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Nobody to be allowed to stage sit-in or gathering in Islamabad; says Naqvi
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ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT
TAGE is set for a showdown between Pakistan Tehreek-eInsaf (PTI) workers and federal government as the talks between the PTI and federal government broke down on Friday. The negotiations between Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the Shehbaz Sharif-led government also reached a deadlock over PTI’s November 24 protest and associated demands. According to reports, the deadlock reportedly emerged after initially progressing positively. Sources indicate that disagreements arise from constant heated remarks and unacceptable demands raised during the discussions. Despite the current stalemate, efforts to resolve the deadlock are ongoing.
Sources further revealed that failure to break the deadlock may result in strict measures against PTI leadership, including potential arrests of senior party members and confrontation with police commandos. The federal government has mobilised 34000 security personnel for handling the PTI rally in the federal capital while Punjab government has also taken stringent measures to foil the power show. Federal government has already ordered closure of M-1 Motorway which connects Peshawar with Islamabad; M-2 Motorway which connects Lahore with Islamabad; while M-3, M4, M-11 and M14 Motorways have also been closed for all types of traffic which connect Abdul Hakeem with Lahore; Pindi Bhattian with Multan; Sialkot to Lahore; and Dera Ismail Khan with Hakla Interchange. Islamabad-bound all bus service from Quetta have also been shutdown, hence
SC rejects petition seeking direct vote for minorities in general elections ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
The Supreme Court has rejected a petition seeking direct vote for minorities in general elections saying that all citizens were equal according to the Constitution and there was no precedent in world democracies of separate voting on the basis of religion. Former Minister for Minorities and Convener of World Minorities Alliance J Salik, in his petition, had pleaded the apex Court that minorities in Pakistan should be given an opportunity to elect their representatives to the parliament through a direct vote in general elections. The counsel for the petitioner argued before the Court that there were 60 seats in the National Assembly for women while 10 for minorities but all the 70 seats are filled by the parliamentary parties through proportionate representation depriving minorities to elect their representatives through a direct vote. The Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court, however rejected the petition. Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, during the proceedings, remarked that fundamental rights are for all the citizens equally and separate voting for minorities may pave way to discrimination. Only the parliament has the authority to legislate if any such change is required. Justice Jamal Mandokhail objected to the term ‘minority’ and said that it should be replaced with non-Muslim as none is minority and all citizens are equal before the law and under the Constitution.
Rs 20.00 | Vol XV No 137 I 8 Pages I Lahore Edition
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PTI remains adamant on going ahead with its planned power show
Over 500 PTI activists arrested in Lahore ahead of Islamabad rally
LAHORE: As Pakistan Tehreek-eInsaf (PTI) prepares for its planned rally in Islamabad, law enforcement agencies have launched a large-scale crackdown in Lahore, resulting in the arrest of over 500 party activists. According to police sources, Shahdara’s entry and exit points have been declared sensitive, and containers may be placed in the area to control movement in case of a protest or march towards Islamabad. Special police squads have been deployed at key routes, and coordination between Islamabad and Punjab districts has been completed to monitor and curb potential unrest. The police have conducted raids on homes, offices, and outhouses linked to PTI supporters across various areas of Lahore, including Millat Park, Hanjarwal, Mansoora, Quaid-e-Azam Industrial Estate, and Green Town.
making it almost impossible for commuters to travel to the federal capital. Moreover, all roads connecting Islamabad and Rawalpindi have also been sealed. Meanwhile, the leaders of the PTI remain adamant on going ahead with its planned power show on November 24 despite facing hurdles of banning gatherings in Islamabad and Punjab as well as a court order declaring its protest “unlawful”. PTI founder and former prime minister Imran Khan has issued a “final call”
Additional raids were carried out in Shahdara Town, Badami Bagh, and Tajpura. The arrests are reportedly based on lists of individuals suspected of involvement in activities that could disrupt law and order. From the Iqbal Town division alone, 65 individuals were detained for concerns related to law and order disturbances. Additionally, 14 arrests were made last night from Green Town and Township. In preparation for the PTI rally, the Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province from November 23 to 25, prohibiting all protests, rallies, gatherings, and sit-ins. The official notification cited the need to maintain law and order and prevent disturbances during this period. This precautionary measure is aimed at ensuring the safety of citizens and protecting public property. STAFF REPORT
for nationwide protests on November 24 (Sunday), denouncing what he described as the stolen mandate, the unjust arrests of people and the passage of the 26th amendment, which strengthened a “dictatorial regime”. “The decision to hold a protest on November 24 is confirmed,” said former PTI MNA Aliya Hamza Malik, who is on bail currently. A statement posted on Imran’s X account today said Nov 24 was “the day to break free from slavery”.
