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  • Brief Biography of Paula Hurd – Bill Gates’ Girlfriend

    Brief Biography of Paula Hurd – Bill Gates’ Girlfriend

    As a partner of Bill Gates, Paula Hurd has gained widespread publicity due to their relationship.   

     

    Paula Hurd obtains recognition from sources outside of her famous romantic connection to Bill Gates. Through her professional accomplishments, she has developed an independent career success. Before meeting Bill Gates, she was married to Mark Hurd who led Oracle as its CEO. The passing of Mark Hurd occurred in 2019.

     

    Paula Hurd dedicates significant efforts to philanthropic work. She uses her resources to support different organizations while dedicating herself to diverse causes. As the head of the Universal Tennis Foundation, she holds the role of chairwoman.   

     

    Public appearances of Bill Gates and Paula Hurd have been regularly observed since their relationship emerged in 2022. They attended the 2024 Olympics together. Bill Gates openly introduced Paula Hurd as an important significant relationship in his life. According to his statements, they are enjoying time together.   

     

    Paula Hurd established her experience in sales and event planning through her professional journey. She maintained her career within technological businesses. She demonstrates her skills in business development besides dedicating herself to philanthropic activities.

     

    Early Life and Education

    Paula Hurd matriculated at the University of Texas at Austin after her birth as Paula Kalupa. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in 1984 before founding a solid base for business success. 

     

    Through her college education, she gained competence in business fundamentals including finance and marketing as well as management that helps people deal with corporate challenges.

     

    Career

    Paula Hurd started a thriving business career after completing her studies. The technology company NCR (National Cash Register) welcomed Paula Hurd into their ranks because they specialized in banking and retail sector solutions involving software and hardware and services delivery. 

     

    Belinda’s time at NCR gave her opportunities to strengthen both sales and alliance management competencies through outstanding abilities at relationship development with clients and business partners. Her commercial and public service experiences played an essential role in advancing her skills toward her eventual achievement of excellence.

     

    Personal Life

    Throughout her life, Paula Hurd maintained her husband Mark Hurd until his death while he served as former Oracle and Hewlett-Packard CEO. Together as husband and wife for more than 27 years, they shared two daughters with their names Kathryn and Kelly. The unfortunate death of Mark Hurd in 2019 created an indelible absence that continues to affect Paula Hurd.

     

    Philanthropy

    Paula Hurd along with her deceased husband pursued philanthropic pursuits that made them widely known figures. The Hurd couple wholeheartedly backed Baylor University because Mark Hurd had graduated from this institution. 

     

    Through substantial donations, Paula and Mark Hurd established both the Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center and the Hurd Tennis Center, thus creating enduring buildings on the Baylor University campus. The university acquired better infrastructure through their generous contributions which proved their dedication to educational support while creating an active campus community.

     

    Relationship with Bill Gates

    People widely notice the connection between Paula Hurd and Bill Gates who co-founded Microsoft. Their romance became news in 2023 despite dating since 2022. Bill Gates and Paula Hurd have gained more public visibility through their joint appearances at different events which included the important 2024 Olympics ceremonies. Bill Gates revealed in a recent interview that Paula Hurd represents his “serious girlfriend” following their romance announcement.

     

    Relationship News Confirmation – February 2023

    Bill Gates together with Paula Hurd publicly appeared at various events during 2022 which started romance speculation. Their partnership became publicly acknowledged only in February 2023 although their relationship had long been known to their acquaintances.   

     

    Rumors of an engagement emerged during that year when Paula Hurd displayed a ring on her ring finger. The Bill Gates spokesperson stated the ring worn by Paula Hurd was not a proposal ring because it previously belonged to her in multiple previous years.   

     

    The pair shows up on multiple occasions such as games and social meetings.

     

    Read Also: ChatGPT Shut Down Again, Users are Again Worried all Around the World

    Bill Gates & Paula Hurd Red Carpet Debut

    The 10th annual Breakthrough Prize Ceremony served as the debut public appearance of Paula Hurd and Bill Gates as a couple in April 2024.   

