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Author: News Desk

  • Tareen group joins race for new PSL franchises after Multan Sultans exit

    Tareen group joins race for new PSL franchises after Multan Sultans exit

    Tareen group has entered the bidding process for new Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchises, marking a surprising turn just days before his official departure as owner of Multan Sultans.

    According to media reports, Tareen Group has submitted documents to participate in the auction for two new PSL teams, joining 11 other companies from five countries including the United States, Australia, Canada, UAE and Pakistan. If they meet technical requirements, they will compete in an open bidding process at Islamabad Convention Centre on January 8.

    The development comes as the most expensive PSL franchise prepares to part ways with its current ownership. The board will officially seal the separation on December 31, ending a relationship that grew increasingly strained over recent months.

    Ali Tareen had openly criticized PSL management and a specific official through several podcasts and social media, questioning the league’s structure. When the board sent Multan Sultans a notice, Tareen tore it up on video and posted mocking commentary. The board offered contract renewals with revised fees to all six franchises except Sultans.

    “I’d rather lose the team than run it on my knees, but stand tall with my head held high. This is goodbye,” Tareen wrote on social media, following up with an email to officials.

    Reports indicate the board asked him to offer an unconditional apology and delete his social media posts but he refused.

    Current franchise owners cannot bid for new teams under league rules. However, after December 31, Tareen will officially exit the owners’ list, making him eligible to participate.

    Multan Sultans pays an annual fee of 1.08 billion rupees, the highest in PSL. Foreign company valuations push this to 1.35 billion rupees. The new franchises  reportedly could sell for 1.25 to 1.5 billion rupees.

    The 12 bidding companies include mobile phone manufacturers, solar panel firms, real estate groups and other prominent business entities. Several consortiums have formed. Officials will announce results of the preliminary bidding phase on Saturday.

    The winning bidders will own their franchises for 10 years, from 2026 to 2035. They can choose team names from Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Hyderabad, Sialkot, Muzaffarabad or Gilgit, or propose alternatives subject to board approval. They must pay a one-time fee of one million dollars.

    PSL’s 11th edition will run from March 26 to May 3, 2026, featuring eight teams for the first time.

    Multan Sultans joined PSL in 2017 as the sixth franchise before the third season. Schon Properties bought the team on an eight-year contract, but PCB terminated the agreement the following year over unpaid annual fees. The board temporarily managed all player and coach contracts before issuing tenders for new ownership rights.

    In December 2018, Alamgir Khan Tareen and Ali Khan Tareen acquired ownership. Alamgir became sole owner in 2021. Following his death in 2023, Ali Tareen took over management.

    According to reports, PCB has not decided whether it will manage Multan Sultans directly for the 11th edition or sell the team through bidding.

  • Lahore doctor accuses SP Shehrbano Naqvi of coercion in medical dispute

    Lahore doctor accuses SP Shehrbano Naqvi of coercion in medical dispute

    A doctor based in Lahore has accused Superintendent of Police Shehrbano Naqvi of pressuring him to pay millions of rupees to a patient over a medical dispute, which the officer has denied. 

    Dr. Ali Zain-ul-Abideen claimed that he was forced to make multiple payments to a female patient who had laser eye surgery at his clinic earlier this year. He stated that the surgery took place in April and was deemed medically successful. 

    The doctor asserted that he was called to a police station based on instructions from SP Shehrbano Naqvi, who was then serving as ASP Defence. He alleged that the officer informed him the surgery had been improperly performed and ordered him to reimburse the patient so she could seek treatment elsewhere. 

    Dr. Ali Zain mentioned that the patient had already received Rs400,000 from his clinic, despite her having paid only Rs150,000 for the laser eye procedure. He claimed he informed the officer that the amount had already been repaid, but was allegedly pressured to make additional payments. 

    Under continued duress, he stated he provided three cheques to the patient totaling Rs10 million. He noted that one of the cheques had already been cashed, while his legal team took action to halt payment on the other two through legal means. 

    Dr. Ali Zain asserted that the total amount he has been compelled to give so far stands at Rs7.5 million. He also alleged that the woman seemed to have close connections with police officials. 

    The doctor further alleged that SP Shehrbano Naqvi sent SHO Khurram to his clinic to summon him again. He claimed that during the visit, his clinic guard was detained and locked up without legal grounds.

    Dr. Ali Zain argued that the police have no jurisdiction over determining the outcome of a medical procedure. He contended that without a medical report or a decision from a qualified medical board, law enforcement officials are not qualified to assess the success of a surgery. He maintained that only a medical board has the authority to evaluate such cases. 