COAS reiterates Army’s firm resolve to dismantle ‘hostile terrorist networks’ g
COAS given briefing on progress of ongoing counterterrorism operations in KP region RAWALPINDI
STAFF REPORT
General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff (COAS) on Friday visited Peshawar, as a follow up of the National Apex Committee meeting held on November 19 and prelude to Provincial Apex Committee meeting to be held soon. The COAS was provided a comprehensive briefing on the prevailing security situation and the progress of ongoing counter-terrorism operations in the region, said an Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) statement. Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and field commanders were also present at the occasion. Paying profound tribute to the Shuhada and Ghazis, the COAS emphasized the unparalleled sacrifices being rendered for the defense of the motherland. He remarked that these sacrifices served as a cornerstone of national resilience, inspiring and unwavering dedication of the armed forces and of law enforce-
ment agencies. The COAS commended the high morale, operational readiness, and unyielding commitment of the troops in effectively countering all forms of threats. He reiterated the Army’s firm resolve to dismantle hostile terrorist networks and eradicate the illegal spectrum undermining national security. Highlighting the collective determination of the nation and its security forces to combat terrorism,
the COAS stressed that thwarting the nefarious designs of inimical elements remained a top priority. “Through synchronized and robust operations, Pakistan Army in collaboration with Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) will relentlessly hunt down the enemies of peace to ensure lasting stability and security,” he assured. Earlier, upon his arrival, the COAS was received by the Corps Commander Peshawar.
Islamabad seals Red Zone, unveils traffic plan ahead of PTI’s Nov 24 protest ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
The Islamabad administration has announced a comprehensive traffic plan to ensure public safety and minimize disruptions during the Pakistan Tehreek-eInsaf (PTI) protest scheduled for November 24. According to the details, multiple entry and exit points to the Red Zone will be sealed on the day of the protest. Key routes, including Murree Road, have been closed, with containers placed at T-Chowk, Faizabad, and 26 Number Chungi to block access. Additionally, Srinagar Highway has been shut for entry into Islamabad, while Sector I-8, IJP Road, Margalla Road, and the Golra Mor flyover and underpass are also inaccessible. Tight security measures have been implemented at sensitive points throughout the capital, with law enforcement agencies conducting thorough security checks on travelers. The administration emphasized that these measures aim to ensure public safety while minimizing disruption during the protest. Earlier in the day, the Punjab government imposed Section 144 across the province, restricting public gatherings as part of its measures ahead of the PTI protest.
Seven terrorists killed in KP, Balochistan operations: ISPR RAWALPINDI
STAFF REPORT
The security forces killed seven terrorists in separate operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement on Friday. According to military’s media wing, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, three terrorists were killed during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Bannu district. The operation, which took place in the early hours of Friday, also resulted in two other terrorists sustaining injuries. The ISPR stated that the terrorists had been involved in various terrorist activities targeting security forces and civilians, including acts of targeted killings. During the operation, security forces recovered weapons, ammunition, and explosives from the terrorists. The military added that the sanitisation operation was ongoing to eliminate any remaining terrorists in the area. Separately, security forces eliminated four terrorists in Balochistan during three separate engagements between November 20 and November 24, the military’s media wing said. The first operation took place in the District of Awaran, where an intelligencebased operation led to an intense gunfight, resulting in the neutralization of two terrorists. The ISPR identified the slain terrorists as Niaz alias Ghuman and Zareef alias Shah Jahan, describing them as high-value targets involved in various terrorist activities. In a second operation in Dera Bugti District, security forces successfully neutralized one terrorist. The third operation occurred in Kech District, where another terrorist was killed during an intelligence-based operation. The ISPR stated that the terrorists involved in these operations were responsible for numerous attacks on security forces and innocent civilians. They were also highly wanted by law enforcement agencies for their involvement in terrorism. The military reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and stability in Balochistan, stating that security forces, in line with the nation, remain determined to thwart any attempts to disrupt the region’s progress.
