Tag: Top News

  • Exclusive info: how is the police investigating the viral beating case?

    Exclusive info: how is the police investigating the viral beating case?

    Following the CCTV footage of three girls beating up a salesman in a shop in Lahore and the widespread criticism over the police’s handling of the alleged harassment case, local police are now actively finding out what happened.

    In the viral video, the girls appear to have initiated the assault, with the boy at the receiving end of their blows. However, it was reported that the salesman was arrested on allegations of harassment posed by the girls. This instigated a debate on social media where netizens demanded the arrest of the girls for allegedly using the “woman card.”

    THE POLICE VERSION

    DIG Lahore Operations Faisal Kamran, while talking to Dawn, said the CCTV footage was presented in court by the boys in their defence, led to the case being dismissed.

    The DIG also stated that the police approached the young man to file a complaint against the girls, if they wish to proceed with legal action.

    The Current talked to the Superintendent of Police (SP), Dr. Ayaz, who stated that women’s harassment laws require an immediate response from the police. He said the police responded to the complaint filed by the girls, took the boys to the police station, and booked them instantly. “It was the honourable court’s decision to decide the case,” he stressed. “The police is committed to performing their duties, and as per law, we have a time of 14 days according to which we are conducting our investigation,” he added.

    SP Ayaz confirmed that the medical checkup of both the girl and boy has been done, and all aspects of the case are being investigated, including the harassment and assault allegations. This particular case is registered under Article 509-1 and will proceed under charges of ‘insulting modesty or causing sexual harassment’, Ayaz informed.

    Addressing social media speculation about the girl being the daughter of a lawyer, DIG Kamran clarified that the girl’s mother informed the police that her husband had passed away.

    THE GIRLS

    One of the three girls, on condition of anonymity, talked to The Current and explained how she, along with her friends, went to the shop to have coffee and do some shopping. According to her, she was chitchatting with her friends when the salesman started passing lewd comments about them, asking the girls if they were on “night duty,” implying that they were prostitutes. The comments enraged her friend who told him to behave and as the situation escalated, they first got into a verbal brawl with two boys which eventually took the form of a physical fight. She claimed that they hurled curses at them and pulled the hair of the boy. He also struck a girl, causing her nose to bleed and tore her shirt.

    She said that they stayed there until they called the police and got the FIR registered, an official copy of which is present with The Current. The man who made their video was asked not to do so because of their vulnerable condition, but he did not comply.

    A digital copy of FIR shared by the girl.

    The girl said that at the police station, the boy apologised, and a “raazi nama” was signed. She stressed that in police custody, the shopkeeper said that the CCTV footage was not available as it was deleted. However, it surfaced on social media, two days after the incident, in what she described as an effort to defame them. In a traumatised tone, she said that they are under extreme pressure and because of her public profile on Instagram, she has gotten rape and death threats after the video went viral.

    The screenshots shared by the girl depict the threatening and abusive language used by men sliding into her DMs.

    More than once, she said that the viral video does not present the whole version and lacks the actual audio. She stressed that if the audio was released, it would support her version of the story. “I don’t understand, how can people think that it could have happened without a reason. We are not mad that we just got up and started beating someone. There was a reason, and in all honesty, we are not ashamed of it,” she shared.

    She made it a point to mention that she does not belong to an elite background but from an upper-middle-class household, and the criticism that the girls weren’t ‘dressed properly’ is sexist and violates their right to freedom of choice.

    THE GUY’S VERSION

    The viral footage showed only one boy being assaulted by the girls in the presence of the shop owner and other visitors who eventually intervened. Yasir Shami from Urdu Point was seen talking to the boy, Yousuf, who was beaten up by the girl. Yousuf vehemently denied any allegations of harassment. “I was laughing at something my colleague said, and the ladies misheard and started coming inside the counter area. I told them they couldn’t do that but she still made her way inside and started beating me,” he said. “I did defend myself as much as I could, but not much as she was a woman,” he claimed. He also denied any claim of cursing the girls.

    REPORTED NEWS

    Journalist Ahmed Faraz, while talking on the show Geo Pakistan, explained that only one FIR is registered in any case, and all elements are explored and investigated under that.

  • Khan wins, X goes crazy

    Khan wins, X goes crazy

    The Supreme Court of Pakistan (SC) announced a reserved verdict on Friday, declaring that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is eligible to obtain reserved seats. The SC also dismissed the Peshawar High Court’s (PHC) decision to deny the reserved seats of the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC).

    After the court’s decision, people reacted to it on X (formerly Twitter).

