Current Final

Author: News Desk

  • Pakistan strikes back: Shuts down Wagah, trade, airspace for Indian airlines

    Pakistan strikes back: Shuts down Wagah, trade, airspace for Indian airlines

    A day after India took extreme measures in light of its allegations against Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack, Islamabad on Thursday struck back, imposing its own restrictions besides reacting to New Delhi’s suspension of the Indus Water Treaty.

    A statement issued after a meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) under the chair of Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif, said that water was a vital national interest of Pakistan, a lifeline for its 240 million people, and any attempts to block or divert the water allocated to the country under the treaty would be considered “an act of war”.

    Islamabad also declared the military, air force and navy advisers at the Indian High Commission as persona non grata, ordering them to leave the country immediately but not later than April 30. The statement also announced limiting the number of staffers at the Indian High Commission in the federal capital to 30.

    The statement announced suspending all trade relations with India, even through a third country; and added that Pakistani airspace had been closed for Indian airlines.

    Additionally, the statement said that in light of India’s disregard of international conventions, the United Nations Security Council resolutions, and global obligations, Pakistan could also exercise the right to hold all bilateral agreements with India, including but not limited to Simla Agreement in abeyance, till India desisted from its manifested behaviour of fomenting terrorism inside Pakistan, transnational killings, and non-adherence to international law as well as the UN Resolutions on Kashmir.

    All visas issued to Indian citizens under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES), except for those granted to Sikh pilgrims, have been declared null and void, the statement read, adding that Indian nationals currently in Pakistan on such visas have been instructed to leave the country within 48 hours.

    Separately, a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) following the meeting, expressed concern over the loss of tourists’ lives in held Kashmir.

    It termed the Indian action unilateral, unjust, politically motivated, extremely irresponsible and devoid of legal merit, observing that Pakistan unequivocally condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. “In the absence of any credible investigation and verifiable evidence, attempts to link the Pahalgam attack with Pakistan are frivolous, devoid of rationality and defeat logic,” the statement read.

    The PMO’s statement further said that Kashmir remained an unresolved dispute between Pakistan and India as recognised through multiple UN resolutions.

    “Pakistan continues to support the right of self-determination of the Kashmiri people. The continued Indian state oppression, abrogation of statehood, and political and demographic gerrymandering have persistently led to an organic backlash from the people of IIOJK, which perpetuates cycles of violence.”

  • ‘Funny’ or ‘inappropriate’? Internet divided on Punjab speaker’s interaction with Hina Butt

    ‘Funny’ or ‘inappropriate’? Internet divided on Punjab speaker’s interaction with Hina Butt

    A video of Speaker of the Punjab Assembly Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan engaging in a casual exchange with Member of the Provincial Assembly (MPA) Hina Parvez Butt has made rounds on social media, with internet users reacting to it.

    During the Punjab Assembly session on Tuesday, Hina Butt, on behalf of the House, read out a resolution commending the Punjab Police for thwarting the attacks in Punjab and the border area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) launched by terrorists on March 2.

    “I want a definition from her [Hina Parvez Butt], who is the terrorist?” a member of the Punjab Assembly asked.

    In response, while she was defining the term “terrorist” with her face turned towards the members of the Assembly, Ahmad Khan interjected, “Hina, address me… I want you to look at me properly,” prompting laughter from the lawmakers.

    The Speaker’s comment left Hina Butt momentarily taken aback. After a short pause, Ahmad Khan added, “Obviously, once the member is speaking here, you have to do what I’m saying [SIC].”

    “Honourable Speaker, thank you,” she replied.

    Social media users were quick to react to the video, with some users calling it “funny”, others suggesting it was “inappropriate.” 

    One user in a post on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “Highly inappropriate for someone holding the office of the Speaker.”

    Another user asked, “How can such a conversation take place in sacred institutions like the prestigious Punjab Assembly?”

    “I am from the Speaker’s own constituency and have known him since childhood. He is a very decent person — there’s nothing like what people are suggesting in the comments. He said that in a light-hearted, joking manner,” wrote another user.

