The Pakistani rupee (PKR) weakened by 5.77 paisa, or 0.02 per cent, against the US dollar (USD) in Thursday’s interbank market, closing at Rs277.85 per USD.
This was a slight drop from Wednesday’s close of Rs277.79.
In the open market, exchange companies quoted the dollar at Rs276.84 for buying and Rs278.72 for selling.
During the day, the local unit touched a high of Rs277.90 and a low of Rs277.80 against the greenback.
It is worth noting that since the start of the fiscal year, the PKR has appreciated by 49.12 paisa, or 0.18 per cent, against the US dollar. For the calendar year, it has strengthened by Rs4.01, or 1.44 per cent.
PKR’s performance against other foreign currencies
Currency
Thursday’s rate
Wednesday’s rate
Change
US Dollar (USD)
Rs277.85
Rs277.79
5.77 paisa (-0.02%)
British Pound (GBP)
Rs361.02
Rs361.34
31.39 paisa (+0.09%)
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Rs1.8260
Rs1.8126
1.34 paisa (-0.74%)
Saudi Riyal (SAR)
Rs73.98
Rs73.97
1.34 paisa (-0.02%)
UAE Dirham (AED)
Rs75.65
Rs75.63
1.57 paisa (-0.02%)
Euro (EUR)
Rs301.69
Rs300.72
96.55 paisa (-0.32%)
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Rs39.03
Rs38.99
3.68 paisa (-0.09%)
Swiss Franc (CHF)
Rs321.12
Rs320.24
88.10 paisa (-0.28%)
Exchange rates
Against the British Pound, the PKR gained 31.39 paisa, or 0.09 per cent, closing at Rs361.02, up from Rs361.34 the previous day.
Against the Japanese Yen, the PKR dropped 1.34 paisa, or 0.74 per cent, ending the session at Rs1.8260, down from Rs1.8126.
The rupee also weakened by 1.34 paisa, or 0.02 per cent, against the Saudi Riyal, closing at Rs73.98, and by 1.57 paisa, or 0.02 per cent, against the UAE Dirham, finishing at Rs75.65.
Against the Euro, the PKR decreased by 96.55 paisa, or 0.32 per cent, closing at Rs301.69, down from Rs300.72.
The rupee lost 3.68 paisa, or 0.09 per cent, against the Chinese Yuan, finishing at Rs39.03.
The local currency also declined by 88.10 paisa, or 0.28 per cent, against the Swiss Franc, closing at Rs321.12.
PKR’s closing on Wednesday
A day earlier, on Wednesday, the rupee had weakened by 5 paisa, or 0.02 per cent, against the US dollar settling at Rs277.79.
It fell by 94 paisa, or 0.26 per cent, against the British Pound, closing at Rs361.34.
The rupee gained 38.59 paisa, or 0.12 per cent, against the Swiss Franc, ending at Rs320.24.
Against the Japanese Yen, the rupee strengthened slightly, closing at Rs1.8126.
The PKR dropped by 1.33 paisa, or 0.02 per cent, against the Saudi Riyal, closing at Rs73.97, and fell by 1.36 paisa, or 0.02 per cent, against the UAE Dirham, closing at Rs75.63.
Against the Euro, the rupee dropped by 48.46 paisa, or 0.16 per cent, closing at Rs300.72.
The PKR also depreciated by 9.60 paisa, or 0.25 per cent, against the Chinese Yuan, closing at Rs38.99.
Pregnancy can be a challenging journey, but having a supportive sister can make it easie
During her appearance as a guest on Amana Isani Haider’s podcast, Minal Khan shared the challenges she faced and how her sister, Aiman Khan, stood by her side.
“After I conceived, my sister was the first person I told. She was already three months pregnant, and she was so happy for me. She told me, ‘Now you don’t need to think about anything, Minal. I’m here. It’s not difficult; I know you’ll be scared, but I’ll take you along with me on this journey.’ Thanks to her support, I didn’t feel left out,” she said.
Reflecting on her postpartum experiences, the Nand actress revealed the difficulties she faced after giving birth.
“After pregnancy, Alhamdulillah, it went smoothly, but postpartum was very difficult. I got sick right after delivery with a severe infection. I had high fever, one night reaching 106 degrees, and my sister, husband and mother were just standing there, praying. In that moment I realized how vulnerable I was… I couldn’t even take a minute off because I was a mother now,” Minal added.
When asked if it was a planned pregnancy, she said replied, “Yeah… the baby came as a surprise but very very very good surprise that we will cherish all our live InshaAllah.”
On her plans to become a mother Minal said she didn’t want to plan her family in her 30s. “I wanted to have a family before reaching my 30s so that I have my own life, my health is stable and I am able to focus on my career again, not start it from scratch in my 30s.”
Minal Khan has starred in dramas such as ‘Kaash Main Teri Beti Na Hoti’, ‘Quddusi Sahab Ki Bewah’, ‘Nand’, ‘Mere Meherbaan’, ‘Mol’ ‘Mithu Aur Aapa, ‘Joru Ka Ghulam’, ‘Malkin’, ‘Beti To Main Bhi Hun’ and ‘ Ishq Hai’.
Minal and Ahsan Mohsin Ikram tied the knot on June 11, 2021, in Karachi.
It may be noted Aiman Khan and Minal Khan last made headlines when they stepped into the world of skincare with their new brand, Skin Recipe. The launch event, held in Karachi, attracted a host of social media influencers, celebrities, and the actresses’ family members. The buzz surrounding the Skin Recipe launch is spreading like wildfire on social media, with pictures and videos from the event circulating on Instagram.
