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  • Two young sisters found dead; police reject suicide claims

    Two young sisters found dead; police reject suicide claims

    Two young sisters were found dead under mysterious circumstances at their residence in Lahore’s South Cantonment area on Monday, prompting police to launch an investigation and register a murder case against unknown suspects.

    The deceased were identified as Kiran, 19, and Maryam, 17. Their bodies were shifted to the city morgue for autopsies. 

    Police said the case raised suspicions after the girls’ father, Latif, claimed that both daughters had committed suicide by ingesting poison.

    The two girls were devastated by the alleged murder of their elder sister, Sumeera, 25, in Kasur, their father claimed. 

    Latif told police that Sumeera had married a man from Kasur district a few years ago. He said her in-laws informed him that she had taken her own life following domestic disputes. 

    However, Latif said that he had registered a murder case against Sumeera’s in-laws with the Kasur police and that an investigation was underway.

    He further claimed that the alleged murder of Sumeera had left Kiran and Maryam in severe emotional distress.

    The police, however, rejected his claim and decided to register a murder case against unknown suspect (s) on the complaint of Sub-Inspector Mohammad Yasin. A police officer said the circumstances surrounding the deaths were very tricky and required thorough investigation.

    The officer added that the most concerning aspect of the incident was that the family did not inform the local police about the deaths.

    “We came to know about the incident only after Kasur police informed Lahore police,” the officer said.

    Following the information, the South Cantonment SHO was directed to visit the family’s residence. However, by the time police arrived, locals informed them that the family had already taken the bodies to Sheikhupura district, their native area, for burial.

    A police team, led by the SHO, travelled to Sheikhupura and took the bodies into custody.

    According to the FIR, police suspect the girls may have been murdered and that the family was attempting to conceal facts. During questioning, police said the family failed to provide satisfactory answers, prompting authorities to order postmortem examinations.

    Forensic experts accompanying the police team collected samples from the bodies, which were sent for laboratory analysis to determine the exact cause of death.

  • Trump offers $3,000, free tickets to undocumented immigrants for leaving US

    Trump offers $3,000, free tickets to undocumented immigrants for leaving US

    The administration of the President of the United States, Donald Trump, has announced a financial incentive program offering undocumented immigrants $3,000 and free airfare if they voluntarily leave the United States by the end of the year.

    According to foreign media reports, the US Department of Homeland Security rolled out the offer for undocumented immigrants who agree to self-deportation by December 31.

    The Department of Homeland Security announced in a statement that undocumented immigrants who sign up for self-deportation through the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Home app will receive a free plane ticket to their home country along with $3,000 in cash.

    The department has tripled the payment from the original $1,000 stipend previously offered to those who voluntarily return to their countries.

    Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem issued a stark warning to those who refuse to participate in the voluntary departure program.

    “People who do not self-deport will face arrest, deportation, and a permanent ban on reentry,” Noem warned.

    She revealed that 1.9 million undocumented immigrants have voluntarily left the country since January this year, with thousands utilizing the CBP Home program.

    However, immigration lawyers and activists have raised doubts about claims that migrants who leave voluntarily may be able to return legally. In many cases, people who have lived in the US without legal status face automatic bans that can last years, for which waivers are not typically granted.

    The stipend increase comes as non-voluntary arrests and deportations have not met the administration’s early target of one million. 

    Since taking office, the Trump administration has deported more than 335,000 people, according to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement data.

  • ‘Impressed by Mian Sb’s manners, marrying into a prominent family’; Rohale Asghar gushes over granddaughter’s upcoming wedding to Junaid Safdar

    ‘Impressed by Mian Sb’s manners, marrying into a prominent family’; Rohale Asghar gushes over granddaughter’s upcoming wedding to Junaid Safdar

    Preparations are underway for the second marriage of Junaid Safdar, son of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, with the wedding  scheduled to take place in January 2026.

    Former National Assembly member Shaikh Rohale Asghar confirmed in a recent interview that Junaid is going to marry his granddaughter Shanzey Ali Rohale.

    He said that Shanzey is a close friend of Maryam Nawaz’s younger daughter, Mahnoor, and that frequent interactions between the two families eventually led to the match. According to sources that The Current talked to, Mahnoor is currently studying at a private high school, while Shanzey is her best friend.

    Rohale Asghar said the proposal was first conveyed through his son, adding that he viewed it as “truly Allah’s blessing,” as it meant that “our daughter would be going into such a prominent family,” prompting them to proceed with formal discussions. Describing his granddaughter, he said Shanzey is “like a doll, very delicate and lovely.”

    He said that Maryam Nawaz later visited his home along with her elder daughter and son-in-law. Subsequently, a message was received from former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, following which the family visited his residence.

