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  • Mahnoor Omer named among TIME Women of the Year after court challenge on period taxes

    Mahnoor Omer named among TIME Women of the Year after court challenge on period taxes

    Women’s rights activist Mahnoor Omer has been named among TIME’s Women of the Year for 2026, following her legal challenge of taxation of menstrual hygiene products in Pakistan.

    Omer is one of 16 women from different fields recognised by the magazine this year. 

    The list includes Oscar-nominated filmmaker Chloé Zhao and Olympic gold medallist Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone.

    Reacting to the recognition, Omer said she was “deeply grateful for this honour”. She said she hoped “this recognition reflects the limitless potential of Pakistani women”, adding that “while there is still a long journey ahead in ensuring equal opportunities for all, moments like this remind us of how far we have come and how much further we can go”. 

    She also said she would “live up to my promise to challenge injustice whenever and however I can, and to use my platform with courage and purpose”.

    The recognition comes months after Omer filed a petition in the Lahore High Court in September, seeking tax-exempt status for feminine hygiene products. 


    In her petition, she challenged the imposition of taxes on menstrual products, arguing that such levies penalise women for “a biological function over which they have no control”.

    Omer asked the court to declare feminine hygiene products as essential goods and to remove the 40 percent tax imposed on their retail prices.  

    The petition stated that the taxes were “inherently discriminatory” and in violation of Articles 9, 14, 25 and 38 of the Constitution of Pakistan, which relate to security of person, dignity, equality of citizens and the promotion of social and economic wellbeing.

    The petition further stated that period poverty defined as limited access to menstrual hygiene products, waste management and education related to menstruation leads to girls missing school, women remaining outside the workforce and increased cases of urinary tract infections.

    According to her profile in the magazine, Omer’s activism began in her early teens. At the age of 14, she founded the Noor Foundation, which runs workshops for girls in villages on topics including sexual education and climate change.

    At 16, a discussion about the cost of menstrual products led her to examine their usage across the country. She found that only around 12 per cent of women in Pakistan use products such as sanitary pads and tampons, a finding that later shaped her legal challenge.

    Omer is among several activists campaigning for menstrual hygiene products to be declared essential goods and exempt from taxation. 


    Weeks after her petition, Karachi resident Alisha Shabbir filed a similar petition in the Sindh High Court. Separately, Bushra Mahnoor, founder of Mahwari Justice, has worked to provide menstrual hygiene products and awareness to women in low-income areas, including during relief efforts after the floods of 2022 and 2025.

  • Shadab Khan is not a bad choice for captaincy, says Shahid Afridi

    Shadab Khan is not a bad choice for captaincy, says Shahid Afridi

    Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi believes that Shadab Khan should not be dismissed as a future captain of the national team, saying that the all-rounder remains a reasonable leadership option given the current circumstances.

    Speaking on a private TV sports transmission, Afridi said that Shadab’s long working relationship with coach Mike Hesson could influence captaincy decisions if the same coaching setup continues. 

    Afridi highlighted their time together at Islamabad United as an important factor.

    “Shadab Khan and Mike Hesson have been together with Islamabad United for a long time. If the same coach stays, then Shadab Khan will become captain,” Afridi said.

    Afridi added that Pakistan does not have many strong captaincy alternatives at the moment. “I do not think Shadab Khan is a bad choice for captaincy. You do not really have any other captain available,” he said.

    He also described Shadab Khan as a key member of the team but made it clear that leadership must come with consistent performances. 

    “Shadab Khan is the backbone of the Pakistan team. You can make him captain, but he must perform so that no one gets a chance to question it,” Afridi said.

    On a separate show, former Pakistan batter Ahmed Shehzad strongly criticised the team management and coaching staff over selection decisions. He claimed that leg-spinner Sufiyan Muqeem was kept out of the side to make room for Shadab Khan.

    Shehzad also questioned the decision to bench Abrar Ahmed, who is currently ranked second in the ICC T20 bowling rankings. “They even benched Abrar Ahmed, who is ranked second in T20s, just to play Shadab Khan,” he said.

    According to Shehzad, the coaching setup has hurt the team’s balance. He argued that if Sufiyan Muqeem plays regularly, it would become difficult for Shadab to keep his place, and said there is a clear difference between the performances of Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan.

    Shadab Khan’s form in the ongoing World Cup has also come under scrutiny. 

    He has taken five wickets in four matches while conceding 93 runs, figures that have fueled debate over his place in the side and his readiness for a leadership role at this stage.

  • Lahore police arrest suspect in attempted assault of seven-year-old girl

    Lahore police arrest suspect in attempted assault of seven-year-old girl

    Lahore police have arrested a man accused of trying to assault a seven-year-old girl in Lahore.

