists who escaped the Swat, Malakand and Waziristan operation. “Similarly, certain hardened criminals are also hiding over there and the operation is against them.”

“I assure you that action is against the criminals and terrorists only and no innocent person shall be affected,” he said.

The minister further assured that if any innocent individual is affected or suffer any losses, we assure to compensate it.

He said a JUI delegation has also gone to the area to get first hand knowledge of the situation.

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PA Election Results 2010 : Arlen Specter Pennsylvania Primary Election

PA Election Results 2010

PA Election Results:Arlen Specter Pennsylvania Primary Election 2010  � On Tuesday, the spotlight was on the big Democratic primary in Pennsylvania where Rep. Joe Sestak took on Senator Arlen Specter who was seriously burnt by the voters' anger. Arlen Specter who publicly supported Barack Obama and who had left the Republican Party to become democratic in April 2009 was squashed by Democratic Representative Joe Sestak, a retired admiral who is supported by the party's left wing.

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Flourmills Strike: Flour Disappears From Sunday Bazaars in Punjab

The continued strike of the flourmills caused shortage of the commodity in the Sunday Bazaars of Lahore and Multan today.

The non-availability of flour made the public suffer acutely, while a huge flour crisis has been emerged across the province as the mills have been shut for the last 4 days consecutively.

People complained that the flour is being sold in black due to the scarcity and the black sheep are capitalizing on the situation. The APFMA announced a protest strike against the hampering in the flow of wheat by Sindh food department from Punjab. The majority of the flour mills remained shut in southern Punjab and Sindh against the hurdles in supply to Sindh and export of the commodity to Afghanistan. APFMA spokesman warned that the strike would continue till the acceptance of their demands. The flour mills in Balochistan are not taking part in the strike since the flour mill owners believe that ample amount of supply is available in the country. The flour mills owner further stated that flour is easily available across the province.

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Taseer Sends Relief Goods For Flood Affectees

Pakistan News Lahore: Punjab Governor Salman Taseer said that estimate of losses by flood was not an easy task but the government was providing relief goods to the affectees.

Talking to media, he lauded efforts of Punjab government to help flood affectees. He said that he did not want to get benefit of the situation and avoid point scoring. The governor sent relief goods for flood affectees.

He said that the President was doing everything in country's interest. He said that the President wanted to get access for Pakistan’s textile industry into France markets.

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Demoted Officers To Return Back Privileges And Plots

Pakistan News: In accordance with the orders of Supreme Court, demoted officers to Grade-21 will have to return back the privileges and plots which they were allotted when promoted to Grade-22.

The biggest name to suffer from the orders of SC would be the Personal Secretary of PM, Nargis Sethi. Chairman FBR Sohail Ahmed, Chairman CDA Imtiaz Inayat Ali, Chief Secretary Balochistan Ahmed Baksh Lehri and IG Motorways Dr. Naseem Kousar have also been demoted. According to law, these officers were required to leave their current charges and join back their previous posts, but most of them didn't.

The officers were allotted additional plots in Islamabad when promoted to Grade-22, which they will have to return.

Kurram: Nato Choppers Hit FC Checkpoint; 3 Killed

Pakistan News: The Nato helicopters Thursday shelled a paramilitary checkpost and killed three soldiers in a cross border attack in Kurram Agency, security officials said.

The Nato choppers violated Pakistan's airspace at 5:00am and pounded an FC checkpost at , killing three FC men and injuring as many at Mand-To-Kandao, Kurram Agency.

"It was an unprovoked attack that took place early Thursday morning. Nato helicopters entered our airspace and targeted a paramilitary checkpost killing three soldiers and wounding three others," a senior security official told mediamen.

According to sources, this has been Nato's third attack in Pakistani territory within a week. The Nato Spokesman in Afghanistan has not confirmed the attack.

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1 Soldier And 30 MiliTants Killed In Pakistan

Lahore High Court Advocate General To Assist In Plea Against LBs Amend

Lahore High Court has summoned Advocate General Punjab on March 9 to assist the case challenging local bodies system and appointment of administrators.

Justice Sheikh Azmat Saeed heard the case filed by Local Council Association. Advocate Fawad Chaudhry argued in the court that amendments in the local bodies system was against Article 140-A of the constitution.