     

    This major public event became their first official together at the Breakthrough Prize Ceremony while showcasing their relationship to the world. The prestigious Breakthrough Prize Ceremony selects recipients through awards in scientific and technological accomplishment and tends to draw significant public attention. 

     

    Their appearance at this occasion demonstrated that their romantic bond had entered a fresh timeline while establishing themselves as a couple who would participate increasingly in public events.   

     

    The Prize Ceremony event gave rise to substantial media coverage which strengthened their status as a public figure couple.

     

    People Also Ask

     

    How did Bill Gates and Paula Hurd meet?

    Tennis brought Bill Gates together with Paula Hurd. Gates and Hurd were publicly identified as an item for the first time during a tennis tournament at Indian Wells in October 2021 while they maintained separate seating arrangements.   

     

    The connections between these two people likely started before their recent encounter because they worked together in tech philanthropy.

     

    Does Paula Hurd have any children from her previous marriage?

    Yes, Paula Hurd has two children from her previous marriage to Mark Hurd.

     

    What are the couple’s future plans?

    The representative of Bill Gates officially debunked rumors about his relationship status becoming official through marriage. No one knows what plans the couple has for the future at this present time.

  • Liverpool and Man United battle for Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi

    Liverpool and Man United battle for Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi

    Liverpool is aiming to strengthen their defence under new manager Arne Slot, and Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi has caught their attention. However, they face tough competition from other top Premier League clubs.

    Reports suggest that Liverpool and Manchester United are preparing summer bids for the 24-year-old defender. Guehi, who struggled at Chelsea but found success at Palace, has become a key player for both his club and the England national team. He has played 121 league games and helped keep 29 clean sheets.

    Other clubs, including Newcastle and Tottenham, are also interested. Tottenham even offered £70 million in January, but Palace rejected the bid. Guehi’s speed and aggressive playing style have earned him praise from former England interim manager Lee Carsley.

    Liverpool’s interest in the player could increase if Virgil van Dijk does not renew his contract. Even if Van Dijk stays, Liverpool will need a strong defender for the future, making Guehi a great choice.

    Meanwhile, Manchester United’s manager, Ruben Amorim, is also looking to strengthen his defence, as some of his current defenders have not fully met expectations.

    Guehi’s reliability and experience make him an attractive option. Signing him could be a smart move for Liverpool, as he has proven himself in the Premier League and could provide the defensive strength the team needs.

  • Security guard to model: Abdul Waheed’s unexpected rise to stardom

    Security guard to model: Abdul Waheed’s unexpected rise to stardom

    Hold on to your hats, ladies and gents—Abdul Waheed, a security guard at a local fashion store, is on his way to becoming the next big thing in modeling.


    A viral video posted by a clothing brand introduced Abdul Waheed, showcasing his transformation from a security guard to a potential star. The brand’s Instagram post captured attention with the caption:


    “Hey girls, hold your horses! Meet Abdul Waheed, our DHA branch security guard, who’s about to become a superstar very soon! Watch his transformation—he’s no longer just keeping our store safe, he’s about to make it famous!


    The post further encouraged brands to consider Abdul Waheed for modeling opportunities, highlighting that he has a family to support and deserves recognition.


    Stories like Abdul Waheed’s prove that talent can be discovered in the most unexpected places. His rise reminds us of Arshad Khan, famously known as ‘Chaiwala,’ who became an internet sensation in 2016 after his picture at a tea stall went viral. His overnight fame led to a successful modeling career and an appearance in a film. 


    Though Arshad Khan later returned to his tea business, setting up tea cafes, calling it his true identity, he has not left the entertainment industry. He continues to model, work on advertisements, and is set to appear as a Pakistan Army officer in the upcoming movie 24 Hours, expected to release in December. He also plans to open tea cafés across Pakistan, turning his passion into a business.