    A team led by ASP Defense Bareera, along with SHO Factory Area Ashfaq Khan, carried out the operation. The ASP confirmed that the suspect, identified as Rizwan, is in custody for the attempted assault.

    The suspect entered the child’s home and tried to lure her away. The girl’s father, Ehsan Ali, filed a complaint immediately after the incident, and the police registered a case against Rizwan.

    Acting SP Cantt Raheela Iqbal praised the response of SHO Factory Area Ashfaq Khan and the police team. She said, “Individuals involved in the sexual exploitation of women and children will face the full force of the law and be brought to justice.”

    A few days ago in another incident, police in the Hadyara area arrested another suspect accused of attempting to assault an 11-year-old girl. 

    On the instructions of SP Cantt Akhlaq Ullah Tarar, SHO Hadyara Shuja Ullah and his team acted promptly to detain the suspect, identified as Imran.

    SP Cantt Tarar said the girl had gone out to deliver food when the suspect allegedly tried to lure her with the intention of assaulting her. The girl’s mother filed a complaint, and authorities registered a case against Imran.

  • ‘Never my intention to compare’: Umar Akmal clarifies Instagram post after comparison with Babar Azam

    ‘Never my intention to compare’: Umar Akmal clarifies Instagram post after comparison with Babar Azam

    Pakistan batter Umar Akmal has issued a clarification after his Instagram story sparked controversy for seemingly comparing his performance with Babar Azam.

    In a statement shared on social media platform X, Umar Akmal said his intention was never to compare himself with Babar Azam and stressed that the post was misunderstood.

    “I want to clarify that my aim was never to compare myself with Babar Azam. He is currently one of the top batters in the world, and I have great respect for his achievements,” Umar wrote. “My intention was only to highlight that he is not naturally a middle-order batter in T20 cricket, as that position doesn’t fully suit his batting style. There was no comparison, just a point about role suitability in the format.”

    Umar also explained that the image circulating online was originally shared by a fan.

    The screenshot showed a statistical contrast between the two players. Babar Azam scored 25 runs off 24 balls against England before getting out, while Umar Akmal had earlier played a blistering innings of 94 runs off 24 balls against Australia. 

    The visual comparison triggered criticism from fans, with many accusing Umar of promoting himself at Babar’s expense.

    The clarification comes at a time when Pakistan’s campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup has failed to meet expectations. 

    England have already secured a semi-final spot, while New Zealand has three points and Pakistan has one, with one match remaining for each side.

    Pakistan must defeat Sri Lanka on February 28 while hoping that New Zealand loses to England, to stay in contention. If both Pakistan and New Zealand finish on three points, net run rate will decide the final semi-final berth.

  • Police arrest two for murder of Kohat’s Dr Mahwish

    Police arrest two for murder of Kohat’s Dr Mahwish

    The murder case of Dr Mahwish stands solved after police arrested two suspects following what officials described as a technology-based investigation conducted under security constraints.

    Unidentified persons had on Feb 22 opened fire and killed Dr Mahwish at around 8 pm near Usman Mosque. Police teams reached the site, sealed the area, collected forensic material and registered a case against the unknown assailants.

    In his initial statement, the victim’s husband, Muhammad Hasnain, had told investigators that he had no personal enmity with anyone.

    With the case making its way to social media and claims suggesting that the lady doctor was killed for removing a man from a female-only ward of the hospital she worked at, the provincial government took notice of the incident, sought a report and directed authorities to ensure arrests.

    The case was then pursued on what police termed modern investigative lines, with multiple angles examined. District Police Officer (DPO) Shehbaz Elahi formed special investigation teams comprising City superintendent of police (SP), investigation SP, headquarters deputy SP (DSP), investigation staff and the station house officer (SHO) of KDA Police Station.

    The teams carried out intelligence-based raids at different locations and used technology and human intelligence to trace the suspects. Police said the weapon used in the attack was recovered along with a motorcycle and a rickshaw allegedly used in the crime.

    Investigators identified the accused as Hayat Gul and Saif Ali. After coordinated raids across multiple districts, both were arrested from Ghamkol No. 3.

    During initial interrogation, police said the suspects confirmed that the killing followed a verbal dispute between Hayat Gul and the doctor.

    While further probe is underway, an evidence-based challan will soon be submitted in court.

  • National leadership vows decisive response as ‘Operation Ghazab lil-Haq’ targets Afghan Taliban

    National leadership vows decisive response as ‘Operation Ghazab lil-Haq’ targets Afghan Taliban

    Pakistan’s leadership has issued a unified and stern warning to the Afghan Taliban regime following a night of intense border escalations, confirming that “Operation Ghazab lil-Haq” is currently underway to neutralize threats to national sovereignty.


