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  • Child marriage bill gets passed despite opposition

    Child marriage bill gets passed despite opposition

    The National Assembly of Pakistan has passed the Islamabad Capital Territory Child Marriage Restriction Bill, 2025, in a historic step towards safeguarding children’s rights and bringing national legislation into compliance with international human rights standards.

    The National Assembly unanimously passed the bill introduced by PPP MNA Sharmila Faruqui. It was then sent to the president for assent, but the Senate opposed it, with several senators demanding that it be sent to the CII first.

    It seeks to set the minimum marriage age at 18 for both boys and girls in Islamabad and federal territories, replacing legislation that dates back to British colonial rule.

     Under the proposed law, facilitating or conducting a child marriage will be considered a criminal offense, carrying penalties of up to seven years’ imprisonment. 

    The bill also classifies sexual relations with a minor within marriage as statutory rape. After the CII’s 243rd session, which took place on May 27–28, the Council released a statement criticizing several of the bill’s clauses.

     These include setting a legal age for marriage and criminalizing marriage below 18 years as abuse, which the council said are not in accordance with Islamic injunctions.

    “The bill introduced by Madam Sharmila Faruqui … has been declared un-Islamic,” read a statement from the council’s media wing. CII member Maulana Jalaluddin of JUI-F added that the bill contradicts Shariah, traditions, and societal values, and claimed it was passed without the council’s prior review. 

    Clerics from various religious schools of thought have appealed to President Asif Ali Zardari not to sign the bill, urging him to prevent what they termed “anarchy in society.”

    Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the leader of JUI-F, criticized the bill during a parliamentary debate and requested that it be sent to the CII prior to receiving presidential assent.


    MNA Faruqui responded to the criticism by saying that the bill’s main objectives are human rights and child welfare.

     Girls under the age of 18 are not allowed to vote, obtain a driver’s license, or obtain a CNIC. “How is it just to let them get married,” she asked.  

    Faruqui also mentioned a Federal Shariat Court ruling from 2022 that supported the state’s authority to establish the legal minimum age of marriage.


    In Pakistan, 29 percent of girls are married by 18 , according to a 2018 demographic survey, and four percent marry before the age of 15 compared with five percent for boys, according to Girls Not Brides, a global coalition aiming to end child marriage. 

    The country is among the top 10 worldwide with the highest absolute number of women who were married or in a union before the age of 18. Girls who marry are less likely to finish school and are more likely to face domestic violence, abuse and health problems. 

    Pregnancies become higher risk for child brides, with a greater chance of fistulas, sexually transmitted infections or even death. Teenagers are more likely to die from complications during childbirth than women in their 20s.

    The Child Marriage Restraint Act of 1929 was amended in Punjab in 2015, keeping the minimum marriage age at 16 for girls and 18 for boys but increasing penalties. 

    Offenders risk a fine of Rs. 50,000 and six months in jail. Civil society groups have recommended raising the age for girls to 18, but the proposal awaits a decision from the CII.


    The Sindh Child Marriage Restraint Act, which was implemented in 2013, makes  Sindh the only province where the legal marriage age for both men and women is 18.

    President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday gave his assent to the Islamabad Capital Territory Child Marriage Restraint Bill, finalising its enactment despite continued criticism from religious groups.

  • Inflation projected to rise after record low

    Inflation projected to rise after record low

    The Monthly Economic Update and Outlook by the Ministry of Finance (MoF) indicates that inflation was projected to rise during May and June 2025.

    For May, inflation is expected to sit between 1.5 percent to two percent, wheras it could rise to three to four percent by June. Reports have highlighted that estimates for the current and upcoming months are significantly higher compared to the “record low” 0.3 percent inflation rate recorded in April.

    While inflation rates seem to be subdued, earlier reports indicated that the decline in inflation rates can be chalked up to the ‘base effect’ of the inflation rate the economy experienced in the previous periods.

    The base effect in this context entails that subsequent increases in the prices of goods and services have been limited after inflation rates touched their peak of almost 38 percent in May 2023. However, the effect of inflation from the previous period reportedly continues to diminish the purchasing power of Pakistani citizens and businesses alike. 

    Details in the MoF’s monthly update also suggest that Large-Scale Manufacturing (LSM) remains subdued. However, the LSM sector is expected to improve its output in the next few months despite contractions in the sector on both year-on-year (YoY) and month-on-month (MoM) terms.