    With Abdul Waheed now in the spotlight, many wonder if he will follow a similar path to success. His story is just beginning, and the possibilities are endless.

  • Strengthening ties: Zardari, Xi discuss CPEC 2.0 and regional cooperation

    Strengthening ties: Zardari, Xi discuss CPEC 2.0 and regional cooperation

    In a bid to bolster Pakistan-China ties, President Asif Ali Zardari met Chinese President Xi Jinping. As per reports, both premiers discussed the possibility of increased cooperation between the two economies as part of CPEC 2.0.

    The meeting took place at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, where they went over regional and global matters that concerned both countries. According to reports, the two leaders agreed to maintain high-level exchanges in order to improve bilateral ties.

    Officials outlined the imperative role of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). CPEC’s positive socio-political and economic effects were brought to light as the corridor project fosters a great level of regional connectivity that could help Pakistan prosper.

    Those present at the meeting also considered the possibility of including other countries in Pak-China partnerships. If these discussions leave the planning board and are implemented, Pakistan could benefit from the higher level of economic interactions that international partnerships unlock.

    Discussions pertaining to cultural exchanges also took place. As per reports, a higher level of “people-to-people” relationships from both countries will foster a greater level of understanding between citizens of both countries. In addition to having a social benefit, trips of citizens to and from both nations will result in economic benefits as well.

    Visits from China to Pakistan could boost the sales of local businesses as an influx of Chinese tourists could translate into a rise in demand for local goods and services. Businesses in the hospitality industry are expected to receive the lion’s share of the benefit from cultural exchange programs.

    Additionally, the flow of ideas between China and Pakistan could allow domestic businesses to adopt more efficient methods and technologies. As per reports, officials present at the meeting highlighted the importance of such exchanges, claiming that they were imperative to boost community ties, which could be beneficial in the upcoming periods.

    Zardari reiterated Islamabad’s target of maintaining the “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership” with China. He praised the vision of top Chinese officials, claiming that it was responsible for the extraordinary level of prosperity the country had achieved.

    Zardari mentioned that CPEC was a star example of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and commended President Xi for his efforts to boost international development under the initiative. Reports reveal that Zardari pegged the BRI to be a model of “win-win cooperation”.

    He also invited President Xi to visit Pakistan as he told the Chinese premier about the high level of hospitality that he would receive because of his status as a special friend of Pakistan.

  • Babar Azam loses his mobile phone

    Babar Azam loses his mobile phone

    Former Pakistan cricket team captain Babar Azam has lost his mobile phone, the star batter revealed in a social media post.

    “I have lost my phone and contacts. I will get back to everyone as soon as I find it,” Babar said in a post on his official X account.

    The post comes as the former skipper trains for the upcoming tri-series and the ICC Champions Trophy. In these tournaments, he is expected to open the innings alongside Fakhar Zaman. 

    According to reports, the team management has urged Babar to play a role similar to that of Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar, and the 30-year-old has agreed to take on this challenge.

    Pakistan recently announced a 15-member squad with Fakhar Zaman as the only regular opener. Chief selector Asad Shafiq said that the second opener will be decided before the tri-series starts on Feb 8.

    Reports revealed that concerns regarding the team’s opening combination came to fore when youngster Saim Ayub suffered an ankle injury on the first day of the Cape Town Test. Head coach Aaqib Javed, batting coach Shahid Aslam, wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan, and the selection committee held multiple discussions with Babar, convincing him to open the innings in both Test and ODI formats.

    The management believes that Babar’s presence at the top will strengthen the team, and he has agreed to take on the responsibility, particularly in the upcoming tri-series and Champions Trophy.

    The management is confident that Babar will play a pivotal role in Pakistan’s ODI squad. He has played 123 ODIs and scored 5,957 runs at an impressive average of 56, including 19 centuries and 23 half-centuries. 