    In response to the allegations, SP Shehrbano Naqvi dismissed the claims. She stated that Dr. Ali Zain visited her office only once and was encouraged to settle the matter with the patient. 

    SP rejected the allegations and denied any coercion, harassment or mistreatment, saying that the doctor was not pressured at all.

  • Lahore Police distances itself from ex-constable after TikTok videos go viral

    Lahore Police distances itself from ex-constable after TikTok videos go viral

    Lahore Police has distanced itself from a woman appearing in viral TikTok videos, clarifying that she no longer works for the department.

    The woman, identified as Arbab, posted videos dancing to songs from the Indian movie “Dhurandhar,” including the tracks “FA9LA” and “Karvaan.” 

    Social media users began tagging Punjab Police after the videos went viral, prompting an official response.

    Lahore Police posted a statement on X (formerly Twitter) addressing the controversy. “The woman appearing in the circulating video, identified as Arbab, is a former lady constable of Lahore Police who was dismissed from service on September 18, 2024, and has no connection with Punjab Police,” the statement read. “The woman is currently residing in Korea.”

    The videos gained significant traction on social media, with users creating content around themes of Indian spies in Pakistan and Pakistani spies in India using the “Karvaan” song.

    Earlier, in the first week of December, three constables posted in Lahore faced dismissal for making a TikTok video during duty hours inside a police station. The video showed Constables Shahid, Bilal, and Usman performing humorous skits, with a clerk mimicking an officer while sitting at his desk.

    SP Model Town Shahr Bano Naqvi ordered the dismissals after senior officers noticed the viral video and conducted an inquiry.

    Similar cases have emerged across Pakistan. In 2025, authorities banned all police officers from using TikTok or posting personal videos on any social media platform while in uniform or on duty. The ban followed a viral video scandal involving a female police constable who complained that a colleague posted a video of her without consent during training.

    Islamabad Police suspended two officers, Aftab Ahmed and Ehtesham Aslam, over allegations of misconduct and violations of social media rules. The officers received instructions to report to Rescue 15.

    In 2024, Karachi Police suspended an officer after he appeared in a viral TikTok video.

    Police officials say creating videos in uniform breaches service discipline and damages the institution’s credibility.

  • Pakistan gold prices go up amid global spike

    Pakistan gold prices go up amid global spike

    Gold prices in Pakistan increased on Friday as gains were recorded in the international market, rates released by the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA) revealed.

    In the local market, the cost of gold per tola rose by Rs500, bringing it to Rs473,362 for the day. Similarly, the price for 10-gram gold went up by Rs429, reaching Rs405,831.

    Earlier this week, gold prices on Wednesday reached a new all-time high, with the per tola rate increasing by Rs2,000 to hit Rs472,862.

    In the international market, gold prices rose by $5 and now stand at $4,510 per ounce, which includes a premium of $20.

    Meanwhile, silver prices also experienced a rise, with the per tola rate increasing by Rs240 to close at Rs7,945.

  • Emirati president arrives in Pakistan on his first official visit

    Emirati president arrives in Pakistan on his first official visit

    United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Friday arrived in Pakistan on his first official visit to the country.

    The Emirati president was received at the Nur Khan Airbase by Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Asim Munir and other senior government members, including Deputy PM Ishaq Dar.

    As President Al Nahyan’s aircraft entered the Pakistani airspace, it was escorted by a formation of Pakistan Air Force (PAF) fighter jets. Upon landing, the national anthems of Pakistan and the UAE were played, a 21-gun salute was presented and an honour guard lined up to receive the visiting dignitary.

    Military and traditional bands also performed during reception as children waved flags of both countries.

    The Emirati president is accompanied by a delegation comprising his advisers Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, as well as UAE Ambassador to Pakistan Salem Mohammed Al Zaabi.

    Several UAE federal ministers and senior officials are also part of the delegation.

    According to the Foreign Office (FO), this marks President Al Nahyan’s first official visit to Pakistan as he previously visited the country on private trips.

    During the visit, he is scheduled to meet PM Shehbaz and discuss bilateral cooperation to review ties across multiple sectors. The two leaders are also expected to exchange views on regional and global developments of mutual concern. 

    The FO also said the visit offers an opportunity to deepen the longstanding fraternal relationship between Pakistan and the UAE.