    President Asif Ali Zardari described the response of the armed forces to the Afghan Taliban’s aggression as “comprehensive and decisive,” making it clear that Pakistan will make no compromise on peace and regional integrity.


    “Those who consider peace a weakness should be prepared for a strong response, and no enemy will be beyond reach,” the President stated.

    He added that the Pakistani nation and armed forces stand united like a “fortified wall” for the defense of the country.


    Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif affirmed that the nation remains fully prepared to safeguard its security.

    In an official statement from the PM’s Office, the Prime Minister noted that under the leadership of Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, the forces are performing their duties with “utmost national dedication.”


    The statement emphasized: “The Pakistan Armed Forces are committed to ensuring that the peace and security of the country are never compromised. Our forces possess the full capability to thwart any aggressive designs.”


    The PM further stressed that while Pakistan has always promoted peace, any act of aggression will be met with a “decisive response.”


    Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated that the Afghan Taliban made a “serious mistake” and will face “serious consequences.”


    He strongly condemned the targeting of civilian populations, noting that the enemy attempted to target innocent civilians under the cover of darkness.

    Adding to the provincial response, Governor Sindh Kamran Tessori said that the Afghan Taliban regime should “come to its senses,” warning they could be wiped off the face of the earth. 

    He noted that the air force and ground forces have destroyed enemy hideouts, stating, “Afghanistan started the war and Pakistan will end it.”


    Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Faisal Karim Kundi highlighted the international dimension, stating the United States must consider that the weapons it left behind are being used against Pakistan.


    Speaker of the National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq condemned the infiltration from Afghanistan, labeling the attacks on Pakistani posts under the cover of darkness as “shameful and cowardly acts.”

    Sadiq stated that Afghanistan has become “India’s proxy” and is destabilizing regional peace. “


    The diplomatic and political condemnations follow a night of heavy military engagement.

    The escalation began around 6:00 PM Thursday with unprovoked firing from Afghanistan across multiple areas, including Chitral, Khyber, Mohmand, Kurram, and Bajaur.


    The initial attack resulted in two Pakistani security personnel being martyred and three getting injured.


    In response, “Operation Ghazab lil-Hag”, translated as “Righteous Fury” was officially announced. 

    The Pakistan Air Force launched strikes targeting military installations in Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia. Official figures state that 133 Afghan Taliban personnel were killed and more than 200 injured. 


    The strikes successfully destroyed 27 Afghan posts, two brigade headquarters in Kabul, one corps headquarters and one brigade headquarters in Kandahar, one corps headquarters in Paktia, and multiple ammunition depots and logistics bases.


    Operations are continuing, and all armed forces and paramilitary units remain on high alert.

  • VIDEO: French goalkeeper feigns injury so Muslim teammates can break their fast

    VIDEO: French goalkeeper feigns injury so Muslim teammates can break their fast

    French goalkeeper Anthony Lopes drew widespread attention after an incident during FC Nantes’ Ligue 1 match against Le Havre AC, where he appeared to use a stoppage in play to allow his Muslim teammates to break their Ramadan fast.

    The moment came in the 74th minute of Nantes’ crucial 2-0 home victory on Sunday. Video footage shared widely on social media shows Lopes collapsing to the ground while the ball was out of play, seemingly clutching his left hamstring.

    As medical staff came onto the pitch to check on the 35-year-old former Portugal international, several Nantes players moved towards the touchline and quickly consumed dates and water. 

    It is worth noting that French football authorities do not allow official breaks for religious observance, making such moments rare during matches.

    Lopes stayed on the turf for an extended period while receiving treatment, creating the opportunity for teammates to consume dates and water at the touchline. 

    He then stood up slowly, further extending the pause before play resumed.

    The incident took place after the ball went out for a throw-in near the halfway line, with no contact involved in Lopes’ fall. 

    Under football regulations, outfield players who receive medical treatment must usually leave the pitch so the game can continue. Goalkeepers, however, are exempt from this requirement, allowing play to stop while they are treated.

    Nantes’ win carried major importance in the relegation battle in Ligue 1. The club sit 17th in the 18-team table, level on points with 16th-placed Auxerre but inside the relegation zone due to an inferior goal difference. 

    The bottom two teams face automatic relegation at the end of the season.

  • ‘Have some shame’: Sikander Bakht urges former players with relatives in team to stop commenting

    ‘Have some shame’: Sikander Bakht urges former players with relatives in team to stop commenting

    Former Pakistan cricketer Sikander Bakht has strongly criticised ex-players who comment on the national team while having close relatives in the current squad, saying such behaviour damages credibility and raises questions about biases.

