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  • French tourist raped in India as suspect goes on run

    French tourist raped in India as suspect goes on run

    A 30-year-old French national, who was in Udaipur, India, for an advertisement shoot, has allegedly been raped by a member of an event management firm on Monday night, Indian media has reported.

    Officials said the survivor, two of her female friends who are also tourists, and members of the event management firm which had organised the shoot, went to a restaurant in Tiger Hills in the Badgaon area of Udaipur on Sunday evening.

    NDTV quoted Udaipur Superintendent of Police (SP) Yogesh Goyal as saying, “On Sunday evening, some French tourists were at a restaurant called Greek Farm with some employees of an event management company. They had a meal together and also consumed drinks. The survivor has said that she went in the car with one Siddharth (also known as Pushparaj Ojha), who then took her to his hotel room and sexually assaulted her.”

    “The survivor has undergone a medical examination and an FIR has been registered. The man is on the run. We are going through footage from the restaurant and the hotel,” Goyal added.

    According to media reports, Siddharth asked the survivor to go with him to see the sights of the city. 

    Badgaon police Station House Officer (SHO) Pooran Singh said the woman was being treated at a private hospital, adding, “We will speak to her in detail once she is discharged.” 

    Additionally, Singh said the French tourist told her two friends about the rape, adding, “As she fell sick, they rushed her to a private hospital in the city and also approached the police, who lodged an FIR based on the victim’s primary statement.”

    Meanwhile, the French embassy has been informed about the incident while police interrogates witnesses who were present  at the restaurant that day.

  • Ceasefire: Internet believes US-Iran strikes were ‘pre-planned’

    Ceasefire: Internet believes US-Iran strikes were ‘pre-planned’

    Hours after US President Donald Trump announced that a ceasefire has been reached between Iran and Israel, a theory surfaced online stating that America’s attack on nuclear sites and Iran’s retaliatory missile attack on the Al Udeid American air base in Qatar were pre-planned.

    Following the US attacks on Iran’s three nuclear sites, including Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan, Tehran had vowed to avenge the strikes, launching missiles at the Al Udeid Air Base.

    Describing the attack as “a very weak response” US President Donald Trump, in a post on Truth Social earlier in the day, thanked the country’s leadership for providing “early notice” of the retaliatory attack.

    The US president also announced a “complete and total” ceasefire between Israel and Iran, set to be phased out over the next 24 hours after a frenetic day of conflict in the region.

    “I am pleased to report that NO Americans were harmed, and hardly any damage was done,” Trump said.

    Qatar has confirmed that a total of 19 missiles were fired from Iran, adding that only one of those hit Al Udeid Air Base but caused no casualties.

    The US president suddenly announcing the ceasefire and Qatar’s confirmation that Iran’s missiles claimed no lives, stemmed speculations that the assault on the US base was pre-planned and scripted.

    Former central banker Kathleen Tyson took to X, writing, “[The] US moved all the aircraft off the airbase last week. This little tit for tat was scripted and agreed between Washington and Tehran.”

    The New York Times’ war correspondent Farnaz Fassihi quoted three Iranian officials as stating that Tehran gave advanced notice to Qatar before launching attacks as a way to minimise casualties at the US base.

    “Iran symbolically needed to strike back at the U.S. but at the same time carry it out in a way that allowed all sides an exit ramp, as it did in 2020,” she said, alluding to the Iranian response when it allegedly gave Iraq a heads up before firing ballistics missiles on US base in Iraq following the assassination of its top general Qasem Soleimani in a US strike on Baghdad.

    According to the New York Times, Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar is the biggest U.S. base in the Middle East and serves as the regional headquarters for the U.S. Central Command. About 10,000 troops are stationed there.

    The base is heavily fortified by an array of air defences. The U.S. military has been using Al Udeid since the days after the Sept. 11 attacks, when it positioned planes there to target the Taliban and Al Qaeda in Afghanistan. Two years later, Al Udeid became the main U.S. air operations hub in the region.

  • Pakistan shines at Al Bareh Sailing Regatta with gold and bronze medals

    Pakistan shines at Al Bareh Sailing Regatta with gold and bronze medals

    Pakistan’s sailing team won one gold and one bronze medal at the 31st Al Bareh Sailing Regatta in Bahrain after a strong performance.

    Muzammil Hassan won the gold medal in the ILCA 7 class, one of the top Olympic-level sailing events. He performed consistently throughout the races and finished ahead of many experienced competitors from the region.

    Hamza Ejaz added to Pakistan’s success by securing a bronze medal in the same category, helping the national team end the event on a high note.

    Young sailor Muhammad Suleman finished in fourth place in the under-15 Optimist class. He competed well under pressure and just missed out on a podium finish.