    Journalist Gharidah Farooqi posted, “PTI is not present in the parliament, but they have to submit a list of their candidates for reserved seats in the next 15 days as per the court’s orders.”

    PTI’s official account wrote, “Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja must IMMEDIATELY resign after violating the constitution of Pakistan.”

    Several PTI leaders also expressed their support for the court’s decision on reserved seats.

    Prominent party leader, Zulfi Bukhari posted, “Congratulations to the entire nation for the massive win in the revered seats case. Not only did PTI win 8-5 in the Supreme Court but 11 judges declared PTI a political party and allowed it to contest elections. More than us, this case was for the survival of the Supreme Court and hope of justice in the country.”

    Journalist Shehzad Iqbal said while speaking on Geo News that the court’s decision benefits PTI but is not good news for the coalition government.

    The famous journalist Asad Toor wrote in a post on X, “No extra seats for government.”

    On the other hand, users on X posted memes about today’s verdict.

    One user posted an image with the caption, “Itni Jaldi Mithai Nahi Khani Chahye.”

    PTI leader Dr Shahbaz Gill posted the picture of journalist Hassan Ayub with the caption, “Aida ki Karna hai?”

  • From thrills to romance: Ten dramas that defined the year

    From thrills to romance: Ten dramas that defined the year

    Looking for something different from the usual love triangles, family feuds, and predictable comedies? Enter Green Entertainment! This channel has freshen up the Pakistani drama scene with new, exciting content. With its captivating teasers, Green Entertainment made us ask, ‘Is this what we were waiting for?’ And the answer was a resounding ‘Yes!’

    Green Entertainment stands out for its diverse array of shows, including family dramas, crime thrillers, horror series, love stories, and unique scripts that challenge the industry norms. Competing with seasoned players in the field was no small feat, but Green Entertainment’s bravery paid off.

    Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore 10 standout dramas from Green Entertainment – from love stories to thrillers and more!

    Tumhare Husn Ke Naam: This drama brought a touch of vintage romance, captivating fans of classic Pakistani dramas. Starring Saba Qamar and Imran Abbas as Salma and Sikandar, it tells the story of enduring love and following one’s passion. Set against the charming architecture of Lahore’s National College of Arts, this drama highlights societal norms about remarriage and the power of true love.

    22 Qadam: This drama focuses on Fari, a college student passionate about cricket, played by Hareem Farooq. It highlights female empowerment and the pursuit of dreams. With a cast including Wahaj Ali and dynamic characters, “22 Qadam” challenges gender stereotypes and celebrates women’s aspirations.

    Serial Killer: Starring Saba Qamar as SP Sarah, this drama introduces viewers to a murder mystery filled with forensic investigations and intricate plots. Written by Umera Ahmed, it keeps audiences on the edge of their seats with its meticulous attention to detail.

    Breaking News: This drama delves into the manipulation of media and politics, exposing the dark side of the industry. It raises important questions about media responsibility and political influence, offering a gripping and thought-provoking narrative.

    Kabli Pulao: ‘Kabli Pulao’ tells the story of Haji Mushtaq and Barbeena, highlighting cultural expectations and personal sacrifices. Their journey, symbolised by the popularity of Kabli Pulao, reflects resilience and the power of human connection.

    Standup Girl: Zara Noor Abbas stars as Zara, a stand-up comedian navigating life’s challenges. This romantic comedy, set in Lahore, explores themes of identity, humour, and the pursuit of artistic fulfilment, making it a refreshing tale of love and laughter.

    Gentleman: Influenced by Pakistan’s socio-political landscape, this drama blends love stories with deep-seated issues. Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar’s portrayal highlights the complexities of governance, justice, and the morality of love, offering a cinematic experience on TV screens.

    Pas-e-Deewar: Set in rural Pakistan, this drama follows Ujala and Iftikhar as they navigate financial hardships and societal pressures. With themes of resilience, integrity, and love, it explores the clash between tradition and modernity.

  • Why did ‘Heeramandi’ star Taha Shah want someone to pinch him?

    Why did ‘Heeramandi’ star Taha Shah want someone to pinch him?

    Indian actor Taha Shah Badussha, renowned for his portrayal of Nawab Tajdar Baloch in ‘Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar’, was unable to contain his excitement upon meeting his lifelong idol, Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise.

    Sharing the moment on his Instagram, Taha posted photos and a video of their encounter.

    “Pinch me! I just met my lifelong idol. The one and only Tom Cruise!” he wrote in the caption of the posts, showing both of them smiling. The video captured a brief interaction between them.

    The post received thousands of likes and comments from fans who admired the meeting of the two stars.

  • Is Aima Baig selling expensive products on Snapchat?

