A female house owner allegedly set a housemaid on fire by sprinkling petrol on her in North Cantt police station limits in Lahore, 24NewsHD TV reported on November 29.
The housemaid named Shabnam passed away after being hospitalised for 28 days, reported Jang News.
She was working in the house of a man named Nauman for the past 11 years. Nauman’s wife Shazia, allegedly in a rage, sprinkled petrol on the maid and set her on fire.
Shabnam, 40, suffered burns on 70 percent of her body and was rushed to Mayo Hospital where her condition was said to be critical. The family of the victim submitted an application for registration of a case against Shazia in the North Cantt police station.
A prospective Indian groom and his family have called off the engagement ceremony after finding out that there was no bone marrow in the mutton dish.
According to Indian media, an engagement ceremony was held at the girl’s residence in Nizamabad, in which various dishes were prepared for the guests, one of which was a dish made with mutton.
The happy atmosphere of the engagement turned sour really quickly when the boy’s side complained about the lack of bone-marrow in the mutton dish, which the girl’s family also admitted and said that it was missing.
Consequently, the boy’s family started an argument, leading to the matter reaching the police. It tried to settle the matter between the two families, but the boy’s family canceled the engagement ceremony.
National team Test captain Shan Masood has equaled former captain and legend player Imran Khan’s 40-year-old record of two consecutive fifties against Australia in both innings of a Test match.
Masood created the record by scoring half-centuries in two consecutive innings in Australia, scoring 54 runs in the first one and 60 runs in the second one of the second Test match against Australia.
His performance in both innings marked a milestone, making him the first Pakistani captain since Imran Khan to score half-centuries in both innings of a Test match in Australia.
In 1983, Imran Khan scored 83 and then an unbeaten 72 runs. In 1964, Hanif Muhammad scored 104 and 93 runs in a single test match against Australia.
Winter vacations in both public and private schools are drawing to a close but the weather is growing increasingly harsh. Media is speculating that a possible 10-day extension in winter break for schools in Punjab is being considered by the government, reports The News.
Despite the absence of an official decision or announcement from the School Education Department (SED) Punjab regarding an extension in the winter break, a notification issued by the Literacy & Non-Formal Education Department Punjab regarding the winter break for its non-formal educational institutions has started discussions.
It is important to mention here that the Literacy & Non-Formal Education Department of Punjab adheres to a distinct winter break schedule of its own. The Literacy & Non-Formal Education Department has now notified the winter vacations in all Non-Formal Education Institutions in Punjab from Jan 1, 2024 to Jan 10, 2024.
Originally, winter break for schools in Punjab commenced on December 18, 2023, and is scheduled to conclude on January 1, 2024. However, as temperature drops and winter conditions intensify, there is a growing debate about the potential extension of the annual winter break which if approved by the government will also be adopted by SED.
Australia defeated Pakistan by 79 runs in the second Test match in Melbourne on Friday.
Chasing a target of 317 runs set by Australia, the Pakistani team was bowled out for 237 runs in the second innings and the Green Caps lost the match by 79 runs.
In the second inning, Pakistan did not start well and Abdullah Shafiq was dismissed for four runs while Imam ul Haq also returned to the pavilion with an individual score of 12. The third player to be dismissed was Shan Masood who was dismissed for 60 runs.
Babar Azam scored 41 runs and was clean bowled by Josh Hazlewood while Saud Shakeel scored 24 runs and was caught out behind the wickets on Starc’s ball. Muhammad Rizwan also scored 35 runs and was dismissed by Pat Cummins while Pat Cummins also dismissed Aamir Jamal for no run.
Salman Ali Agha played an innings of 50 runs while Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mir Hamza were also dismissed for zero.
On behalf of Australia, Pat Cummins bowled brilliantly and dismissed five players while Mitchell Starc took four, and Josh Hazlewood dismissed one player.
Australia has taken a decisive lead in the series with 2-0.
Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif received clearance on Friday to take part in the upcoming general elections, set to take place on February 8, 2024, from the NA-15 (Mansehra-II) constituency, despite objections raised by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), as per The News.
Hajra Sami, the Returning Officer (RO), rejected the objections raised by PTI leaders and declared the nomination papers of the former prime minister valid according to the rules of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).