A video showing Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister (CM) Ali Amin Gandapur addressing a charged crowd has gone viral, sparking concerns over his words hinting at a bloody revolution.
“This time before we leave, we will tell our families that if we do not return, perform our funeral prayers,” Gandapur said while speaking at a ceremony in KP.
“We have understood that here, one does not get their rights through decency, respect, or according to the law […] the blood within us is red, the colour that symbolises a revolution. When the colour of blood is red… it tells us that problems won’t be solved without bringing a revolution,” he warned, adding that the time for a “decisive battle” had arrived.
CM Gandapur further said that when people asked for their rights as per the Constitution, they were thrown into jail and subjected to oppression or fake FIRs [First Information Reports] were filed against them.
The KP CM also announced the restoration of student unions in the province, saying, “We will provide full opportunities for students to emerge through student unions, which could enable them to raise their voices.”
Earlier, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), led by CM Gandapur, recorded at least two major protests at Islamabad’s D Chowk. Another massive protest rally was held in Lahore as well.
The demonstration was against the ruling coalition’s proposed 26th Constitutional Amendment and sought the release of PTI founder Imran Khan from jail.
Holidays have been announced from November 1 to January 31, 2025 for special children in Lahore.
A notification issued by the Punjab government states that special children have been stopped from coming to school and the government has decided to give them leaves from November 1 to January 31, 2025.
Special Assistant to Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz for Special Education Sania Ashiq issued the notification in which she stated that on the instructions of Chief Minister Punjab, special children will be given leave from schools as reports suggest that those suffering from broncho-vascular, cardiovascular and immunodeficiency diseases specially get affected by the smog in the environment.
Sania Ashiq stated that special children of all government and private institutes will be given leave under the Punjab Environment Act 1997. She asserted that the purpose of this leave is to protect them from diseases because health experts have declared the atmosphere of Lahore as dangerous for them.
Soaring environmental pollution is increasing the chances of developing chest diseases, throat diseases, respiratory diseases, colds, coughs, allergies and others are high among special children.
The Punjab government has already imposed a “green lockdown” in Lahore which will take affect from today and under this the restrictions will be imposed on identified smog hotspots.
Transgender model and social media influencer Dolphin Ayan, also known as Dolphin Ayan Ali, was stripped naked and recorded at gunpoint, a leaked video showed Thursday morning.
As messages of support pour in for Ayan, police have reportedly registered a case against the accused.
Meanwhile, Ayan has urged members of the community to not share the leaked video. “The more we share such videos, the more we harm ourselves. We should not circulate anyone’s videos, especially not those from within our community,” she said in a viral audio message doing the rounds on social media. Reacting to the incident,
Trans Action Alliance President Farzana Riaz said that the video was not a new one and had been recorded to blackmail Ayan. “This video is not new. It was recorded to blackmail Ayan for money.
She has already paid substantial extortion fees to keep it hidden,” she told a private media outlet.
Farzana noted that similar videos of other transgender individuals in Peshawar were often used as leverage for extortion and coercion.
She also pointed out that there had been no police action. “Despite the registration of FIRs, the offenders operate without facing consequences.” She further said that not even a single official had condemned these attacks, which highlights the authorities’ indifference towards issues facing the transgender community.
Transgender activist and central secretary of the Awami National Party, Dr Mehrub Awan, also expressed her frustration and concern on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “A video of Dolphin Ayan, the most successful trans dancer from Peshawar, is doing the rounds where she is being stripped naked on camera and threatened with a gun, and being forced to dance. We have literally written papers, done podcasts, book chapters, and spoken to media and officials about ‘Beela violence’ and how organised it is.”
“We ourselves have presented data and identified hotspots – Mardan and Peshawar – and profiled the criminals involved. We have done everything that we, as a broken and battered community, could do,” she added.
“When does this end? What else is expected from a community literally on the receiving end of genocidal murders in Pakhtunkhwa to do?” “The public of Pakhtunkhwa deserves a formal statement on the ongoing mass murder, exploitation and violence against transgender persons in the province. This deserves a serious political commitment and follow through,” Mehrub said.
While Ayan’s leaked video has left social media users outraged, the violent incident isn’t the first of its kind. According to data from Trans Action Alliance, KP alone has seen the murder of 145 transgender individuals from 2015 to November 2024.
A speeding SUV collided with a car and rammed motorcyclists in the Karsaz area of Karachi on August 19 evening, killing a father-daughter duo and injuring a few others. Police arrested the woman driver, identified as Natasha, who is said to be from an influential background and possessed a British driving licence.
Several clips of the incident have come to light so far, showing Natasha’s route and how she was taken into police custody after the accident.
Update
Natasha Danish acquitted in Karsaz accident case
Natasha Danish, the main suspect in the Karsaz accident case, was acquitted by the City Court of Karachi on Thursday.
At today’s hearing, the defence lawyer told the court that Natasha is ill and so she cannot appear in front of the court. Upon which, the court ordered that the accused should be produced before the court by 2 o’clock, and the hearing was adjourned till then.
Later, affidavits submitted in the court by the victims’ families were accepted by the court, acquitting the accused from the case.
Daily Pakistan reported that the families of the victims have submitted an affidavit in the court in which they mentioned that they have forgiven Natasha for the sake of Allah.
Geo News also reported that Natasha was acquitted after a settlement was reached by the family of the deceased.
During the hearing, apart from the family members of the victim, families of the injured persons were also present in the court. The hearing was adjourned till October 31.