    Is Aima Baig selling expensive products on Snapchat?

    Pakistani singer Aima Baig has warned her fans about a fake Snapchat account using her name.

    She shared a screenshot of the fraudulent account on her official Instagram, expressing surprise that people would mistake it for hers.

    In her Instagram story, Baig mentioned her discomfort with Snapchat and confirmed that she does not have an account on the platform.

    She also reassured her followers that she has no intention of creating a Snapchat account in the future.

    Baig was shocked that people trust unverified accounts to the extent of making purchases through them. She urged her fans to pay attention to her Instagram stories and avoid falling victim to the fraudulent Snapchat account.

    The singer noted that fraudulent activity had occurred through the impersonating account but did not provide further details.

    Aima Baig’s warning serves as a reminder to her followers to exercise caution and verify the authenticity of social media accounts to prevent scams.

  • Same same but different: Hania Aamir’s Indian look-alike takes the internet by storm

    Same same but different: Hania Aamir’s Indian look-alike takes the internet by storm

    Social media is buzzing with another doppelganger drama and this time, it’s creating quite a stir.

    Get ready for the story of Hania Aamir’s Indian lookalike.

    Yes, you read that right – the dazzling dimple queen of Pakistani showbiz has a doppelganger, and he’s gaining attention from across the border!

    A viral video on social media shows a young man from India lip-syncing to a Punjabi track, bearing a striking resemblance to Hania. The internet reacted swiftly, with comments pouring in faster than you can say “twinning.”

    “Is this Hania Aamir’s twin brother?” joked one user.

    Another added, “He looks more like Hania than Hania herself!”

    The resemblance is uncanny, sparking both funny and heartfelt reactions. Some sharp-eyed fans even noted a resemblance to Imran Ashraf’s character Bhola, saying, “He looks like Imran Ashraf with bangs and dimples.”

    Many agreed that the Indian guy is “a mix of Imran Ashraf and Hania Aamir.”

    Both Indians and Pakistanis have united in their fascination, agreeing that this viral sensation could easily be Hania’s double. The photos showing their striking similarities make it hard to tell them apart.

  • ‘We can’t wait another year’: disaster-hit nations call for climate aid

    ‘We can’t wait another year’: disaster-hit nations call for climate aid

    Countries on the frontlines of climate change have warned they cannot wait another year for long-sought aid to recover from disasters as floods and hurricanes wreak havoc across the globe.

    The appeal came during a meeting of the “loss and damage” fund that will conclude Friday amid concerns it is unlikely to be able to approve climate aid until 2025.

    “We cannot wait until the end of 2025 for the first funds to get out the door,” Adao Soares Barbosa, a board member from East Timor and a long-standing negotiator for the world’s poorest nations, told AFP.

    “Loss and damage isn’t waiting for us.”

    Nearly 200 nations agreed at the UN COP28 summit last November to launch a fund to distribute aid to developing countries to rebuild after climate disasters.

    That historic moment has given way to complex negotiations to finalise the fund’s design, which some countries worry will not move at a pace or scale that matches the tempo of extreme weather disasters afflicting their people.

    “The urgency of needs of vulnerable countries and communities cannot be left until we have every hair in place for this fund,” said Barbosa.

    Experts say damage bills from climate disasters can run into the billions, and there is barely enough cash set aside for loss and damage at present to cover just one such event.

    ‘Immense pressure’

    This year has witnessed a string of catastrophes on multiple continents, from floods and landslides to heatwaves and wildfires.

    Delegates met in South Korea for the second meeting of the loss and damage fund this week as Hurricane Beryl left a trail of destruction across the Caribbean and North America.

    The “massive” destruction witnessed in recent weeks “puts immense pressure on us to deliver on our work”, Richard Sherman, the South African co-chair of the board steering the negotiations, told the meeting.

    The fund said it wanted money approved “as soon as possible, but realistically by mid-2025”, according to an official document seen by AFP.

    In an appeal for faster action, Elizabeth Thompson, a board member from Barbados, said Hurricane Beryl alone had caused “apocalyptic” damage worth “multiple billion dollars”.

    “In five islands of the Grenadines… 90 percent of the housing is gone… Houses look like packs of cards and strips of wood, roofs are gone, trees are gone, there is no food, there is no water, there is no power,” she said.

    “We cannot keep talking while people live and die in a crisis that they do not cause.”

    Thompson said the fund needed to reflect “the urgency and the scale required to respond to… the risk, the damage and the devastation faced by people across the world who need this fund”.