    As per reports, high-frequency indicators have been moving in the right direction, suggesting optimism in the sector. Improvements in the aforementioned indicators include the State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) expansionary monetary policy, imports of raw materials and an increase in automobile output levels.

    The SBP raised interest rates to an extortionate 22 percent in an attempt to rein in inflation rates. This measure curbed demand for consumer and business loans, resulting in a slowdown in the LSM sector.

    However, the SBP has slashed policy rates by a staggering 1,100 basis points over the past year, easing borrowing costs for manufacturers, which could help increase production levels. Moreover, consumers can avail themselves of lower rates while purchasing these goods, resulting in increased demand for LSM sector products.

    Aside from inflation rates, the MoF also outlined how the increased availability of water and improved weather conditions could boost crop output levels. If the agricultural sector witnesses growth owing to better natural conditions, it could translate into higher economic growth.

  • ‘Yeh humaray bags uthata tha’: Dr Nauman Niaz sues Shoaib Akhtar for ‘lying’

    ‘Yeh humaray bags uthata tha’: Dr Nauman Niaz sues Shoaib Akhtar for ‘lying’

    The long-standing tension between former Pakistani fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar and senior sports journalist Dr. Nauman Niaz has once again intensified.

    Dr. Niaz has issued a legal notice to Akhtar following a controversial remark made by the former cricketer during Episode 31 of The Dug Out, a cricket show streamed on Tamasha on May 25, 2025.

    While speaking on the show, Shoaib said, “Yeh Dr. Nauman Niaz hamarey bag uthata tha, humney issey bag uthaney ke liye rakha hua tha,” suggesting that Niaz once worked as someone who carried his bags. Dr Niaz’s legal team has deemed this comment false, insulting, and damaging to his reputation.

    The legal notice, sent on May 29 by lawyer Qazi Umair Ali, says Shoaib’s statements have repeatedly hurt Dr Niaz’s image and caused emotional and professional damage. It also points out Dr Niaz’s long service in sports journalism, his high-level roles in the Pakistan Cricket Board, and his Tamgha-e-Imtiaz award.

    The notice warns that further legal action may be taken under Pakistan’s Defamation Ordinance 2002 if Shoaib does not issue a public apology or retract his statement.

    This isn’t the first time the two have clashed. In 2021, their on-air argument made headlines when Shoaib Akhtar walked off a live PTV Sports show. Although the matter appeared resolved at the time, tensions have persisted.

  • Pakistan boasts crypto reserve; State Bank says ban still in place

    Pakistan boasts crypto reserve; State Bank says ban still in place

    The Ministry of Finance (MoF) and the State Bank of Pakistan have reiterated that cryptocurrency and its transactions remain illegal under current regulations. This announcement, made on Thursday, comes as Islamabad takes steps to adopt and regulate cryptocurrencies on the international stage.

    Earlier this week, in a bid to integrate digital assets into the formal economic structure of the country, the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC) revealed Pakistan’s first-ever government-led Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. According to reports, PCC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Bilal Bin Saqib made the announcement during a keynote speech at Bitcoin Vegas 2025 in Las Vegas, United States.

    However, reports reveal that Finance Secretary Imdadullah Bosal has outlined how a crypto ban remains in place because of regulations on digital assets set by the SBP and Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). The finance secretary further highlighted how crypto is not “legal tender” in Pakistan at the moment and that a legal framework can only come into place when the federal government “formally takes a decision”.

    Moreover, crypto use lacks the parliamentary backing that is needed to legalise it in the near future. Members of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue remain confused over Islamabad’s approach to crypto. As per reports, Mirza Ikhtiar Baig asked why the government has encouraged the general public to invest in crypto when it is banned under current laws.

    He even warned investors, outlining how they could face serious consequences for investing in crypto. As per an executive director at the SBP, cryptocurrencies, including bitcoin, were declared illegal under a directive issued by the bank in 2024, with the Financial Monitoring Unit (FMU) still looking into crypto cases to refer to authorities. 

    Another official has reportedly raised concerns, shedding light on how the federal government is dedicating surplus power for bitcoin mining operations despite crypto being illegal in Pakistan.