Natasha granted bail for one million in drug case
The Sindh High Court has granted bail to Natasha Danish, the main suspect in the Karsaz fatal accident that killed a father and daughter, for driving under the influence of drugs.
Justice Abdul Kareem Khan Agha of Sindh High Court heard the bail application in the drug case while Barrister Farooq H. Naik appeared in the court on her behalf.
The lawyer contended, “Our application for bail in one of the FIRs pertaining the death of father and daughter has already been approved.”
The public prosecutor, however, stressed that Natasha was under the influence of alcohol when she was driving, to which Farooq H. Naik said that the medical report is also ambiguous because methamphetamine was not present in the blood but was present in the urine.
The court asked the public prosecutor about the amount of methamphetamine present in the urine sample to which the public prosecutor said that the medical report did not mention the quantity.
Advocate Farooq H. Naik said, “My client has been undergoing treatment from a psychiatrist for years, it is also possible that some medicine has been given which has been mentioned in the medical report.”
Justice Agha remarked that it is important to mention that the victims of this case have reconciled with the accused while the accused is also a mother of three children and has been in jail since the last one and a half months.
After hearing the arguments of both parties, the judge approved the bail in the anti-narcotics case.
The court ordered Natasha to submit a bond of Rs 10 lac.
Natasha’s bail plea rejected again
The bail plea of Natasha Danish, the main suspect in the accident that killed a father and daughter on Karsaz Road in Karachi, has been rejected yet again in the drug use.
Additional District and Sessions Judge East Shahid Ali Memon heard the case today related to driving under the influence of drugs. The court rejected the bail application, stating that the reasons for the rejection of the bail application will be given in the written order.
The verdict was reserved after today’s hearing.
Natasha Danish’s lawyer Aamir Mansoob Qureshi had argued that, as a matter of principle, only one case should be registered for a single incident.
However, State prosecutor Syed Khursheed Abbas Bukhari stated that the bail application, arguing that the case was still under investigation as the final charge sheet is yet to be submitted to the court.
Earlier, Judicial Magistrate East Muhammad Raza Ansari also rejected the bail application of the accused during the last hearing, stating that this will have a negative impact on society.
Judge dismisses Natasha’s bail plea in drug case
Natasha’s lawyer on Monday challenged the judicial magistrate’s decision to dismiss their petition seeking bail in the drugs case associated with the Karsaz accident case.
In today’s hearing, the judicial magistrate denied post-arrest bail to Natasha Danish in a drug case which was filed against her by the police as her medical report showed traces of methamphetamine (crystal meth), commonly known as ice, in her urine.
However, Natasha’s lawyer challenged the decision in the sessions court, arguing that the judicial magistrate overlooked pivotal evidence in the bail petition.
During the last hearing on September 6, the suspect was pardoned by the families of two victims killed in the accident when her car hit their motorbike.
The lawyer had argued that the investigating officer “manipulated blood and urine samples” taken from his client.
The court reserved its order.
The order, given today by Judge Mohammad Raza Ansari, said that Danish’s lawyer could not satisfy the court regarding section 11 (drinking liable to tazir) of the Prohibition (Enforcement of Hadd) Order (PEHO) of 1979 stressing that the claim of blood and urine samples being manipulated was false.
“There is nothing as such in the police’s file,” the court said.
The court said that the nine objections raised by the suspect’s family had “no legal value”, adding that it was surprising that a “highly educated woman” was driving under the influence of drugs.
The judge remarked that granting the suspect bail in the drug case would “have a negative impact on society”.
However, the order has now been challenged before the Additional District and Sessions Judge (East).
Natasha pardoned by victims’ family in Karsaz case
The case of the fatal driving-under-the-influence accident that occurred on Karsaz Road in Karachi has reached its end after matters were settled between suspect Natasha and the victims’ families.
Geo reported on Friday morning that the family of deceased Imran Arif and Amna Arif have prepared affidavits that will be presented today in today’s hearing of Natasha’s bail application.
As per the reports, the heirs of the father and daughter who died in the accident will submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
The NOC will be submitted by Imran Arif’s wife on behalf of his son Osama Arif and the other daughter.
“We have forgiven the accused, in the name of Allah, the Most Merciful and the Most Merciful,” says the affidavit being shared on social media, implying that matters have been settled between the two parties.
The affidavit also states that the victims’ family have no objection to granting bail to the suspect because the accident that happened was not deliberate, and they have given this certificate without any pressure.
Earlier 92 News reported Natasha Iqbal, the main suspect in the driving-under-the-influence fatal accident that killed a father and daughter at Karsaz in Karachi, will pay deeyat (blood money) to the relatives of the victims, multiple journalists are reporting.
According to 92 News’ Shahid Hussain, as of Friday morning, the family of the victims has forgiven Natasha and will be paid a hefty deeyat amount. One relative might also get a job in the rich suspect’s company.
Journalist Asad Toor shared affidavits allegedly showing the No-Objection Certificates the family has handed over to the court.
Conflicting reports: Natasha forgiven ‘in the name of Allah’, no Diyat taken, reports Dawn
The lawyer for the victims in the Karsaz case, Barrister Aziz Ghouri has denied the claims that diyat (blood money) was paid to the family, saying that the suspect was pardoned “in the name of Allah”, as per Dawn News.
“[They have forgiven the suspect] out of court in the name of Allah”, according to the affidavit that has come forward,“ he asserted.
“They (the family) are saying that they have forgiven because those who forgive have the highest stature,” he added while dismissing reports of bloodmoney being taken by the aggrieved party.
Earlier, news platforms stated that Rs 5.5 crore was being taken as diyat compensation.
