Friday 30 November 2018
Hugh Jackman announces first world tour
On Thursday, Jackman in an appearance on Today Show, revealed that he's going on a world tour in 2019, performing songs from his hit movies The Greatest Showman and musicals such as Les Miserables, The Boy From Oz, and Oklahoma!"It's not Wolverine The Musical. Not yet," he teased of his big announcement, before revealing, "I am doing a big arena tour."Jackman called the tour, titled as 'The Man. The Music. The Show' a dream come true."I'm singing, I'm dancing, I'm telling stories. I'm on the back nine of my life now, and this is about the front nine, the good parts of it, anyway."The Greatest Showman has grossed $A600 million worldwide and it's soundtrack topped the charts in several countries including the US, Australia, the UK and Japan. The album also reached number one on iTunes in over 77 countries. Jackman has been a star across Broadway and film; he won a Tony award in 2004 for his performance in the musical The Boy From Oz and starred in Baz Luhrmann's Australia alongside his good friend Nicole Kidman.His performance as Jean Valjean in the 2012 film version of Les Misérables won him a Golden Globe and Academy Award and BAFTA nominations.Jackman will perform songs from these musicals on the tour, which will visit Manchester on 24 May, Birmingham on 27 May and London on 2 and 3 June. Tickets go on sale at 9am on 7 December.
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from The News International - Entertainment https://ift.tt/2DSVy1u
It was the 'rule, not the exception: Lady Gaga about sexual harassment
Lady Gaga has spoken candidly about the sexual assault she suffered when she was 19 years old, admitting that she wishes she had discussed it publicly sooner."When I started in the music business when I was around 19, it was the rule, not the exception, that you would walk into a recording studio and be harassed,” the singer and actor said at a round-table hosted by The Hollywood Reporter.“It was just the way that it was. So I do wish that I had spoken up sooner. I did speak up about it. I was assaulted when I was young, and I told people.” The 32-year-old singer-and-actress - who previously admitted to suffering from PTSD after being raped when she was 19 - claims it was the "rule" to expect unwanted advances whenever she went into the recording studio, but when she did confide in people, no one wanted to "protect" her as it would mean losing their own "power".“Nobody wants to lose their power, so they don’t protect you because if they say something, it takes some of their power away,” she added. “What I hope is that these conversations come together — that it’s not just about equal pay on one side… or equal billing over here… and then assault on this side. But that it all comes together and that this movement is all of those things.”Speaking to Glenn Close, Kathryn Hahn, Nicole Kidman, Regina King and Rachel Weisz for The Hollywood Reporter's Actress' Roundtable, Gaga said: "What I hope is that these conversations come together - that it's not just about equal pay on one side ... or equal billing over here ... and then assault on this side. But that it all comes together and that this movement is all of those things.""That's what is so exciting with the #MeToo movement and Time's Up, to see men coming to stand by our side and say, 'We want you to be loud. We want to hear your voices.' It's really remarkable," she added.
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from The News International - Entertainment https://ift.tt/2SloV0y
'2.0' box-office collection Day 1
After a long wait, Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar's film '2.0' released on November 29 received a tremendous response from the audience as well as the critics. The sequel to 2010 hit film 'Enthiran' has Rajinikanth reprising his roles of Dr Vaseegaran and Chitti in the S. Shankar's film.from Latest Entertainment News, Movies News, Celebrity News, Breaking News | Entertainment - Times of India
PC-Nick Wedding: Welcome gifts for guests
PC-Nick reveals how their love story began
Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas are all set to tie the knot on December 02. The couple got engaged in July this year. In an interview, Priyanka and Nick talked about how love blossomed between them.from Latest Entertainment News, Movies News, Celebrity News, Breaking News | Entertainment - Times of India
‘2.0’ pirated prints release online?
A day before director S Shankar's ‘2.0’, starring Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar hit the big screen worldwide, the Madras High Court directed 37 internet service providers to block more than 12,000 websites that exhibit pirated versions of Tamil movies.from Latest Entertainment News, Movies News, Celebrity News, Breaking News | Entertainment - Times of India
Ralph Lauren has designed PC's wedding gown
Priyanka will be seen walking down the aisle in a Ralph Lauren Creation. And it is a special moment for both the actress and designer because PeeCee is the only celebrity to be dressed in Ralph's wedding designs. While officiating the Christian wedding will be Nick's father, the actress' cousin Parineeti Chopra's parents will be doing Priyanka's Kanyadaan.from Latest Entertainment News, Movies News, Celebrity News, Breaking News | Entertainment - Times of India
Umaid Bhawan Palace lit up for the wedding
Nick Jonas to make a royal entry on a horse
Minister’s farmhouse issue: JIT finds high-handedness of Islamabad Police with Bajaur family
ISLAMABAD: A Joint Investigation Team (JIT) probing alleged misuse of power by Federal Minister Azam Swati has came up with a damning indictment of the capital police for their “highhandedness” against a poor family of Bajaur on behalf of the billionaire minister.The report submitted with the Supreme Court, a copy of which available with The News, highlights police’s one-sided probe and also criticises the Minister of State for Interior Shehryar Afridi for visiting Swati house but not visiting the poor family to know the real facts.“It also came in evidence that Minister of State for Interior, Government of Pakistan along with DIG Operations and SSP Operations visited Muhammad Azam Khan Swati in his farmhouse on 27 October. However they did not visit the other family to their house or police station to know the real facts specifically when Minister of State for Interior himself admitted before the JIT that he was not given full facts of the case by Muhammad Azam Swati,” says the report.The report says the statement of the Minister of State for Interior before the JIT is eye-opening to the affect that “When I visited the spot even Azam Swati had not informed me about the full facts of the case nor I met Usman Swati.”At the most it was an incident of ordinary scuffle on trivial grounds outside his farmhouse, the report reads. “However the Minister Azam Swati claimed and reported of ‘Attack’ on his farmhouse. He, by virtue of and in the context of his office as Senator/Federal Minister created a false and made-up impression of serious attack which triggered the police hierarchy from top to bottom and other federal authorities into motion,” the report says. “Above all Azam Swati in his statement before the JIT accepted his mistake that he had overplayed in the circumstances,” it adds.JIT concluded after thorough investigations that “the police since inception of occurrence did not hold the investigation in a just and fair manner. In view of the above circumstances, actions, inactions of police pursuant to the FIR, one can easily conclude the deliberate negligence of police official in proceedings with the investigation. In fact the police have colluded with the Swati family in furtherance to their designs,” says the report.The report is signed by JIT head Irfan Naeem Mangi of the National Accountability Bureau, and its members Ahmad Rizwan of the Intellegence Bureau (IB) and Mirvais Niaz of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).The JIT was formed by the Supreme Court after the abrupt transfer of Inspector General Police Islamabad Jan Muhammad on 27th October allegedly after failing to attend Azam Swati’s telephone calls. Swati had told media that he lodged the complaint to police on 24th October against his neighbor Muhammad Niaz from Bajuar who was allegedly posing a threat to his life and was illegally encroaching on government land. Later on 26th October Swati reported that the members of Niaz family attacked his house after their trespassing cow was detained by his gaurds. Police acted immediately and arrested the poor neighbours including women and children.After its formation, JIT visited the scene and questions both parties. Not only the JIT found misuse of authority by Swati against his poor neighbours but also the fact that the Minister himself has illegally encroached on government land.