    Mohammad Mobeen has reportedly asked why Islamabad is dealing with crypto instead of the SBP, as it could be better suited for the job of maintaining the country’s newly established crypto wallet. Critiquing the government’s approach further, he outlined how the PCC’s CEO has been meeting with leaders in the digital asset space to garner investments despite the illegal status of cryptocurrencies in Pakistan.

    Shahram Khan Tarakai has suggested that crypto may accelerate the outflow of foreign exchange from the domestic market, leading to a crisis. Committee members have also requested clarification on whether crypto mining will be controlled by the public or private sector.

  • Internet reacts to THAT ‘Fifty Shades’ scene from drama Mann Mast Malang

    Internet reacts to THAT ‘Fifty Shades’ scene from drama Mann Mast Malang

    The hit Pakistani drama Mann Mast Malang, a tale of love, revenge, and feuding families, has found itself at the center of a social media storm after a recent episode featured an intense romantic scene many viewers called “inappropriate” and “offensive.”

    Written by Tere Bin writer Nooran Makhdoom and directed by Ali Faizan, the drama stars Danish Taimoor as Kabir Khan and Sahar Hashmi as Riya Asghar Ali. 

    The story follows two rival families torn apart after Kabir accidentally kills Riya’s mother sparking a complex emotional and romantic entanglement between the two leads.

    While the drama has maintained popularity across Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Nepal for its gripping storyline and strong performances, its recent episode drew backlash for a scene that many felt crossed the line of decency. Kabir forcefully grabs Riya and pulls her into a passionate dance sequence, which was meant to portray emotional intensity but instead left many viewers disturbed.

    Shortly after the episode aired, X (formerly Twitter) filled up with reactions both critical and humorous. One viral post sarcastically labeled the scene, “Fifty Shades of Gluta Taimoor (Pakistani version).”

    Another user wrote, “Every clip of Danish Taimoor I’ve seen today has been against my will.”

    Critics accused the show of glamorizing harassment and pushing the boundaries of acceptable content on mainstream Pakistani TV.

    “It’s quite sad to see that Pakistani dramas, once celebrated for their subtle romance, are now borrowing indecency from Indian content.”

    “Harassment is being normalized in Pakistani dramas.”

    Others expressed broader concerns about the impact of such portrayals on audiences, with one comment reading, “These vulgar dramas have destroyed the innocent minds of people.”

    Others took aim at Danish Taimoor himself, with fans pointing out a contradiction between his real-life image and the kind of scenes he’s now portraying on screen.

    Further controversy erupted after another scene showed Kabir handcuffing Riya to a bed to stop her from leaving. This moment quickly went viral and divided the internet.

    Some called it “cringeworthy” and “overdramatic,” while others defended the scene by pointing out how audiences often accept similar scenes in Western or Indian content without backlash.

    “Drama is too good. The story, the script, and the performance are perfect, but being this physical is making me hate it.”

    “Lately, Pakistani dramas are turning into short-reel dramas we scroll past in our feeds.”

    Mann Mast Malang has aired 41 episodes so far and continues to receive both praise and criticism. While many fans appreciate the chemistry between Danish Taimoor and Sahar Hashmi, a growing number are calling for greater cultural sensitivity in how romantic or intimate scenes are portrayed.

    Some fans are urging production houses to remember the cultural context and audience expectations, asking, “Are ratings more important than values?”

  • What happened behind the scenes in Love Guru?

    What happened behind the scenes in Love Guru?

    Superstar Mahira Khan has shared exclusive behind-the-scenes footage from her much-anticipated romantic film Love Guru, which is set to release on Eid al-Adha.

    Mahira is currently promoting the film in full swing. She’s traveling internationally, appearing in interviews, and sharing glimpses from the film on social media to build excitement.

    As part of the film’s promotion, songs are being released gradually each one adding to the hype. The campaign kicked off with the Aatein Mauj Karawa, followed by the soulful title track Dil Toran Walia, and recently, the romantic Be Khabriyaan, which has already racked up millions of views.

    With Eid around the corner, fans are eagerly waiting to watch Mahira and Humayun Saeed together on screen. And now, the latest BTS video posted by Mahira has only increased the buzz. The video features stunning shots of her filming in scenic locations sunny streets, lush gardens, chilly settings and yes, one scene that truly stands out: a beautiful moment where Mahira and Humayun are seen sitting in a boat together. The visuals are dreamy, romantic, and already a fan favorite. The boat scene, with its serene vibe and perfect chemistry, is being widely praised online.