The defence counsel, Advocate Amir Mansoob Qureshi, has also told Dawn that he is “not aware” of any compensation provided to the victims’ family.
He also revealed that the court had not placed travel restrictions on Natasha and that his client could leave the country if she wanted, adding that the matter is resolved because the family has pardoned her.
The courts have granted Natasha bail in the accident case, but Dawn’s Ishaq Tanoli reported that she would remain under custody until the conclusion of the narcotics case.
Natasha and her husband’s bails were set for Rs100,000 and Rs50,000, respectively.
Natasha to stay in jail until narcotics case resolved
The hearing for the narcotics case is to be held on Monday. However, Jibran Nasir opined in a post on X that “unfortunately this FIR will likely be quashed because the wrong section has been applied by the Police. Methamphetamine (Ice or Crystal Meth) is not a scheduled drug under the 1979 Order [Hudood law]. The Correct section to apply should have been either Section 9(2) or Section 16 of the Control of Narcotics Substances Act 1997 as Methamphetamine is a prohibited psychotropic drug under the 1997 Act.”
Notably, these offences are also non compoundable meaning the accused would have to face trial.
Complainant’s counsel Barrister Aziz Ghouri (L) meets defence counsel Advocate Amir Mansoob Qureshi outside sessions court on Friday. — Photo courtesy: Screengrab taken from a video provided by the author
Victims’ lawyer denies claims of family accepting diyat
Victims’ lawyer Barrister Uzair Ali has told the media that his clients Amna and Imran Arif’s family informed him about pardoning Natasha early today. He also made it a point to mention that the victims’ family has not taken blood money.
The Current spoke with Jibran Nasir to understand the course of the case, as a list of non-compoundable charges pressed against her is still intact. These are the charges stated, i.e., police have pressed against her, and they can only be solved if the court finds them redeemable.
“Family has settled, which means they can’t care less what happens to the case,” he makes it a point to mention. “Separate proceedings will now take place for the court to recognise the settlement, which will result in dropping all compoundable charges,” he said regarding the upcoming hearing.
Commenting on the non-compoundable charges, he said, “As for non-compoundable ones, the accused’s lawyer will try to get around and mislead the court. It would be up to the prosecutor and the Judge to ensure those charges stay.”
Victims’ family accepts Rs. 5.5 Crore in Diyat in Karsaz case: ARY
ARY’s Asghar Umer has reported that the victims’ family has accepted 5.5 crore rupees as Diyat. One member of the family will also be given a job in one of Natasha Danish’s companies as part of the deal in the affidavit.
Natasha’s bail approved for 1 lac rupees
Geo’s Amin Anwer reported that during the hearing, the victim’s lawyer told the court that the matters were settled between his client and the accused’s side. After that, the court granted Natasha bail for one lac rupees.
Jibran Nasir says he is not part of the Karsaz case
On Thursday, September 5, lawyer and activist Jibran Nasir, reported to be representing the deceased Amna Arif and her father in the Karsaz case, announced that despite his efforts, he has been unable to contact the victims’ family.
“Hence, though I can comment on the case for public awareness purposes based on information made available through media I am not in a position to either represent or make any comments on behalf of the family,” he posted.
A local court in Karachi issued notices to the prosecutor and complainant on Wednesday, September 4, summoning them on September 6 in the Karsaz accident case.
On the other hand, Natasha Danish has filed a post-arrest bail application for Friday in the Karsaz traffic accident case.
Validity of British nationality and driving license
The defence lawyer, Aamir Mansoob Qureshi, submitted copies of Natasha’s passport and driving licence in court, stating that his client possesses British nationality and has a valid UK driving licence until 2031.
He claimed that the British driving licence was internationally recognised and valid under Pakistani law for six months after arrival in the country.
According to the council, she landed in Pakistan from London on August 2, which means she can legally drive there. He also argued that the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) section is “neither applicable nor can be inserted in this case”.
The court summoned the deputy district public prosecutor (East), the investigating officer (IO), and the complainant for September 6.
Bail in drug case
Natasha Danish’s lawyer has also pleaded before the Judicial Magistrate (East) to seek bail in a drug case. The magistrate then issued notices to the complainant and the state prosecutor for September 6.
The defence lawyer contested in court, stating that his client was innocent and falsely implicated in a case under Section 322 (punishment for qatl-bis-sabab) of the Pakistan Penal Code with “malafide intentions and ulterior motives”.
Medical reports
Natasha’s lawyer has also submitted her medical record of the ongoing psychiatric treatment at the Aga Khan Hospital that began 19 years ago. He argued that his client’s “judgment and perception were impaired, rendering her unable to foresee the consequences of her actions.”
“Her [the suspect’s] medical condition significantly diminished her capacity to anticipate the outcomes, making it impossible for her to foresee any potential harm,” Advocate Qureshi argued.
“The alleged incident was not a result of wilful negligence but rather an unforeseen accident possibly exacerbated by her medical condition,” he said, adding that it was “unjustifiable and excessive” to add Sections 322 and 320 (punishment for qatl-i-khata by rash or negligent driving) of the Pakistan Penal Code in the FIR.
Contending the delay in results
Lawyer Qureshi elaborated on the prosecution’s “malafide intention” by contending that the Investigating Officer collected the blood and urine samples on August 19 and submitted them for examination on August 21 with a two-day delay.
“Therefore, the samples so collected could not be said to be in safe custody/ without any break of a chain of safe custody,” he argued.
The counsel also mentioned that the IO had moved an application before the magistrate on August 22 to obtain blood samples of his client again, stating that he wanted to cross-check the sample with the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences at Karachi University.