“By virtue of his post Swati wielded his influence and prevailed upon the authorities by misusing his office and profile leading to arbitrary, discriminatory treatment to the private citizens of Niaz Muhammad’s family, at the hand of police,” reads the report.The report also carried stance of Azam Swati who claimed that he lodged a complaint with IGP Islamabad on October 24 and requested him to initiate action the Bajauri family settled in neighbourhood. He maintained that members of Niaz family hurled threats on them, “in this context I talked to DSP Syed Ashraf Shah and SSP Operation on the same day following the application, he personally talked to IGP as well. He added that on October 26 a cow owned by Niaz family had trespassed into his farmhouse and destroyed the garden/ fruit trees.Upon prevention, Niaz Muhammad family (10, 15 individual) attacked his farmhouse and severely injured Chaukidars [watchmen]. Swati maintained that he continuously called IGP to express concerns but neither he attended his call nor did he do anything for about 22 hours. He maintained after hectic efforts, he was able to ensure police action after the incident. On 27th October he complained to Minister of State for Interior Shehryar Afridi in this regard.The JIT during ground check also observed fencing made around Farm 71 (Swati’s farm). The team also noticed illegal construction on encroached land as well as construction recently demolished there. “The team also discovered stairs covered underneath garbage in the encroached area on the rear side of the farmhouse. Pictures were also taken,” says the report.In its finding JIT said that the matter was irked by Jahanzeb (Swati’s employee) under the pretext of grazing and destruction of trees of farmhouse by a cow of Niaz family. “However no such sign of cow grazing or destruction of trees was pointed/ observed during the course of site visit and investigation by JIT inside or outside the farmhouse.”The report says the stated position of the Swati family and his servants regarding cow grazing “has no basis whatsoever and thus found to be false, concocted, fabricated, inconsistent and factually incorrect.”On the day of occurrence, whole police machinery was activated upon his assertions. The police authorities were so concerned about Azam Swati’s complaint that they even did not bother to act upon Rescue15 call by Ahsanullah S/O Niaz Muhammad. Further DIG (Operation), SSP Operations, SP (Rural) and SHO PS Shahzad Town remained directly involved in the matter. The influence was of such a kind that SHO even asked Usman Swati if he wants inclusion of names of women in FIR. It was repeated by Usman Swati during investigation by JIT that SHO asked him if they want FIR against the women.The JIT report said Usman Swati contacted his father Azam Swati to consult about inclusion of women in FIR. The report said Azam Swati directed SHO to consult his DIG Operations “since he will be held responsible”.“This further affirms that police officer never investigated even a single issue against Swati’s side,” the report said. The JIT found that the injured women of Niaz family were improperly treated by all aspect. The police also arrested them, took them to police station and detained them in absence of female police official.It says police totally ignore presence of firearm with Swati’s gaurds despire clearly reporting the snatching of magazine. The team says the cross version of the accused party could have been registered under Section-379 PPC against Swati’s family for illegally detaining cow as they had admitted the offence of dishonestly detaining the cow of Niaz family on the pretext of grazing and damaging the garden. Even knowing that police investigation officer did not bother to record the cross version.The report added that medical examination of women was delayed despite knowing the fact they were also injured in the incident. The injured male guards of the complainant side were immediately sent to the hospital for examination. However, it took police about two hours to send the accused female for medical examination after receiving medico legal report Investigation officer (I.O) did not bother to incorporate offenses Section 337-L (1 or 2) of PPC.The women and Ahsanullah told JIT that they had requested the I.O and SHO for lodging of their complaint. Morover IO under influence receive MLC of ladies on 31 October, later I.O simply wrote down in his case diary that no one has appeared to file application on behalf of injured women.The JIT says section 154 CRPC does not require any written application and the police ignored the oral request of Niaz Muhammad. The JIT also concluded that police wrongly arrested Ahsanullah for theft of the magazine while it was clear that magazine was snatched during scuffle in self defence.It added that the police used section 147 and 149 and 382 of PPC out of blue to arrest women folk and other family members. This did not stop here, JIT says and the police next day arrested a juvenile namely Salah-ud-Din son of Niaz in garb of same offence. As per the family, Salah-ud-Din was also not present at the time of incident and went to police station to look into the matter where he was arrested.“IO again incorporated section 411-PC which again shows highhandedness as it applies to stolen property and not to any other property. An ultimate example of highhandedness of police officials is the incorporation of section 427-PPC in the case despite knowing the fact that the alleged and claimed plants reportedly grazed by the cow are on CDA land and that piece of land infact does not belong to Azam Swati”, the report said.The JIT says Azam Swati was directly involved in all the actions in respect of harassing and punishing Niaz Muhammad and other family members. The perusal of police file reveals that police officer Bashir Malik SHO Shahzad Town and Shafqat Niazi I.O of the case initially registered FIR NO247/18 U/S 382, 147 and 149 PPC on 26 October 2018 and later on added Section 337A(ii) PPC on basis of MLR, Section 289-PPC on basis of MLC and Section 411 and 427 PPC Subsequently, says the reportIt adds that police also failed to register the complaint of Niaz Family that the solar panel installed over their mud-house was destroyed in firing by Swati’s guard. The JIT found the panel was replaced later by Swati’s wife which confirms that it was indeed damaged.
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from The News International - National https://ift.tt/2AyqsZX
Pak-China air forces to conduct joint exercise
BEIJING: Air forces of China and Pakistan will conduct a joint training exercise, Shaheen-VII, at an airbase in Pakistan from Friday, Chinese defence ministry spokesperson said on Thursday.China will send its fighter jets, bombers and early warning AWACS planes to the exercise, which will run until Dec 23, Col Ren Guoiang said during his monthly briefing held here. He said the exercise is part of the annual cooperation plan between the two countries and it will strengthen bilateral cooperation and help improve combat capabilities of both the sides. Shaheen series of exercises between the two countries began in March 2011 and has since gone through six major iterations.Responding to a question regarding the participation of Pakistan Air Force (PAF) in the Zhuhai Air Show held early this month in China, he said, China and Pakistan are strategic cooperative partners and all-weather friends and the two militaries always maintain high-level exchanges as well as defence and security cooperation.The spokesperson said the PAF set very high standards during its performance in the air show. The PAF presented the stunning aerial display of ‘Pride of Pakistan’ JF-17 Thunder aircraft during the air show.
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from The News International - National https://ift.tt/2TY6ZL5
IDEAS 2018: air show in Karachi
KARACHI: Pakistan’s armed forces presented an air show and anti-terrorism demonstration at Sea View as part of the 10th International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS 2018), Geo News reported.The JF-17 Thunder and F-16 fighter aircraft of the PAF enthralled the visitors with an air show at Nishan-i-Pakistan, Sea View. Sherdil aerobatics team also presented a scintillating aerial display. According to a press release issued by the Directorate of Media Affairs of the PAF, this year PAF is participating in the mega event with locally made state-of-the-art military hardware, including Air Defence Command and Control Centres and integrated simulators. Manufactured by the PAF, these simulators are being used to modernise its operational training environment. Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Kamra would also set up their stall at the venue along with a static display of JF-17 Thunder and Super Mushshak aircraft. The four-day defence exhibition, which kicked off on November 27 and will continue till November 30, is being attended by 262 high-level delegations from 51 different countries.
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from The News International - National https://ift.tt/2AyqpgJ
Immediate steps needed to avert full-blown HIV epidemic
Islamabad: Pakistan has an estimated 150,000 people living with HIV. Of these, only 25,000 are registered at the 33 HIV treatment centres across Pakistan. In order to avert a full-blown HIV epidemic, we must take immediate preventive measures, encourage HIV testing and treatment, and address HIV-associated stigma and discrimination.Minister for National Health Services Aamer Mehmood Kiani made this observation while addressing a seminar in connection with World AIDS Day here Thursday. He reiterated the government’s sincerity for increasing access to and uptake of HIV preventive and treatment services by engaging with all stakeholders.“The government also aspires to empower people living with HIV by creating an enabling environment and adopting an integrated multi-sectoral approach to address the socio-economic determinants responsible for the spread of HIV,” he added.The Programme Manager of the National AIDS Programme Dr. Baseer Khan said, the theme of World AIDS Day 2018 ‘Know your status’ is also a reinforcement of the basic human right of enabling every individual to seek basic health services and also knowing his status of health. “We realise that HIV can be prevented and treated so let’s all take that first step towards making Pakistan HIV-free,” he stated.Pakistan still has a chance as it is confronted with a concentrated HIV epidemic that can be addressed through a focused and targeted approach. The speakers hoped that every day becomes an AIDS Day till Pakistan can be liberated of this menace.