He added that bureaucracy has been imposed on Pakistan instead of democracy, while the constitution did not allow anti-democratic laws.

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Obama to donate Peace Prize money among charities

President Barack Obama announced that he plans to spread the money that accompanies his Nobel Peace Prize among 10 different charities.
Obama was awarded the prize based on the hope that his presidency would bring about a change in American foreign policy, had decided soon after being notified of the award that he would donate the $1.4 million award to charity.
The prize money would be distributed amongst non-profit organization which include organization that provides housing for families of those receiving medical care at major military and Veterans Affairs medical centers. Obama will also give to an organization dedicated to the long term relief and rebuilding of Haiti massive earthquake that devastated the country. Much of the rest of the award will go to boosting college education scholarship funds. Obama also awarded $100,000 each to two charities working in Africa and Central.
The other, the Central Asia Institute, promotes literacy and education, primarily for girls, in remote regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan. One of the institute’s co-founders was also a nominee for the Nobel Prize that Obama won.

General Zia-Ul-Haq Name Removed From Constitution

ISLAMABAD,PAKISTAN NEWS: The National Assembly on Thursday unanimously approved the abolishment of Article 270-A of the Constitution, an amendment after which the name of former dictator General Zia-ul-Haq has been removed from the Constitution, ARY NEWS reported.

The abolishment was okayed during the clause-by-clause approval of the 18th Constitutional Amendment presently underway in the National Assembly.

The house also declared the steps taken by former military ruler General (retd) Pervez Musharraf till 2002 illegal by approving abolishment of Article 270-AA of the Constitution.

The 1985 parliament inserted Article 270A in the Constitution while the 2002 legislature approved the Article 270AA, aimed at providing a legal cover to the steps taken by the two dictators while holding the office of the President of Pakistan.

The house also repealed ban on third time premiership and the presidential authority to dissolve parliament, besides other reforms.

The house, with Speaker Fehmida Mirza in chair, carried out clause by clause voting on the bill, and also unanimously adopted Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa as new name of the NWFP province.

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UK¡¯s Televised Election Debates Today

Latest News Updates UK’s Televised Election Debates Today: The first of the UK’s historic televised election debates will take place today, with the main party leaders contesting the May 6 general elections going head-to-head.

The live broadcast will see Gordon Brown, David Cameron and Nick Clegg answer questions chosen by a 200-strong audience, and from viewers’ e-mails.

The debate would last for 90-minute while live broadcast may inject some drama into a tightly controlled campaign that has so far struggled to capture the public’s imagination.

The debate would be broadcasted live on SKY NEWS and BBC. Twitter is also expected to provide live updates.

The analysts however have rejected the claim stating that the three politicians have been coming online for long time so debates would not create any difference.

Dalai Lama live in Studio 1A

Dalai Lama

The Dalai Lama was live in our studio for a conversation with Ann Curry.

Before the interview, we asked you to be part of the experience and share pictures on Twitter of how you were watching.

Six Degrees Fake said by Punjab University

Full Story And Original Content.Thnewspk.com LAHORE: spokesman for the University of Punjab, said that of 314 degrees parliamentarians sent Higher Education Commission (HEC) for verification purposes to the university, verification report in respect of 217 degrees was sent to the HEC on Tuesday, 6 of which were recognized as bogus degrees . The representative said [...]

55 Dead, 200 Injured in Violence in Karachi

Pakistan News Karachi: At least 55 people were killed, with several others injured in ongoing violence across Karachi after assassination of the MQM MP Raza Haider continues the second day.

Raza Haider and his guard Khalid have been laid to rest at Azizabad, Karachi. According to hospital sources, at least 50 people have been killed while 200 others got injuries. At least 14 dead bodies were taken to Abbasi Saheed hospital, 15 dead bodies to civil hospital, 15 dead bodies to Jinnah hospital and 3 dead bodies were brought to Qatar hospital. As many as 100 vehicles set ablaze in different areas of Karachi. People are stranded on roads as public transport has stopped functioning. Petrol pumps around the city have also closed down. Aerial firing was also reported in different parts. Markets have been closed down in Manzoor Colony, Saddar town. Markets also closed down in Hyderabad in wake of MPA's killing. Severe tensions, panic and fear gripped Karachi. All the education institutions will be closed down in Karachi today. MQM has also announced three day mourning in Karachi.