    – No money, no fund –

    Wealthy nations have so far pledged around $661 million to the loss and damage fund. South Korea contributed an additional $7 million at the start of this week’s meeting.

    “That would hardly cover the likely losses from one major climate-related disaster,” Camilla More, of the International Institute for Environment and Development, told AFP.

    Some estimates suggest developing countries need over $400 billion annually to rebuild after climate-related disasters. One study put the global bill at between $290 billion and $580 billion a year by 2030, and rising after that.

    In one example in 2022, unprecedented flooding in Pakistan caused more than $30 billion in damages and economic losses, according to a UN-backed assessment.

    Developing nations had been pushing for a specific fund to distribute aid to recover from climate impacts for 30 years, and the agreement struck in November was hailed a major diplomatic breakthrough.

    “(But) we can’t have a fund without money,” said Brandon Wu from ActionAid.

    Technical discussions are taking place this year over the details of the loss and damage fund, including with the World Bank which will house the fund on an interim basis.

    The Philippines was chosen this week to host the fund’s board.

    Contentious discussions remain to decide how the money is allocated and in what form it should be made available to countries.

    On Tuesday, more than 350 nongovernmental organisations sent a letter to the fund’s board demanding that a substantial share of the money be made directly available as small grants to local communities and indigenous groups.

  • Lahore drowns in first spell of monsoon rains

    Lahore drowns in first spell of monsoon rains

    242 milliliters of rain were recorded in Lahore, marking heavy rainfall in the city.

    According to WASA’s data release on Lahore’s rainfall, the highest amounts were recorded as follows: 242 mm in Tajpura, 130 mm in Lakshmi Chowk, 132 mm in Mughalpura, and 133 mm in Gulshan Ravi. Additionally, 122 mm of rain was recorded at Chowk Nakhda, 128 mm in Iqbal Town, 125 mm at Cordoba Chowk, 135 mm in Sumanabad, 71 mm at the Airport, 123 mm at Upper Mall, 41 mm in Gulberg, 129 mm in Nishtertown, 55 mm on Jail Road, and 119 mm in Farrukhabad, reported by Geo.

    The city administration reported ongoing rainfall in the areas of Davis Road, China Chowk, Canal Road, Garhi Shahu, Allama Iqbal Road, Allah Road, Kashmir Road, Egerton Road, Johar Town, Shimla Pahari, and surrounding areas.

    This continuous rainfall has led to significant flooding in many important locations due to submerged rainwater.

  • PTI suspends Sher Afzal Marwat’s party membership

    PTI suspends Sher Afzal Marwat’s party membership

    Sher Afzal Marwat’s party membership has been suspended by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

    Marwat, who was elected as a Member of the National Assembly (MNA) in the February 8 elections, had his membership suspended according to a report by ARY News on Friday.

    PTI’s senior leadership met with incarcerated former Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday and decided on Sher Afzal Marwat’s status within the party.

    The cancellation of Marwat’s membership was confirmed by the party’s top leadership, citing multiple violations of party discipline.

    “It was concluded in the meeting with Imran Khan that no leader is above the party, and similar consequences await any leader who crosses the party line,” stated the party’s leadership.

    Previously, a show-cause notice had been issued to Marwat by PTI for his reckless statements. The notice was issued by the party’s Secretary General, Omar Ayub, who directed Marwat to respond within three days.

    Sher Afzal Marwat was also informed about potential further disciplinary actions in case he failed to submit a response.

  • Mawra Hocane says goodbye to ‘Let’s Try Mohabbat’ in emotional Instagram post

    Mawra Hocane says goodbye to ‘Let’s Try Mohabbat’ in emotional Instagram post

    Mawra Hocane recently took to Instagram to say goodbye to her popular rom-com sitcom, Let’s Try Mohabbat. She shared a delightful series of behind-the-scenes moments for her fans.

    “A little late but here’s the #LTM dump you’ve all been asking for… thank you for giving Fizza so much love!” Mawra wrote, filled with gratitude. She added, “I loved experimenting with this over-the-top character & your love has solidified my confidence to keep attempting different characters.”
    “She was crazy and I loved being a bit of crazy with her. Girls like Fizza who add light to everyone’s life deserve all the happiness in the world and the happy ending she got!” Mawra continued.

    Among the photos in her post, fans found candid snaps and on-set moments. One heartwarming black-and-white photo captured Mawra’s infectious smile, while another showed her gazing dreamily into the eyes of her co-star, Daniyal Zafar.

    A candid shot featuring Gohar Rasheed and other cast members added to the nostalgic vibes. To top it off, a brief clip showed Mawra in action, including a snapshot of the shooting equipment, giving fans a peek behind the scenes.