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from The News International - National https://ift.tt/2TYZVxG
France-Germany peace led Europe to form union
LAHORE: During the course of his speech at the groundbreaking of the Kartarpur Corridor the other day, Pakistani Prime Minister, Imran Khan, had raised a question that if France and Germany could form a union after fighting many bloody wars and open up their borders for trade and investment, why couldn’t the bitter Pak-India relationship move ahead to bring prosperity in the region.He had noted that after millions of people had lost lives in wars between France and Germany, the two nations had opened borders for each other, asserting that they could not even think of shedding more blood on battle fields after their bilateral business and investment volume had surged manifold. Well, the incumbent Pakistani Premier is absolutely correct in this context and it seems he does spare time out of his pressing engagements to read a bit of global history, a subject that might sound boring, dull and dreary to many who do not believe in the idea of making comparative analysis and learn lessons.Research conducted by the “Jang Group and Geo Television Network” shows that although the history of the Franco-German animosity dates back to 16th century and both neighbouring nations have faced each other in battle fields nine times since, their bilateral trade volume had rested at 169.4 billion Euros in 2017 after embracing each other in true letter and spirit after World War II.According to “Reuters” news agency report of February 21, 2018, France remained the second-most important export destination for German goods with purchases of 105.2 billion Euros.To be continued
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from The News International - National https://ift.tt/2AwDVRO
He who was made a heart patient
ISLAMABAD: Faqeer Muhammad, a middle-aged laborer, felt pain. He went to a cardiologist for check-up and was diagnosed with the muscular pain; unrelated to the heart. The doctor conducted a stress test which turned out negative thus reconfirming his earlier finding.Faqeer consulted another cardiologist for second opinion who did an angiography test. There was insignificant artery blockage which didn’t require implanting stent. The doctor nevertheless did. Unable to afford treatment cost, he sold his belongings to pay the bill. However, the issue remained unresolved.Three months later, Faqeer went to the cardiologist he had first consulted. He was feeling pain. This was a typical heart problem, diagnosed the doctor who was unmindful of the fact that a stent had already been inserted. Upon medical investigation, it was transpired that not only an unnecessary angioplasty was done, it ended up at re-narrowing of the stent thus causing the heart pain. This necessitated yet another angioplasty for replacement of the first stent. Treatment cost was paid from the charity fund of the hospital where replacement was done. Faqeer eventually became a heart patient which he was not when sensed the danger first due to the muscular pain. How many patients have met his fate remains anybody’s guess as there is neither any accountability of careless physicians nor any system to ensure that only qualified interventional cardiologists perform angioplasties. A Supreme Court effort to regulate them has failed to yield desired results.The court had ordered devising the qualification standards for interventional cardiologists to operate cath labs where angiography and angioplasty are carried out. An interventional cardiologist is the one who is qualified to diagnose and treat cardiovascular disease as well as congenital (present at birth) and structural heart conditions through cath lab procedures such as angioplasty and stenting.Although there is no proper data available about the number of interventional cardiologists in Pakistan, they are estimated to be around 400, background interviews with the doctors indicate. One in three of them isn’t qualified for doing such procedures. The doctor who inserted, and medically unnecessarily, the first stent in Faqeer is among those unqualified interventional cardiologists. He is still doing procedures, unchecked.While Faqeer was lucky to have survived. Another patient died four day after his angioplasty by the same so-called interventional cardiologist as blood clots developed due to improper procedure. The family took it as a fait accompli, not knowing the role of doctor in landing him to grave. As record of adverse events are not kept and the investigation of such occurrences is not carried out by the hospital in absence of a strong regulator, the patients are eventual casualties.In order to preempt such malpractices, the Supreme Court had ordered the formation of rules to regulate cath labs and its operators like physicians and nursing staff. Those who can perform as interventional cardiologists were required to register at the website of Pakistan Society of Interventional Cardiologists and their names were to be displayed for public knowledge. It has not been done yet.The criteria set for such physicians require them to be “FPSC medicine/ MRCP/ Diplomate American Board in Medicine or equivalent with at least 15 years of practical experience in interventional cardiology with at least 75 procedures per year in last 2 years.” The exemption for non-qualified to the prescribed criteria has been given till 2023 “only after which formal 2 years training/ Fellowship in Interventional cardiology will be mandatory.”Until 2023, one time exemption has been granted to “all senior cardiologists with MBBS, with at least 25 years of active interventional cardiology practice within the country or outside,” according to the rules approved for the cardiologists who can perform angioplasty in the cath labs registered with authorities. Ironically, neither the cath labs have been registered nor the unqualified cardiologists have been stopped from operating.A training mechanism was also been devised for those not meeting the above-mentioned criteria. “FCPS cardiology, or equivalent, with at least 3 years post fellowship adequate supervised training/ experience in interventional cardiology at CPSP recognized and PSIC registered Catheterization laboratory under the supervision of a certified interventional cardiologist. He/ she should have done at least 75 procedures/year as primary operator. Training/ experience certificate to this effect should be provided by the Catheterization laboratory director/ HOD or Head of institute,” according to the rules.However, this proposal of training has not generated much enthusiasm due to significant resistance from those needing it the most, according to the insiders of cardiologist community. This is in addition to the lukewarm response to the idea of reporting cardiac procedures to the national cardiac registry which was intended to improve the treatment and reduce the adverse events. Meanwhile, patients are prone to fatal risks in this culture of impunity.
from The News International - National https://ift.tt/2TYZROs
from The News International - National https://ift.tt/2TYZROs
Little-known company granted govt contract flouting rules
ISLAMABAD: The graft scandal which has hit Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government within 100 days of its formation has also forced the anti-corruption watchdog Transparency International Pakistan (TIP) to call for a thorough probe.The scandal involves award of a government contract without any tender to a less known “Brando Marketing” a digital media company run by Farhan Javed, a close friend of a prime minister's aide and his social media associate.Besides managing PM aide's social media presence, the company also handles the official social media pages of Prime Minister Imran Khan, the Minister of State for Interior Shehryar Afridi, and PTI leader Usman Dar. Brando marketing itself announced the news on its twitter page.“Excited to announce Brando will be powering government initiatives probono! Brando signed a MoU with the NITB becoming official digital partner of Government of Pakistan. Brando with expertise in marketing will give these services free as part of national responsibility. #Brando,” says the message posted by Brando marketing on its official twitter page on November 17.However the insiders said the MoU will hugely benefit the virtually unknown company to enhance its business in Pakistan and abroad boasting about its official partnership with the government. Also they added the company will be able to gather valuable data of Pakistanis which can be used in its other businesses.The scandal also got the attention of reputed international anti-corruption body. In a letter to Federal Minister for IT & Telecom Khalid Maqbool and copied to the Supreme Court of Pakistan and the Prime Minister’s Office, the TIP said that no tender for "Official Digital Media Partner" was posted by the National Information Technology Board (NITB), which is a clear violation of procurement rules.“No due process was conducted before offering such a partnership to a virtually unknown company in Pakistani IT and digital media industry,” says the letter, urging the minister to conduct a thorough probe into the allegations. The TIP said it received a complaint on award of unsolicited contract by the NITB to Brando Marketing.The letter quotes eight allegations levelled by the complainant against Brando and its partner companies. After examining the allegations, the Transparency International concluded that three allegations have proved against the Brando Marketing as no tender was posted by NITB and the due process was not followed before offering the partnership to an unknown company.In addition to this personal business with the PM's aide, M/s Brando has also involved itself in the management of Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis’ social media without any contract or bidding.According to TIP, Javed also runs Association of Overseas Pakistanis (aop.org.pk) which is a non-government private organisation yet claims on social media to be the "official channel to facilitate overseas Pakistanis here in Pakistan”.The TIP says another person who is the founding member of AOP, is Shafiq Akbar, who collected data about overseas Pakistani from the purported official channel for overseas Pakistanis' and used the data to sell real estate to same overseas Pakistanis via Graana.com, a newly launched real-estate portal.When contacted by The News, Farhan said his company will only provide training and other facilities to government employees free of cost. “This is not a contract. It is an MoU and there is no cost involved,” he said.However Farhan admitted that his company manages social media accounts of Imran Khan but quickly added that many others are also working to improve official Facebook page of the prime minister.“Actually the official account of Imran Khan was taken over by ...[aide's name] a few months ago. I provide digital services for accounts of the prime minister as well as the aide in personal capacity as volunteer,” CEO of Brando said, adding that his company offers advice on social media to other PTI leaders too.The TIP letter also quoted Farhan saying that Brando Marketing, ADP, and Graana.com are all separate companies and while Graana.com and ADP are paying clients of Brando, they have been providing their services free of cost to Ministry of Overseas Pakistani. But, according to official LinkedIn page of Shafiq Akbar, he has been CEO of Graana.com and director of Brando Marketing since August 2016.However, when contacted by The News, the PM's aide said there was no news in the matter as no contract was signed. “This is no news as no contract was signed, it was just an MoU and services will be provided free of cost,” he said.However, when asked about his business relations with Fahan and Ghraana.com, he flatly denied having anything to do with it. The aide got furious when asked why he had been defending the Graana and Brando if he did not know them or have any business with them. “Because you are lying. I have to stop you when you lie,” he said and hung up the phone. Later, he texted this correspondent on Whatsapp: “You should be ashamed of writing lies. And will be sued for it.”It is worth mentioning that the official Twitter bio the aide has a web link that shows his property business. The TIP says there were three requirements under the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) Rules 2004, for awarding any contract.Firstly, project must be advertised on PPRA website in annual procurement plan as required under Rule 8 & 9. https://ift.tt/2TYZQdm. Secondly, as per Rule ll, approval mechanism, all procuring agencies shall provide clear authorisation and delegation of powers for different categories of procurement and shall only initiate procurements once approval of the competent authorities concerned has been accorded.Thirdly, all procuring agencies must follow Rules 5. (pre-qualification of suppliers and contractors), Rule 16 (pre-qualification process), Rule 20 (principal method of procurement), Rule 21 (open competitive bidding), Rule 23 (Bidding documents), Rule 29 (evaluation criteria) and Rule 7 (Integrity pact).The TIP said the other allegations need the minister's inquiry for their correctness. According to PPRA, open competitive bidding is mandatory to select a service provider, in order to assess the credibility, experience, financial & technical capability/ capacity, and also give equal opportunity to all available service providers, as such contracts are advantageous for firms indirectly both in financial and credibility gains to qualify for other such projects.“The minister is requested to take immediate action to check the allegations of the complainant, and if the allegations are found correct, and PPRA rules are violated in the illegal award of unsolicited contract, action may be taken to cancel the contract, and also on corruption by the department and officers as well as against the beneficiaries under NAO 1999.”The PM's aide is already facing a NAB probe in corruption allegation in Offshore companies’ case. His name was placed on Exit Control List (ECL) on a NAB request.
