Author: News Desk

  • Ushna Shah slammed for condoling death of right-wing hate monger Charlie Kirk

    Ushna Shah slammed for condoling death of right-wing hate monger Charlie Kirk

    Actor Ushna Shah is facing online backlash after expressing condolences over the death of American right-wing commentator Charlie Kirk, who was shot dead while speaking at a university event in Utah. While Shah acknowledged her disagreement with many of Kirk’s views, particularly on Palestine, she condemned the brutal nature of his death and extended sympathies to his family.

    In an Instagram story, Shah wrote that although she found Kirk’s stance on Palestine to be deeply troubling, she was “heartbroken” to witness “a man in his early thirties, a husband, a son, a father of two, be shot in cold blood.”

    “The children and families of Palestine will always remain my priority to defend,” she added, “yet today I pause in grief at this awful murder. A loss of life this cruel and senseless is devastating, and it is in acknowledging all human suffering that we hold on to our own humanity.”

    Her remarks sparked a fierce reaction online, with critics accusing her of sympathising with someone whose rhetoric, they say, contributed to hate and division.

    The Balaa actress also shared a series of Instagram stories on how Kirk’s views had changed to reflect a fear that he would be killed by Israel if he “stepped out of line”.

    Charlie Kirk, 31, was a controversial yet influential voice in American conservative politics. A staunch supporter of former President Donald Trump, he was known for his Islamophobic views and hatred for Muslims.

    Kirk was reportedly answering a question about mass shootings in the US when he was gunned down by a distant assailant. A nationwide manhunt is underway to locate the shooter.

    President Trump, along with former presidents Joe Biden and Barack Obama, condemned the killing and expressed condolences to Kirk’s family. Trump also ordered flags flown at half-mast, calling Kirk “a true patriot who fought for America’s future.”

    Kirk’s final words, caught on a livestream just moments before the shooting, were: “We must address violence, but without losing our freedom. That’s the real challenge.”

  • ‘Traces of blood, absent organs’: Final report raises alarming questions about Humaira Asghar’s mysterious death

    ‘Traces of blood, absent organs’: Final report raises alarming questions about Humaira Asghar’s mysterious death

    The final medico-legal report into the death of model and actor Humaira Asghar has deepened an already puzzling investigation, bringing forth revelations that have left many shocked.

    According to the report, traces of blood were found on Humaira’s T-shirt and trousers. However, due to the limited presence of human DNA in the samples, experts were unable to identify the source of the blood. This inconclusive detail raises serious concerns about what may have occurred in the final moments of her life.

    Even more unsettling is the condition in which the body was found. Only skeletal remains were recovered — no soft tissue or vital organs were present. While the bones were largely intact, the complete absence of internal organs made it impossible to determine the exact cause of death. Although, the organs were absent so this cannot be specified as if it was a result of the decomposition or they were removed pre or post-mortem. Toxicology tests also revealed no traces of intoxicants or poisons.

    This case also highlights a significant gap in forensic capability in the country: the absence of a national blood and DNA database. Authorities and forensic officials have acknowledged that such a resource could have potentially led to a breakthrough, possibly identifying the blood or even those involved.

    Humaira Asghar, aged 42, had been living alone in a third-floor apartment in the commercial area of DHA Phase VI, Karachi, since 2018. She reportedly stopped paying rent in early 2024, which eventually led to a court-ordered eviction.

    Her body was discovered months later when the landlord arrived with court bailiff and police to execute the eviction. The apartment door was locked from the inside, forcing authorities to break it open. Inside, they found the actor’s body in an advanced stage of decomposition.

  • Man handed death sentence for raping, blackmailing university students in Vehari

    Man handed death sentence for raping, blackmailing university students in Vehari

    Vehari Additional Sessions Judge Yasir Hayat on Wednesday sentenced a man to death on two counts and fined him Rs500,000 for raping and blackmailing two female university students. 

    The court also awarded a two-year jail term and Rs200,000 fine to his accomplice.

    The prosecution said Hamid Rasool lured the two students, identified as F and S, last year with the help of his co-accused Asif Tarar by offering them an online job. Hamid raped both victims, recorded videos and blackmailed them.

