Category: Islamabad

Islamabad: The Jammu Kashmir Self-Determination Movement International (JKSDMI) hosted a pivotal lunch reception for bringing together key political figures, community leaders, and activists to discuss human rights in Kashmir, community cohesion, women's safety, and minority representation in the UK.

The event served as a crucial platform to strengthen political engagement on Kashmir and celebrate the growing support within the British Parliament for the cause, according to the social media wall.

Among the distinguished guests were Andrew Gwynne MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Public Health and Prevention; James Frith MP, Member of Parliament for Bury North; Councillor Yasmine Dar, Former Lord Mayor of Manchester; and Professor Tamoor Shafique, Senior Lecturer and Academic Leader. Their presence, along with a strong representation of local councillors and community leaders, reinforced the commitment to advocating for the self-determination of the Kashmiri people and broader issues of human rights and social justice.

Raja Najabat Hussain has announces New Parliamentary Campaign on Kashmir.

A major highlight of the event was the official announcement of a new JKSDMI parliamentary campaign, led by Raja Najabat Hussain, Chairman of JKSDMI. In his address, he acknowledged the extensive work carried out by JKSDMI across the UK under the leadership of Councillor Yasmine Dar and emphasised the significance of having strong allies within the British Parliament.

Raja Najabat Hussain declared, 'Now that we have our friends in Parliament, we would like to announce another campaign under the leadership of Councillor Yasmine Dar. This initiative will focus on engaging with the new Members of Parliament to enhance our lobbying efforts on the Kashmir issue in the British Parliament. We officially launch this campaign today, 18th January 2025, here in Bury.'

The announcement was met with resounding support from political leaders and community representatives, who praised JKSDMI's relentless advocacy and strategic engagement in Parliament. The new campaign aims to deepen political involvement, mobilise cross-party support, and strengthen lobbying efforts at Westminster, ensuring that the ongoing human rights violations in Kashmir receive the necessary international attention.

Throughout the event, speakers unanimously commended Raja Najabat Hussain's lifelong dedication to the Kashmir cause, recognising his relentless efforts in engaging British parliamentarians and advocating for self-determination. His strategic approach, political lobbying, and grassroots mobilisation were praised as instrumental in ensuring that Kashmir remains a key issue on the UK's political agenda.

James Frith MP, Member of Parliament for Bury North, applauded JKSDMI's consistency in its advocacy efforts and described Raja Najabat Hussain as a driving force behind the political momentum for Kashmir. He stated that JKSDMI's work presents a tremendous opportunity for real change, particularly at a time when new MPs are looking to engage in meaningful international advocacy.

Andrew Gwynne MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Public Health and Prevention, expressed deep appreciation for Raja Najabat Hussain's leadership and JKSDMI's efforts in mobilising parliamentary and community support. He noted that the organisation's resilience in advocacy has ensured that Kashmir remains a subject of serious discussion in UK politics. Gwynne emphasised that human rights violations in Kashmir have persisted for over 70 years and reaffirmed his support for Kashmir's right to self-determination.

Councillor Yasmine Dar, Former Lord Mayor of Manchester, who will lead the new campaign, thanked Raja Najabat Hussain and JKSDMI for their confidence in her leadership. She highlighted the importance of expanding JKSDMI's influence within the Labour Party and engaging newly elected MPs to strengthen political backing for the cause.

Deputy Leader of Bury Council, Councillor Tamoor Tariq, highlighted the importance of political engagement at the local and national levels and reiterated his commitment to supporting JKSDMI's advocacy work for Kashmir.

Councillor Sabiha Khan, Chairperson of the British Muslim Women's Forum UK, stressed the importance of women's participation in political advocacy and commended JKSDMI for its inclusive approach to activism.

Councillor Eamonn O'Brien, Leader of Bury Council, reaffirmed Bury Council's commitment to diversity and international human rights and expressed his support for continued engagement on the Kashmir issue.

Discussions on Human Rights, Community Cohesion, and Political Engagement

Beyond the campaign announcement, the event featured extensive discussions on human rights violations in Kashmir, community cohesion, and the role of British lawmakers in international advocacy.