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from The News International - National https://ift.tt/2ACAp8u
Seven terrorists convicted
MULTAN: Anti-Terrorism Court No-I Judge Malik Khalid Mehmood on Thursday awarded three-year imprisonment each to two terrorists of a defunct organisation in a case of keeping explosives. The convicts, Mozmin Khan and Ameer Bashmi of Mohmand Agency, were awarded three-year imprisonment each and confiscation of properties under Section 5 of Explosive Substances Act 1908. The prosecution said that the Counter Terrorism Department had arrested the convicts during a raid at Faiz-e-Aam Chowk on Head Muhammadwala Road on January 5. The CTD officials had also recovered explosives from them.
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from The News International - National https://ift.tt/2Azp1KO
Lawyers strike enters 16th day
FAISALABAD: The lawyers’ strike from the establishment of a Lahore High Court Bench entered the 16th day here on Thursday. The District Bar Association (DBA) members boycotted the courts and gathered at the protest camp set up against the government for not yielding to their demand.Later, they took out a protest rally which culminated at Chowk Kutchery Bazaar where they staged a big demonstration. Earlier, the protesting lawyers locked the main entrance of the local courts to block the entry of the litigants.Addressing the rally, DBA president Amjad Hussain Malik, bar secretary Rohail Zafar Kainth announced that the Faisalabad lawyers would continue their strike and protest till acceptance of their demand. They said that the former government had announced establishing the Lahore High Court benches at five divisional headquarters of Punjab, including Faisalabad but nothing had been materialised as of yet.The DBA office-bearers said that setting up of a Lahore High Court Bench here was direly needed to provide speedy and cheaper justice to the litigants of Faisalabad division at their doorsteps.They said that Faisalabad was the third biggest commercial and industrial hub of Pakistan and its population has exceeded 15 million. The government was fetching sizeable revenue from Faisalabad but was continuously isolating the city due to some elements having vested interests. A group of lawyers came to the land record centre and shut it down forcibly.
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from The News International - National https://ift.tt/2TY6PDt
ICT trainers leave for China
Islamabad: In order to cater to the needs of the emerging information and communication technology industry, for the first time in Pakistan, National Vocational and Technical Training Commission in collaboration with Huawei Technologies Pakistan Limited has selected 20 vocational experts and teachers from various vocational and technical training schools across the country to get one month training at Chongqing Industrial Polytechnic College in China. Huwaei has been engaged in various projects for the last 20 years in Pakistan and is now sponsoring this initiative. Deputy Head of mission of Chinese embassy Zhao Lijian appreciated efforts of NAVTTC.
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PPP leader greets Sikhs
LAHORE: Pakistan People’s Party former Central Information Secretary Taj Haider has congratulated the followers of Sikh religion on Kartarpur corridor development.“It is a happy moment for all those who believe in religious harmony and tolerance, and are opposed to all kinds of extremism” said Syed Taj Hyder in a statement issued on Thursday. He said, “We should not ignore that India is ruled by religious extremists, and the Sikh community is an oppressed community like all other religious minorities in that country.”Syed Taj Haider only hoped that the BJP government would not try to make up for its “loss” in the extremist camp by turning more hostile towards Pakistan and subjecting the minorities to further excesses.
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Enhanced influenza risk: NIH
Islamabad: The South Asian region including Pakistan is expected to face an enhanced influenza virus activity. The expected upsurge of influenza cases has prompted the National Institute of Health (NIH) to issue an advisory to sensitize healthcare authorities and facilities to strengthen and improve the level of preparedness in prevention, control and management of influenza.All health professionals have been advised to remain vigilant to detect any suspected influenza-like illness and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) cases. Influenza (seasonal flu) is usually a self-limiting disease and everyone doesn’t need antiviral treatment and diagnostic tests. It can spread from person-to-person through coughing or sneezing or can contaminate hands or other surfaces.Patients with chronic diseases (such as asthma, diabetes, cardiac and lungs diseases etc.) pregnant women, elderly people, children under 5 years are at higher risk of developing severe or complicated disease and need to be tested and treated with specific antiviral medications.According to the advisory, vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection. WHO recommends seasonal influenza vaccination for pregnant women (highest priority), children aged 6-59 months, elderly people, individuals with chronic medical conditions and health-care workers. The advisory also emphasizes the need for simple preventive measures.
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Allottment of 84 acres land to Dr Asim: SHC takes notice of non-implication of Land Utilisation department officials in case
KARACHI: The Sindh High Court on Thursday took an exception over non-implication of Land Utilization Department officers by the National Accountability Bureau in allotment of more than 84 acres of land to former petroleum minister Dr Asim Hussain in different parts of the city.Issuing a detailed order on bail petitions of co-accused involved in Rs462 billion corruption reference against former petroleum minister Dr Asim Hussain, the SHC observed that it is surprising that besides four acres land allotted to Dr. Asim in North Nazimabad and Clifton area for charitable purposes, more than 84 acres land had been allotted to Dr Asim in different parts of the city but no official from the Land Utilization Department had been arraigned as accused in the NAB reference, which is clearly manifest malafide on part of the prosecution.The SHC’s division bench, headed by Justice Mohammad Iqbal Kalhoro, observed in the judgment that investigation officer of the case informed the court that more than 84 acres had been allotted by the Land Utilization department to Dr Asim Hussain in different parts of the city for educational, medical university, industrial and other purposes, which was other than four acres land mentioned in the NAB reference.According to the IO, four acres land has been allotted to Dr Asim Hussain at NC-54 Deh Jam Chakro, two acres in Sector 52-A NC-97 Deh Bitti Amri, four acres in NC-24 Deh Dih Karachi, 25 acres in NC-108 Deh Chulair for Ziauddin Medical University, 15 acres land at NC-24 Deh Dih for educational purposes, 10 acres land in NC-24 Deh Dih, District Malir, for industrial purposes and 24.26 acres for educational city in eh Chanhar.The court observed that there seems to be a case of pick and choose as the investigation officer had not arraigned any official as accused who allotted amenity plots to Dr Asim Hussain in 1994 or those who restored the allotment. The court observed that it is surprising, rather astonishing, that more than 84 acres valuable lands in different parts of the city were allotted to Dr. Asim Hussain by the Land Utilization Department but none of those who allotted these valuable lands to Dr Asim had been arraigned as accused in the reference is clearly manifest malafide on part of the prosecution.Dr Asim Hussain, a close aide of former president and PPP Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari, was facing corruption references pertaining to land fraud amounting to Rs.9.5 billion, money laundering amounting to Rs3 billion and misuse of authority, criminal breach of trust through fertiliser scam of Rs450 billion.Former petroleum and natural resources secretary Ejaz Chaudhry, Karachi Docks Labour Board’s former CEO Safdar Hussain, Karachi Development Authority’s ex-directors Syed Athar Hussain and Masood Haider Jaffery, and Ziauddin Group finance director Abdul Hameed have also been named as co-accused.The court confirmed the bail of three co-accused in the case but dismissed the bail plea of Dr Asim Hussain’s finance director in money laundering charges.The court observed that the case of co-accused Syed Athar Hussain, ex-additional director of Karachi Development Authority, falls within the purview of further inquiry and granted him bail in the sum of Rs1 million. The court also confirmed the interim pre-arrest bail of former CEO of Karachi Docks Labour Board Mohammad Safdar and former petroleum ministry secretary Ejaz Chaudhry in the reference.The court, however, dismissed the petition of co-accused Abdul Hameed, finance director of Dr Ziauddin hospital and recalled the interim pre-arrest bail order. The court observed that pima facie evidence of the prosecution connects the petitioner with the charges of conversion of illegal money into assets by way of money laundering, which is a white collar crime. The finance director of Dr. Ziauddn hospital was later arrested by the NAB after dismissal of his petition.
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PHC asks secy health to overcome deficiencies in KP hospitals
PESHAWAR: The Peshawar High Court (PHC) on Thursday directed the secretary Health and Services Department to visit all the government hospitals and fulfil all the deficiencies and facilities in hospitals of the province.A division bench comprising Justice Qaiser Rashid Khan and Justice Qalandar Ali Khan issued direction to the secretary in a writ petition filed by a citizen, Abdul Haseeb, seeking an order of the court to government and Khyber Teaching Hospital (KTH) authorities for provision of MMI and CT scan facilities for the Pulmonology and Cardiology wards of KTH.The petitioner claimed that patients are suffering and facing great difficulties due to unavailability of the test and X-Ray facilities in these wards."Nowadays technical staff of the hospitals is working as doctors in the government hospitals," Justice Qaiser Rashid told Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Secretary Dr Farooq Jamil, who appeared in the case.Justice Qalandar Ali Khan observed that the government is spending huge amounts only in the hospitals of the capital city, while hospitals of other districts lack facilities, due to which there is great rush on the city's hospitals. He said that the government should also provide all facilities in the district hospitals.During hearing of the case, the high court also took notice of the encroachment outside the KTH and directed the government and hospital administration to clear the area outside the hospital of the encroachments.The court ordered the government to vacate all the plots outside the Accident and Emergency Department of KTH as patients are facing problems in shifting patients to the Emergency Department of the hospital.