    In the caption of her BTS post, Mahira wrote, “Little bit of Love Guru BTS x P.S I don’t know how to jog and I begged my director to show me walking or something but he wanted a JOG and ugh it was tough.


    Also notice how I had Toot Gaya playing through every scene… whatta whatta song! Can’t wait for it to release, InshAllah.”

    In the post, Mahira admitted that jogging for a scene was tough for her. She wanted to walk, but the director insisted on a jog. Fans loved her honesty and many praised her dedication. She also mentioned her love for the unreleased song Toot Gaya, which played in her ears during the shoot. She can’t wait for it to release officially.

    Fans are showing excitement in the comments. One wrote, “This will be my very first time watching a Pakistani movie in the cinema, and I’m doing it to support our amazing stars! Best of luck. ”

    Another fan said, “All the best, Queen ❤”

    Love Guru stars Mahira Khan and Humayun Saeed in lead roles and is produced by Humayun Saeed, Shehzad Nasib, and Jerjees Seja, with Salman Iqbal as executive producer. The script is written by Vasay Chaudhry, who is known for writing Jawani Phir Nahi Ani 1 and 2.

    The film also features Momina Iqbal, Mira Sethi, Sohai Ali Abro, Amara Malik, Adnan Shah Tipu, Marina Khan, Usman Peerzada, and Javed Sheikh. There are also reports of a surprise guest appearance by a well-known Pakistani actor.

    Mahira plays Sofia Khan, a Pashtun architect living in the U.S., who falls in love with a charming man known as the “Love Guru,” played by Humayun Saeed. The trailer shows hints of romance and transformation, as Humayun’s character a known playboy starts to change after being given an important responsibility by Sofia’s father, played by Javed Sheikh.

    Shot in London, the film presents Mahira as a bold, artistic, and modern woman. Humayun, on the other hand, plays a flirtatious man who discovers the meaning of true love. During promotions, Mahira also had a surprise meeting with internet personality Oniya, which added to the film’s buzz.

  • Shashi Tharoor whines to Colombian govt about sympathising with Pakistan during conflict

    Shashi Tharoor whines to Colombian govt about sympathising with Pakistan during conflict

    India Member of Parliament (MP) Shashi Tharoor, considered one of the stalwarts of Congress, said on Thursday that India was “a little disappointed” with the Colombian government after it expressed condolences on the loss of lives in India’s attack on Pakistan last month.

    “We were a little disappointed in the reaction of the Colombian government, which apparently expressed heartfelt condolences on the loss of lives in Pakistan after the Indian strikes, rather than sympathising with the victims of terrorism,” he said while addressing the media in Bogota, Colombia. 

    “We will say to our friends in Colombia, there can be no equivalence between those who dispatch terrorists and those who resist them. There can be no equivalence between those who attack and those who defend,” he said.

    Tharoor further said that New Delhi is exercising its right of self-defence, adding, “If there is any misunderstanding here, on this core, we are here to dispel any such misunderstanding.”

    The Colombian government had offered condolences to Pakistan over the civilian deaths in the Indian strikes in multiple cities in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur and Muridke, on the night between May 6 and 7.

    In response to India’s cowardly missile attack, Pakistan Air Force (PAF) reacted swiftly, downing multiple Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter jets, including three 4.5-generation Rafales.

    Tharoor is currently leading a multi-party delegation to Guyana, Panama, Colombia, Brazil, and the United States after New Delhi faced humiliation when no country supported India’s aggression against Pakistan.

    On the other side, Turkey, China and Azerbaijan came out openly in support of defending Pakistan’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

  • Indian franchise owner jailed for two years over match-fixing

    Indian franchise owner jailed for two years over match-fixing

    An Indian national and owner of the Lanka T10 League franchise Galle Marvels, Prem Thakur, has been sentenced to two years in prison and handed a 10-year ban after pleading guilty to match-fixing charges.

    According to media reports, Thakur was convicted under Sri Lanka’s Prevention of Offenses Relating to Sports Act. He admitted to attempting match-fixing during the Lanka T10 League and was sentenced to two years in jail, fined INR 6 million, ordered to pay INR 1 million in compensation, and banned from all sports-related activities for 10 years.

    The Kandy High Court also approved a request by the ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit to access and analyse data from Thakur’s mobile phone as part of their ongoing investigation.