    On the complaint of the victims, Vehari police registered two separate FIRs, 427/24 and 428/24, and arrested both men. Investigators later submitted the challan in court.

    Announcing the verdict, the judge ordered that the fine be paid to the victims. In case of default, the convicts will face an additional six-month imprisonment.

  • Astonishing number of prisoners escape from jail during Nepal protests

    Astonishing number of prisoners escape from jail during Nepal protests

    Nepal descended into chaos on Tuesday as a Gen Z-led protests forced Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to resign while violent clashes triggered the escape of more than 13,500 prisoners from jails across the country.

    Police have confirmed that inmates broke out of multiple prisons during unrest, leaving three officers dead in clashes. Viral videos showed hundreds of prisoners fleeing from Kathmandu’s Dilli Bazaar jail as soldiers struggled to stop them.

    Authorities said police pulled back to their headquarters in most areas while the army began patrolling the capital. Soldiers announced curfew orders through loudspeakers as the crisis deepened.

    Army chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel urged protesters to end the violence and choose dialogue, but the anger on the streets showed no signs of fading.

    The protests erupted after Oli’s government banned social media platforms including Facebook, X and YouTube, accusing them of refusing to register under new regulations. Police fired on demonstrators in Kathmandu on Monday, killing 19 people. Although the government lifted the ban later that night, the protests exploded into a nationwide movement against corruption and political privilege.

    Protesters set fire to the parliament building, Oli’s residence and the homes of senior leaders. In one of the deadliest incidents, demonstrators stormed the Dallu residence of former prime minister Jhalanath Khanal, trapping his wife Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar inside before setting the house ablaze. She was rushed to Kirtipur Burn Hospital, where she is being treated. 

    Videos showed Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel, 65, being chased and beaten in the streets. Kathmandu airport suspended operations as army helicopters evacuated ministers to secure locations.

    Facing mounting pressure, Oli resigned on Tuesday.

    Young protesters accuse Nepal’s leaders of corruption and highlight the lavish lifestyles of their children, branded ‘Nepo Kids’, while most youth struggle to find jobs.

    The uprising, now known as the ‘protest of Gen Z’, has shaken the Himalayan nation.

  • ‘All five fingers got broken during CCD raid’: Suspect confesses to molesting female

    ‘All five fingers got broken during CCD raid’: Suspect confesses to molesting female

    The statement of a suspect confessing to molesting a female in a street has surfaced online, stating that all five of his fingers got broken in an incident while he was attempting to escape on a motorbike during a Crime Control Department (CCD) raid.

    The suspect, named Asadullah, a resident of Toba Tek Singh, said, “CCD raided when looking for me, and out of fear I sped the motorbike up; however, it hit a pole, and all five of my fingers got broken as well as my hand.”

    Seeking an apology from women, he said that he will not carry out such an act in the future and advised people to show respect towards females.

    Purported viral CCTV footage of the suspect had surfaced online, showing him appearing at the scene while riding his bike and groping a woman, leaving her visibly shocked.

    The viral video circulating on social media platforms, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), had sparked uproar online, with netizens urging relevant authorities to take strict action and arrest the suspect.

    A week ago, a man accused of molesting a woman on Sialkot’s Pasrur Road was injured after accidentally shooting himself in his private parts during a police chase.


     
    In a video, he confessed to a similar incident six months ago, and revealed that he had accidentally shot himself in his genitals during a consequent police chase. “I seek an apology from my sister [the victim] as well as from CCD [Crime Control Department] and the government. I will not perform any such act in the future,” the suspect said.

  • ‘Flirt ya ghussa karna aur rape karnay main farq hai’: Teaser for Case No. 9 goes viral

    ‘Flirt ya ghussa karna aur rape karnay main farq hai’: Teaser for Case No. 9 goes viral

    Acting powerhouse Saba Qamar is making a compelling return to television with her latest drama Case No. 9, a socially charged thriller that tackles crime and an uphill legal battle. The new teaser of the series showcases a lot of family drama, tears, and the resolve of a woman stuck in the legal system. 

    In the teaser, Qamar’s character reports a rape, but instead of receiving justice, she faces pressure from powerful figures determined to silence her. The drama explores her harrowing journey as she navigates a system designed to suppress the truth.