However, the court dismissed the plea, declaring that a report on the blood samples had already been awaited.
Advocate Qureshi claimed that despite the court’s dismissal, the IO approached the jail authority and collected the blood sample “illegally and unlawfully under his nefarious design just to manipulate the samples to obtain a chemical examiner report of his own choice”.
Natasha’s husband gets interim bail
After taking protective bail from the Sindh High Court, Danish Iqbal, husband of suspect Natasha Danish, surrendered before the trial court and moved an application before the sessions court, seeking interim bail on Wednesday.
After hearing his counsel, the court granted him interim bail against a surety bond of Rs. 100,000.
However, the court issued notices for September 6 to the deputy district public prosecutor (East) for confirmation or otherwise.
Details of the September 2 hearing
The IO appeared before Judicial Magistrate (East) Muhammad Raza Ansari, while the suspect, Natasha, appeared in court on Monday via video link from the prison.
The proceedings of the case are as follows:
Exemption from in-person appearance
The court allowed the suspect to be exempt from an in-person appearance after the defence lawyer moved an application under Section 540 of the Code of Criminal Procedure.
Deputy District Prosecutor (East) Muhammad Younus told Dawn that the exemption might have been granted due to “security concerns”.
Charges of driving under the influence added
The IO also informed the court that Section 100 (driving while under the influence of drink or drugs) of the Provincial Motor Vehicles Ordinance, 1965 have also been included in the FIR.
CCTV footage sent to Punjab Forensic agency
He further stated in front of the judge that CCTV footage of the incident had been sent to Punjab Forensic Science Agency as per routine practice of the Sindh police due to the lack of sophisticated equipment in the provincial labs.
Letter written to UK High Commission
Additionally, a letter has been written to the UK High Commission to verify Natasha’s UK driving license. The IO also mentioned that letters had been sent to the concerned union council of the area and the traffic DIG regarding the damage to public property but their responses are still awaited.
Condition of injured motorcyclist Abdul Salam
When the court inquired about the condition of the injured persons, including Abdul Salam who was shifted to a ventilator due to critical condition, the IO informed the court that their condition had improved and provided details about the injuries they sustained.
Request for additional time to submit interim challan
The IO requested the court for a period of 14 more days to submit the interim challan, stating that the responses to the letters were pending. After hearing the IO, the court granted three days and directed him to submit the interim challan by Sept 5.
Hudood charges added, Investigating Officer allowed to grill Natasha in Karsaz case
On Saturday, August 30, a local court allowed an investigation team to grill Natasha Danish, the suspect in the Karsaz accident case, who is currently in jail. Additionally, a fresh case under the Hudood law has also been registered against her because of alleged drug use.
Natasha Danish was arrested and sent to a women’s prison on judicial remand on August 21.
However, on August 31, Sub-Inspector Shakir Rind, the investigating officer of the case, filed an application before Judicial Magistrate Javed Ali Korejo, seeking permission to interrogate the suspect in a new FIR lodged under Section 11 (drinking liable to tazir) of the Prohibition (Enforcement of Hadd) Order, 1979.
In his order, the judicial magistrate stated that medico-legal officer Dr Zainab Irshad had issued a final medico-legal certificate (MLC) and said that it had been confirmed that the suspect was under the influence of methamphetamine, commonly called ‘ice’, at the time of the incident.
Thus, based on this report, a new FIR was lodged against the suspect at the Bahadurabad police station. Since it was a cognizable offence, the investigating officer was fully empowered to arrest the suspect, who is already in judicial custody, after adopting all legal formalities as per law in prison.
Hudood Law
On Friday, the Bahadurabad police filed a fresh case under the Hudood law against Natasha Danish based on her medical report.
Bahadurabad police Station House Officer Mohammed Naeem Rajput informed Dawn that a separate FIR was registered against Danish under Section 11 (drinking liable to tazir) of the Prohibition (Enforcement of Hadd) Order (PEHO) of 1979.
Section 11 of the Hudood Order states that those found guilty of drinking but not liable for hadd punishment (as ordained by the Holy Quran or Sunnah) will instead be liable for tazir (any punishment other than hadd). The punishment may include imprisonment for up to three years, whipping not exceeding thirty stripes, or both.
The law was invoked after medical reports confirmed that Natasha was under the influence of meth crystal.
Meanwhile, police surgeon Dr Summaiya Syed confirmed that Natasha’s “chemical analysis report is positive for methamphetamine in the urine sample.”
The FIR also states that, in her final report dated August 29, the police surgeon said the suspect was under the influence of methamphetamine at the time of the accident around 6:30 p.m. on August 19.
If she is found guilty she could be punished with imprisonment of a term which may extend to three years or with whipping not exceeding thirty stripes or with both.
On the other hand, Jibran Nasir argued in a post on X that he could not understand why the PEHO law was invoked, as the scheduled drugs under this law did not include crystal meth, nor was there any notification or amendment adding the narcotic to the schedule.
He claimed that an offence could only be made out under the Hudood law if the drugs included in its scheduled list were consumed.
Earlier, a case was registered against the suspect with provisions of murder and attempted murder.
The Current talked to lawyer and activist Jibran Nasir about the legal course of action available for the prosecution in light of the revelation. He explained that offences under the Provincial Motor Vehicle Ordinance 1965 would be added for driving under the influence of a prohibited drug. “Another section under the Control of Narcotics Substances Act 1997 (as amended in 2022) will be added for consumption of a drug,” he added.
However, when asked if the nature of the case would change now, Jibran replied, “It will still remain manslaughter due to rash and negligent driving.”