“The scrutiny process of the nomination papers of PML-N supreme leader Nawaz Sharif has been completed, and all objections raised by PTI leader Azam Khan Swati and two others have been set aside, and he has been declared eligible to contest elections from here,” Jahangir Jadoon, the legal advisor to Nawaz Sharif, told reporters outside the RO offices.
Sami reviewed the concerns raised by PTI senators Azam Khan Swati, Shahid Rafique, and Zakria Tariq in the presence of PML-N and PTI lawyers and leaders. After that, the RO gave clearance to Nawaz Sharif.
The PTI legal team, headed by Waqar Khan Jehangira and Amir Shah, and the PML-N team, led by Jadoon, presented their arguments for two hours.
“Nawaz Sharif is disqualified for holding any public office or contesting general elections by the Supreme Court’s five-member bench, so that he is not eligible to run in Feb 8, general elections from NA-15,” PTI’s counsel Waqar Khan Jehangiri told the RO during the proceedings.
General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff (COAS) presided over the two days long 261st Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC) held at GHQ on Thursday. The forum paid rich tribute to the supreme sacrifices of Shuhadas including officers and men of the Armed Forces, Law Enforcement Agencies and Citizens who laid their lives for ensuring peace and stability in the country. Participants also offered Fateha for the Shuhadas including those of DI Khan attack. Forum reiterated Pakistan Army’s resolve to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan against direct and indirect threats. Forum expressed serious concern over continued repression and reprehensible human rights violations by Indian military forces in IIOJK. The recent acts of abduction, torture and killing of civilians by the Indian Army were unequivocally condemned by the participants. Such acts constitute grave crimes against humanity and cannot dampen the spirit of the brave Kashmiris who are struggling for their lawful right of self- determination. Pakistan would keep supporting its Kashmiri brethren with all political, moral and diplomatic support for resolution of Kashmir issue according to international law and relevant UNSC resolutions. Forum was briefed on prevalent geo-strategic environment, challenges to national security and own strategy in response to evolving threat. The sanctuaries and liberty of action available to the terrorists of proscribed TTP and other groups of that ilk in a neighboring country and availability of latest weapons to the terrorists were noted as serious points of concern impacting security of Pakistan. Forum resolved that all terrorists, their facilitators and abettors, working on the behest of hostile forces to destablise Pakistan will be dealt with full might of the state. The forum expressed full solidarity with the people of Palestine and condemned serious human rights violations and war crimes being perpetrated in Gaza while reiterating Government’s stance of demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and peaceful resolution of the ongoing conflict. Forum reiterated its support for ongoing efforts to promote socioeconomic growth and encouraging foreign investment under the umbrella of Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC). Forum also took holistic review of the ongoing actions being taken against smuggling, money laundering, power theft and hoarding of essential items amongst other illegal economic activities. Pakistan Army will continue to provide all out support to relevant government institutions and LEAs to curb such crimes. The Forum also noted that requisite and necessary support will also be extended to Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for forthcoming general elections. The forum was briefed on operational preparedness of the formations. COAS stressed the need for continuously maintaining operational excellence in cognitive and physical realms and pursuit of high standards of motivation and training.
As 2023 draws to a close, everyone is looking back at the past 12 months one more time before entering a new year. TIME’s magazine has published its Top 10 Photos of 2023 among which two are from Gaza.
A young girl stuck under her house rubble after it was bombed by Israeli airstrikes, Al Nusairat refugee camp, Oct. 31.Motaz AzaizaPalestinian woman Inas Abu Maamar, 36, embraces the body of her 5-year-old niece Saly, who was killed in an Israeli strike, at Nasser hospital in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, Oct. 17.Mohammed Salem—Reuters
After years of oppression, on October 7, Hamas took Israel by surprise and penetrated into their territory. Using the incident as an excuse to eradicate Hamas, Israel has been conducting air raids and ground operations in Gaza — which have intensified over the weeks, being categorised as genocide by international experts.
Residential areas, market places, hospitals, shelters have been completely destroyed and razed. Israel has also blocked aid, resulting in lack of medical supplies, food, and basic everyday necessities, making it more challenging for Palestinians to survive.
Out of Gaza’s total population of 2.3 million, 1.9 million people have been internally displaced, more than 21,000 killed, and more than 55,000 injured as a result of Israeli atrocities being committed against Palestinians.