    Starring alongside Saba Qamar is the acclaimed actor Faysal Quraishi. The drama is directed by Syed Wajahat Hussain, penned by celebrated journalist and TV host Shahzaib Khanzada, and produced by Abdullah Kadwani and Asad Qureshi under the banner of 7th Sky Entertainment.

    The cast is packed with stellar talent including Junaid Khan, Aamina Sheikh, Rushna Khan, Hina Bayat, Gohar Rasheed, NoorulHassan, Navin Waqar, Azra Mohyeddin, Ali Rehman Khan, Shahnawaz Zaidi, Ahmed Randhawa, Zohreh Amir, Mizna Waqas, Kamran Jeelani, and Faiza Gillani.

    The drama is expected to air on Geo Entertainment, with an official release date to be announced soon.

    Described as “a story that has never been told before of a crime that happens every day,” Case No. 9 promises a powerful narrative where justice, lies, and truth collide in a system designed to protect the privileged.

    Saba Qamar has delivered some of the most iconic performances in Pakistani television. Her critically acclaimed dramas include Baaghi, where she portrayed the controversial figure Qandeel Baloch; Cheekh, a legal thriller showcasing her intensity and depth; Maat, one of her breakthrough roles in a gripping tale of betrayal; Digest Writer, a heart-touching story of a struggling female author; Dastaan, set during the Partition of India; and Mein Sitara, a drama inspired by the golden era of Pakistani cinema. More recently, she starred in the hit drama Fraud in 2022, and the crime-mystery miniseries Gunah which was aired in 2023.

    Over the past several years, the topic of child molestation and sexual abuse has become a favourite for local drama creators and Faysal Quraishi has done many dramas on the same issue before. His role in Haiwan was also about a rapist and his mental illness. In this drama, he is playing a role of a rich business man, who says all allegations on him are baseless. To find out the truth, the audiences will have to wait till the drama airs.

  • Salman Ali Agha misses full training due to neck spasm ahead of Asia Cup

    Salman Ali Agha misses full training due to neck spasm ahead of Asia Cup

    Pakistan on Wednesday evening continued preparing for the Asia Cup 2025 with a training session at the ICC Academy in Dubai, but captain Salman Ali Agha could not participate because of a neck spasm.

    Salman arrived at the academy with the team, wearing a bandage around his neck. While the players went through stretching and football exercises during warm-up, the captain stayed cautious and avoided strenuous activity.

    According to reports, Salman only has a mild spasm and there is no major concern about his fitness. He skipped the training session as a precaution and is expected to resume full practice with the team soon.

    Team management also remains confident that Salman will be fully available for the tournament’s matches.

    The 15th edition of the Men’s Asia Cup is being played in the T20 format, featuring eight teams: Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Oman, UAE and Hong Kong.

    Pakistan is in Group A alongside Oman, India and hosts UAE. Group B includes Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Hong Kong and Sri Lanka. The top two teams from each group will move into the Super Four with the leading two sides from that round contesting the final on Sept 28.

    Since its launch in 1984, the Asia Cup has staged 16 editions. India leads the list with eight titles, winning in 1984, 1988, 1990–91, 1995, 2010, 2016, 2018 and 2023. Sri Lanka has claimed the trophy six times in 1986, 1997, 2004, 2008, 2014 and 2022. 

    Pakistan has lifted the cup twice, first in 2000 and again in 2012.

  • Pakistan to form Esports federation, game development center: Rana Mashhood

    Pakistan to form Esports federation, game development center: Rana Mashhood

    Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan has announced that more than 50 million young Pakistanis are associated with Esports. 

    “We are establishing the country’s first esports federation and a game development center,” he said on Wednesday.

    He revealed the plan while presenting the annual performance report of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme on Wednesday, highlighting that the government is working to empower youth in multiple areas including education, sports, technology, and employment.

    He said, “The Youth Programme is following a policy based on engagement, employment, environment, and education. We are providing scholarships and platforms for young people to present their ideas, and we have launched National Innovation Awards.”

    Talking about climate change, he said, “It is a major challenge. We have set up Green Youth Clubs in universities to raise awareness among the youth.”