Explaining further, he asserted that “It cannot be termed a murder because the drugs were not consumed with the intention to run over somebody.”
Notably, Natasha is still in police custody as a local court sent her on judicial remand for 14 days.
Prohibited substance found in Natasha’s urine: medical report
The presence of prohibited substance was found in the urine samples of the accused woman who killed the father and daughter riding a motorcycle and injured a few others on Karsaz Road.
Sindh Inspector General Police Ghulam Nabi Memon also confirmed the presence of crystal meth in her medical report. “The medical report confirms that she was under the influence of the drug methamphetamine,” he told Dawn.
He said the driver’s medical reports were issued by the medical examiner’s office for the Sindh Government Services Hospital.
The police have received the medical report of the vehicle’s driver, Natasha Danish.
Geo’s Kashif Mushtaq reports that the presence of prohibited substances was found in urine samples of Natasha. However, the police has sealed the medical report for 2 to 3 days.
The luxury vehicle Natasha used in the Karsaz accident is registered in the name of a private company. The police team has decided to detain the owner of the vehicle for investigation.
Delay of medical report
On August 25, it was reported that the suspect’s medical report had not come out yet. Geo noted that it may take another two to three days. Samples received from the suspect have also been sent to two different laboratories, one in Karachi and one in Lahore.
Investigative sources assert that the medical report will lead to progress in the investigation.
British driving license confirmed
The investigation team has confirmed that Natasha has a British driving license but an investigation into her foreign nationality is still going on.
Charges of manslaughter added
Investigative sources have also said that the case was weakened by adding sections 320 (punishment for qatl-i-khata by rash or negligent driving), 337-G (punishment for hurt by rash or negligent driving), 279 (rash driving or riding on a public way) and 427 (mischief causing damage to the amount of fifty rupees) of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), all of which were bailable offences.
However, the magistrate in the local court added that during the investigation, the Investigation Officer had added Section 322 (manslaughter) of the PPC, which is a non-bailable offence.
Investigative sources say that in the case of murder, the death penalty can be 10 to 18 years in prison. The family of the victim can take the amount of blood money equal to the value of 30 thousand 360 grams of silver. As per the rate of silver this year, the amount of blood money could be around 68 lakh 50 thousand rupees. If the blood money is taken, the case will be over.
New footage of the incident has gone viral. In it, the accused can be seen threatening a spectator with a raised finger, saying, “Tum mere baba ko nahi janty. ” This can be translated as “You don’t know my father.”
In the video, she is surrounded by a huge crowd while she is protected by a group of rangers. Several social media criticized her for showing no remorse even after having killed two and injuring others.
Amna’s uncle’s interview
Amna Arif’s uncle and Imran Arif’s brother said that Natasha’s team had not approached them with any offers to influence their stance.
Amna’s uncle, Imtiaz Arif, told the media that Pakistan People’s Party MNA Sharmila Farooqui met Imran’s wife and assured her that the Sindh government would cooperate with them until the suspect was punished.
Imtiaz said, “At the beginning of the case, there was a despair that justice would not be served, but because of some people, there is now hope that the accused will be punished.”
On the question of a deal, Amna’s uncle said, “No, we have not been offered any deal by the suspect, nor has there been any meeting in this regard, nor has our family any interest in it.”
He further said that under Section 322 of the Penal Code, the accused should be punished to set an example in society.
Natasha’s mental condition
While her husband has claimed that she has been a psychiatric patient for some years, the doctors at Jinnah Hospital have declared her mental condition to be fine, reported Dawn News.
New CCTV footage showing SUV ramming the car
Geo News has revealed that new CCTV footage has emerged in the Karsaz accident case. The video shows that Natasha, the woman accused of killing a father and daughter on their motorcycle, hit a white car on the same road moments before the fatal collision.
It can also be seen that as she hit the white car that came in front of her SUV, she slowed down for a moment and then sped up. Natasha hit the rear door of the white car, and she also hit two people on a motorcycle behind that car, causing them to fall from the bike. After that, the woman escaped by driving fast.
The video also reveals that citizens and security guards immediately gathered after the incident.
In the CCTV footage, the time of the incident is recorded as 11 past six in the evening.
She then hit the father and daughter on the motorcycle, causing their death on the spot.
Geo reports that police sources say that the woman was driving her car at high speed while fleeing from the previous incident and thus collided with the bike carrying the father and daughter.
A court in Karachi has sent the woman accused of killing a father and daughter and injuring five others at Karsaz has been sent to jail on judicial remand.
The suspect appeared before the court with her face covered.
The case pertaining to the death of father and daughter was heard in the local court on August 21, where the police produced the accused in the court of a Judicial Magistrate.
Geo News’ Amin Anwer reported that the police requested the accused’s remand for 14 days, on which the accused’s lawyer stated the provisions against his client were bailable. The investigating officer responded that Section 322 has been added to the case for murder, and Section 322 is non-bailable.
The court asked the accused if the police tortured her, to which the woman said no.
DIG-Traffic Ahmad Nawaz Cheema told Dawn that a Toyota Prado driven in an ‘extremely negligent manner’ by a woman hit a motorcycle while negotiating a turn from Tipu Sultan Road towards the service road of Muslim League House. The car then hit two more motorcycles and overturned after colliding with a parked car on the road.
Samaa News reported that the driver has been identified as Natasha, who was arrested by the police. Her car has been impounded. She was found to own a British driving license.
The victims, Imran Arif, 60, and his 22-year-old daughter, Amna, residents of Scheme 33, were taken to the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, where they succumbed to their injuries.