    Recalling the meeting, Rohale Asghar said Nawaz Sharif invited them to sit together for tea and was “extremely gracious.” 

    He added that his wife, who is not politically inclined, was particularly in awe, saying that she was “genuinely impressed by his manners and character.”

    Rohale Asghar said the marriage discussions were finalised around two to three months ago. He confirmed that wedding events will take place on January 16, 17 and 18, but revealed that the celebrations would be private, with only close family members in attendance.

    He added that the mehndi and walima will be held at Jati Umrah, while the barat reception is scheduled to take place at Lake City Golf Club. 

    Junaid Safdar is getting married for the second time. He has been divorced from his former wife Ayesha Saif since October 2023. The couple had married in 2021 in London during Nawaz Sharif’s period of exile.

  • ‘How can a YouTuber upload videos when his account is case evidence?’: NCCIA asks court in Ducky Bhai case

    ‘How can a YouTuber upload videos when his account is case evidence?’: NCCIA asks court in Ducky Bhai case

    A Lahore district court has reserved its decision on returning confiscated YouTube accounts and equipment to popular YouTuber Saad ur Rehman, more famously known as Ducky Bhai, after prosecutors raised concerns about recent video uploads during the case proceedings.

    During Monday’s hearing at the district court, the prosecutor informed the judge that Rehman has uploaded eight videos since his equipment was seized.

    According to reports, Assistant Director of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency questioned how the YouTuber could upload content while his accounts remain case property.

    “The YouTube account is still evidence in the case. How can the YouTuber upload videos?” the NCCIA official asked the court.

    He expressed concerns that Rehman might delete or modify videos that form the basis of the case against him.

    Ducky Bhai countered by telling the court he has submitted an affidavit promising not to tamper with any videos.

    “I did not upload the videos. My editor uploaded them,” the YouTuber clarified.

    The court asked Rehman to identify his editor, to which he responded that his editor is a friend who lives in Hyderabad.

    The judge then questioned the NCCIA director about whether officials knew someone else had access to the account. The director explained that some account owners do not provide editors with access to their platforms.

    After hearing arguments from both parties and their lawyers, the court reserved its verdict on the matter.

    Rehman secured bail from the Lahore High Court on November 24 after spending more than three months in custody. The court approved his release on a surety of ten lakh rupees, with Justice Shahram Sarwar Chaudhry delivering the verdict.

  • No meetings with Imran Khan till Feb 8, says federal minister

    No meetings with Imran Khan till Feb 8, says federal minister

    The federal government will maintain its prohibition on meetings with jailed PTI founder Imran Khan until February 8, 2026, Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry announced on Monday.

    According to reports, he confirmed the decision during a television appearance on Monday evening, weeks after authorities first imposed the ban earlier this month.

    Reports added that officials justified the restrictions by pointing to prison rule violations by Khan’s sisters. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar explained that prison regulations prohibit political discussions with inmates, forming the basis for blocking meetings between Khan and his sisters along with other PTI leaders.

    The former prime minister has spent over two years behind bars since his August 2023 detention. Authorities have charged him in multiple cases spanning corruption to terrorism allegations after his April 2022 removal from office through an opposition no-confidence vote.

    PTI Senator Barrister Ali Zafar challenged the legality of Khan’s detention conditions, asserting that both international and Pakistani law prohibit solitary confinement.

    Khan’s sons recently raised alarms about their father’s treatment in custody. During an interview with journalist Mehdi Hasan, Sulaiman and Kasim Khan described prolonged communication blackouts and alleged that authorities have failed to honor court-approved contact permissions.

    “They [jail authorities] are not even allowing guards to speak to him [Imran Khan] because they want total isolation from any other person just to try and break him,” Kasim stated.

    The federal minister addressed separate political tensions, dismissing speculation about removing PTI-backed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi within six weeks. Dr Chaudhry emphasized that the Centre prefers Afridi to continue his duties.

    Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah countered PTI claims of being politically cornered, arguing in a separate television interview that the party refuses to pursue available options.

    “PTI members do not want to take any path,” the PML-N senator said, accusing the party of favoring rebellion and opponent elimination over dialogue.

    Sanaullah questioned delays in May 9 case verdicts, asking, “If the decision on the May 9 cases will not be made even in 2025, then when will it be?”

    His comments followed a special court’s decision to sentence Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi to 17 years each in the Toshakhana-2 case.

    “A group [PTI] is bent upon spreading chaos, anarchy and sedition,” Sanaullah warned, promising legal consequences for lawbreaking.

    Addressing PTI’s planned Islamabad march, the PM’s aide questioned the wisdom of such action, asking, “Is the conquest of Islamabad in the interest of the country and the nation?”