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Jang Economic Session: Change linked to effective strategy, planning
LAHORE: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf should not announce anything which it could not complete in 100 days and it is unfortunate for Pakistan that rulers failed to implement the decisions while country could not afford such approach anymore. Effective strategy and planning was required to bring about a change.These views were expressed by the experts in the Jang Economic Session on ‘PTI government 100 days – future expectations’. The panellists were Farah Naz Naqvi, Azma Bukhari, Mehmood Ahmed, Agha Sayedain, Rana Sajjad, Lubna Hayat and Samrana Raza. The session was hosted by Sikandar Lodhi.Farah Naz Naqvi said that effective strategy and planning was required to bring about a change while public should also contribute to the cause. She called for supporting the prime minister instead of criticising the government. She suggested discouraging corruption at every stage, one education policy and discouraged criticism on national progress projects.Azma Bukhari said the 100 days plan was unrealistic mission statement and Imran Khan himself provided opportunity of criticism by making such announcements in speeches. She said the PTI was not a party nor have a team to make policies and enforce them. She said the PTI made more than 100 U-turns in 100 days while Imran Khan’s one statement of ‘leader must takes U-turn’ was sufficient to explain the performance. She said problems could not solve only by identifying rather experts team was required in which PTI was lacking behind.Mehmood Ahmed said that PTI made 100 days plan in a haste which increased public hopes. He said economic experts of PTI failed in timely pointing out the issues and resolving them which was deplorable. He called for effective strategy for foreign investment to bring country out of economic crisis. He said the media should portray positive image of country and code of conduct should be made for it.Agha Sayedain said that 100 days promises were reflection of PTI’s political immaturity while the government should focus on decision making and strictly enforce them. He believed that even problems would be identified in 100 days that could be sufficient. He appreciated the efforts to reduce debt burden but commented that the IMF bailout could not be avoided. He stressed the need of increasing exports.Rana Sajjad said that 100 days plan was a conventional political slogan as Imran Khan credibility as an honest leader who comes to power first time so it should maintain on legislations for the betterment of public and national interest. He said number of 100 days plan was non implementable so it should not be criticised. However, public hopes were increased with the plan and now the PTI should give its mid-term agenda.Lubna Hayat said that 10 points were given for implementation in 100 days out of which work was started on some but number of aspects was untouched. She said rulers were learning the rule after coming into the government. She said the country required experts who can bring the country out of crisis. She criticised putting burden on existing tax payers and called for promoting investment, controlling tax evasion and promoting local industry.Samrana Raza said that 100 days plan was a haste decision as no new government steps could be analysed on 100 days performance. She said major economic issues could not be addressed in a short-term span.
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Economic diplomacy among key priorities of Pakistan's foreign policy: FM
Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi says economic diplomacy is among the key priorities of Pakistan's foreign policy. He was talking to Chairman Board of Investment Haroon Sharif who called on him in Islamabad on Friday. During the meeting, existing opportunities of investment in various sectors of national economy and the positive trend ...
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TAPI gas pipeline to prove to be game changer for region: Ghulam Sarwar
Minister for Petroleum Ghulam Sarwar Khan has said Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India (TAPI) gas pipeline will prove to be a game changer for the region. He was talking to Ambassador of Turkmenistan Atadjan Movlamov in Islamabad on Friday. Ghulam Sarwar Khan said Petroleum Division and TAPI Pipeline Corporation will soon sign an ...
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SC directs FBR to submit details of Aleema Khan’s property
The Supreme Court on Friday, while hearing a suo motu case on foreign properties owned by Pakistani nationals, directed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to present property and tax amnesty details of Prime Minister Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan. A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Mian Saqib Nisar is hearing ...
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JW Forland Auto to launch $150m project in Pakistan today
JW Forland Auto is launching its project of one hundred fifty million dollars in Pakistan on Friday. In a tweet, Finance Minister Asad Umar said auto sector of the country is getting significant new investment. He said the government's ultimate goal is to make Pakistan a regional hub for manufacturing auto parts and automobiles.
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US welcomes Pakistan's decision for opening Kartarpur corridor
The United States has welcomed Pakistan’s efforts to increase people-to-people ties with India by breaking ground for the Kartarpur corridor earlier this week. While responding to a journalist's question regarding Pakistan-India recent move to open Kartarpur corridor, Deputy Spokesperson of the State Department Robert Palladino ...
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COAS, UAE enovy discuss matters of mutual interest
ISLAMABAD - Ambassador of UAE to Pakistan Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Alzaabi called on General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) at GHQ in Rawalpindi on Thursday, says a statement issued by the ISPR. “Matters of mutual interest were discussed during the meeting”, it added. The development follows a crucial day long ...
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Yasir’s dip and drift ‘as good as I’ve seen’: McMillan
ABU DHABI - Craig McMillan, the New Zealand batting coach, has urged his batsmen to come up with “precise and clear” plans against Yasir Shah ahead of the third Test against Pakistan, which begins on December 3 in Abu Dhabi. Yasir’s match figures of 14 for 184 in Dubai were instrumental in Pakistan levelling ...
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KP PDWP approves 37 projects
PESHAWAR: The Provincial Development Working Party (PDWP) on Thursday approved 37 projects worth Rs138472.147 million.The forum considered 41 projects pertaining to different sectors, including Energy and Power, Water, Law and Justice, Elementary and Secondary Education, Auqaf, Building, DWSS, Roads & Bridges, Multi-Sectoral Development, Finance, local government, Health and Forestry sectors for the uplift of the province. Four projects were deferre.The approved projects of Energy and Power sector were "Balakot Hydro Power Project (310 MW), Solarisation of Civil Secretariat (for remaining Departments of Civil Secretariat) (ADP Funded), Construction of 356 Mini-Micro Hydropower projects in Northern districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa".Approved projects of Water sector were "Provision /Construction of Irrigation tubewells in Tehsil Matta in Swat district, Restoration/Improvement of Small Irrigation Channels in Matta, Construction of Roads along Water Channels and Drains in Tehsil Matta District Swat, Construction of Flood Protection Structures, Bridges and Improvement / Restoration of existing structures on Swat River and its tributaries in Matta, rehabilitation of canal roads, culverts and flood protection walls in U/Cs South, Darwesh, Pandak, Ali Khan, Sarai Saleh, Rehana, Shah Maqsood and Pind Hashim Khan in Haripur district, Construction / Improvement of flood protection works, Roads and water channels in Kabal, Ningolai, Kanju, Sherpalam and adjoining areas in Swat."The approved projects of Law and Justice sector included, "Additional Funds for acquisition of land for the construction of judicial complexes at sub divisional Bahrain, Khwazakhela and Matta, Swat, F/S.
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Remand of Fawad, Cheema extended
LAHORE: An accountability court on Thursday extended judicial remand of Fawad Hassan Fawad, former principal secretary to former prime minister and former DG LDA Ahad Khan Cheema, accused in Ashiana Housing scam.The court has extended judicial remand of both the accused by December 13. The NAB had arrested Fawad on charges of misusing his authority as being the secretary to former Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif and caused a huge loss to the national exchequer. The NAB has accused Cheema of awarding contract of the Ashiana-e-Iqbal housing project of approximately Rs14 billion to Lahore Casa Developers — a joint venture which was ineligible for the contract. Owing to the ineligibility of the companies, the government had to bear a loss of over Rs64.5 million. The accused persons will be produced again before the court by December 13.
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Ranveer Singh says Deepika has anchored him
Ex-MPA remanded in parking company case
LAHORE: An accountability court on Thursday granted 10-day physical remand of PML-N’s former MPA Hafiz Mian Nauman, accused of embezzlement and causing loss to national kitty as chairman of Lahore Parking Company (LPC). The NAB official produced the accused before the court and sought physical remand to carry out investigations in the scam. The court granted 10-day physical remand of the accused, directing bureau’s official to produce accused again by December 8 along with investigation report till that date. The NAB had arrested Hafiz Nauman after his pre-arrest bail was rejected by the Lahore High Court.As per NAB claims, accused Hafiz Nauman, being Chairman of Lahore Parking Company Limited, actively participated in the operations of the company and visited the parking sites of M/s Green Parking Dubai (the only Parking Company in the Joint Venture). Thereafter, accused Hafiz Nauman, being chairman received a letter from M/s Green Parking Dubai that agreement had been signed without their participation and fraudulent misrepresentation by M/s AGCN/NTG Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd, whereas, the accused being the Chairman Board of Directors deliberately approved illegal change of JV partner.
