FRONT PAGE
1. Indian 'justice' leaves Kashmir at Modi's mercy
The article discusses the Supreme Court of India's ruling on the status of Jammu and Kashmir, which apparently aligns the region's governance more closely with the central government's policies. The decision involves the annulment of Article 370, which granted special status to the region. The court has also mandated elections for the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly by March 2023, while the political leaders in Kashmir, including Mehbooba Mufti, express their dissent.
2. SC to settle lifetime disqualification issue once and for all
This article details an upcoming decision by the Supreme Court concerning the lifetime disqualification of politicians. It is expected to provide a definitive interpretation of the law, potentially impacting several high-profile politicians.
3. Pakistan blasts 'illegal' merger, calls Kabul agreement 'sinister'
Pakistan's government has criticized a merger agreement as 'illegal' and has referred to a Kabul-based deal as 'sinister', expressing concerns over its implications and challenging its legality.
4. Hazardous air engulfs Lahore's green areas
Lahore is facing an environmental crisis with hazardous air quality levels affecting the green areas of the city. The air quality index has reached alarming levels, leading to serious health concerns for the residents.
5. Toll crosses 18,000 as bombs rain on Gaza
The article reports on a severe escalation in violence with a significant number of casualties reported in Gaza due to bombing.
6. Imran challenges cipher indictment process
Imran Khan, a political figure in Pakistan, is questioning the indictment process related to a cipher, which seems to be a part of a legal or political controversy.
NATIONAL NEWS
7. Surrender unconditionally, PM Kakar tells terrorists
Prime Minister Kakar has issued a stern demand for terrorists to surrender without conditions. This statement comes amidst a backdrop of ongoing security concerns within the region.
8. ECP restrained from passing final order on PTI intra-party polls
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has been barred from finalizing any decisions regarding the internal elections of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, following orders from a high court.
9. Bilawal seeks live broadcast of Bhutto reference
Bilawal Bhutto, a political figure, has requested that proceedings related to a reference concerning his late mother, Benazir Bhutto, be broadcast live, suggesting it's a matter of public interest.
10. Khadija Shah handed over to Quetta police in yet another case
Khadija Shah, a figure apparently involved in multiple legal issues, has been transferred to the custody of Quetta police for a new case.
11. PML-N to put country back on road to progress, claims Nawaz
Nawaz Sharif of the PML-N party has made claims that his party is the path to progress for the country, suggesting a forward movement from current circumstances.
12. 45 illegal Afghans recovered from kiln in Sialkot
Police in Sialkot have rescued 45 Afghan nationals who were found in an illegal situation, indicating human rights violations and potential trafficking.
13. High court stays deportation of Afghan national
The Lahore High Court has halted the deportation of an Afghan national, indicating a legal intervention in the treatment of foreign nationals.
14. Poet, activist Ahmed Saleem laid to rest
Renowned poet and activist, Ahmed Saleem, has passed away and was given a final farewell. His contributions to literature and activism were highlighted.
15. Fertiliser crisis renders wheat sowing incomplete
A crisis regarding fertilizer availability has disrupted wheat planting, posing a threat to agricultural output and food security.
16. Learners license app launched
The Punjab government has released a mobile application to streamline the process for acquiring a learner's driving license, indicating a move towards digital governance.
17. Amara Athar becomes Lahore’s first woman CTO
Amara Athar has been appointed as Lahore's first female Chief Traffic Officer, marking a significant milestone in the city's history and promoting gender diversity in leadership roles.
18. Imran had Afghans placed on electoral rolls, alleges Zardari
Asif Ali Zardari, a prominent political figure, has accused Imran Khan of unlawfully adding Afghan nationals to the electoral rolls, suggesting a manipulation of voter demographics.
19. Learners license app launched
The Punjab government has introduced a new mobile application designed to facilitate the process of obtaining a learner's driving license, as part of an initiative to modernize and streamline governmental services.
20. Amara Athar becomes Lahore’s first woman CTO
Amara Athar has been appointed as the first woman Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) in Lahore, a landmark achievement that signifies progress in gender equality within the region's law enforcement agencies.
21. Local body chairmen announce sit-in outside CM House on 19th
Chairpersons of local bodies have planned a sit-in outside the Chief Minister's House on the 19th to protest against the provincial government's failure to provide funds for development projects.