    He firmly stated that authorities will not permit any group to occupy the capital.

  • Internet goes wild as AI videos show Govinda as Na’vi in Avatar 3

    Internet goes wild as AI videos show Govinda as Na’vi in Avatar 3

    Social media users have flooded the internet with AI-generated videos and images showing Bollywood actor Govinda as a blue Na’vi character in the highly anticipated film Avatar: Fire and Ash, sparking widespread confusion and nostalgia among fans.

    The viral content, which spread rapidly across platforms after the film’s release on December 19, shows the veteran Bollywood actor delivering his famous dialogues in the fictional alien form and even sharing scenes with protagonist Jake Sully.

    The videos are entirely fabricated using artificial intelligence technology, created purely for entertainment and engagement. However, the clever mashup of nostalgia and humor has captivated audiences online.

    One user wrote, “Show me a better Avatar than this.”

    Another user expressed disbelief, commenting, “Ain’t no way James Cameron convinced Govinda to do a cameo in Avatar 3.”

    “Finally Govinda Avatar,” wrote an excited fan, while another chimed in, “Govinda cameo in the Avatar Fire and Ash was unexpected.”

    One confused viewer even asked, “Govinda wala Avatar full movie kaha dekhne milega? sirf insta pe hi hai?” (Where can I watch the Govinda Avatar full movie? Is it only on Instagram?)

    The viral trend connects to an old interview where Govinda claimed he received an offer to appear in the original Avatar film but declined due to the lengthy shooting schedule and body paint requirements. He also claimed he suggested the film’s title.

    However, Govinda’s wife Sunita Ahuja cast doubt on his claims during a podcast appearance, stating she had no clear knowledge of such an offer.

    Avatar: Fire and Ash, the third installment in James Cameron’s blockbuster franchise, released on December 19, and features no actual appearance from Govinda.

  • Pakistan signs $4bn military equipment deal with Libyan National Army

    Pakistan signs $4bn military equipment deal with Libyan National Army

    Pakistan has signed a multi-billion-dollar agreement to supply conventional military equipment to the Libyan National Army (LNA), joining a select group of countries that export such arms.

    According to an international news agency, the deal, valued at over $4 billion, is among Pakistan’s largest weapons sales to date. It was finalised following a meeting last week in Benghazi between Chief of Defence Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir and LNA deputy commander-in-chief Saddam Khalifa Haftar, officials said.

    While the foreign ministry, defence ministry, and military did not respond to requests for comment, military officials described the agreement as “historic in terms of size and financial impact.”

    According to a copy of the agreement obtained by Reuters, Super Mushak trainer aircraft, which are used for basic pilot training, and JF-17 fighter fighters, which are jointly built by China and Pakistan, were purchased. The agreement also covers air, sea, and ground equipment over a 2.5-year period and may include more JF-17 fighter fighters, according to a Pakistani official.

    Libya has been subject to an arms embargo since 2011, which means that any transfers of weapons must be approved by the United Nations (UN). Senior Pakistani military officials defended the sale, noting that many Western and Middle Eastern states have supplied equipment to Libya despite the embargo.

     They described the restriction as a “paper embargo” and said the move aligns with the prime minister and army chief’s vision of an “export-driven, self-sustained economy.”

    Libya remains divided between the internationally-recognised Government of National Unity, led by Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah in the west, and Haftar’s LNA in the east and south, which controls major oilfields and does not recognise the Unity government.

    Libya’s continued instability after the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that overthrew Muammar Gaddafi means that any arms deal with the LNA is likely to be scrutinized.

    The LNA’s official media reported on Sunday that it had entered a defence cooperation pact with Pakistan, covering weapons sales, joint training, and military manufacturing, without providing further details. 

    Haftar said in a broadcast by Al-Hadath television, “We announce the launch of a new phase of strategic military cooperation with Pakistan.” Authorities in Benghazi did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

    Pakistan has been seeking to expand defence exports, leveraging decades of counterinsurgency experience and a domestic defence industry that includes aircraft production and overhaul, armoured vehicles, munitions, and naval construction. 

    Field Marshal Munir was quoted on Al-Hadath as saying, “Our recent war with India demonstrated our advanced capabilities to the world.”

  • Afghanistan to launch new T20 league in October 2026

    Afghanistan to launch new T20 league in October 2026

    The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has announced the launch of a new T20 competition, the Afghanistan Premier League (APL), scheduled to begin in October 2026.

    According to a press release issued by the Afghanistan Cricket Board, the inaugural season will feature franchises from five cities, showcasing prominent Afghan national players alongside international stars and emerging local talent.

    ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf unveiled the league at a launch ceremony in Dubai on Saturday.