PM vows strict action on ‘venom against Saudi Arabia’ TAUNSA
STAFF REPORT
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday, recounting Saudi Arabia’s unconditional financial and diplomatic support to Pakistan, warned that any venom-spitting against such a brotherly country was an unforgivable crime and called for the national unity to counter such anti-state elements. The prime minister, addressing the inauguration of the Restoration of Kachhi Canal damaged by 2022 floods, said whether it was the Kashmir issue, the United Nations or the UN Security Council, Saudi Arabia always acted as Pakistan’s advocate and benefactor, as the Kingdom also bailed out Pakistan recently to seek IMF program. “Despite this, such venom-spitting is an unforgivable crime. I as the prime minister of Pakistan want to announce that the nation will break any hand trying to undermine the Pakistan-Saudi friendship. This is not a joke. The allegation is beyond understanding. The largest national interest is being ‘slaughtered’ to serve the short-term political inter-
est,” he remarked after inaugurating the project that will irrigate over 715,000 acres of land in Balochistan and revive life in the area turned barren after the floods. The prime minister told the ceremony also attended by federal ministers Attaullah Tarar, Ahsan Iqbal, Awais Leghari and Dr Musaddik Malik, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, and Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti, that during the last 77 years, Saudi Arabia attached no strings or preconditions to its support to Pakistan and the current leadership had also asked its administration to invest in Pakistan as MoUs worth billions of dollars had already been signed. Commenting on a statement by the spouse of PTI founder regarding Saudi Arabia, he said: “There can be no animosity to Pakistan bigger than this” and explained that such people were naive to the magnitude of the damage through their “venomous” words. Prime Minister Shehbaz recalled the Kingdom’s support to Pakistan after it carried out the nuclear tests in 1998 in the form of a free-of-charge oil facility as well as financial support.
He told the gathering that the feasibility study of the Kachhi Canal Project was started in 1998 during Nawaz Sharif’s tenure and was completed in his second tenure after suffering a lot during Pervez Musharraf time. He appreciated the WAPDA and Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal and their respective team for accomplishing the repair project and assured the federal government’s all-out support for the second phase. Prime Minister Shehbaz also appreciated the Balochistan chief minister for reviving the merit-based order and launching the solarisation of tube-wells. Similarly, he also spoke highly for the Punjab Chief Minister for launching the project of a cancer hospital, free tractor scheme for farmers to bring about the agricultural revolution and other initiatives in the education and health sectors. Earlier, in her address, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said the canal project would bring about prosperity in Balochistan besides enhancing closeness among the provinces. She said the credit for all mega public welfare projects like motor-
ways, scholarships to youth, modern transport facilities including Orange Line, Metro
or Speedo buses and student bikes went to the PML-N governments.
ISLAMABAD
“do-or-die” protest, accusing Saudi Arabia of being involved in ousting her husband’s government. She alleged that when the former prime minister went to Madina “barefoot”, the then-army chief Gen (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa said he started receiving “their calls”, implying that the Saudi officials had a role in his ouster. The former first lady claimed that Bajwa was asked, “Who is this person you have brought with you […] we don’t want such personalities. Since then, they launched a smear campaign against us and started calling Imran a Jewish agent,” she alleged. The statement drew strong backlash from government officials, calling it a “suicide attack” to harm friendly relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia has always stood by Pakistan in difficult times: Imran Khan STAFF REPORT
A day after Bushra Bibi accused Saudi Arabia of being involved in the ouster of her husband’s government, incarcerated former prime minister Imran Khan jumped to his spouse’s rescue and said that her statement was “deliberately taken out of context to draw our brotherly country into a needless controversy”. “She [Bushra] didn’t mention Saudi Arabia at all,” the former premier — who remains incarcerated at the Adiala jail since August last year — said in a statement issued on his official X handle. The former first lady, a day earlier, issued a rare video message ahead of PTI’s