Rangers initiated a search operation and managed to arrest 10 suspects from the flats located on Abul Hassan Ifsahani road. On the other side, the police has claimed to arrest 30 people involved in disturbing peace of the city.

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PML-N Be First To Stand For Democracy: Nawaz Sharif

Pakistan News: PML-N Chief Nawaz Sharif says his party would be first to stand against any damage to democracy. He says there are no personal differences with federal government but there won't be any compromises where people's rights are concerned.

Nawaz Sharif chaired a party meeting in Raiwind, said floods have laid huge disasters and federal government has not aided Punjab how it should have been done. The meeting resolved to do best at every level to stabilize democracy and to raise voice in NA session for rehabilitation of flood affectees. On this occasion party strategy for NA and Senate session was also discussed.

CM Punjab Shahbaz Sharif, NA Opposition leader Ch. Nisar, Senator Parvez Rasheed, Khwaja Asif, Ayaz Mir and Khwaja Saad Rafiq also attended the meeting.



Pak May Face Another Coup, Warns Pervez Musharraf

Pakistan News: General (r) Pervez Musharraf warned that rampant extremist militancy and crumbling economy may force Pakistan's Army to launch another coup.

The retired general said Army Chief Ashfaq Pervez Kayani could be forced to intervene against the government of President Which he said had failed to tackle rampant extremist militancy and a crumbling economy. Musharraf ― who himself came to power in a coup in 1999 and has lived in London since quitting in 2008 ― cited as evidence a reported crisis meeting this week between Kayani, Zardari and Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani.

Asked whether he thought there was a likelihood of a new coup, he told the Intelligence Squared debating forum in London: "Well, you see the photographs of the meeting with the president and the prime minister and I can assure you they were not discussing the weather. "There was a serious discussion of some kind or other and certainly at this moment all kinds of pressures must be on this army chief." The 67-year-old said similar "pressures" when he was head of the army in the nuclear-armed Islamic republic from 1998 to 1999 had led him to launch the coup against then prime minister Nawaz Sharif. "In that one year Pakistan was going down and a number of people, including politicians, women, men, came to me telling me 'Why are you not acting? Are you going to act for Pakistan's good?" Musharraf said. "Now I am in a dilemma ― the army chief, what does he do? There is no constitutional provision, what does he do?" Musharraf confirmed that he would launch a new political party in London on Friday to contest the next elections in 2013 but refused to say when he would return to Pakistan, where he could face treason charges. He said Zardari's government had failed adequately to deal with Pakistan's moribund economy, the threat from Taliban militants, and the after effects from devastating floods earlier this year. Pakistan's powerful military has ruled the country for over half of the country's existence since independence from Britain in 1947.

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Asif Ali Zardari Re-Constitutes CCI

ISLAMABAD,? Pakistan News : President Asif Ali Zardari on the advice of Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has re-constituted the Council of Common Interests (CCI) with effect from August 5, 2009. According to a Cabinet Division notification dated March 3, 2010, which is in supersession of its notification of even dated August 5, 2009, the re-constituted CCI having the Prime Minister as Chairman will comprise of the Chief Ministers of Punjab, Sindh, NWFP and Balochistan as its members. Besides, Minister for Communications Dr. Arbab Alamgir Khan, Minister for Livestock and Dairy Development Humayun Aziz Kurd and Minister for Petroleum and Natural Resources Syed Naveed Qamar will also be the members (by name) of the re-constituted CCI.

Police Officers Of Lahore Involved In Crimes

A new report has revealed that at least half of Lahore Police officers are involve in crimes of different nature. Twenty eight thousand policemen are serving in Lahore Police of whom seventeen thousand two hundred and thirty four policemen have been convicted for crimes including abuse of power.

Policemen have been suspended from their position or sent to forced leave due to involvement in crimes. Those suspended include one inspector, 19 sub-inspectors, 42 ASIs, 13 head constables, 566 constables and 88 traffic wardens. The policemen sent on forced leaves include 1 inspector, 8 sub-inspectors, 1 ASI, 3 head constables and 11 constables. The policemen demoted include 26 inspectors, 57 sub inspectors, 20 ASIs and eight head constables.

Rana Sanaullah? said the Police department has no fault. Rana said the appointments in Police during the past were done on the basis corruption, consequently the Police department is performing poorly. He added that the Punjab Government would ensure that all the appointment into the Police department was done on merit.