    Earlier, a public holiday was announced in Islamabad in view of the visit. An official notification said that the Islamabad High Court (IHC), district courts, as well as the Senate and National Assembly secretariats remained closed for the day. 

    Banks and essential services, including the Capital Development Authority (CDA), police, Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) and Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited, however, continued to function.

    Separately, Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Maryam Nawaz welcomed the UAE president’s visit, calling it a significant step in strengthening Pakistan-UAE relations. She said the visit is expected to further enhance cooperation between the two countries.

  • 20 wickets fall on day one of Australia-England Boxing Day Test

    20 wickets fall on day one of Australia-England Boxing Day Test

    Australia seized control of the fourth Ashes Test as the Melbourne Cricket Ground saw 20 wickets tumble on day one, making it unlikely for the match to last for a full five days.

    English captain Ben Stokes won the toss and chose to bat first, but Australia bowled out the visitors for just 152 runs in the first innings.

    England’s bowling attack responded strongly, dismissing the entire Australian team for 110 runs, giving the hosts a modest 42-run lead.

    By stumps on day one, Australia had reached 4 runs without any loss in their second innings, extending their overall lead to 46 runs.

    The second day’s play will begin at 4:30 am (Pakistan Standard Time) on Saturday.

    Australia already holds an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match Ashes series. They defeated England by 8 wickets in the first Test, followed by another eight-wicket victory in the second Test at Brisbane.

    They clinched the series with an 82-run win in the third Test at Adelaide.

    The fifth and final Test between the two teams will take place at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 4 to 8, 2026.

  • Shehryar Zaidi reveals that he wrote Kaavish’s monster hit ‘Teray Piyar Mein’

    Shehryar Zaidi reveals that he wrote Kaavish’s monster hit ‘Teray Piyar Mein’

    Veteran actor Shehryar Zaidi recently disclosed on a show that he was the writer of Kaavish’s monster hit song “Teray Piyar Mein.” The revelation was a surprise to the host and the audience. Clips from the discussion quickly spread online, prompting fans to revisit the track.

    Kaavish is fronted by Jaffer Zaidi, who is the son of singer Nayyara Noor and Shehryar Zaidi. The band has experienced a resurgence of interest in recent months, attracting listeners from various age groups. Younger fans stream their music online, while older audiences enjoy attending live concerts to experience the performances firsthand. The reaction to Kaavish illustrates that success in music can be defined in various ways, including streaming statistics, concert attendance, or the emotional impact a song can have on an individual.

    The band’s music has consistently distinguished itself through its composition and lyrics, resonating with a wide-ranging audience. Many listeners share that their songs evoke nostalgia related to childhood, friendships, and past experiences. The combination of melodic elements and introspective lyrics has enabled Kaavish to sustain their presence in Pakistan’s music industry, despite the rapidly changing musical trends.

    The insight regarding “Teray Piyar Mein” adds depth to the band’s narrative, emphasizing contributions that were previously unrecognized. It also highlights the collaborative aspect of music creation, where songwriting, performance, and interpretation intertwine over time.

    Kaavish’s increasing popularity demonstrates that in the realm of music, acknowledgment is not always immediate or easily measurable. Their songs continue to thrive through digital platforms and live shows, captivating both new and long-standing fans.

    The band’s charm spans across generations, illustrating how music can resonate on both personal and communal levels without depending solely on financial success.

  • VIDEO: Man attempts suicide at Masjid Al Haram; hero guard saves him

    VIDEO: Man attempts suicide at Masjid Al Haram; hero guard saves him

    A man attempted to take his own life at the Grand Mosque in Makkah by jumping off an upper floor, however, he was saved by a guard who swiftly responded to catch him, preventing a fatal fall.

    According to reports, the security guard immediately intervened to break the man’s fall and sustained injuries while attempting the rescue.

    Both individuals were rushed to nearby medical facilities for treatment.

    Meanwhile, the administration of Masjid Al Haram has assured the public that they are handling the matter and have followed all necessary procedures.

    Authorities said they are investigating the incident but have not released further details about what led to the attempted suicide.

    It may be noted that this is not the first time when someone attempted suicide at the Holy Mosque in Makkah.

    A similar incident occurred in 2017, when a man died by suicide near the Kaaba after jumping from the third floor of the Grand Mosque while thousands of pilgrims were performing tawaf.

  • Chinese tourist dies after jumping from residential building in Islamabad

    Chinese tourist dies after jumping from residential building in Islamabad

    A Chinese national has died after jumping from the rooftop of a residential building in Islamabad’s G-8 sector, police officials said on Wednesday.