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PIMS projects to be inaugurated tomorrow
Islamabad: Federal Minister for Health Services and Coordination Aamer Mehmood Kiani and Human Rights Minister Shireen Mazari will jointly visit the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences on Saturday (Dec 1) at 11am to inaugurate projects successfully executed by executive director Dr Raja Amjad Mehmood.PIMS spokesman Dr Waseem Khawaja, the ED besides ensuring excellent functioning of PIMS administration and workers also introduced an automated queue management system to the relief of patients, who used to wait for their examination and treatment turn in long queues for hours. Also, the token system was introduced at the children, gynaecology and main OPDs for the visitors' checkup. Many new floor washing machines were procured for the infection-free cleaning of the hospital. The machines do their work excellently and in a short time. New food trolleys have also been introduced to keep food for patients warm and infection-free.
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22 Indian fishermen arrested by PMSA
KARACHI: The Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) on Thursday arrested 22 Indian fishermen and impounded their three boats from the Arabian Sea for fishing illegally in Pakistan’s territorial waters. The fishermen were interrogated by the PMSA officials before being handed over to the Docks Police, who registered cases against them under the fisheries and foreigners acts.According to the PMSA officials, the arrested Indian nationals were initially warned to leave, but after their refusal the PMSA took action against them and arrested them with three boats. Docks Police officials said that the cases against them were registered while the arrested Indian fishermen will be imprisoned in District Jail, Malir.
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Govt asked to rehabilitate infrastructure in Bara
BARA: Political leaders and elders have asked the government to start rehabilitation of educational institutions and survey of the destroyed homes of Sipah tribe in the Bara tehsil of the Khyber tribal district. They said the government had already allocated amount for the destroyed schools and homes in Bara subdivision.Talking to reporters, PTI leader Gul Madar Afridi and others said that the government should focus on educational institutions and rehabilitation of the temporally displaced people (TDPs) of Sipah tribe. He said the government had approved fund to rebuild the educational institutions, including high schools, primary schools for boys and girls. Gul Madar Afridi urged the government to start work on the reconstruction of schools as soon as possible.
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Resource allocation for HR institutions sought
PESHAWAR: The civil society on Thursday expressed concern over the challenges and non-compliance with international human rights commitments and lack of coordination among the government departments, civil society and the human rights institutions. Speaking at a press conference here on Thursday, Shahidullah Jan, Qamar Naseem, and others said the human rights were protected by national legislation and international conventions.
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HBL hosts a Donation Drive for the Indus Hospital Expansion Project in line with its commitment to serve the country.
HBL prides itself on being a socially responsible entity and continues to play its role as a responsible corporate citizen through the support of charitable causes that promote education, health and community welfare.HBL collaborated with the Indus Hospital, Korangi, Karachi to support them in their mission to expand to a larger facility to be able to serve more under-privileged patients with free of charge and quality healthcare. The kiosks were set up on November 29, 2018 at three different HBL premises: HBL Tower, HBL Plaza and HBL Annexe. Employees at HBL enthusiastically participated in the event to support this noble cause. HBL’s focus has always been people and their dreams, enabling it to be the catalyst for progress. Special thanks to Mr. Yunus Hashim Bengali - Chairman The Indus Hospital, Dr. Abdul Bari Khan - CEO The Indus Hospital and Mr. Ahson Tariq - Executive Director The Indus Hospital for their gracious presence at the HBL premises for the activity along with Mr. Sagheer Mufti - Chief Operating Officer HBL, Mr. Amir Kureshi - Head Global Consumer Banking, Mr. Naveed Asghar - Chief Marketing Officer HBL and other senior members of HBL. ***
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Bomb-making devices seized in Charsadda
CHARSADDA: The police seized three packets of detonators, 600 metre prima cord and 350 dynamites and arrested two accused during snap checking at Yakkaghund checkpost on Thursday, official sources said.They said following the reports of the secret agencies, the police party, led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), Shabqadar, Muhammad Riaz Khan and in charge Saro Killay Police Station Mukhtiar Khan, barricaded road at Yakkaghund checkpost. During the checking, the police signalled a pickup-truck (Pesh-6764) to stop.On thorough search, the police recovered bomb-making devices including three packets of detonators, 600 metre prima cord and 350 dynamites from the hidden cavities of the vehicle. The law-enforcers also arrested two persons identified as Sher Muhammad and Abdur Rehman. The police shifted the accused to the police station where cases were registered against them. Further investigation was underway.
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Cache of arms recovered in Orakzai
KALAYA: The security forces foiled a terror bid and recovered arms and ammunition buried at a deserted place in the limits of lower parts Orakzai tribal district, official sources said on Thursday.They said the security forces officials had received tip-off that some unidentified miscreants had buried huge quantity weapons and incendiary materials near Fayyaz village which could have been used in major terror related incidents. Acting on the tip-off, the security forces officials reached the spot and recovered arms and ammunition buried deep underground.The officials seized one improvised explosive device, five mortar shells, two artillery hand-grenade, 25 60 mm ammunition bomb, one RPG7 bomb, four detonators, 21 meter safety fuses, six kilograms of explosive materials, and one bomb.
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Js Bank Partners with Karigar Training Institute
JS Bank has joined hands with Karigar Training Institute (KTI), a not-for-profit organization which provides training in vocational skills for mechanics, electricians & plumbers.KTI trainees or alumni can now become independent entrepreneurs by availing financing solutions through the JS Prime Minister Youth Business Loan (PMYBL) scheme, at a highly subsidized mark-up rate of 6% per annum. Applicants aging between 21 & 45 years, with entrepreneurship and business management skills imparted through Karigar, are eligible to apply for the scheme.Reflecting on this alliance, Mr. Babbar Wajid, Head of Product Development & Business Management, JS Bank stated, “Through this partnership, we aim to open doors to the common man who struggles to become financially independent. I am positive that this is just the start to something much bigger that can bring about a change we require in the social & economic sectors of Pakistan.”Speaking at the occasion, Commodore (Retd.) S. Rashid Ullah, Director Operations, Karigar Training Institute, stated “We highly appreciate JS Bank’s initiative towards enabling these young individuals and ensure full support from Karigar Training Institute in this respect”JS Bank, one of Pakistan’s leading and fastest growing financial institutions is continually undertaking efforts to drive economic growth and development in Pakistan.***
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World Bank delegation discusses sponsored projects with KP minister
PESHAWAR: A World Bank delegation met Finance Minister Taimur Khan Jhagra and other senior government officials Thursday to review upcoming sponsored projects in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.The first project discussed was on increasing the provinces own source revenue, an effort under which revenue generation by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Revenue Authority is meant to be increased.This is critical for the province, since the province today only generates six per cent of revenue. Taimur Jhagra affirmed that plans were well underway to launch a concerted revenue generation campaign in the province, in particular with KPRA now referring to the oversight of the finance department.Tourism development in the province was also discussed, a topic on which the World Bank and the tourism department have been working at length. Amongst additional initiatives, the need to target true international tourists, and specific target markets, in particular China and East Asia were highlighted. The delegation also proposed how it could help the government digitalisation process, for which a new project with the World Bank has been approved. The members of the delegation also presented its findings on the Annual Development Programme, highlighting improvements in the project performance. The finance minister remarked that these improvements were only the beginning of process where the financial management of the province would be completely revamped.