James Frith MP emphasised the need to push beyond mere tolerance and actively celebrate diversity, recognising that Kashmiris deserve the same fundamental rights as any other people across the world. He also spoke about domestic issues such as child poverty, noting that 42% of children in the UK live in poverty. He stressed that communities are growing increasingly frustrated with political inaction and demanded meaningful policy interventions.

Andrew Gwynne MP described human rights violations in Kashmir as occurring on a monumental scale. He lamented that a region once known for its beauty and cultural richness has been reduced to a site of endless conflict. Gwynne also highlighted the deep health inequalities affecting minority ethnic communities in the UK, which he plans to address as part of his international health portfolio. He endorsed JKSDMI's National Policy Framework (NPF) 3-point policy on Kashmir and encouraged its full implementation.

Councillor Babar Ibrahim spoke about the importance of engaging the younger generation in the movement. He noted that 50% of Bury's diaspora originates from Kashmir but many young people lack awareness of their heritage and the ongoing political struggle. He urged for educational initiatives and awareness campaigns to strengthen diaspora engagement.

Recognition for JKSDMI's Team and Future Plans

The event was attended by numerous prominent political figures, including Deputy Leader of Bury Council, Councillor Tamoor Tariq; Councillor Tahir Rafiq, Advocate; Councillor Sabiya Khan, Chairperson of the British Muslim Women's Forum UK; Zeshan Araf, Chairman of JKSDMI Youth Wing UK; Councillor Naila Sharif, Chairperson of JKSDMI UK; and Javed Tariq, General Secretary of JKSDMI UK. Other notable attendees included Councillor Alison Gwynne, Councillor Charlotte Morris, Councillor Gavin McGill, Councillor Eamonn O'Brien, Leader of Bury Council; and Professor Tamoor Shafique. Former Lord Mayor of Bradford, Raja Ghazanfar Khaliq, and Councillors Umrana Farooq and Sabiha Khan also expressed their commitment to supporting JKSDMI's mission.

A Milestone in Political Engagement and Advocacy

The JKSDMI Lunch Reception marked an important milestone in strengthening political engagement on the Kashmir issue. With strong backing from Parliament and growing momentum, JKSDMI continues to play a leading role in advocating for self-determination, human rights, and international accountability.

As the event concluded, the overarching message was clear: JKSDMI will not rest until justice is served for the people of Kashmir. With Raja Najabat Hussain's leadership, Councillor Yasmine Dar's new campaign, and the unwavering commitment of the JKSDMI team, the movement for Kashmir's self-determination is stronger than ever.

Islamabad: Four people, including the rickshaw driver, were injured on Sunday in a collision between a tractor and a rickshaw on Jhang Road, Chiniot.

According to a private news channel and rescue sources, the accident happened due to speeding in dense fog.

The injured were taken to the District Headquarters Hospital for treatment.

Islamabad: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb on Sunday said Pakistan was set to issue Panda bonds by June 2025 aimed at raising approximately $200 million in investment from Chinese investors.

In an interview with Hong Kong's TVB News, he explained that the bonds were part of Pakistan's broader strategy to tap into China's capital markets, attract investment from one of the world's largest economies, and bolster the country's economic growth, ensuring sustainability in the balance of payments.

'We are optimistic about the prospects of Panda bonds and hope to raise around $200 million through this issue,' he said, adding that this initiative would not only strengthen economic ties with China but also serve as a catalyst for more investment flows into Pakistan.

Aurangzeb underscored the government's commitment to shifting Pakistan's economic model towards export-led growth, which is crucial for achieving long-term balance of payments stability.

The Finance minister also highlighted the importance of the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC 2.0), a flagship component of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) which would further deepen economic cooperation between the two countries.

'The second phase of CPEC will bring more Chinese companies and investments into Pakistan, offering significant opportunities for growth and development,' Aurangzeb said.

As part of his diplomatic outreach, the Finance minister invited Hong Kong to send delegations to Pakistan to explore trade and financial opportunities.