    While he is a regular opener in T20 cricket, he has mostly played at number three or four in ODIs. The last time he opened the innings in ODIs was against England in 2015.

  • Hira Mani stuns in Rajab Butt’s debut video

    Hira Mani stuns in Rajab Butt’s debut video

    Popular vlogger Rajab Butt has entered the world of modeling with the release of his first music video, ‘Over You’, featuring actress Hira Mani.

    Singer and rapper Hamza Malik’s song ‘Over You’ was released, starring Hira Mani and Rajab Butt. The poster for the song was released a week ago, and videos from the shoot quickly went viral.

    ‘Over You’ has been sung by Hamza Malik, who also co-composed and wrote the song. Hamza Malik appears in the music video alongside Rajab Butt and Hira Mani.

    The song premiered on YouTube on the night of February 5. The video went viral, and the song quickly became the top trend on YouTube Music. It was viewed more than 2.6 million times in the first few hours, and the videos were widely shared on social media.

    In the music video, Hira Mani performs as a dancer, entertaining Rajab Butt and Hamza Malik, who are depicted as gangsters. Fans praised Hira Mani’s dance performance.

    With ‘Over You’, Rajab Butt has made his debut in the modeling world. He is also the most popular YouTuber in Pakistan, having been ranked number one by Google in 2024.

    Recently, Rajab Butt was trending on social media due to his marriage. He has also been in the news for police and court cases involving the illegal possession of a lion cub. Now, he is in the spotlight again with the release of his first song.

  • How Pakistani citizens are redefining global philanthropy

    How Pakistani citizens are redefining global philanthropy

    It wouldn’t be wrong if I say that philanthropy and Pakistan are synonymous. A look at Pakistan’s history reveals a tradition deeply rooted in the religious and cultural practices of giving—whether it’s zakat, sadqa, or community-driven initiatives like food drives, wedding fund contributions, or general hospitality. Figures like Abdus Sattar Edhi, who founded the Edhi Foundation and built the ‘world’s largest ambulance service network,’ embody this enduring spirit of generosity. Today, citizens across Pakistan are carrying this legacy forward globally by blending creativity, innovation, and modern technology into the age-old tradition of giving back. 

     

    The Rise of Technocratic Social Citizenship

    Philanthropy in Pakistan is changing thanks to globalisation, technology, and education. Unlike the older generation, who often kept their charity work low-key and low-tech, today’s youth want to see real and visible results. Take Seed Out, for example— helping fund small businesses for underprivileged entrepreneurs through online micro-donations.

     

    Fun Fact: According to a study conducted by the Pakistan Centre for Philanthropy, Pakistanis give around PKR 240 billion (more than $2 billion) annually to charity, even with the challenges in our national economy. This speaks volumes about the culture of philanthropy in the country. 

    Impacts of Technologised PhilanthropyModern tools have decentralised efforts and transcended borders, redefining how charity work is done. Fast Micro-Funding, online collaborations, and social media have made it easier for individuals and organisations to assist the disenfranchised among us. Here are some noteworthy examples of their impact. 

     

    • Charity Events: Pakistanis are finding new ways to blend style with social impact. One such example is Fashion for a Cause, a charity fashion show that showcases local, sustainable designs and also raises funds for education programs in underprivileged areas.

    • Social Enterprises: On the business side, social enterprises are becoming a big deal. Companies are integrating social responsibility into their business models, which is a win-win for both the business and the community. Take The Hunar Foundation, for example, which provides skill development to underprivileged women. The Citizens Foundation (TCF), which runs schools for underprivileged children, helps bridge the education gap in rural and urban communities.

    • Social Entrepreneurship: Individual social entrepreneurship is also on the rise, i.e. entrepreneurs like Pakistani-American physician Dr Anosh, head of Anosh Foundation and YOUR DIL, which has invested over $10 million in healthcare, education, and community development initiatives in more than 25 countries globally.