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Attack on Chinese Consulate
The Chinese Consulate in Karachi came under a terrorist attack on the morning of November 23, 2018. The attackers’ evil designs failed to materialise and the rescue operation ended in half an hour or so. Two security forces personnel embraced martyrdom. About 21 staff members in the consulate remained safe and secure. The courageous security forces of Pakistan prevented a terrorist act one more time, like the past. Some aspects of the incident are crucial to ponder upon.One has find out as to who could be the prime beneficiary of such an action against the Chinese in Pakistan, especially in the backdrop of PM Imran Khan’s successful visit to China. A spokesman for the BLA confirmed there were three attackers. He claimed that China was exploiting their resources in the province. Pakistan has long pointed out that its old rival, India, is supporting the nationalist insurgents in Balochistan. An unprecedented anti-CPEC campaign has been unleashed by hostile elements, especially India, at various international fora and organisations with the aim to scuttle the project and deprive Pakistan of its benefits. Efforts are aimed at creating controversies and mistrust of the people in the mega projects through various means and exploiting fault-lines in the society.It has also been reported that Karachi has a number of sleeping cells being operated by Indian intelligence RAW, Afghan intelligence NDS and even agencies from the West. These should be searched and neutralised.Meanwhile, the clearance operation was initially led by a female police officer ASP Suhai Aziz Talpur; this indicates that our girls and women folks are on the forefront to defeat the evil designs of RAW-NDS nexus. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah lauded the courage of the female police officer ASP Clifton Suhai Aziz for leading the operation during the attack. “Our women are brave and can work shoulder-to-shoulder with men,” the CM said.Suhai Aziz led the security operation that foiled the brazen attack by members of the Baloch Liberation Army. She ensured the terrorists, armed with hand-grenades, assault rifles, magazines and explosives, did not reach the diplomatic staff inside the consulate building. As soon as they reached the gates of the consulate, the Karachi Police team took positions and killed the attackers.As we all know, China is funding development of a deep water port at Gwadar in south Balochistan and is also investing in other projects on the China Pakistan Economic Corridor, which is an important part of the Chinese massive ‘One Belt One Road’ (OBOR) transcontinental and trans-oceanic initiative. The port of Gwadar will connect China with Central Asia, Africa, Middle East and Europe through a network of rail, road and motorways envisioned under the project, which aims to economically uplift China’s underdeveloped western region of Xinjiang.However, it is being propagated that Chinese military bases are planned in the coastal belt and Gwadar Port, aimed at occupation of native resources. There are also claims about designs of Chinese aggression in the Arabian Sea. It is said that Pakistan will become a Chinese colony and a puppet. Existence of political differences, concerns over CPEC projects and equitable share of provinces/ Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) are being highlighted. Exploitation of resources of Balochistan, projects being undertaken against the will of the people of Balochistan and Sindh and demographic changes in Balochistan are being claimed. These all are untrue.Despite the attack, Pakistan and China should remain focused on their economic goals and remain steadfast in meeting similar future challenges. Certainly, the CPEC will bring prosperity and connectivity, thus reducing space for terrorists for operations in the region. As a socio-economic project, it will provide for the uplift of people in the least developed areas of Balochistan, Sindh, GB and KP.
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The Afghan peace talks
US General Joseph Dunford, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, recently said the Taliban "are not losing" and there is no "military solution" to ending the war in Afghanistan. Dunford made the remarks amid US-Afghan attempts to launch peace talks with the Taliban. "They are not losing right now, I think that is fair to say," Dunford said during a discussion at a security forum in Halifax, Canada, on November 17. Dunford, the senior-most US military officer, added the United States and its NATO allies were working to leverage military, political, and economic pressure to convince the Taliban to negotiate an end to the war. "We do believe the Taliban know that at some point they do have to reconcile," he said. "The key to success is to combine all that pressure to incentivize the Taliban" to negotiate.These remarks were no surprise. The Taliban control more territory than ever before the US invasion of the South Asian country in 2001. According to US estimates, government forces control less than 60 percent of Afghanistan, with the remainder either contested or under the control of the insurgents. The Taliban are mounting attacks on Afghan military bases while Daesh is killing civilians.Recently, the Russian government held talks to find out a solution to the imbroglio. The Taliban listed four conditions for beginning peace talks at the important meeting hosted by the Russian government. According to the speech delivered by the Taliban delegation, the group put up four conditions to begin the peace talks i.e. removal from sanctions, release of all detained Taliban cadres, formal opening of office and stopping of “poisonous propaganda” against the Taliban, including allegations of its involvement in attacks on students and civilians.The meeting was also attended by India, which is apparently changing its policy of not engaging directly with the Afghan group. India's external affairs ministry claimed its participation was “consistent” with its policy of backing Afghan-led and Afghan-owned process for peace. “Where did we say there will be talks with the Taliban? We just said we will be participating in a meeting on Afghanistan, hosted by Russia.” This was certainly an interesting twist of stance as the Congress declared the Centre’s decision amounted to a reversal of India’s stated policy of not engaging the Taliban. “Sitting at the same table as Taliban, notwithstanding the chicanery of saying India was represented at a non-official level, has only served to legitimise Taliban,” said party spokesperson Manish Tewari.India, which has reportedly committed $3 billion for Afghanistan's development in the last 17 years, claims it is committed to Afghanistan’s efforts to emerge as a united, peaceful, secure, stable, inclusive and economically vibrant nation, a claim contested by Afghanistan's immediate neighbour Pakistan in the light of her experiences.On the other hand, President Donald Trump is making strenuous efforts to settle the conflict peacefully, appointing US special envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad to hold talks with the Taliban. However, the Americans have not been successful as attacks against the allied and Afghan forces continue while civilians are also being targeted. They cannot end the war unilaterally and cannot leave the Afghan government in extreme peril. The “mother of all bombs” has not made any difference nor the additional 3,000 US troops.Similarly, the greater use of armed drones and American engagement in using firepower is proving ineffective. Trump's Afghanistan plan is proving a failure. The Americans are understandably frustrated.At the same time, the Taliban peace talks will not produce the desired results immediately. It will take time as Taliban will try to make more gains in the summer offensive 2019. The Americans want to avoid the offensive and seek quick results. But it seems the Taliban are not in a hurry as they believe that time is on their side while only an agreement can end the protracted war.
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Moot calls to prevent extremism, nurture peace
LAHORE: Women are not only one of the key drivers of change of mindsets but also act as agents of conflict prevention and peacemaking as well as reconcilers in peace-building efforts in a particular society, according to speakers at a one-day workshop held here at the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS).The event titled ‘Role of Women in Promoting Peace in a Diverse Society’ was hosted by FemSoc and Hum AaHang in collaboration with the Campus Climate Unit of the Dean of Student Affairs Office.Campus Climate Manager Hiba Zakai delivered the welcome address, while Punjab Minister for Health Dr Yasmeen Rashid, MNA Romina Khurshid Alam, former MNA Dr Samia Raheel Qazi, Balochistan Assembly former speaker Rahila Durrani, Okara Deputy Commissioner Maryam Khan, Islamic Research Institute (IRI) Director General Dr Zia ul Haq, Hum AaHang President Fatima Mohsin Naqvi, FemSoc President Nawal Zahra, psychologist Dr Fia Paracha and University of Lahore Dean Dr Rabia spoke on the occasion.In their speeches, the speakers said the role and contribution of women to the culture of peace is not only important because they represent almost half of the global population but also because they are one of the key drivers of change of mindsets and the cultures. “Women and their empowerment is crucial to advancing the culture of peace in all its vectors — education, sustainable economic and social development, human rights and equality, democratic participation, tolerance and understanding - at all levels in the family, community, country, region and globally,” they said.“There is no question that culture of peace requires the participation of women, especially young women. So, their empowerment is vital to ensure that at least half of the humanity is liberated from violence and discrimination, has the power of decision-making, and has the economic muscle to nurture a culture of peace and rollback the tides of extremism and terrorism,” the speakers said.Punjab Minister for Health Dr Yasmeen Rashid spoke about the impacts of hormonal changes on behaviour especially in women, while former MNA Dr Samia Raheel Qazi threw light on the role of women in promoting peace in the light of Holy Quran and Sunnah.In their speeches, MNA Romina Khurshid Alam and IRI Director General Dr Zia ul Haq introduced the ‘Paigham-e-Pakistan’ and ‘Dukhtran-e-Pakistan’ initiatives of the government of Pakistan launched with an aim to promote the narrative of peace in the country and defeat the forces of extremism and terrorism through unity, brotherhood, tolerance and an inclusive approach.
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Adorable penguin gets a new friend
While visiting Jenkinsons Aquarium in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, a mother and her daughter stumbled upon a flightless feathered friend.Noticing the five-year-old, the black and white bird was instantly mesmerized, and as soon as the little girl started moving the penguin did the same. Running back and forth in front of the glass, the penguin closely followed her pointed finger. Needless to say that friendship is above all the borders of color, cast and creed. In fact, humans are better friends with animals and birds than they are with other humans.As, the kid giggled watching the penguin, her mother said, 'he likes you.'
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Disney Junior's upcoming TV series is inspired by Indian culture and customs
In an attempt to embrace diversity and acceptance of different cultures, Disney Junior is welcoming an animated mystery-adventure series for the younger audience, to celebrate the Indian cultures and customs.According a report by Hollywood Reporter, the upcoming series titled ‘Mira, Royal Detective’ is featuring an all-Indian cast, including the fresh face of 15-year-old newcomer Leela Ladnier. The series is set in the enchanted land of Jalpur where the valiant Mira is appointed as the royal detective to untangle a mystery that challenges the usual image of a damsel in distress as it is the kingdom’s young prince who needs saving this time.Mira, accompanied by her friend Prince Neel, cousin Priya and sidekicks Mikku and Chikku embark on the magical adventure providing a helping hand to people all around, and uplifting the ability of critical thinking and deductive reasoning amongst children.Disney Junior vice president Joe D’Ambrosia stated regarding the new series: “We are eager to introduce kids and their families to the rich, diverse cultures and customs of India through Mira, a young girl who looks at things with her own unique lens to gain different perspectives and help others in her community. We hope that she will encourage our audience to actively engage with the inspiring world around them and appreciate the little details that make life extraordinary.” Alongside Ladnier, the adventure filled series will feature the voices of Freida Pinto, Kal Penn, Jameela Jamil and many others.