    One of the users wrote, “Earlier, the same guy appreciated Hina Parvez Butt’s dressing.”

    Ahmad Khan had earlier during the Punjab Assembly session commented on Hina Butt’s light green dress. “Hina, you have raised the question for Kasur. I am thankful you are wearing a good dress today,” the Speaker had said when she inquired of the Parliamentary Secretary about the lack of transport service between Lahore and Kasur.

  • Khushdil Shah breaks silence on fight with fans in New Zealand

    Khushdil Shah breaks silence on fight with fans in New Zealand

    Pakistan all-rounder and Karachi Kings’ PSL player Khushdil Shah has opened up about the altercation with fans during the national team’s recent tour of New Zealand, saying he could no longer stay silent after personal insults.

    In an interview with a private TV channel, Khushdil responded to fans labelling him a “parchi” (a player selected through favouritism), saying, “I’m not the son of any cricketer or the nephew of a politician. No relative helped me get here; I’ve earned my place through hard work and performance.”

    He added that he comes from a humble background and believes critics should look at his past performances before passing judgment.

    Recalling the incident in New Zealand, Khushdil said, “I’ve tolerated abuse for years, but when it comes to my country or my parents, I can’t stay silent. If such behaviour happens again, I will respond the same way.”

    On being questioned about losing his wicket early in T20s, he defended his contributions by saying, “Sometimes my quick 25 runs win the match for the team, while even a century might not matter in other situations. I always play for the team.”

    During the third and final ODI of the New Zealand series, Khushdil Shah moved aggressively towards a group of fans but was stopped by security officials and fellow players before the situation escalated.

    According to the PCB spokesperson, foreign fans had hurled offensive and anti-Pakistan remarks towards the players.

    When Khushdil tried to intervene and stop them, the fans, reportedly Afghan nationals, responded with further abuse in Pashto and attempted to physically confront him. Following a complaint from the Pakistani team, two of the individuals were removed from the stadium.

  • ‘My contract clearly states that I can play,’ Malik tells PSL campaign critics

    ‘My contract clearly states that I can play,’ Malik tells PSL campaign critics

    Former international cricketer and current Quetta Gladiators star Shoaib Malik has addressed criticism surrounding his ongoing participation in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), saying that his contract clearly allows him to play.

    As per the details, the 43-year-old all-rounder has responded to critics by saying he is playing in accordance with the terms of his agreement and is still fit for competitive cricket.

    Despite his age, Malik remains active in franchise cricket and is currently playing for Quetta Gladiators in the PSL. However, his continued participation has raised some eyebrows — particularly after he was appointed as a mentor for a domestic team last year.

    “It’s the think tank’s job to plan. We aim to overcome previous errors and perform better. When we get the chance, we must make the most of it,” he said while speaking to the media in Lahore, adding that he would always try to fulfil the role of a mentor whenever given that responsibility.

    Malik also expressed disappointment over the selective criticism he has received. “People question my presence, but why don’t they question those players who aren’t even playing in the PSL and are sitting out? Some players care about me a lot — and I care even more about them.”

    Reiterating his commitment to the league, Malik said the PSL still needed improvement and everyone should focus on how to take it to the next level. “I can still play competitive cricket, and my fitness level remains up to the mark.”

    Looking ahead, he expressed optimism that the completion of PSL’s 10-year milestone would bring positive changes. “After ten seasons, I believe the chairman and stakeholders will work together to make the league even more impactful.”

    He also proposed structural adjustments within the league. “Franchise fees should be reduced, and players should be paid more. I’m confident that better planning will be done moving forward.”

  • ‘I will kill you’: Gautam Gambhir receives death threat

    ‘I will kill you’: Gautam Gambhir receives death threat

    Former Indian cricketer and current head coach Gautam Gambhir has reportedly received a death threat via email, just containing three chilling words, “I will kill you”.