Israeli forces have also been detaining and killing Palestinians residing in the Occupied West Bank.
Pakistan cricket team’s former captain Babar Azam had another wholesome moment with a fan that has left the internet collectively saying “Awww”.
The batting maestro fulfilled a child’s dream by taking a picture with him in Melbourne.
During the ongoing test match between Australia and Pakistan, a child in the stands became emotional upon seeing Azam.
Actually He’s representing us all,one of the sweetest fan interactions hands down The way King BABAR greeted him was just the sweetest ❤️#BabarAzam ❣️ pic.twitter.com/ZhbRRVOClf
The child can be seen in the video telling Babar Azam that he watches every inning and is also a fan of his cover drives, adding that he wanted to take a picture with him. The former captain first shook hands with the child and then granted his wish.
After the picture was taken, the child jumped in the air in joy.
Say a word of thanks to the producers, writers and directors who decided to make dramas that were truly worth our while. They left us hooked, laughing and crying along with beloved characters.
Check out the best of Pakistani dramas from this year.
1. Jannat Se Aagay
Writer: Shah Yasir Director: Haseeb Hassan Channel: Geo Entertainment
Jannat Se Aagay digs into the complexities of identity and personal aspirations, focusing on Jannat and Tabassum, two young women from different backgrounds trying to discover themselves in a complicated world.
The drama stands out for its compelling storyline, unpredictable script, and engaging narrative. While not flawless for die-hard Umera Ahmed fans, it’s recommended for its entertainment value, script quality, and performances. The return of Umera Ahmed adds to the anticipation, making Jannat Se Aagay a noteworthy entry in the world of Pakistani dramas in 2023.
2. Shannas
Writer: Adarsh Ayaz Director: Yasra Rizvi Channel: Green Entertainment
Shanaas was a unique addition to our screens this year, featuring unconventional content. It follows Aneesa (Hajra Yamin), who discovers that she was adopted as a child. The drama unfolds as Aneesa navigates a journey to find her biological parents, encountering various characters tied to her past. Addressing adoption and class differences, the script, along with exceptional performances by Hajra Yamin, Sania Saeed, Shamim Hilaly, Yasra Rizvi, and others, handles the sensitive topics with care. An honest effort by the writer, director, and actors makes “Shanaas” a must-watch, delving into a sensitive subject in a thoughtful and tasteful manner.
3. Kabli Pulao
Writer: Zafar Mairaj Director: Kashif Nisar Channel: Green Entertainment
The sensational Kabli Pulao aired on Green Entertainment, immediately cementing itself as a contender for the best series of 2023, not only for its compelling narrative but also for the network, sparking anticipation for future content. An unlikely romance between Haji Mushtaq (Muhammad Ehteshamuddin) and Barbeena (Sabeena Farooq), an Afghan refugee widow, the drama delves into their unconventional love story, exploring the challenges of cross-cultural relationships. Ehteshamuddin’s portrayal captivates with depth, and Farooq’s acting keeps viewers eagerly anticipating each episode.
The drama’s commitment to shedding light on refugee struggles offers a refreshing departure from mainstream storytelling. A seamless blend of a compelling storyline and outstanding performances, “Kabli Pulao” stands out as one of the best stories of 2023.
4. Fairy Tale
Writer: Sarah Majeed Director: Ali Hasan Channel: HUM TV
Fairytale is the firm fan favourite on the list, the story of Umeed’s life—a happy, imperfect young girl with a modern perspective. Despite embracing typical romance tropes, the drama’s light approach resonated so well with young Pakistanis that a second season was created, deviating from the initial plan. Fairytale’s characters are immensely fun, and the chemistry between the heroine and the hero is what keeps the show alive.
5. Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri
Writer: Rahat Jabeen Director: Shahid Shafaat Channel: HUM TV
Ranked number 1 in the 5 Best Pakistani Dramas of 2023, Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri stands out with its crisp storyline. Initially underrated, the drama gained momentum as it progressed, proving to be the most romantic series. Dana Nair impressively portrays the role of an amateur girl experiencing love, capturing expressions and comments perfectly. Khushal Khan, akin to a desi Romeo and Juliet, acts vibrantly, overshadowing with genuine emotion. The drama showcases a passionate love story, making it a standout in the realm of Pakistani dramas.