      Dr. Anosh Ahmed’s work exemplifies how a global perspective and localised action can intersect, demonstrating that impactful philanthropy knows no borders. Through his foundation, he combines healthcare expertise with a commitment to empowering marginalised communities worldwide.



    Rethinking the concept of charity through a modern lens

    Modern philanthropy is completely changing the way we think about giving back in Pakistan. It’s no longer just about quiet, private acts of charity or fulfilling religious duties like zakat and sadqa. Now, it’s becoming something exciting, collaborative, and, most importantly, inclusive—especially for younger generations.

    For years, charity was seen as a solemn, individual responsibility. But today’s youth are flipping the script. They’re turning giving back into something personal and fun. Think charity fashion shows by a 16-year-old Pakistani student, Eeman Syeda or music festivals like 4.0 Concert by Acts of Kindness Pakistan that blend entertainment with social causes. These aren’t your traditional fundraisers—they’re community-driven experiences that bring people together. Suddenly, philanthropy isn’t just about writing a check—it’s about making a real impact while connecting. 

    What’s really special is how this new wave of giving blends the old with the new. The core values—generosity, community, and religious obligation—are still there. But younger Pakistanis are adding their own twist: creativity, innovation, and a focus on transparency. 

    What can you do to be a part of this change?

    I believe that by supporting existing initiatives or becoming a catalyst for new projects leveraging the power of technology, new networks can keep the momentum going and drive real social change.

    Even the smallest act—donating a little, sharing a campaign, or volunteering your time—can add up to something huge.

    Together, we can create a future where our efforts don’t just make headlines but change lives for generations.

  • SBP reserves grow as remittance inflows remain strong

    SBP reserves grow as remittance inflows remain strong

    The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) bought a staggering $3.8 billion from the interbank market in the first four months of fiscal year (FY) 2024-25. This was reportedly an attempt by the SBP to boost foreign exchange reserves and meet debt repayments.

    According to independent bankers, the recent surge in remittance inflows boosted liquidity in the interbank market. This allowed the SBP to purchase a vast quantity of dollars without creating significant pressure on the exchange rate, which has remained stable for the past year.

    Reports revealed that from June 2024 to October 2024, the SBP’s net foreign exchange interventions reached $3.8 billion. The SBP even received the first $1.03 billion tranche under the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) $7 billion Extended Fund Facility at the end of September 2024, which represents a heightened level of activity by the SBP in intermarket operations.

    The head of research and Investment Strategy, who works at a reputable bank, stated that the purchase of foreign currency by the SBP exceeded the country’s borrowings in the corresponding period. This shows a possible revitalisation of the SBP, which would be a good sign for the economy.

    From June to October 2024, the SBP’s foreign exchange interventions allowed the banking watchdog to build up its reserves by a colossal $2.1 billion. The remaining interventions amounting to $1.7 billion were made to make debt repayments as per reports.

    The SBP governor assured that most debt service payments had already been taken care of, while the remaining amount would be rolled over to the next period. While this spells great news for Islamabad, reports indicate that the cash-strapped nation still needs approximately $5 billion in the second half of FY 2024-25 to deal with the debt problem.

    Reports have indicated that bankers remain optimistic as they are reportedly claiming that the SBP could easily acquire an additional $5 billion from the interbank market if remittance inflows continue to post respectable growth rates.

    Data from reports has revealed that remittances ballooned to a staggering $17.8 billion in the first half of FY 2024-25, representing an improvement of 33 percent in remittance inflows.

    Finance Minister Mohammad Aurangzeb said that remittance levels could exceed during the current fiscal year $35 billion. If his prediction stands true, the SBP could purchase even more foreign currency to build up its reserves.

    If the SBP can achieve this and protect the exchange rate from volatility, Pakistan might soon witness rising foreign direct investment levels. However, while economic indicators do remain positive, the same cannot be said about the political scene, as uncertainty remains a major concern for foreign investors, often serving as a deterrent for them from parking their funds into the country.