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Sara Ali Khan has a secret Instagram for stalking 'hot models'
With the glitzy and glamorous life of Bollywood come a few drawbacks that hinder you from doing routine things like stalking someone on the internet!Newbie in the industry, Sara Ali Khan has already figured out a solution to that by revealing that she has fake Twitter and Instagram accounts which remain under murkiness, away from her Bollywood limelight. During an interview with Film Companion’s Anupama Chopra, the 25-year-old actor revealed that she uses her secret Instagram to like random photos and stalk ‘hot models.’Upon the host mentioning that she is not on Twitter, Sara chimed in saying: “I am, under a false name but I’ll be on Twitter soon enough.”Asked if she is stalking people, Sara replied: “Of course! I am a normal person, of course I am stalking people.”She went on to say: “I have a fake Instagram also where I like things, you know. You can’t be seen liking random stuff because then people take screenshots of what you’ve liked an all. You don’t always want people to know.”The Kedarnath star then goes on to admit that the secret pictures she has been liking and the profiles she has been stalking are of ‘hot models.’
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Was smitten like a puppy in love: Nick on when he proposed Priyanka
All eyes are set on Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas as they walk down the aisle on December 2 at the picturesque, historical Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, India.The made-for-each-other couple will be kicking off their pre-wedding festivities today with a mehndi and sangeet ceremony followed by a cocktail party. The couple publicised the news about their engagement in a traditional roka ceremony in August. While the two are seen as the epitome of love and affection, little is known about their love story and how it all unfolded for the love-struck duo. In a recent revelation about their love life, Nick’s brother Joe Jonas, who is engaged to Game of Thrones star Sophie Turner, shared details about the moment when Nick was so smitten by Priyanka’s beauty that he decided to pop the marriage question immediately. Priyanka is all set to be featured on the January cover of Vogue. In a corresponding interview with the magazine, it has been revealed that the Nick and the Quantico starlet actually started texting each other before they met at the 2017’s Met Gala.Nick was the first one to message Priyanka on Twitter saying, “I’m hearing from a few mutual friends that we should meet.” Priyanka told him that her team could have read the message and that he should contact her on the phone instead. The two then met at the Vanity Fair Oscars party when he got down on one knee with everybody present, “And I put my drink down, get on one knee—this is in front of a bunch of people—and I say, ‘You’re real. Where have you been all my life?’ Like, loud,” he recalled. Shortly after, Nick and Priyanka started dating each other formally. Nick’s brother Joe said that he and his fiancée Sophie Turner laughed at seeing how Priyanka had swept Nick off his feet. “He’s sitting on the floor. And Sophie and I were just laughing at him. We’re like, look at this little smitten, drunk kid right now.”By their third date, Nick said, he was sure he wanted to marry Priyanka and it was her he wanted to spend of his life with. He proposed to her in Greece with a Tiffany ring he had bought a week ago. “I got down on one knee, again, and I said: Will you make me the happiest man in the world and marry me? No joke—she took about 45 seconds. Forty-five seconds of silence.” When she didn’t say anything, Nick told her, “I’m going to put this ring on your finger now unless you have any objections.”Priyanka and Nick will tie the knot in two wedding ceremonies - a traditional Indian and a Christian wedding - after which they will host two grand receptions in Delhi and Mumbai.
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from The News International - Entertainment https://ift.tt/2Q5b7e2
Game of Thrones cast secretly taped a ‘big reunion’
The deceased Ned Stark from season 1 Game of Thrones reunited with the cast in a special reunion hosted by Conan O’ Brien. He might not be rising from the dead like Jon Snow.The cast quietly taped the part of the show earlier this year in Belfast, Northern Ireland.Entertainment Weekly reported that the special reunion won’t be airing on HBO. Instead, after the eighth and final season is finished airing, it will be included as an extra in an upcoming DVD box set comprised of all eight seasons.Actor Sean Bean had previously revealed that a reunion special had been taped with all of the show’s cast members, past and present, being in attendance. This is the first time, though, that HBO have confirmed the news.“Conan O’Brien did this thing. It was the last episode, so we all got together… it was good! It’s funny with work, you don’t really keep in touch. You do so many types of jobs in that part of the world. It’s just like whenever I see old friends or even old drama school friends, it’s just the same, we pick up where we left off last time.”He added: “They decided to get all the characters together for a bit for this big show in Belfast and he kind of hosted the evening.”It hasn’t been confirmed which other long-dead characters are returning. It can only be wished that Richard Madden (who played Robb Stark), Jason Momoa (who played Khal Drogo) and Natalie Dormer (who played Margaery Tyrell) found the time to come say goodbye on-screen.The box set will be released sometime in 2019. The final season of the hit HBO show returns in April 2019.
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Facebook starts verification for UK political ads
UK advertisers seeking to run political ads on Facebook Inc (FB.O) must now confirm their identity, location and reveal who paid for the ad, the social network said on Thursday as it faces increasing scrutiny following the Cambridge Analytica scandal.Starting Thursday, ads related to politics will be housed in an "Ad Library" for seven years and advertisers will be prevented from running a political ad if they aren't authorized, Facebook director of product management Rob Leathern said in a blog here post.Britain’s parliament has called for tech firms to be made liable for disseminating misleading political information and targeting citizens using data manipulation, in the wake of major political events such as Britain’s vote to leave the European Union in 2016.Facebook is being investigated by lawmakers in Britain after consultancy Cambridge Analytica, which worked on Donald Trump’s presidential campaign, obtained personal data of 87 million Facebook users from a researcher.The social media company said it would, however, exempt select UK news organizations from housing their content in Facebook’s Ad Library. The exemption will be expanded in the United States next year, it said.The exemption is a partial reversal to Facebook’s earlier decision to include ads in its Ad Library from news organizations mentioning political figures, elections or issues of national importance.A group of news publishers had written a letter in June to Facebook Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg, protesting the social network’s inclusion of news content in its new policies meant for labeling and archiving all political ads.
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They said I had put on weight and I was kicked out: Radhika Apte on rejection
A fresh face in B-Town, Radhika Apte is swiftly paving her way atop the ladder but she has had her fair share of bumps on the road.In conversation with Mumbai Mirror, the Padman actor brought to light the struggles she has encountered during the span of her career.Speaking about her progress that allows her the freedom of rejecting roles, the Lust Stories star said: "The kind of roles I am being offered right now, I would have never rejected four years ago."She went on to state: "There’s no right or wrong but what you do has a consequence and you have to be prepared to face it. You think you know how things will work out, but you actually don’t." Moreover, Apte revealed how she had always been sure of the career path she would choose, with her first breaking into theatre and later taking on roles to rid herself of student loans."You’re very lucky when you look like the person they are looking for," she stated.Looking back at her unpleasant experiences, she stated: "They said I had put on a lot of weight and I was kicked out. I told them that I had two months before the shoot to lose the weight but they were panicking and didn’t want to wait.""I still get rejected often but you get used to it, in a good way. Your anger fades and you realise that nothing is personal," she further added, implying that she has a long hike still to go.
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from The News International - Entertainment https://ift.tt/2KHp77G
Thursday 29 November 2018
Senator Khokhar terms PM’s address unimpressive
Spokesman to the Chairman of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Senator Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar, has said that Prime Minister Imran Khan’s ddress was totally unimpressive and lacked the vigor a head of government should posses. Senator Khokar, reacting to the Prime Ministers Imran Khan's speech over completion of 100 ...
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PTI’s 100 days: Ministers shed light upon govt’s performance
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government marked its 100 days in power on Thursday in a ceremony, held at the Jinnah Convention Centre in the federal capital. The ceremony was attended by PTI leaders, Members of National Assembly, Members of Provincial Assembly, workers and supporters of the party. Prime Minister (PM) Imran Khan was the chief ...
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Fire erupts on sets of 'Zero', Shah Rukh Khan rushed to safety
The sets of Bollywood’s upcoming film ‘Zero’ was set ablaze on Thursday with fire brigades, rushing to the scene to tackle the situation.According to a report by the Press Trust of India, citing the police, megastar Shah Rukh Khan was present on the site when the fire erupted in the evening hours of Thursday.The actor was reported to be taken away safely, unharmed.Deputy Commissioner of Police Vinay Rathod, further revealed that the blaze was limited to electric wiring, electric installations, lights, shooting materials, ropes and curtains.Moreover, reports revealed that Goregaon’s Film City was seen with smoke rising above, however, no injuries were reported.The root behind the fire, as of yet, remains unidentified. It appears that the film already has its stars vexed even before its release, as prior to this incident, it had landed in trouble with Sikh groups who opposed a scene they’re terming as ‘blasphemous’ where the King of Bollywood can be seen wearing a Kirpan which is a Sikh holy symbol.
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