22. 1,600 Afghan SIMs used to make extortion demands: CTD
The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) has reported that 1,600 Afghan SIM cards were utilized to make extortion demands, indicating a cross-border element in criminal activities.
23. Flower show begins at agriculture varsity
An agricultural university has inaugurated a flower show, celebrating horticulture and agricultural diversity, attracting enthusiasts and experts alike.
24. Bilawal demands probe into release of terrorists
Bilawal Bhutto, a political figure, is calling for an inquiry into the circumstances leading to the release of individuals labeled as terrorists, raising questions about the judicial and security processes.
25. Heavy security deployment to quell CTD ‘killing’ protests
The government has deployed heavy security to manage protests against the CTD over alleged extrajudicial killings, reflecting tensions between law enforcement and public sentiment.
26. Swiss firm to help govt provide free treatment to cancer patients
A Swiss company has entered into an agreement with the government to aid in providing free cancer treatment to patients, indicating an international collaboration in healthcare.
27. Indian court’s ruling on occupied Kashmir’s status condemned
There has been widespread condemnation of the Indian Supreme Court's ruling on the status of Kashmir, with protests highlighting the discontent with the decision.
28. MQM election preparations begin in Punjab today
The political party MQM has begun its election campaign in Punjab, signaling the start of its political activities in the region.
29. JUI-F finalises poll candidates for Rawalpindi district
The political party JUI-F has finalized its candidates for the upcoming polls in the Rawalpindi district, indicating readiness for the electoral contest.
30. Painting exhibition, film festival mark International Mountain Day
International Mountain Day was celebrated with cultural events including a painting exhibition and a film festival, showcasing the importance of mountainous regions and their cultures.
INTL NEWS
31. 25pc of freshwater fish face extinction, says IUCN
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) warns that a quarter of freshwater fish species are threatened with extinction, emphasizing the critical state of aquatic biodiversity.
32. Myanmar junta holds talks with rebel groups under China’s gaze
Myanmar's military leaders are in negotiations with rebel factions as China observes, suggesting a complex interplay of local and international interests in the conflict.
33. Afghanistan excluded from COP28 as climate impacts hit home
Afghanistan's absence from the COP28 climate discussions highlights its marginalized position in global dialogues, despite facing severe climate-related challenges.
34. 'Barbenheimer' tops Golden Globes nominations
The film 'Barbenheimer' has secured the most nominations for the upcoming Golden Globes, signaling its critical and industry acclaim.
35. Netanyahu allowed $1bn to flow into Hamas hands
An NGO report alleges that former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s policies inadvertently facilitated the transfer of significant funds to Hamas.
36. Palestinians go on strike over Gaza onslaught
Palestinian citizens are protesting through strikes against the intense military actions in Gaza, demanding accountability and international support.
37. Jemima speaks out against Israeli aggression
Jemima Goldsmith has spoken against the Israeli military's aggressive tactics in Gaza, adding her voice to the global discourse on the conflict.
38. Bombs rain on south Gaza
South Gaza is under heavy bombardment, with substantial casualties and damage, intensifying the humanitarian situation in the area.
39. 'Worst Christmas ever' in birthplace of Jesus
The city of Bethlehem is experiencing significant distress during the Christmas season due to the compounded effects of political conflict and economic struggles.
40. Putin views new nuclear subs, says more being rolled out
Russian President Vladimir Putin inspects new additions to the nuclear submarine fleet and indicates the expansion of such strategic military assets.
41. Sunak 'deeply sorry' for pandemic deaths as he faces inquiry
UK politician Rishi Sunak has apologized for the fatalities during the pandemic and is undergoing an inquiry into the government's response during the crisis.
SPORTS NEWS
42. Hafeez lashes out at 'slowest ever' Australian pitch
Pakistani cricketer Mohammad Hafeez criticizes the pitch at the Gabba in Brisbane, describing it as exceptionally slow and dampening the excitement of the T20 match against Australia.
43. PM, PCB hold talks to avoid scheduling clash between PSL and general elections
Discussions are underway between Pakistan's Prime Minister and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to prevent a scheduling conflict between the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and the upcoming general elections.
44. Lyon backs under-fire Warner
Australian cricketer Nathan Lyon offers support to teammate David Warner, who has been under scrutiny for his performance in recent matches.
45. Ten Hag under scrutiny as United fight for Champions League survival
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is facing close examination as the team prepares for crucial matches that will determine their Champions League fate.