Rana added that he has instructed the Police leadership not to tolerate acts of ill disciple. "We won't leave the public on hands of criminals," Rana added.

Rana informed that any Policemen found guilty of employing means of excessive torture would be dealt under act of terrorism and officers involved would not be given bail.

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Lahore: Three explosions rock Iqbal town

Three explosions have been reported near a foreign fast food restaurant in Moon Market, Iqbal town. The blast occurred in a open plot where the explosives was dug in the ground. Heavy smoke can be seen blowing from the scene. Rescue teams and police have cordoned the area.
Panic and fear among the masses. The blast was as powerful as it shattered the windowpanes of nearby houses and shops.
It was the third terror attack of the day in the city as a pair of suicide bombers targeting army vehicles detonated explosives within seconds of each other earlier today, killing at least 40 people in A R Bazar and wounding nearly 130.

Asif Ali Zadari Immunity Challenged in SC

The Communist Party filed a petition against the immunity enjoyed by the president under Article 248 of the constitution on Wednesday.

The petitioner requested the apex court to interpret the Article in its true spirit, adding that the president do not enjoy immunity in the corruption cases whether in abroad or in the country. The plea also added that the indemnity the head of the state has in the criminal cases is also conditioned.

The court has been asked to order the accountability courts to start proceeding against Zardari in corruption references.

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Army Prepared To Face Any Threat: Yousuf Raza Gilani

BAHAWALPUR: Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said Pakistan wants peace in the region.

Addressing a ceremony of Azm-e-Nau III military exercise on Sunday, Gilani said the military has been prepared to face any threat. He said the Army has performed extraordinary services in Swat and Waziristan regions.

He called the world to extend help to Pakistan, which is the frontline state in the war against terrorism.

The Prime Minister congratulated the military for successful exercise.

French Open at Roland Garros, CLAY-COURT Tennis

french open

RETURN OF THE CLAY-COURT KING?:  He's 31-1 lifetime at Roland Garros. But after four straight title runs on the outskirts of the Bois de Boulogne, Clay King Rafael Nadal was finally taken down in '09, and the Spaniard could only watch from afar as Roger Federer put the finishing touches on a career Slam. However, after snapping an 11-month title-drought with his sixth straight Monte Carlo Masters crown and triumphant runs in Rome and Madrid, a healthy Nadal is once again reincarnated as his former invincible self. With his Swiss nemesis in a bit of a tailspin, Rafa will arrive in Paris a clear favorite to reclaim his throne.

Landi Kotal: Mosque And Several Shrines Demolished

A mosque and several shrines were targeted in Landi Kotal. Shrines in the compound of Banuria Khankah were targeted with bombs in the wee hours of the night. Blasts were heard in a diameter of three kilometer. Successor of the shrines told Dunya News that he has no clue about the attackers; neither had he received any pre-attack warnings. He said that attacks were expected after the tragedy happened in Lahore at Hazrat Ali Hajvery's shrine.

Asif ALi Zardari

Latest update News about,LONDON ― Prime Minister David Cameron is meeting Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday ― the first time since the British leader accused Pakistan of exporting terrorism. Zardari will join a dinner being held in honor of his late wife Benazir Bhutto at Cameron's country residence Chequers, near Aylesbury, west of London. Cameron's office said the dinner was arranged by international aid minister Alan Duncan, a friend of Bhutto for over 30 years.

Last week in India, Cameron accused elements in Pakistan of allowing the "export of terror," suggesting not enough was being done to tackle terror groups inside Pakistan's borders.

The comments prompted Pakistan's intelligence chief, Lt. Gen. Ahmed Shujaa Pasha, to cancel a planned trip to London and for Britain's envoy in Pakistan to be summoned to Islamabad. Dozens of protesters in the port city of Karachi also burned an effigy of Cameron in protest while Pakistan officials in London said the comments stood to undermine cooperation between the two countries.

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Pakistan Minister Verspricht Hochwasser-Geld Wird Gut Investiert

Pakistan News: Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has assured donor nations that the money sent for its flood victims will not be wasted, saying the aid would be “well spent” in a “transparent manner”. I want to assure the international community that every dollar being contributed will be well spent in a transparent manner and we have today in place an oversight mechanism, which is comprising of people with a lot of eminence and integrity,” Qureshi said.