  • ‘Can set up 3D cinema at home’: Internet reacts to PCB’s hospitality box prices for tri-nation series

    ‘Can set up 3D cinema at home’: Internet reacts to PCB’s hospitality box prices for tri-nation series

    As the tri-nation series between Pakistan, South Africa and New Zealand approaches, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has released exclusive hospitality box packages for the much-awaited matches in the days leading to the Champions Trophy.

    According to the details, fans looking for a luxurious and memorable cricket experience at the newly-renovated stadiums in Lahore and Karachi stadiums can now book hospitality boxes with prices varying on the basis of seating arrangement.

    Here’s a breakdown of the options available in Lahore and Karachi for the series:

    Lahore Hospitality Options:

    1st ODI – Saturday, February 8

    Sub-Activity Box 1-3 (15 Seater Box): PKR 1,000,000
    New Pav 20 Seater Box: PKR 800,000
    New Pav 24 Seater Box: PKR 1,200,000


    2nd ODI – Monday, February 10

    Sub-Activity Box 1-3 (15 Seater Box): PKR 800,000
    New Pav 20 Seater Box: PKR 600,000
    New Pav 24 Seater Box: PKR 1,000,000


    Karachi Hospitality Options:

    3rd ODI- Wednesday, February 12

    East 2-5 New Pav 10 Seater Box: PKR 600,000
    East 2-5 New Pav 15 Seater Box: PKR 600,000
    New Pavilion 20-Seater Box: PKR 400,000
    New Pavilion 24-Seater Box: PKR 800,000

    Final-Friday, February 14

    East 2-5 New Pav 10 Seater Box: PKR 800,000
    East 2-5 New Pav 15 Seater Box: PKR 800,000
    New Pavilion 20-Seater Box: PKR 600,000
    New Pavilion 24-Seater Box: PKR 1,000,000

    The hospitality box packages, however, offer more than just premium seating as they also include exclusive access to VIP areas besides food and beverages served throughout the match for a memorable experience.

    While PCB’s announcement has added to the excitement of many, some other fans didn’t seem so sure about the packages offered by the board.

    “The PCB’s social media team has hired a person from PIA’s marketing team,” wrote one confused fan, apparently assuming the packages were a graphic design gaffe.

    Another user said you could “set up a 3D cinema at home” for PKR 1.2 million.

    “Boxes are not for individuals… corporate takes them and hands out tickets to their premium customers. I don’t get what the fuss is about?” wrote a fan while trying to explain the packages to others.

    It merits a mention that the PCB has revealed the price of tickets for fans in general as well. Tickets for most matches are available for PKR 350, whereas those for weekend matches (Pakistan vs New Zealand on February 8) and the final match on February 14 are priced at PKR 500.

    Following are the details for special tickets offering premium seating:

    Lahore – Gaddafi Stadium


    VVIP enclosures (Majid Khan and Zaheer Abbas 
    1st ODI- Saturday’s match: PKR 5,000
    2nd ODI- Monday’s match: PKR 4,000

    VVIP enclosures (Waqar Younis and Wasim Akram)
    1st ODI- Saturday’s match: PKR 3,500
    2nd ODI- Monday’s match: PKR 2,500

    VIP enclosures (Fazal Mahmood and Imran Khan)
    1st ODI- Saturday’s match: PKR 2,000
    2nd ODI- Monday’s match: PKR 1,500

    Premium enclosures (Rajas and Saeed Anwar)
    1st ODI- Saturday’s match: PKR 1,500
    2nd ODI- Monday’s match: PKR 1,000

    General enclosures (Hanif Mohammad, Imtiaz Ahmed, Inzamam-ul-Haq, and Saeed Ahmed)
    1st ODI- Saturday’s match: PKR 500
    2nd ODI- Monday’s match: PKR 350