    According to authorities, the woman, identified as Wan Rou Ping, was in Pakistan on a tourist visa at the time of her death. She is said to have fallen from the building’s rooftop and suffered head injuries that resulted in her demise.

    Police stated that the event took place within the G-8 residential precinct. Police were alerted shortly after the fall and arrived at the location to initiate preliminary procedures.

    The woman’s remains were transported to a local hospital to undergo medico-legal processes. Hospital personnel confirmed that her injuries were consistent with a fall from a significant height. Police indicated that further examinations will be conducted as part of the ongoing investigation.


    This incident follows another case in Islamabad, where a young Afghan refugee girl died after jumping from the fifth floor of her building in a residential structure.

  • Ahsan Iqbal presents URAAN Pakistan as manifestation of Jinnah’s vision, stresses involvement in public discourse

    Ahsan Iqbal presents URAAN Pakistan as manifestation of Jinnah’s vision, stresses involvement in public discourse

    Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal hosted what became Islamabad’s sole comprehensive commemoration of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s birth anniversary, presenting URAAN Pakistan as the practical manifestation of the founder’s vision for the nation.

    The event distinguished itself from routine ceremonial observances by systematically connecting Jinnah’s foundational principles to Pakistan’s current developmental challenges.

    The keynote address rejected hollow nostalgia in favor of actionable national renewal. “Quaid-e-Azam gave us Pakistan. Now history asks us: Can we give Pakistan the future he dreamed of?” the speaker challenged, establishing honest assessment as the evening’s foundation.

    Unlike typical commemorations, the speech confronted Pakistan’s unrealized potential: “We did not lag because of lack of resources—we lagged because of lack of discipline, continuity, unity, and vision.”

    Minister Iqbal emphasized aspects of the Quaid’s vision often absent from public discourse:

    Women’s Empowerment: Jinnah understood no nation progresses with half its population marginalized—a message critically relevant as Pakistan’s female labor participation remains among the world’s lowest.

    Youth as Nation-Builders: With 64% of Pakistan’s population under 30, the Quaid’s faith in youth as “nation-builders of tomorrow” transforms from historical sentiment to urgent imperative.

    Knowledge Economy: Jinnah wanted Pakistan self-reliant through export-oriented growth based on industry, science, and modern skills—not dependent on loans or raw material exports.

    Character Over Chaos: The founder achieved Pakistan through disciplined organization and constitutional politics, not mobs or noise. “Great nations are not built on noise—they are built on discipline, sacrifice, and hard work,” the speaker reminded attendees.

    URAAN as Policy Translation

    The event’s central argument positioned URAAN Pakistan’s five pillars as systematic translation of Jinnah’s vision:

    • Exports address his vision of economic self-reliance

    • E-Pakistan modernizes his emphasis on modern skills for the knowledge economy

    • Equity and Empowerment fulfill his commitment to women and youth

    • Environment and Food Security ensure sustainable development

    • Energy and Infrastructure build foundations for competitive growth

    “URAAN Pakistan converts Quaid’s dream into a development strategy. It calls for merit over sifarish, productivity over rhetoric, exports over dependency, unity over division,” the speaker declared.

     

    The event’s composition reflected its message. Celebrities attended as nation-building stakeholders. Quaid scholars provided historical context demonstrating that Jinnah’s principles regarding governance, social justice, education, and healthcare remain directly applicable to contemporary challenges.

    Minister Iqbal emphasized Jinnah’s personal journey—his solitary dedication when few believed Pakistan possible, his ability to unify the Muslim League, his resilience through opposition. “We must learn from his determination and resilience,” Iqbal stressed, connecting historical example to contemporary necessity.

    The event concluded with calls for Pakistanis to pledge: unity above division, institutional strength, merit-based systems, universal education, women and youth empowerment, and economic self-reliance.

    “With faith, discipline, unity, and URAAN Pakistan’s vision, the answer must be: Yes—Pakistan will rise. Yes—Pakistan will prosper. Yes—Quaid’s dream will be fulfilled.”

    That this remained Islamabad’s only substantial Quaid-e-Azam birthday celebration underscores its unique approach. Rather than perfunctory observances, Minister Iqbal’s leadership demonstrated that genuine tribute requires connecting foundational principles to contemporary solutions.

    The gathering proved that Jinnah’s message about development, governance, socioeconomic transformation, youth empowerment, and resilience carries greater relevance today than ever—if Pakistan has the courage to implement it.