    Furthermore, Thakur has been ordered to leave Sri Lanka after paying the fine and compensation.

    In December 2024, Thakur attempted to approach West Indies cricketer Andre Fletcher with offers of match-fixing and illegal benefits during his participation in the Lanka T10 League with Galle Marvels.

  • Shamsher looks like the sports drama we have all been waiting for

    Shamsher looks like the sports drama we have all been waiting for

    Singer-turned-actor Farhan Saeed’s new series Shamsher is bringing the national sport of Pakistan, hockey, back into the spotlight. While cricket often dominates screens and conversations, Shamsher offers a fresh take by telling a powerful story through hockey.

    The series isn’t just about matches and medals. It focuses on passion, struggle, and the fight to survive in a tough world. The trailer, which recently dropped, gives off intense and emotional vibes, showing that Shamsher is more than just a sports drama.

    Farhan Saeed plays the lead role of Shamsher, a man trying to chase his dreams while facing real-life challenges both on and off the hockey field. He’s up against personal struggles, pressure from society, and corruption in the sports arena. The trailer shows a raw and emotional side of the character, making him feel relatable and real.

    Hareem Farooq plays Shamsher’s wife, a strong and supportive partner who stands by him in tough times.

    Adnan Jaffar takes on the role of the main villain, representing the darker side of sports politics. Meanwhile, Umer Aalam plays a young, passionate hockey player whose dreams are held back by limited opportunities, a struggle many can relate to.

    The cast also includes Behroze Sabzwari, Deepak Perwani, and others, bringing serious talent to the screen. The trailer is packed with intense scenes, motivational music, and high-energy visuals from gritty training shots to emotional moments that hit hard.

    Directed by Shehrazade Sheikh and produced by Nina Kashif and Tapmad Originals, Shamsher will premiere on June 13, exclusively on Tapmad.

  • ‘I will be martyred’: Last video of Lieutenant Daniyal goes viral after shahadat

    ‘I will be martyred’: Last video of Lieutenant Daniyal goes viral after shahadat

    Pakistan Army’s young and valiant officer Lieutenant Daniyal Ismail embraced martyrdom during a fierce exchange of fire with terrorists in the Shawal area of North Waziristan on the night of May 28-29. At just 23 years of age, the brave son of Mardan laid down his life while leading his troops from the front, defending the motherland against an infiltration attempt by Indian-sponsored terrorists.

    After he was martyred, a video of him recorded with a friend has gone viral on social media. In the short clip he laughingly says, “I will be martyred, but I don’t know what will happen to him,” pointing towards his friend who is walking with him. “Will he even come to my funeral or not? Just look at him; he doesn’t get a single day off from his platoon to come to Afghanistan. But for a martyr’s funeral, you do get one day off in the platoon.”

    According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the infiltration bid took place on the night of May 28–29, when terrorists of the banned outfit Fitna al-Khawarij attempted to attack a check post. Pakistani troops responded swiftly and effectively, killing six terrorists. However, in the intense battle that followed, four brave soldiers, including Lt. Daniyal, were martyred.

    Lt. Daniyal had joined the Pakistan Army just seven months ago. His father serves as a civilian driver in the Pakistan Air Force. Daniyal’s courage and commitment, despite his young age and brief service period, left a lasting impact. He is survived by his family, including his father and brother.

    Alongside Lieutenant Daniyal Ismail, three other soldiers also embraced martyrdom during the operation. Naib Subedar Kashif Raza, 41, from Chakwal, had served in the Pakistan Army for 21 years and is survived by his wife, a daughter, and two sons. Lance Naik Fayaqat Ali, 35, from Haripur, served for 15 years and leaves behind his wife, a daughter, and three sons. Sepoy Muhammad Hameed, 26, from Abbottabad, had been serving for six years; his mother is among the mourners.

    Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi paid tribute to the fallen heroes, stating, “The great sacrifice of Lieutenant Daniyal and the other martyrs will never be forgotten. They not only defended the nation but also thwarted the evil plans of Fitna-ul-Hindustan.”

    Many users praised Lieutenant Daniyal’s courage and spirit on X (formerly Twitter). One wrote, “You took the lead, Sir. You fought bravely.” Another asked, “How can India or anyone else ever fight a spirit like his?” Some called the moment a heartbreaking reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers, with one user posting, “May Allah bless you with the highest place in Jannah.”