The videos of a woman being held by a crowd after the accident emerged on Tuesday, August 20, whereas the accident occurred on Monday evening when an uncontrolled vehicle crushed a motorcyclist and other pedestrians on Karsaz Road, killing a motorcyclist’s father and daughter and injuring five people.
Geo News reported that the lawyer deemed the suspect a ‘psychiatric patient’ who has been under treatment for mental stress for the past five years—a claim corroborated by her husband.
A first information report of the traffic accident was registered on the complaint of Imran Arif, the brother of the deceased.
Samaa reports that the woman driver suffered a head injury and was taken to Jinnah Hospital.
Police also initiated a medical examination to determine if she was under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Geo reports that, in her initial statement, she stated that the unfortunate incident occurred because of overspeeding.
What does the friend of Ntasha has to say about her?
The Current talked to a close friend of Natasha, and she asserted that Natasha is openly against drugs and alcohol. She is known to be a level-headed woman, a mother of three children, a daughter and two boys. She described her reaction after the accident as a state of shock because she neither drinks nor smokes.
The friend made it a point to mention that even the mob pushing and hitting her and making videos of her is a typical display of mob mentality and violates her sanctity as a person.
What do relatives of Amna and her father have to say about them?
The relatives of the father and daughter expressed grief over their passing. Imran’s brother said that my brother was a pious man. “He loved her daughter like Prophet (PBJUH) loved His,” he shared sadly. Another uncle demanded justice for Amna and her father.
The neighbours told Aaj News that Imran used to sell finger chips and worked really hard to support his eldest daughter’s education. The family slowly became stable with Amna’s job, yet this accident changed everything. According to an Aaj News correspondent, the family is now suffering, and the mother has lost consciousness.
Amna did her MBA from Karachi University. In one of her colleagues’ social media posts, she said that she specialized in Data Science. Her last text is being shared widely, in which she referred to herself as an MBA student asking to fill out a survey for her thesis.
The colleague talked to The Current, and he shared, “Amna was a humble and determined individual, dedicated to supporting her middle-class family and their future goals. She had a very amiable nature, supporting her friends during challenging times, and exuded a cheerful personality. Her dream was to complete her MBA after she took on the responsibility for all her family members.”
Amna worked as a Business Consultant for the Systems Limited. In a viral social media post, the company has made an Obituary Announcement in Amna’s honour.
Kanwal Ahmed, the founder of Soul Sisters Pakistan, recently shared a screenshot of the deceased victim, Amna Arif’s note for her mother, which she posted in the group where she expressed gratitude for her sacrifices. In a heartfelt note, Amna said that her mother sold clothes just to meet the expenses of her education. “Her sacrifices knew no bounds. She put her own dreams on hold and sold clothes from home to provide with us with the best education we deserved. Her selflessness was unparalleled,” she had recounted.
The highly awaited finale of Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum- starring Hania Aamir and Fahad Mustafa- will premiere in cinemas across Pakistan on November 5.
ARY Digital recently announced that the final episode of the popular series will debut on the big screen, calling it “the greatest love story” in an Instagram post.
“Watch the final twist unfold in cinemas across Pakistan. Booking is now open!” teased the network, sparking excitement among fans who have closely followed the show’s ups and downs.
As the story nears its peak, viewers are eager to see what happens to Sharjeena (Hania Aamir) and Mustafa (Fahad Mustafa). After facing many challenges, they’re currently living apart. Sharjeena, who recently suffered a miscarriage, blames Mustafa for not being there for her.
Earlier, the finales of Meray Paas Tum Ho and Ishq Murshid were also screened in theaters due to their popularity. Known for its gripping “marriage of convenience” storyline, the show’s finale is sure to draw in fans.
The series features a talented cast, including Javed Sheikh, Bushra Ansari, Maya Khan, Naeema Butt, and Tauseeq Haider.
Earlier, Fahad Mustafa recently engaged fans on Instagram with a poll asking, “How do you guys want to watch the finale episode?” The options were cinema screening or public screening.
After the big success of drama serials such as, Meray Paas Tum Ho, Parizaad and Ishq Murshid, Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum is the latest drama to come to cinema, bringing its interesting opposites to attract storylines to fans in a new way.
Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum marks Fahad Mustafa’s great return to the drama industry after almost 10 year, while Hania Aamir continues to shine on screen.
Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum’s storyline hooked fans from the start, and now they have a say in how they’ll watch the finale, either in the grand sitting of a cinema or with the lively feel of a public screening.
As the poll results come in, fans and Fahad Mustafa wait eagerly for the final decision.
Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum is written by Farhat Ishtiaq and directed by Badar Mehmood.
The drama airs every Monday and Tuesday at 8:00 PM on ARY Digital.
United States (US) Department of State spokesperson Mathew Miller has reacted to widespread claims regarding the release of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan if Donald Trump is elected as the country’s president.
Responding to a journalist’s question during a press briefing, Miller reiterated the State Department’s stance regarding ongoing legal proceedings against the former Pakistani prime minister. “As we have said many times, legal proceedings against the former prime minister are a matter for the Pakistani courts to decide,” he said, adding that the claims were baseless.
When asked about the alleged involvement of the US in the ouster of Khan’s government in 2022, Miller said, “The allegations that the US played any role in his removal from office are false.”
The State Department spokesperson also reacted to the social media campaign against members of the US Congress for writing a letter to President Joe Biden, seeking release of the incarcerated former premier of Pakistan.
“I can tell you, we don’t know who is behind it, but if people have issues that they want engage with regarding US officials, whether they be executive branch officials or officials from the US Congress, they should engage on the merits of those issues and not by talking about people’s religion or sexual orientation.”