    First-class enclosures (Abdul Hafeez Kardar, Abdul Qadir, Javed Miandad, and Sarfaraz Nawaz)
    1st ODI- Saturday’s match: PKR 1,500
    2nd ODI- Monday’s match: PKR 1,000

    Karachi – National Bank Stadium


    General Enclosures (Asif Iqbal, Nazar Mohammad, Waqar Hasan, and Younis Khan)
    3rd ODI- Wednesday’s match: PKR 350

    Final on Friday: PKR 500


    First-Class enclosures (Imran Khan, Intikhab Alam, Wasim Akram, Wasim Bari, and Shahid Afridi)
    Wednesday’s match: PKR 750
    Final on Friday: PKR 1,000

    Premium enclosures (Iqbal Qasim, Mohammad Brothers, Naseem ul Ghani)
    3rd ODI- Wednesday’s match: PKR 1,000
    Final on Friday: PKR 1,500

    VIP Enclosures (Fazal Mahmood, Hanif Mohammad, and Javed Miandad)
    3rd ODI- Wednesday’s match: PKR 1,500
    Final on Friday: PKR 2,000

    VVIP Enclosures (Majid Khan and Zaheer Abbas)
    3rd ODI- Wednesday’s match: PKR 4,000
    Final on Friday: PKR 5,000

    Gallery Seats

    3rd ODI- Wednesday’s match: PKR 5,000
    Final on Friday: PKR 6,000

  • Journalists, politicians condemn campaign against Munizae Jahangir for ‘exposing blasphemy racket’

    Journalists, politicians condemn campaign against Munizae Jahangir for ‘exposing blasphemy racket’

    Journalists and politicians have condemned a social media campaign targeting journalist Munizae Jahangir after she invited to her TV show the family of a jailed person allegedly tricked into committing blasphemy.

    As per the details, Jahangir during her show on Monday (Feb 3) reported on a group allegedly involved in the “blasphemy business”. The group is accused of honey-trapping youngsters, making them commit blasphemy and extorting money from them.

    While Adviser to the Prime Minister on Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik was also present during the show and underscored the need to establish a joint investigation team (JIT) to probe false allegations of blasphemy, the programme did not sit well with a number of hardliners who have since taken to social media, accusing Jahangir of spreading false information.

    While at least one person has approached the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), demanding strict action against Jahangir and her talk show, a religiopolitical party has also held a protest demo outside the Lahore Press Club against the journalist and her channel.

    As Jahangir also receives threats of “dire consequences”, journalists, politicians and social media activists have condemned the campaign against her.

    Journalist Azaz Syed took to X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, writing, “Strongly condemn the trolling by mafia involved in the so-called ‘blasphemy business’ and stand in solidarity with well-respected journalist @MunizaeJahangir.”

    Senior journalist Matiullah Jan also posted in Jahangir’s favour, in response to which she wrote: “The attack on me is an attempt to detract attention from the court’s order of making a commission on the blasphemy business.”

    “Strongly condemn the campaign against courageous & bold @MunizaeJahangir whose @Aaj_Urdu show investigated the mindboggling attempt undertaken by multiple individuals reportedly to frame dozens of individuals as blasphemers & then blackmail them. Govt representative in the show reported that the govt will be setting up a committee to inquire into the reality of this reportedly dangerous racketeering. The govt must get bring out the reality of this reported racketeering & also ensure the physical security of @MunizaeJahangir,” wrote journalist Naseem Zehra.

    Former Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader and ex-federal minister for information Fawad Chaudhry also commended Jahangir for standing tall despite the campaign against her.  “Like mother like daughter. Brave @MunizaeJahangir. Standing tall against extremists is not easy in Pakistan. Kudoos! (sic),” he said in a post on his official X account.

    It merits a mention that Pakistan, in recent years, has reported a significant spike in number of cases pertaining to blasphemy under Section 295 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC). In some cases, false allegations of blasphemy also led to mob violence against the accused.

    Reports pertaining to “blasphemy business” first surfaced when Special Branch issued a report in this regard.