    He stressed the importance of volunteerism and capacity building. “We had initially planned to train two hundred thousand young people in disaster risk management, but now we will train two million in the next three years,” he said.

    Rana Mashhood added, “Across the world, young volunteers are the first to step forward in times of natural disasters. We are focusing on technical education in fields like hospitality, health, and information technology. A modern software is being developed to prepare our youth in these areas.”

    Sharing details about digital initiatives, he said, “We have established a Digital Youth Hub where six hundred thousand young people have registered. More than three thousand national and international companies, including federal, provincial, and private institutions, are also on board. At present, there are one hundred thousand job opportunities available on this hub.”

    He explained that the platform also features opportunities in artificial intelligence, blockchain, and other technologies. “We are giving our youth merit-based opportunities in education, sports, and other sectors without discrimination,” he said.

    The chairman revealed that the government consulted more than two hundred thousand young people while drafting the country’s first National Youth and Adolescent Policy. “The government is working day and night to empower the youth, and this will give them the chance to move forward,” he stated. 

    The Youth Programme’s Talent Hunt Sports included twenty-three games. “We want as many young athletes as possible to step forward. We are establishing sports academies and sports technology labs in the country,” Rana remarked.

  • Kaavish, Javed Bashir set to rock the stage this October in Lahore

    Kaavish, Javed Bashir set to rock the stage this October in Lahore

    Get ready Lahore as the musical season is about to begin. The city of gardens and gourmet is about to groove as two of Pakistan’s most celebrated artists prepare to light up the stage this October. From soulful melodies to powerful classical vocals, the lineup promises a musical treat that’s too good to miss.

    Kaavish, the beloved band known for its poetic lyrics and nostalgic tunes, just dropped a beat on Instagram with the announcement of their much-anticipated show. “RPGE Presents Kaavish Live in Lahore” is slated for Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the scenic Open Air Alhamra Cultural Complex in Gulberg III.

    Expect to be swept away by hits like Bachpan, Choti Khushiyan and the timeless Tere Pyar Mein. The band’s hauntingly beautiful compositions have been the soundtrack to many hearts over the years.

    Meanwhile, the powerhouse of classical vocals, Javed Bashir, is also tuning up for a mesmerising night. He’s scheduled to perform live on October 3, 2025, at the Alhamrah Cultural Complex, Gaddafi Stadium, starting at 8 PM.

    Known for his incredible vocal range and Sufi soul, fans can expect crowd favorites like Piya Tora Kaisa Abhiman, Mera Yaar Mila De and his Coke Studio collab Chal Bulleya.

    But wait, here’s the juicy bit – early birds are in for a treat. Organisers have announced a “MASSIVE 25% discount” on all ticket categories for those who book before September 20, 2025. So, whether you’re into mellow vibes or powerhouse vocals, this October, Lahore is your ultimate musical playground.

    Grab your tickets, mark your calendars and get ready to sing your heart out.

  • Asia Cup 2025: Petition in Indian Supreme Court seeks ban on Pak-India clash

    Asia Cup 2025: Petition in Indian Supreme Court seeks ban on Pak-India clash

    Next week’s Pakistan-India clash at the Asia Cup has triggered controversy after a petition in the Indian Supreme Court (SC) sought a ban on the match.

    The petition, filed by Pune-based social activist Ketan Tirodkar, argued that the game goes against Article 21 of the Constitution, which ensures every citizen’s right to life and dignity.

    Urging the court to declare the match “unconstitutional” and asking the government to enforce the National Sports Governance Act, 2025, it also sought to bring the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) under the National Sports Federation and National Sports Board to ensure accountability.

    In the petition, Tirodkar said that staging the match sent the wrong message to Indian citizens and could demoralise soldiers who were serving the country.

    A bench of the top court, led by the chief justice will hear the case on Friday – two days before Sunday’s match.

    The Indian government has already cleared the BCCI to participate in the tournament, and the clash on Sept 14 will be the first between the two sides since military clashes in May. 

    Separately, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav has come under fire after shaking hands with Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi during the unveiling of the Asia Cup 2025 trophy.

    Yadav has drawn the ire of thousands of Indians, leaders and general public alike, for shaking the hand of the ACC chief who is also Pakistan’s interior minister besides being chairperson of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).