The country would also use its own resources to meet the crisis as it did not expect the “world to foot the entire bill”, he said.

“We the people of Pakistan intend to mobilise our national resources to overcome this challenge,” he added. “We cannot expect the world to foot the entire bill… We don’t expect that.”

The reluctance of the global community to respond to the UN’s initial appeal of USD 459 million has been attributed to concerns that the foreign governments have about corruption that may lead to misuse of the aid in Pakistan.

Qureshi also stressed that concerns about an existing “trust deficit” should not be overblown. “Let’s not exaggerate the trust deficit.. We owe it to every contributor national and international to make sure that the money that is being given to us is being utilised efficiently.”

He was speaking yesterday following a high-level ministerial meeting on Pakistan floods held at the UN on the sidelines of the opening week of the General Assembly.

The ‘Friends of Pakistan’ had called for the meeting, which was attended by US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, on the flood situation. Qureshi also met Hillary for a short bilateral session.

During the meeting, several countries pledged additional money including the UK, which has decided to give Pakistan an additional USD 110 million to provide flood-relief for an estimated 21 million flood-affected people. London has previously given Islamabad USD 100 million and USD 80 million in private donations.

The overall figure of the pledges was not immediately available.

Last week, India handed over USD 20 million to the United Nations for flood-relief efforts in Pakistan. On Friday, the UN launched the largest ever natural disaster appeal of over USD 2 billion to boost the aid efforts in Pakistan, which has lost large sweeps of infrastructure and agriculture.

The new amount includes the initial August appeal of USD 459 million, which is now 80 percent funded, but leaves a shortfall of about USD 1.6 billion.

The majority of those affected by the floods are farmers, many of whom have lost their crops and will not able to plant their fields by November, and are likely to be dependent on aid until 2012, according to the UN.

Lack of soap and water is leading to the rise of skin diseases and millions of people remain vulnerable to cholera and diarrhoea. Out of the 21 million flood-affected people, 12 million are in desperate condition with no access to clean drinking water or health facilities, the world body had said.

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FM Qureshi¡¯s Statement On Dialogues With India Welcomed

Pakistan News: The UK-based senior Kashmiri leader and President, Tehreek-e-Kashmir, Mohammad Ghalib has welcomed Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi's statement that Pakistan want result oriented and meaningful dialogues with India. We welcome Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi's stance that Islamabad seeks real substantive dialogues with India to address all outstanding issues including core issue Kashmir and not just another photo opportunity", Ghalib said in a statement Thursday.

He said it is appreciable that Foreign Minister Qureshi at various meetings on the sidelines of UN General Assembly Session spoke in unambiguous terms making it clear that resolution of Kashmir issue is imperative for South Asian security.

"The stand taken by foreign minister is based on principles and reflects the true sentiments of Kashmiri people", Ghalib said. He added that people of Jammu and Kashmir were expecting from PPP government to repair the damage caused to the Kashmir liberation movement by former military dictator General Pervez Musharraf.

Terming the baseless allegations levelled by India against Pakistan, TeK leader said India can not befool the world community with such absurd accusation.

"It is old habit of Indian leaders to blame Pakistan whenever India comes under pressure," Ghalib stated.

He emphasized that Pakistan should stick to its stand that Kashmir is internationally recognized disputed territory and it needs to be settled under relevant UN resolutions and in accordance with the aspirations of Kashmiri people.

Justice Javed Says Process Of Accountability Is Not Effective

Senior Judge of the Supreme Court Judge, Justice Javed Iqbal hinted that due to the failure of the institutions, the courts have no other option except to take Suo Moto actions and no one should regard Suo Moto action as excessive interruption by the court. He added that after seeing the barbaric torture of the Police he has no desire left to join the Police department.

Addressing to participants at School of Public Policy, he regretted that the process of accountability is not effective. He said that the promotions to Grade 22 were not done on the basis of merit and thus the court had to intervene.

Justice Javed Iqbal said that when people notify the courts about the injustice than the apex courts takes Suo Moto to give justice to helpless people.

Benazir Bhutto

Benazir Bhutto, An independent commission appointed by the UN is set to release its report into the assassination of ex-Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.

Ms Bhutto was killed in a gun and bomb attack after addressing an election rally near Islamabad more than two years ago.