    According to reports, Gambhir has filed a complaint at the Rajinder Nagar Police Station in Delhi and authorities have since launched an investigation into the matter.

    The Delhi Police has taken the threat seriously, and security agencies have been prompted to take swift action.

    Reports say that while no formal FIR has been registered yet, the cyber cell is actively working to trace the origin of the email. Officials are determined to identify the sender as soon as possible.

    The threat has raised concern among Gambhir’s fans and has alarmed security agencies. As a result, additional precautions are being taken to ensure his safety.

    It may be noted that Gautam Gambhir took over as the head coach of the Indian national cricket team in July last year, replacing World Cup-winning coach Rahul Dravid.

    However, since his appointment, India’s performance under his leadership had been underwhelming at least until the Champions Trophy win earlier this year.

    The email threat has added a new layer of pressure on the coach whose tenure has already been marked by scrutiny due to alleged dressing room chat leaks among other controversies.

  • ‘I met Quaid-e-Azam as a child,’ says Faisal Rehman

    ‘I met Quaid-e-Azam as a child,’ says Faisal Rehman

    Veteran Pakistani actor Faisal Rehman recently made a surprising claim during a podcast appearance.

    While speaking on a private TV channel’s talk show, he revealed that he once met Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah during his childhood. This statement left both the host and the viewers stunned.

    The actor revealed this when the host asked him about his age. With his signature charm, Faisal replied,
    “I won’t tell you my age, but I’ll give you a hint: I met Quaid-e-Azam when I was a child. You can figure out my age from that… but it’s a little less than 80.”

    He added casually, “I was very young when I met Quaid-e-Azam.”

    The claim sparked immediate reactions online, with fans expressing disbelief, amusement, and curiosity.

    While some took it as a humorous comment, others speculated whether it might actually be true, considering Faisal Rehman’s long-standing presence in the industry.

    He also opened up about a topic fans have often wondered about: his decision to never get married.

    Addressing the question directly, he explained,

    “My decision not to marry wasn’t because of a broken heart, but to avoid any interference in my life from another person.”

    Faisal, who has been admired for his timeless looks and romantic roles for over four decades, shared that although he did consider marriage in the past, he ultimately chose independence.

    “I’ve given it thought, and things even moved forward a few times,” he said. “But I realised I enjoy living freely. When you’ve lived independently for so long, it becomes hard to let someone else into your space.”

    He made it clear that he doesn’t believe marriage is wrong; it simply wasn’t the right path for him.

  • Robber tricks man with fake bomb, loots his home in Lahore

    Robber tricks man with fake bomb, loots his home in Lahore

    A unique incident of robbery has taken place in Lahore, where a robber tricked a man with a fake bomb and looted his home.

    According to the First Information Report (FIR) lodged at the Shalimar Police Station on Monday, the complainant, Syed Hassan Shahzad, stated that the incident occurred on Saturday while he was on his way to work near Setha Bagicha Wala.

    “A man stopped me at Setha Bagicha Wala, asking for an address. When I told him I didn’t know, he suddenly placed a box-shaped device in my pocket and claimed it was a remote-controlled bomb which he could detonate at any time. He told me to silently let go of my home and hand over my valuables,” the FIR reads.

    The FIR further noted that upon reaching his home, the complainant gave the robber two tolas of gold, including a nose ring, earrings, studs, and four rings. He also handed over cash amounting to PKR 66,870, along with a wallet containing his ATM card, ID card, and job card.

    “The CCTV footage of the street has also been attached with the application,” stated the FIR, urging the police to initiate an inquiry against the robber.

  • ‘When innocent lives are lost, the pain is ours too’: Pakistani actors react to Pahalgam attack

    ‘When innocent lives are lost, the pain is ours too’: Pakistani actors react to Pahalgam attack

    Renowned actress Hania Aamir has expressed heartfelt condolences following the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The attack claimed at least 28 lives and injured over 60 people.

    In an emotional Instagram story, Hania wrote, “Tragedy anywhere is a tragedy for all of us. My heart is with the innocent lives affected by the recent events. In pain, in grief, and in hope we are one.”