    Speaking during a recent TV discussion, Sikander said, “I would request and appeal to all former cricketers to seriously think about this: if any of your relatives, very close relatives, are playing, then please do not comment. When you speak, it becomes very obvious. I think you understand what I mean.”

    Although Bakht did not name anyone directly, his remarks were widely interpreted as a reference to figures such as Shahid Afridi, whose son-in-law Shaheen Afridi is part of the national team, and Saqlain Mushtaq, whose son-in-law Shadab Khan also represents Pakistan.

    Bakht went further and questioned the ethics of defending relatives on television and in public forums.

    “My point is that you should feel ashamed of yourselves. You should not do this. If your son-in-law, your son, your nephew is playing there and you are defending him blindly, it feels very bad,” he said.

    He added that such situations leave viewers uncomfortable and undermine honest discussions about cricket. 

    “When I see this, I am honestly shocked. I mean, what should I even say?” he asked. 

    Saqlain Mushtaq currently appears regularly on a sports panel during the Men’s T20 World Cup, where he analyses player roles and team decisions. He was also seen defending certain players in recent discussions. 

    Shahid Afridi, meanwhile, continues to publicly share his views on Pakistan cricket, including Shaheen Afridi’s performance.

    Bakht’s comments come at a time when Pakistan’s performance in the tournament has fallen below expectations. 

    The team’s qualification hopes now depend on multiple results. England have already secured a semi-final place, while New Zealand sit on three points and Pakistan on one, with one match left for both sides.

    If New Zealand lose to England, Pakistan must defeat Sri Lanka on February 28 to stay in contention. Should both Pakistan and New Zealand finish with three points, the final semi-final spot will be decided on net run rate.

  • Sky News deletes incorrect X post about Pakistan after backlash

    Sky News deletes incorrect X post about Pakistan after backlash

    Pakistani social media users have challenged a claim published by Sky News, leading to the removal of a post from the broadcaster’s official account on X.

    The post had stated that Afghanistan’s Air Force carried out strikes against Pakistan. Pakistani users responded in large numbers, questioning the accuracy of the claim and pointing out that Afghanistan does not currently operate an Air Force capable of carrying out such action.

    After sustained reaction on social media platforms, the post was taken down.

    Users responding to the claim said the assertion lacked basis and raised concerns over verification before publication. Several posts referenced publicly available information indicating that Afghanistan does not have an operational Air Force.


    This was not the first time the broadcaster faced criticism from Pakistani users. Social media accounts recalled earlier instances in which the outlet was accused of pushing narratives related to Pakistan and its armed forces.

    Some users also drew attention to Sky News anchor Yalda Hakim, stating that her reporting on Pakistan had previously been questioned online. 


    The incident led to further debate among users about journalistic responsibility and fact-checking, particularly during periods of regional tension. 


    The online reaction came amid developments along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. On February 26, 2026, Pakistan’s military carried out attacks at several locations along the frontier with Afghanistan.

    According to government statements, the action followed what officials described as unprovoked fire from across the border. 

    Authorities said the strikes were conducted in response to cross-border threats and attacks by militants operating from Afghan territory.

  • Faryal Gohar, Jamal Shah appears together after 30 years to talk about divorce

    Faryal Gohar, Jamal Shah appears together after 30 years to talk about divorce

    Yesteryears power couple Faryal Gohar and Jamal Shah have spoken publicly for the first time about the real reason behind their separation, three decades after their divorce.

    The former couple recently appeared together on a private TV channel’s Ramadan transmission, where they discussed their past with maturity and mutual respect. 

    Once regarded as one of the most admired pairs in Pakistan’s showbiz industry, the duo parted ways in 1992. Faryal later left Pakistan in 1995.

    During the conversation, Faryal shared that problems in their marriage had begun several years before the separation.

    “Our marital issues started as early as 1987,” she said. “Jamal valued his freedom deeply and often felt restricted by marriage. I never believed that a husband and wife own each other, so when one person no longer feels connected to the relationship, it should not be forced.”

    She added that she understood Jamal Shah’s perspective and chose separation with dignity and respect rather than conflict.

    Jamal Shah also admitted that marriage did not suit his personality.

    “I never considered myself fit for marriage, and my natural love for freedom mattered a lot to me,” he said.

    He went on to describe an incident that ultimately became the final turning point in their relationship. 

    Jamal revealed that he was trying to establish an art institute in Islamabad with a woman at the time. Faryal had advised him against working with her, and even the woman’s aunt had warned him to be cautious. Despite the advice, he followed his own decision.

    “The project did not succeed, and during that period, our existing differences became more intense,” he said. “That is when we mutually decided to separate.”

    Both actors stressed that despite ending their marriage, they never deliberately cut ties with each other. They said respect remained intact over the years and still defines their relationship today.