46. Bashir among uncapped trio in England Test squad for India tour
English cricketer Rehan Bashir is one of three uncapped players selected for the England Test squad's tour to India, signaling new talent in the team's lineup.
47. Lacazette hat-trick lifts lowly Lyon as Nice retake second
Alexandre Lacazette's impressive performance with a hat-trick helps Olympique Lyonnais climb in the league standings, while Nice regains the second position.
48. Superb Girona stun Barca to restore lead
Girona FC delivers a stunning performance against FC Barcelona, managing to regain the lead and causing an upset in the league.
49. Karachi Whites clinch National T20 Cup title
Karachi Whites have emerged as the champions of the National T20 Cup, securing the title after a series of competitive matches.
50. Asad Shafiq calls it a day
Pakistani cricketer Asad Shafiq announces his retirement, closing a significant chapter in his professional sporting career.
51. Leverkusen held at Stuttgart for second straight draw
Bayer Leverkusen has been held to a draw by VfB Stuttgart for the second consecutive match, highlighting the team's struggles to secure a win.
52. Lukaku sent off as Roma draw with Fiorentina
Romelu Lukaku receives a red card, leaving AS Roma to settle for a draw in a tough match against ACF Fiorentina.
53. Young rivals have awoken Djokovic's inner 'beast'
Tennis star Novak Djokovic acknowledges the competition from younger players has reignited his passion and drive, likening it to awakening an 'inner beast'.
54. Olympic surfing to be held in Polynesia despite row
Despite controversies, it has been confirmed that Olympic surfing events will take place in Polynesia, maintaining the region's historic connection to the sport.
55. Shabbir opens massive lead
Golfer Shabbir Iqbal has taken a commanding lead in a recent tournament, setting himself apart from the competition with an impressive score.
56. Karachi Whites clinch National T20 Cup title
Karachi Whites have won the National T20 Cup, showcasing their cricketing prowess in the national tournament.
BUSINESS NEWS
57. ADB to help better access of women to micro credit
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has announced initiatives to improve women's access to microcredit, aiming to empower female entrepreneurs and contribute to economic growth.
58. Ecnec clears development projects worth Rs367bn
The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) has approved development projects in Pakistan amounting to Rs367 billion, signaling a significant investment in infrastructure and development.
59. SBP may leave rate untouched
Speculations arise that the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) may keep the interest rate unchanged in its upcoming monetary policy announcement, amidst economic challenges.
60. Auto sales plunge amid gloomy outlook
Pakistan's automobile industry faces a sharp decline in sales, attributed to economic headwinds and a cautious outlook from consumers and businesses.
61. Mari drills third horizontal well in Daharki
Mari Petroleum Company has successfully drilled its third horizontal well in the Daharki field, indicating ongoing efforts to enhance gas production.
62. China agrees to review FTA, boost yuan-based trade
China has consented to review the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Pakistan and has shown interest in increasing trade based on the yuan currency, marking a shift in bilateral trade dynamics.
63. Stocks lose 211 points on profit-taking
The Pakistan Stock Exchange experienced a 211-point drop, largely due to investors taking profits amid varying market sentiments and economic indicators.
BACK PAGE
64. Rift emerges in apex court panel to form benches
A division has appeared within the supreme judicial council responsible for forming benches in Pakistan's apex court. The issue revolves around the exclusion of a senior judge, sparking discussions on judicial independence and integrity.
65. Major players see 'no deal' as COP28 draft omits fossil fuel phase-out
Key nations, including the US, EU, Germany, and France, express disappointment as the COP28 draft fails to include specific commitments to phasing out fossil fuels, hinting at a significant setback in climate negotiations.
66. Ex-Afghan troops 'abandoned' by UK face deportation threat
Former Afghan soldiers who served alongside British forces and sought refuge in Pakistan are now facing the threat of deportation from the UK, raising concerns over their future and the UK's obligations to its allies.
67. ECP swaps Sindh, Balochistan poll bosses
The Election Commission of Pakistan has replaced the electoral chiefs of Sindh and Balochistan provinces ahead of the upcoming elections, following meetings with political parties and discussions over electoral procedures and fairness.
68. Indian SC verdict on Kashmir alters regional dynamics: experts
Analysts contend that the Indian Supreme Court's ruling on the status of Kashmir has profound implications for regional stability and politics, potentially reshaping diplomatic relations and strategic considerations in South Asia.