    Another young sailor, Muzammil Hussain, finished sixth in the ILCA 4 category, showing promise for the future. Both junior sailors are part of Pakistan’s training program focused on preparing young talent for major competitions.

    The Al Bareh Regatta is one of the top sailing events in the region, organised by the Bahrain Maritime Sports Association. It is known for its tough winds and race conditions.

  • Stock market witnesses rally after Iran-Israel ceasefire

    Stock market witnesses rally after Iran-Israel ceasefire

    The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) witnessed a massive 6550-point rally, pushing the benchmark KSE-100 index past the 122,500-point mark. According to reports, shares climbed rapidly on Tuesday as investor confidence soared after US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Iran and Israel.

    Prior to the ceasefire, investor confidence remained subdued amid rising tensions in the Middle East. The KSE-100 retreated by over 10,000 points, from its record high of 126,718.28 points on June 12 to just 116,167 points on Monday.

    News of the ceasefire caused the index to open in the green in the early hours, with the momentum continuing into the day. As of publishing, the KSE-100 index reached an intraday high of 122,725.21 points. The index peaked at 12:34 PM, after which profit-taking took hold of the market. 

    For reference, the KSE-100 closed at 116,167.47 points on Monday, after which the index recorded a growth of 5.64 percent on Tuesday, leading to a 6556.33 point rise when the index hit its intraday high. The market witnessed a massive bull run after the KSE-100 hit its intraday low of 120,369.53 points at 9:32 AM.

    All 17 indexes listed on the exchange remained in the green with the All-share index (ALLSHR) having grown by 4.54 percent, by 1:25 PM, translating into a 3,291.22 point rise. Unlike the KSE-100, which tracks the performance of the 100 largest and most liquid companies, the ALLSHR index records the performance of all publicly listed companies on the PSX.

    According to data from the PSX, many companies witnessed a rise in share prices, with First Treet Manufacturing Modaraba (FTMM) and First Prudential Modaraba (PMI) winning big, to the tune of growth rates that sat at 20.20 percent (FTMM) and 16.05 percent (PMI).

    However, not every publicly listed stock saw gains, as many witnessed sharp declines. Of these declining companies, the one that fared the worst during intraday trading was Crescent Cotton Mills Limited (CCM), with a 10.00 percent decline in its position.

    Recent reports have suggested that the KSE-100 index could cross 165,000 points by December 2025, owing to a drop in interest rates and an improved state of the wider economy. These factors have created a business-friendly environment, lending weight to analysts’ claims.

  • Here’s how Pakistan can play in Pro Hockey League

    Here’s how Pakistan can play in Pro Hockey League

    Despite a loss to New Zealand in the final of the Nations Cup, Pakistan’s chances of qualifying for the FIH Pro Hockey League have brightened once again.

    The Pakistani national hockey team, which made a dramatic run to the final of the Nations Cup, had to face defeat at the hands of hosts New Zealand. However, after defeating a much stronger French team in the semi-final, the morale of the Green Shirts remains high.

    Although New Zealand emerged as champions of the Nations Cup, their participation in the upcoming Pro Hockey League appears unlikely due to a severe financial crisis. In New Zealand, hockey is largely considered an amateur sport, and the national federation continues to struggle under financial pressure. Last year, the team missed out on the Pro League despite winning the Nations Cup.

    A crucial meeting is scheduled next month between New Zealand hockey officials and government representatives. The outcome of the meeting is expected to decide whether the team will participate in the 2025–26 Pro League.

    If New Zealand officially withdraws from the league, Pakistan may qualify in their place. As per FIH rules, if the winning team withdraws, the runner-up team holds the right to take their spot in the competition.

    Pakistan’s next confirmed international assignment is the Asia Cup, scheduled to be held in India between August and September this year. However, simmering tensions between the two arch-rivals makes Pakistan’s participation in the tournament remains uncertain.

    The Pakistan Hockey Federation is reportedly making efforts to have the Asia Cup shifted to a neutral venue. This would help ensure Pakistan’s participation in the important qualifying round for the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in February 2026.

  • Diljit, Hania are romance goals in ‘Sohni Lagdi’

    Diljit, Hania are romance goals in ‘Sohni Lagdi’

    With just a few days left before its global release, the highly anticipated Sardaar Ji 3 is hogging all the spotlight thanks to the release of superstar Diljit Dosanjh’s new music video ‘Sohni Lagdi’, featuring Pakistani heartthrob Hania Aamir in the lead role  

    The video, shot across stunning locations in the United Kingdom, shows Hania donning various elegant saris, each one more striking than the last, as Dosanjh follows through mountaintops, castles and gorgeous landscapes. 

    The song begins with Diljit reciting poetry, setting a soulful tone before launching into a chorus that fans are calling “catchy, memorable, and classic Diljit.” The lyrics are penned by Zafar Sandhu, with music composed by Mix Singh.