    “The Afghanistan Premier League represents a significant advancement in our cricket journey. It will create new opportunities for our players, inspire the next generation, and highlight Afghan cricket on the global stage,” Ashraf stated.

    The tournament’s first season will take place in the United Arab Emirates in October 2026, with the player draft or auction expected in June or July 2026.

    The Afghanistan Cricket Board previously launched a tournament under the same name in early 2018, but only one season took place. That edition featured several world-renowned players including Chris Gayle, Brendan McCullum, and Shahid Afridi. 

    However, officials shut down the league due to payment issues and concerns about transparency.

    Afghanistan currently hosts the Shpageeza Cricket League, its domestic T20 competition, annually from July to August. Five domestic teams participate in that tournament.

    The new league by the same name is likely to have its draft around June-July 2026.

  • ‘Felt I was listening to Nusrat’: Viewers react to Shahzaman Ali Khan

    ‘Felt I was listening to Nusrat’: Viewers react to Shahzaman Ali Khan

    Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s son Shahzaman Ali Khan left a huge impression on Pakistan Idol during episode 24 with his rendition of the iconic qawwali ‘Kise Da Yaar Na Vichre’, prompting an outpouring of nostalgic reactions online.

    The hit song was originally sung by the late Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, widely regarded as one of Pakistan’s greatest musical legends.

     Nusrat played a pivotal role in taking qawwali to global audiences, while his nephew Rahat Fateh Ali Khan went on to establish himself as a leading vocalist across classical, qawwali and playback singing.

    Viewers quickly made comparisons to the family’s renowned musical heritage when Shahzaman Ali Khan appeared on a national platform.

    As clips from the episode circulated on social media, several users remarked that Shahzaman’s voice carried shades of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. One listener wrote that his voice had “hints of the legendary qawwal,” while wishing him success for the future.

    Another user commented that “Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s music continues to live on,” calling it “a source of pride for Pakistanis,” and stating that “some artists never truly die, as their legacy survives through their work.”

    Some reactions pointed out that while Shahzaman’s voice “resembled that of the late maestro,” it would “continue to improve with time and experience.”

    Others focused on the emotional depth of “Kise Da Yaar Na Vichre,” saying the song was “powerful enough to move listeners to tears,” particularly those familiar with its Punjabi lyrics and classical composition.

    One comment described the performance as “deeply nostalgic,” adding that it “felt like listening to Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan again,” while another praised Shahzaman as “a promising young talent carrying the family’s musical heritage forward.”

    A few viewers also linked the performance to personal memories, with one recalling that it “took them back to their childhood days of watching classic PTV drama Dhuwan in the 1990s.”

    While comparisons to Nusrat and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan remain inevitable, many viewers appeared appreciative of Shahzaman Ali Khan’s early steps into the spotlight, viewing his Pakistan Idol appearance as a respectful nod to a legacy that continues to resonate with audiences.

  • PCB chairman files ICC complaint over Indian players’ behavior in U19 Asia Cup final

    PCB chairman files ICC complaint over Indian players’ behavior in U19 Asia Cup final

    Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has lodged a formal complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding Indian players’ conduct during the Under-19 Asia Cup final.

    Speaking to media at a reception hosted by the Prime Minister in Islamabad to honor the Asian Under-19 champion team, Naqvi addressed the incidents that marred Sunday’s final in Dubai.

    “Politics and sports should remain separate. Yesterday, Indian players kept provoking our players throughout the match. We are informing the ICC about this matter,” Naqvi stated.

    Pakistan Under-19 team mentor Sarfaraz Ahmed criticized India’s approach to the game, emphasizing the contrast in sportsmanship between the two sides.

    “India’s behavior regarding the sport was not good at all. The Indian team adopted unethical conduct,” Sarfaraz said. “We celebrated our victory with sportsmanship spirit. The team delivered excellent cricket and displayed outstanding teamwork.”

    The former Pakistan captain stressed the importance of maintaining standards in cricket. “Competition in cricket must always be accompanied by ethics and respect at the highest level,” he added.

    Pakistan secured the Asia Cup title with a commanding 191-run victory over India in Dubai on Sunday, thanks to Samir Minhas’s brilliant batting performance.

    Pakistan’s Under-19 cricket team received a spectacular welcome at Islamabad International Airport upon their return. PCB Chief Operating Officer Samir Ahmad Syed, Director of High Performance Aaqib Javed, and other cricket board officials greeted the players and support staff upon arrival.

    A massive crowd of cricket fans gathered at the airport to celebrate the young champions, with the occasion marked by a stunning fireworks display.

    Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif rewarded Pakistan’s young cricket heroes with PKR 10 million each after their dominant Asia Cup victory.

    Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir also met the Pakistan Under-19 cricket team at the General Headquarters to congratulate them on their historic triumph.