The commission was set up in July last year in response to a request from Pakistan.

The commission has delayed the report’s release for two weeks.

The delay came after an urgent request from Ms Bhutto’s widower, Pakistani President Asif Zardari.

Members of Ms Bhutto’s political party did not trust the military-led government running the country when she died.

And her widower, Mr Zardari, continued to call for a UN investigation even after he became president and his party was elected to power.

Strong emotions

The three-member panel was mandated to investigate the facts and circumstances of Ms Bhutto’s death, not assign criminal responsibility.

But anything related to her assassination stirs up strong emotions, and suspense was heightened when Mr Zardari made a last-minute request to delay the report’s release by two weeks.

It is not clear why. The government said it wanted extra time to include input from Afghanistan, the United States and Saudi Arabia, three countries that had apparently warned Ms Bhutto of a death threat.

But while accepting the delay, the commission insisted its report was complete.

Pakistanis are waiting to see what it will add to an issue that has divided the country’s political class.

The former military leader, Pervez Musharraf, declared that the late head of the Pakistani Taliban, Beitullah Mehsud, was the assassin. And Ms Bhutto herself wrote that four suicide squads were after her, some linked to al-Qaeda.

But she also accused a group of senior politicians and intelligence officials of plotting to kill her, and many of her followers blame elements of the military establishment and Mr Musharraf’s government for her death.

Power Shortfall Mounts To 4700MW

LAHORE: The Pakistan Electric Power Company (Pepco) faced a shortfall of more than 4700MW � 50 per cent of its total generation � on Tuesday, forcing it to resort to unscheduled loadshedding in a big way.

Although the company acknowledged a deficit of only about 4,000MW and claimed to be restricting loadshedding in urban areas to nine hours and in industrial areas to four, protests by industrialists, traders and people across the country told a different story.

According to Pepco, the total demand was 15,316MW while total generation stood at 10,306MW — 2,714MW being hydel component, 2,586 thermal and independent power producers chiming in with 5,006MW.

Officials of the company, however, conceded in private that the nationwide demand went beyond 16,337MW because of an unusually hot April. The company could not manage more than 10,261MW -� leaving a shortfall of 6,070MW.

Talking about reasons for the shortfall, sources said that financial crunch remained at the heart of the current crisis.

Pepco was supposed to pay well over Rs100 billion to IPPs, but could manage only Rs32 billion.

With IPPs getting only 30 per cent of their due, their fuel supplies dipped and so did their generation.

During the last two days, the sources said, the situation had deteriorated as six units of Kot Addu Power Company (Kapco) and Muzaffargarh Power Company, which tripped shortly after its commissioning on Thursday, thus denying the company over 344MW relief.

It has forced the company to resort to unscheduled and unannounced loadshedding.

Similarly, the Hub Power Company (Hubco) is not fully functional, they said, adding: "However, unit number four (150MW) and five (75MW) of Guddu Power Plant have restarted generation in the last 24 hours."

Earlier, briefing the media on the power situation, Pepco director-general (energy management) Mohammad Khalid claimed that the power situation would improve by April 21 because some additional plants were expected to start working.

He also took the occasion to deny that money matters had forced IPPs to cut down production.

"All of them are being paid regularly and there was neither any payment dispute nor any power deficit on this account," Mr Khalid said.

He said that Pepco required a gas supply of 976mmcf to operate its entire thermal system, whereas it was receiving only 275mmcf.

"If Pepco is given full volume of gas, it will not only help ensure reduction in power tariff due to a decline in input cost, but will also increase generation by 1,000 to 1,200MW because thermal power plants in Pakistan are actually gas operated," he said.

The DG said the prime minister had convened a meeting on Monday of four chief ministers and other stakeholders for working out a strategy to overcome power shortage.

Until and unless provincial governments were on board, no conservation strategy could succeed, the Pepco official said.

The meeting is to consider a number of proposals, prominent among which are closure of shops and commercial areas at 7pm, and alternative power holidays for industrial sectors.

The meeting will also discuss the issue of gas supply to power plants.

The gas being supplied to fertiliser units, which have a high consumption rate, might be diverted to power generation plants.