    She further added, “When innocent lives are lost, the pain is not theirs alone it belongs to all of us. No matter where we come from, grief speaks the same language. May we choose humanity, always.”

    Her message resonated with fans across both sides of the border, who praised her for choosing compassion over silence during such a critical moment.

    Actor Fawad Khan also took to Instagram, sharing his sorrow over the attack: “Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this horrifying incident, and we pray for strength and healing for their families in this difficult time.”

    Singer and actor Farhan Saeed echoed the sentiment, writing, “Heartfelt condolences for #PahalgamAttack victims and their families.”

    Actress Mawra also took to InStagram, sharing her sorrow over the attact: “My deepest condolences to the affected families.. an act of terrorism against one is terroism against all..
    what’s happening to the World ??? #pahalgam”

    The tragedy has prompted a wave of reactions from celebrities in both Pakistan and India. Bollywood stars Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan were among the first to respond.

    Shah Rukh Khan wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Treachery and inhumane act of violence. Deeply saddened and angered. Prayers for the families. Justice must prevail.”

    Salman Khan added, “Kashmir, heaven on planet Earth turning into hell. Innocent people being targeted my heart goes out to their families.”

    Meanwhile, the diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan have spilt into the entertainment world. Fawad Khan, who is gearing up for a return to Bollywood, is now facing backlash in India.

    Some users have called for a boycott of the film in which he stars, alongside Vaani Kapoor. The actress is also being criticised for continuing to promote the movie during this sensitive time.

    Social media is now filled with calls for empathy, unity, and justice, and celebrities using their platforms to stand for peace are being seen as a powerful reminder that humanity must come before borders.

  • Shadab Khan makes history in PSL

    Shadab Khan makes history in PSL

    Islamabad United captain Shadab Khan has made history in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) by becoming the first-ever spinner to take 100 wickets in the tournament.

    Shadab reached this milestone during a match against Multan Sultans in PSL 10 when he dismissed their captain, Mohammad Rizwan, to complete his 100th wicket.

    This achievement makes Shadab the fourth bowler overall and the first spinner to claim 100 wickets in PSL history. He now ranks fourth on the all-time leading wicket-takers list.

    At the top are Karachi Kings’ vice-captain Hasan Ali with 118 wickets, followed by Wahab Riaz (113), Shaheen Shah Afridi (109), and Shadab Khan (100). Faheem Ashraf completes the top five with 79 wickets.

    Meanwhile, Islamabad United continued their strong performance in PSL 10, defeating Multan Sultans by seven wickets on their home ground. With five wins from five matches, Islamabad United is currently at the top of the PSL 10 points table.

  • Chinese giants team up to launch 10gbps internet

    Chinese giants team up to launch 10gbps internet

    China Unicom and Huawei have teamed up to launch a 10-gigabit broadband network in Xiong’an, Hebei province, powered by 50G-PON (Passive Optical Network) technology, which enables internet speeds of up to 10Gbps.

    The new network delivers download speeds of 9,834 Mbps and upload speeds of 1,008 Mbps, with latency reduced to just 3 milliseconds.

    Through this upgrade, a 90GB 8K movie can be downloaded in 72 seconds, while a 20GB 4K film takes under 20 seconds.

    The high-speed network supports advanced technologies like virtual reality, augmented reality, cloud gaming, remote surgeries, smart city systems, and real-time agricultural monitoring.

    This digital upgrade is part of China’s broader national strategy to improve internet infrastructure. The 10G internet rollout began in Sunan County and Xiong’an, with plans to expand to major cities like Shanghai and Shenzhen.

    Using existing fibre-optic cables, 50G-PON allows for these upgrades without needing major infrastructure changes.

    China is aligning with global efforts to advance next-gen internet access. Its new 10G network ranks among the fastest in the world, especially compared to average speeds of 300–500 Mbps in countries like the UAE and Qatar.

    No pricing has been revealed yet, and more details on commercial availability are expected soon.