    The visual chemistry between Diljit and Hania has captured the hearts of fans, many of whom are now even more eager to see Hania’s full role in the movie. In the video, she is seen in a traditional saree, while Dosanjh complements her look in classic Punjabi attire together, they paint a vibrant, romantic picture.

    Netizens flooded the internet with admiration for the pair, with comments such as, “Hania and Diljit <3 Dil hi jeet liya <3”


    “Hania and Diljit ❤ Beyond the boundaries. Beyond the hatred.”

    Even celebrities couldn’t hold back their love. Actress Yashma Gill commented, “I love you. Tenu jina jina dekhai uni sohni lagdi,” while Mehwish Hayat praised Hania saying, “Ay hui na gal.”

    The release of ‘Sohni Lagdi’ is being seen by many as a bold statement. Despite rising online criticism and FWICE’s call for a boycott due to Hania’s involvement, Dosanjh and the filmmakers have stood firm, showing clear support for the Pakistani actress.

    While the film has faced backlash from some Indian netizens, many fans from both India and Pakistan have applauded the film’s message of artistic unity and cultural collaboration, with Hania Aamir becoming a symbol of that stance.

    With only three days left until the film’s release on June 27, excitement is building, and fans can’t wait to see this dynamic duo light up the screen.

  • Oil prices plunge as Iran-Israel ceasefire eases supply concerns

    Oil prices plunge as Iran-Israel ceasefire eases supply concerns

    Oil prices recorded a major decline in the global market on Tuesday after Israel agreed to US President Donald Trump’s proposal to a ceasefire with Iran. According to reports, this has eased concerns about disruptions in oil supply to the international market.

    Data from the New York Mercantile Exchange reveals that Brent crude futures fell below the $70 support level, recorded a sharp 9.99% decline between June 23 at 12:30 PM (UTC-4) and June 24 at 3:00 AM (UTC-4). This caused prices to fall to $65.68 per barrel. 

    A statement released by the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that Israel agreed to a ceasefire with Iran as it had accomplished its objectives for destroying the country’s ballistic missile and nuclear threat. The US President made an announcement on Monday, outlining that if both Iran and Israel cease hostilities, the conflict would end after 24 hours.

    The 12-day Iran-Israel conflict drove oil prices to a five-month high. The hike in global oil prices detrimentally impacted the global economy, causing capital markets across the region to take a hit, including the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX).

    Analysts believe that the ceasefire could result in oil prices declining to previous levels. However, analysts also outline that oil prices will only become less volatile if both sides adhere to the ceasefire.

    Currently, Iran is the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries’ (OPEC) third-largest crude oil producer, and many feared further hikes in the price of oil as large-scale attacks on the country’s oil installations could have resulted in a major drop in supply.

    Moreover, the war could have spread to the Strait of Hormuz, which witnesses the transport of 20 percent of the world’s oil supply, including exports from non-belligerent countries such as Kuwait, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

    Reports suggest that disruptions faced by naval cargo vessels in the region could have slingshot prices past the $100 per barrel resistance level. It merits a mention that Brent crude futures have remained under $100 per barrel since August 2022, highlighting the severity of the situation.

    However, analysts predict that the risk premium built into oil prices because of Iran-Israel tensions is likely to diminish significantly, resulting in a drop in prices.

  • ‘Do you like him?’: Sameer’s gentle question to Amal wins the internet

    ‘Do you like him?’: Sameer’s gentle question to Amal wins the internet

    ARY Digital’s hit drama Parwarish continues to captivate viewers and the latest episode has taken the internet by storm thanks to a powerful moment between siblings Amal and Sameer.

    In a standout scene towards the end of the episode, Amal finally opens up to her brother about her feelings for Wali. Sameer, already observant of her behavior, gently asks, “Do you like him?”

    This small but heartfelt exchange left fans emotional, praising the show for portraying a supportive brother instead of the usual angry and aggressive sibling trope often seen in Pakistani dramas.

    Sameer’s witty personality further won audiences over when he became a much-needed comic relief during tense scenes. His humorous interaction with Wali, especially checking up on him after he ran away from home, was both hilarious and heartwarming.

    Meanwhile, Amal’s character is also breaking stereotypes. Instead of being portrayed as manipulative or negative for having one-sided feelings, she’s shown as sincere and emotionally aware. 

    Viewers appreciated that writers gave her depth and dignity. In one touching scene, she says: “He only remembers me when he has some new problem. I still like him. I still protect him. I still find answers to his problems.”

    One fan’s comment summed up the audience’s response perfectly, “Amal has one-sided feelings, yes, but she was never toxic about it. And I love that the show let her realize Wali isn’t right for her, without making it all about competition. Girls aren’t rehab centers. She deserves someone who chooses her without needing to be ‘fixed’. This kind of maturity is so rare in dramas.”

