New book penned by Zia-ul-Haq Sarhadi reach shelves


Peshawar: The third book of Zia-ul-Haq Sarhadi (Sitara-e-Imtiaz), a renowned intellectual, journalist, analyst, travel writer, columnist, President of the Abasin Columnists Association and a popular businessman has been published and available in market.



Titled as, ‘Yaqeen Muqam’, the new book is a collection of one hundred selected columns of the author.



Writers not only from home but also from abroad have congratulated the publication of the book and appreciated this effort by calling this book a certificate and great achievement for academic and literary circles.



According to the Abasin Columnists Association, Zia-ul-Haq Sarhadi has published two books before this, while the said book is a summary of the author’s life-long experiences, observations and 40-year creative journey.



This book is divided into ten chapters, which include Personalities, Peshawariyat, Yad-e-Raftgan, Tarikh Ke Aane Mein, Safar Wa Hazar, Literature, Iyam Khas, Manno Fakhr Ae Apari Zaban Ute, Islam Tehzeeb Wa Kultura and Miscellaneous.



The inner pages of this book acknowledge the academic and literary services of Zia-ul-Haq Sarhadi, as well as the comments of many eminent personalities regarding “Yaqeen Muqam” including Honorable Ijaz Ahmed Qureshi (Former Federal Ombudsman of Pakistan), Dr. Asif Mahmood Jah (Former Federal Tax Ombudsman of Pakistan), Arshad Aziz Malik (Former President, Peshawar Press Club), Amjad Aziz Malik (Editor of Daily Kasooti Peshawar), Jamil Athar Qazi (Editor-in-Chief of Daily Tejarat, Jurat, The Business) and senior columnist Dr. Inayatullah Faizi.



All the friends have expressed their full thoughts and paid tribute to the author for this effort.



According to the association, this effort by Zia-ul-Haq Sarhadi will prove effective not only for those researching language, literature, and history, but also for those researching national and international topics, including journalism.



Police seize illegal weapons, arrest suspect in crackdown


Kohat: The police intensified operations against illegal arms and criminal activities in the district, arresting several suspects and seizing a cache of weapons as part of a wider law enforcement campaign, the police spokesman said on Monday



During a raid, Jarma police arrested a suspect identified as Sohail and recovered 19 pistols and dozens of rounds of ammunition from a shop where the weapons were allegedly being stored illegally.



The police registered a case against the suspect and stated investigation, he added.



Separately, Assistant Superintendent, Police (ASP), Rana Tahir Mehmood chaired a crime review meeting with station house officers and other officials to assess investigations into serious offences, including murder, attempted murder, robbery, theft and drug trafficking.



The ASP instructed officers to expedite the arrest of suspects in murder cases, intensify operations against proclaimed offenders and step up intelligence-led action targeting narcotics traffickers, particularly those involved in the sale of methamphetamine, locally known as “ice”, and other illicit drugs.



Following the meeting, the ASP inspected Jarma Police Station, reviewing official records, detention facilities, armouries and administrative arrangements. He directed officers to maintain discipline, ensure proper handling of public complaints and complete pending investigations promptly and on merit.



In a separate operation, Jarma police arrested a proclaimed offender identified as Aqib wanted in connection with a murder case.



The police recovered illegal weapon from his possession, the spokesman said.



The police said they would continue using all available resources to combat crime and improve policing services across the district.



Crackdown against illegal Afghan residents intensifies across Rawalpindi


Rawalpindi: Rawalpindi district administration, along with law enforcement agencies, has intensified operations against illegally staying Afghan residents following directives from the Punjab Home Department.



According to a Punjab Home Department spokesperson, a total of 1,38,342 unregistered Afghan nationals have been repatriated from Punjab so far, while the nationwide repatriation figure has reached 2,588,016. The ongoing campaign utilizes 36 active holding centers across the province where illegal residents are registered and provided temporary accommodation before being transported to the Torkham border for formal handover to Afghan authorities.



According to the details, the law enforcement agencies are conducting continuous surveillance and verification checks across residential localities, commercial markets, and other transit points in Rawalpindi.



The government has reiterated that any foreign citizen residing without a valid visa or legal travel documentation is subject to immediate legal action under national policy.



The department has also urged citizens to report any illegal residents or identity document forgery to the emergency helpline 15, assuring that the identities of informants will be kept strictly confidential.



Thousands of tourists flock to Astore as district administration ensures safety, facilities


Astore: Thousands of tourists from Punjab and other plain areas of Pakistan are heading to the scenic district of Astore to escape the intense summer heat, resulting in an exceptional influx of visitors to the region’s renowned tourist destinations, including Deosai National Park, Domel, Rama, Aro Valley, Allah Wali Lake, Rama Lake, and several other attractions.



The breathtaking landscapes, lush green valleys, snow-capped mountains, pleasant weather, and peaceful environment have made Astore one of the country’s most sought-after tourist destinations during the summer season.



On the instructions of the Deputy Commissioner Astore, the district administration has made comprehensive arrangements to facilitate, guide, and ensure the safety of tourists.



Security has been further strengthened at all entry and exit points as well as major check posts across the district, where effective checking is being carried out to ensure the safety of visitors. The administration has also mobilized all relevant departments to maintain smooth traffic flow, respond promptly to emergencies, provide medical assistance, ensure cleanliness, and offer other essential public services at tourist destinations.



The district administration, police, and other concerned agencies are working in close coordination to provide tourists with a safe, secure, and pleasant environment. The district administration has appealed to tourists to strictly observe traffic rules, avoid polluting the natural environment, dispose of waste at designated places, and follow official guidelines to help preserve Astore’s natural beauty and ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience for everyone.



Local hotel owners, business representatives, and residents have welcomed the growing number of visitors, stating that the tourism boom is contributing positively to the local economy. They also appreciated the timely and effective arrangements made by the district administration, noting that tourists are feeling safe and satisfied throughout their stay.



The district administration reaffirmed its commitment to utilizing all available resources to provide maximum facilities to tourists and maintain law and order throughout the ongoing tourism season.



Shahnawaz Junejo’s 21st death anniversary to be observed on Tuesday


Sanghar: The 21st death anniversary of former federal minister and veteran politician Shahnawaz Junejo would be observed on Tuesday at his native village, Sanjar Junejo, with devotion and tributes to his public services.



The commemorative programme would begin with Quran Khawani and special prayers, followed by the laying of floral wreaths and Fateha at the late leader’s grave.



Among those expected to attend are his son and former Member National Assembly (MNA), Mohammad Khan Junejo, Pakistan Peoples Party MNA Alauddin Junejo, Municipal Committee Chairman, Ghulam Murtaza Junejo, Jahangir Junejo, Alamgir Junejo, Asghar Ali Junejo, Shahjahan Junejo, Lal Jan Junejo, Mazhar Junejo and other members of the Junejo family.



Political and social figures described the late Shahnawaz Junejo as a respected statesman who played a significant role in resolving tribal disputes and promoting peace across Sindh. They said that he was widely known for his fair judgement and steadfast commitment to the province’s interests.



Although 21 years have passed since his demise, admirers said his political legacy and contributions to public service would continue to be remembered across Sindh.



Former Tax Judge, Javed Iqbal passes away


Kohat: Senior lawyer Javed Iqbal and a former judge, Pakistan’s Income Tax Tribunal has passed away, the family sources said on Monday.



Javed Iqbal was regarded as a respected figure in the legal community, having served for many years as both a practising lawyer and a judge of the Income Tax Tribunal.



His death has prompted condolences from fellow lawyers, members of the judiciary and local residents, who paid tributes to his contributions to the legal profession.