Legislature trumps voters due process for Tesla Motors

Tesla Motors electric vehicle

We have all read that the Obama Administration has thrown megabucks at various bailouts in an effort to create jobs. While I won't debate the $300 million federal subsidy to Tesla Motors to produce electric cars, for our Local Government Committee to vote unanimously, 9-0, to create a redevelopment area by legislative fiat, when Tesla was not seeking this support, is unconscionable.

Cameron To Host Dinner For Zardari

Pakistan News: British Prime Minister David Cameron would host a formal dinner for President Zardari on Friday (toady).

The event will be the first official dinner to be hosted by the British Premier for any foreign leader. David Cameron's spokesperson informed that both the leaders would hold dialogue also. The spokesman intimidated that PM Cameron will announce the aid package for Pakistan during the dinner.

Shahbaz Sharif:Duty Of Police Is To Protect The People

Chief Minister Punjab Shahbaz Sharif said that duty of police is to protect the people instead of their humiliation. The officials who beaten up the suspects in public will be brought to justice. In a high level meeting to review of issue of police violence, Shahbaz Sharif said that it is court's duty to give sentence to suspects and no one will be allowed to take law into hands. He said that strict action will be taken against those who violated the law. It was suggested in the meeting that henceforth case under anti-terrorism act will be registered against the police officials who used these methods of violence.

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Pakistan’s Sovereignty To Be Guarded At Any Cost: COAS

Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani has said that Pakistan forces are fully capable of defending the country, however, he ruled out aggressive purposes against any country.

Addressing the concluding ceremony of the first phase of Azm-e-Nau Army Exercise in Bahawalpur today, Kayani said Pakistan Army is not oblivion to country's defence and would maintain it at every cost.

He said that the forces are completely aware of the responsibility Pakistan holds regarding regional peace.

There is complete coordination and harmony between Pakistan Army and Air Force, said the COAS. The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani and leaders of other countries. Apknews.com



All Govt Offices, Banks Closed Today

All government and allied offices, commercial banks and academic institutions have been closed today following an energy conservation strategy announced by the government.

According to the notifications of the federal and provincial governments there will be five working days with two offs in a week.

Pakistan’s central bank also announced that all commercial banks will be closed on Saturdays as part of measures to cut state electricity consumption.

Pakistan, battling a chronic energy shortage announced the measures this week which included an extra day off for government workers and turning off half the lights in government offices.

Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani and Water and Power Minister Raja Pervaiz Ashraf announced the series of measures they said would reduce a 4,500-5,000 MW daily shortfall and encourage conservation in the private sector.

Shopping centres have been ordered to close at 8 p.m. while lighted billboards, neon signs and other commercial decorative lights will be switched off.

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Janet Jackson New Haircut

janet jackson new haircut

Janet Jackson’s new haircut is not going over very well with her fans… in fact theDailyFix’s headline for Janet’s new do is “Janet Jackson debuts her Joe Jackson haircut”… OUCH!

So lovely Janet Jackson has ditched the long flowing locks of her weave for a much shorter and all natural look. She definitely looks different.

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Reference Against Abid Sher Ali Being Sent To Speaker NA

Pakistan News: A reference against Chairman Standing Committee on Education Abid Sher Ali has been sent to Speaker National Assembly with accusations of misusage of power on Friday.

Meanwhile, talking to media in Islamabad Federal Education Minister Sardar Asif said that the standing committee could summon anybody, it could also make recommendations but it is not entitled to pass orders.

He alleged that terrorists are left scot-free in Punjab to create law and order situation in order to hold mid-term polls.

Two Killed, Two Injured In Attack On Security Forces Vehicle:Quetta

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PML-N MPA Rana Mubashir Rresigns

Another PML-N MPA Rana Mubashir Iqbal resigned today for having fake graduation degree case. A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry heard the case regarding fake degree of Rana Iqbal.

Rana's counsel Hamid Khan told the court that the former decided to resign on the above said charges.

The court ordered Rana to send the copy of his resignation to Speaker Punjab Assembly, besides the Election Commission has also been asked to conduct by-polls for the seat PP-160 that fell vacant after the resignation.

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PM Reaches Bhutan

Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has reached Bhutan on Tuesday to attend the 16th Saarc summit.

Gilani was given a Guard of Honour when he arrived in Bhutan.

Earlier, the PM stayed for a night in Katmandu and held meetings with the Nepalese president and prime ministers and discussed bilateral ties with them.