    As for Wali, his storyline took another unexpected twist. He accepts an invitation from a mysterious stranger who oddly had been sleeping on the street despite owning a house. The man’s cryptic words left fans questioning what’s really going on as Wali enters a strange new environment.

    The drama also delivered an uplifting moment through Maya, who confidently tells her parents she will return to university and sit her exams. When her father hesitantly expresses concern about what others might say, she replies, “That’s what’s happening at home already.”

    Her father can’t help but laugh at her boldness a subtle, heartwarming scene that left a smile on viewers’ faces.

    In contrast, the show also paints a more realistic picture of dysfunctional family dynamics. A tense scene between Sameer and Amal’s parents shows their father disrespecting their mother and claiming he alone knows what’s best. This realistic depiction of varying family dynamics is another reason Parwarish resonates so strongly with audiences.

    With growing suspense, depth, and powerful emotional beats, Parvarish is not just winning hearts in Pakistan but has now gripped fans across India and Bangladesh as well.

  • ‘We’ll ensure he gets no work’; Indian film body targets Diljit Dosanjh for casting Hania Aamir in Sardaar Ji 3

    ‘We’ll ensure he gets no work’; Indian film body targets Diljit Dosanjh for casting Hania Aamir in Sardaar Ji 3

    The much-anticipated film Sardaar Ji 3, featuring Indian star Diljit Dosanjh and Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, has sparked major controversy in India.

    The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has announced a complete boycott of the film, and the trailer has already been blocked on YouTube India. While the trailer excited fans with its comic and fantasy-packed scenes, Hania Aamir’s presence has triggered strong backlash.

    Amid rising political tensions between Pakistan and India, FWICE has called for a total ban on Diljit Dosanjh’s current and future projects and has appealed to ban the film’s producers as well.

    FWICE President BN Tiwari, in an interview with Hindustan Times, stated, “Diljit Dosanjh has hurt the sentiments of the Indian people by working with a Pakistani actress and insulted the sacrifices of our brave soldiers. At a time when the country is going through sensitive situations, his preference for a Pakistani artist raises questions about his loyalty.”

    In response to the uproar and anticipated protests, the makers of Sardar Ji 3 have decided to release the film only overseas, completely skipping the Indian market. While the trailer has been geo-blocked on YouTube India but remains available on Diljit Dosanjh’s official Instagram account.

    The trailer release also shuts down rumours circulating earlier that Hania Aamir had been removed from the film. In fact, the trailer features her in a lead role as a ghostbuster. On her Instagram, Hania shared the trailer and wrote, “Main taa darr gai.”

    The film comes after a tense phase between Pakistan and India following the April 22 Pahalgam attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), in which more than 26 civilians were killed. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting areas inside Pakistan and martyring over 31 civilians. Pakistan responded with a powerful counterstrike, hitting several Indian military bases and shooting down seven Indian jets, including four Rafales. After Pakistan’s strong and swift retaliation, India, which had initially taken an aggressive stance, was compelled to return to the ceasefire table.

  • Fact Check: Has federal govt banned Saadat Hasan Manto’s writings?

    Fact Check: Has federal govt banned Saadat Hasan Manto’s writings?

    A notification has been circulated online claiming that the Government of Pakistan has imposed a ban on the publication, distribution, and promotion of the writings of renowned short story writer Saadat Hasan Manto by deeming his writing obscene and contrary to public decency and morality.

    The notification, inscribed with the date of June 22, 2025, claims to be issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (National Heritage and Culture Division).

    The notification reads, “All educational institutions across Pakistan are instructed to remove the works of Saadat Hasan Manto from their syllabi, libraries, and reading lists effective immediately.”

    All electronic and print media outlets have been instructed to prohibit publishing or airing any writing or excerpts of the author, the notification noted. It further advised social media platforms and digital content distributors to take down all content based on Manto’s writing.

    The notification said that if the instructions are not followed, then legal action shall be initiated under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and other applicable laws.

    Similarly, as per the notification, booksellers, publishers, and online vendors were directed to cease the sale and circulation of all books authored by Manto.

    The notification was circulated on social media platforms, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), which it can be seen here, and here.

    Is the notification real?

    The Current examined the notification closely and found it to be fabricated based on the fact that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s website has not published any such notification.

    The notification also lacks  public announcement or media coverage. Additionally, a keyword search has also not found any such notification being issued officially.

    Meanwhile, historical precedent exists for the censorship of Manto’s works. One of the greatest writers of the Urdu language, Manto was known for his brutally realistic portrayal of life and its stinging moral and political commentary. 

    Manto was put on trial several times for spreading obscenity through his short story Thanda Gosht and was penalised for writing something that may have been violent and explicit.