“We write today to urge you to use the United States’ substantial leverage with Pakistan’s government to secure the release of political prisoners, including former Prime Minister Khan, and curtail widespread human rights abuses,” US lawmakers had stated in the letter to Biden earlier this month.
The letter had come as the PTI continues to lobby within and without the country for Imran Khan’s release.
‘Imran Khan to be released soon’
Meanwhile, PTI leader and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister (CM) Ali Amin Gandapur has expressed confidence that the PTI founder will soon be released from jail.
“Neither we believe in deals nor will we opt for any. We derive our confidence from the fact that all cases against PTI founder Imran Khan are fake and politically motivated. Except for a couple, almost all big cases against Khan have been overturned by courts,” Gandapur said while talking to media on Wednesday.
Dispelling the impression that the PTI was against any person or institution, the KP CM said the party was “only against policies and wanted them fixed”.
CM Gandapur also said that PTI’s struggle for its rights was not only peaceful but also within the parameters of law and the Constitution. “What we want is a thorough and transparent probe into the February 8 elections and May 9 incidents,” he said, adding that such an investigation was essential for strong and sustainable democracy.
Former Pakistan cricket team captain Wasim Akram has opened up about why he declined a job offer from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
During an online press conference in Melbourne, he said, ” I received a job offer, but I’m not someone who can work a 9 to 5 job.”
Talking about the Champions Trophy 2025, he said, “Positive signals are coming from India regarding the Champions Trophy. The PCB has made several offers to the Indian Board, and India should come to Pakistan.”
Akram highlighted the massive fan following that Indian players have in Pakistan, saying, “Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and Suryakumar Yadav have many fans here. Fans are eagerly waiting for them. People from both countries should interact more, and India should consider this.”
On his personal experiences, he mentioned, “I haven’t been to India for six or seven years, and I miss the food and people there. Indian players would enjoy coming to Pakistan.”
Discussing the upcoming series in Australia, Akram noted, “Conditions in Australia are tough, and it won’t be easy for Pakistan. Winning even one ODI would be a significant achievement, and the T20 series should be good.”
Akram praised Fakhar Zaman, stating, “Fakhar Zaman is an impact player. I’m sure Fakhar didn’t write the social media statement himself. Whoever wrote it should have informed him about the potential issues related to the central contract. This is a lesson for Fakhar to be more mindful of his social media posts, and the PCB was right to be upset about the matter.” The former national team captain also praised Mohsin Naqvi, saying, “Mohsin Naqvi is doing excellent work for cricket and can run the cricket board professionally.”
In response to a question about Rizwan’s captaincy, Akram said, “Mohammad Rizwan has captaincy experience and is a good choice. He should focus on his game.”
Regarding criticism of creating pitches for home advantage, Akram remarked, “We don’t need enemies when we have enough critics within. Criticism of home advantage is incomprehensible. I’ve been advocating for turning pitches for the past 5-6 years, even if it means losing. I’m glad that someone finally considered this, and after losing three consecutive Test matches, we won two consecutive Tests.”
Expressing his happiness about the future of Pakistani cricket, Akram added, “I’m pleased that young players are being given opportunities to prepare for the 2026 T20 World Cup. Players like Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah should focus on their game, leave social media, go home after playing cricket, and enjoy. Babar Azam should also forget about captaincy, play cricket, and score runs.”
Pakistan will be hosting the Champions Trophy next year in February and March.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has called multiple top scorers of the Medical and Dental College Admissions Test (MDCAT) to hold a mock exam as part of an investigation into examination paper leak.
Previously, on Oct 26, Sindh High Court (SHC) ordered a retake of the exam within a month in the province after the inquiry committee found out that the entire test procedure was compromised.
SHC also handed over the investigation to FIA, asking that it should be concluded within two months.
FIA’s Cyber Crime Circle officials in Karachi then issued call-up notices to several students, asking them to appear before the investigation team to answer their questions.
Dawn reports that two such notices were issued by Inspector Arfa Saeed to many female students in which she stated that she is conducting an investigation into the matter of paper leak that has “damaged the career of meritorious students of Sindh”.
A notice served to a top scorer said that she has obtained “194/200 marks or 97pc” in MDCAT 2024, which is “practically… not possible for any student to obtain such a highest marks.”
The inspector also alleged in the notice that it appeared that the student was “involved in leakage of MDCAT-2024” and, hence, “required to appear at FIA Cyber Crime Circle” in Karachi on Nov 1.
Therefore, the student was asked to bring her original computerised national identity card “to answer such questions as may be put to you or your mock exam maybe conducted in this office to examine the actual position”.
“A failure to comply with this legal notice may entail that you have nothing to say in your defence, and legal action based on available evidence on record shall be initiated against you,” warned the FIA notice served to the female students.
FIA confirmed to Dawn that the wording of the notices sent to the top-scoring students was identical and all of them were asked to appear before the agency on different dates to take a “mock exam” and to get their statements recorded under Section 160 of the criminal procedure code.
Notably, one of the points of the inquiry report submitted before the SHC also said that the distribution of marks obtained by candidates across Sindh lacked a pattern.
Dawn quotes, “A notably smaller percentage of students from Karachi (1.18 per cent) and Hyderabad (1.47pc) scored 187 or higher marks, while a significantly larger percentage of students from Tharparkar (7.92pc) and Sujawal (7.32pc) achieved the same score threshold. This disparity, where students from certain rural districts outperform those from highly urbanised areas in the MDCAT test, is difficult to explain.”