Meanwhile, the Foreign Ministers' meeting is underway to finalize the conference's agenda.

The meeting is being attended by Shah Mehmood Qureshi and seven other FMs of member states.

The Latest on the Oil Spill ¨C Environmental Protection Agency

THE NUMBER BP said the well was leaking more than the 210,000 gallons a day that it and the government had been estimating.

MORE DATA In a letter  to BP's chief executive officer, Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and Lisa Jackson of the Environmental Protection Agency said BP had "fallen short" in providing information on the spill and asked the company to release all monitoring plans, records, video and any reports from internal investigations.

COAS Visits Flood Hit Areas

Pakistan News: Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani visited Sukkur and Guddu Barrage.

The Army chief was briefed by top Irrigation officials about Sukkur Barrage as well as floods and monsoon rains. On the occasion, Chief Minister Sindh Syed Qaim Ali Shah, Provincial Minister for Irrigation Saifullah Dharejo and other Civil and Military officials were also present.

COAS expressed satisfaction over the rescue and relief operations being carried out by the Army in the flood affected areas. COAS issued orders that all resources be utilized for rehabilitation of affected people. It was further informed that a plan was under preparation for full rehabilitation of people and two corps would also make all out effort to restore infrastructure.

State Bank Of Pakistan Injects 51.8 Billion To Overcome Liquidity Crunch

Asif Ali President Arrives in Bahawalpur

President Asif Ali Zardari arrived in Bahawalpur Wednesday on two-day tour of southern Punjab.

During his two-day visit, President will hold meetings laborers and People’s Party activists.

President will also hold meetings with party officials to discuss party preparations for upcoming local bodies polls.

President Zardari during his stay will also inaugurate various development projects.

Sania Gives Smile To People Of Sialkot

The Sania Mirza gave her first ever smile to the people of Sialkot during her stay at her 'in Laws' at Sialkot Cantt, as both of them (Shoaib and Sania), Monday, looked very fresh and were in good mood. However, they kept avoiding to face media. The couple remained flanked by their parents and other family members.

The people of Sialkot, late at the Sunday night, accorded an historical warm rosy welcome to "Son of Soil of Sialkot" Shoaib Malik and his bride Sania Mirza upon their first arrival in Sialkot after their marriage before the historical Grand Reception hosted in honour of the couple by the people of Sialkot, here.

The thousands of the people remained present there to see a glimpse of the couple there. Shoaib and Sania were brought to the venue of the grand reception in Sialkot Cantt, amid tight security, and in shape of great procession. The people laid their eyes and hearts for this couple, who were anxiously waiting for Shoaib and Sania.

A large number of the fans (including some of the local politicians) of Shoaib Malik and Sania Mirza , today, remained present outside the residence of Shoaib Malik in Sialkot Cantt, as they performed "Bhangra" there on the drum beats, besides, distributing the sweets.

Chesapeake Jubilee 2010 : Please don¡¯t rain on our event

To help insure the success of the 26th annual Chesapeake Jubilee next weekend, 2010 chairman, Susan H. “Suzy” Kelly, will mainly pray – for good weather.

“I’m a good Catholic girl so I’ve been saying my Rosary everyday,” Kelly said with a laugh. “That’s the main worry, good weather. If you have nice weather, the families, the people, do come out and have fun.”



PAK, Karachi Riots Toll Soars To 92

Pakistan News Karachi: Tension deepens in port city of Karachi as incidents of target killings continue unabated, two more people were killed, bringing the death toll to 92 since Monday.

The violence was sparked with the killing of Muttahida Qaumi Movement MPA Raza Haider in a mosque, on Monday evening. His death triggered violence across the major towns of Karachi. The latest riots were reported in Metropol, Kasba Colony, Orangi Town, Site and Banaras. Incidents of firing and arson were also reported from different parts of the city.

Pakistan Peoples Party activist who was injured on August 4 succumbed to injuries at Bahadur Shah Hospital. At least five people were injured in the in two separate firing incidents reported in Korangi Zia Colony and Ranchor Line. Large contingents of Rangers and Police were deployed in the area of Site after exchange of firing between two groups was reported. Police and Rangers have apprehended as many as 15 suspected terrorists from different parts of the city.

It is pertinent to mention that despite a military operation looming in the anarchy-ridden Karachi; however life started returning to normalcy.