He noted that Hong Kong could serve as a suitable platform for joint ventures between Chinese and Pakistani companies, fostering stronger economic and financial ties between the two nations.

'We are committed to enhancing our financial cooperation with Hong Kong and we believe there is immense potential for collaboration in areas such as infrastructure, trade and investment,' Aurangzeb remarked.

Islamabad: Governor Punjab, Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, on Sunday, called for strict action against the elements involved in human trafficking for its elimination and to promote a positive image of the country across the globe.

The Governor made these remarks during a book launching ceremony at the National Press Club (NPC) 'Japan Kahani,' written by renowned writer and journalist Amjad Siddiqui. Several notable dignitaries from different walks of life attended the ceremony.

Governor said that the book written by Amjad Siddiqui highlighted the burning issue prevailing in the country which needed to be addressed through tangible actions.

Sardar Saleem Haider Khan expressed deep concern over the alarming number of deaths of Pakistani citizens in the migrant boat accidents, which denounced the image of the country.

He emphasised that the human trafficking issue should not be viewed solely through the lens of poverty, adding that an individual who can afford to pay 5 to 6 million rupees for illegal travel could invest that amount in establishing a legitimate business within the country, thus securing a stable and prosperous future.

However, he lamented that the country's youth had lost confidence in the national system and stressed the importance of restoring that trust.

The Governor emphasized that the country was blessed with abundant of natural resources, which, if utilized effectively, have the potential to transform the country's destiny.

Pointing out the person within the institutions assisting human trafficking, he said, the connections of these human traffickers within the institutes needed to be identified and all those involved in the heinous crime should be brought before the law.

To combat the root causes of human trafficking, Governor Khan suggested the inclusion of anti-trafficking content in school curriculums, alongside organizing seminars and discussions to raise awareness about the dangers and consequences of illegal migration. This, he argued, could help restore trust among the youth and guide them towards legitimate opportunities within the country.

Islamabad: Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police continue a large-scale crackdown against criminal elements across the federal capital, on Sunday. During various operations, 11 accused involved in drug peddling and possessing illegal weapons have been arrested.

A police spokesperson told reporter that the police also recovered 1730 grams of heroin, 1180 grams hashish, 225 grams of ice, 44 liters liquor, four 30 bore pistols and one iron punch from their possession. Cases have been registered against the nabbed accused, and further investigations are underway.

He said the arrested accused were identified as Zain Masih, Farman, Rashid, Ismail, Taimoor Ahmed, Adnan, Arif, Azhar Manzoor, Naseer, Hamza Matloob and Turab Ali.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Operations Muhammad Arsalan Shahzeb directed all zonal SPs to intensify the crackdown against criminal elements and ensure that stolen property is recovered and returned to its rightful owners.

SSP further said that Islamabad Police remain committed to safeguarding the lives and property of citizens and taking all necessary measures to uphold the rule of law.

Islamabad: The Executive Engineer (EXN) of the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA), Sohaib Abbasi, issued a three-day ultimatum on Thursday to jetty owners at Khanpur Dam, directing them to cease all water sports activities and remove boats and jetties from the dam reservoir by the expiration of the deadline on Monday.

According to the notice, this action is in response to increasing concerns about the contamination of the dam's water supply, which serves the residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Reports have indicated that water sports activities, along with boats and the litter left by participants, have contributed to the pollution of the water and compromised its quality.

Sohaib Abbasi, while speaking to reporter, emphasized the importance of halting these activities to prevent further contamination and ensure a continuous supply of clean and safe water for both cities.

He also stressed the need to protect the dam's ecosystem and maintain public health through the preservation of water quality.

In an update provided on Sunday, the EXN confirmed that the notice had been forwarded to the relevant authorities and that assistance from the local administration had been sought to enforce the order. With the deadline rapidly approaching, local authorities are expected to take immediate action if the notice is not followed.

The final day for compliance will fall on Monday, marking a critical point in the effort to safeguard the water quality of Khanpur Dam.