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Four injured as blast derails Jaffar Express near Shikarpur

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Shikarpur

SHIKARPUR:  Four coaches of the Jaffar Express derailed near Sultan Kot village in Shikarpur on Tuesday following an explosion on the railway track.

According to police, four passengers were injured in the incident and shifted to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.

A bomb disposal squad has been called to the site to determine the nature of the explosion and collect evidence from the damaged section of the track.

Police say the railway operation has been temporarily suspended after the blast, while arrangements are being made to send passengers by buses.

According to the DS Railway, repair of the affected track has been started and the track repair can take 8 to 10 hours, but there is no train on the track before 5pm.

On the other hand, Sindh Home Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar has sought a detailed report from the SSP Shikarpur following the explosion on a railway track that caused coaches of the Jaffar Express to derail.

The home minister directed authorities to launch an immediate investigation into the incident and ensure that the terrorists responsible for damaging the railway track are brought to justice at the earliest.

Lanjar emphasized the need to trace the culprits through concrete evidence and thorough investigation and instructed officials to keep him informed of all developments related to the probe.

Meanwhile, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah strongly condemned the explosion on the railway track near Kot Sultan that caused several coaches of the Jaffar Express to derail.

According to a spokesperson, the chief minister has sought a detailed report from the Inspector General of Police regarding the incident.

He also directed the Commissioner of Larkana to ensure that the injured passengers receive the best possible medical treatment.

Murad Ali Shah further instructed authorities to dispatch rescue teams immediately to provide timely assistance to the affected passengers.

The police and bomb disposal squad are present at the site and are investigating the nature of the blast, the Sindh police chief confirmed.

Skywatchers gear up for year’s first supermoon tonight

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Skywatchers

ISLAMABAD: A breathtaking celestial event awaits stargazers tonight as the year’s first supermoon makes its appearance, shining bigger and brighter than a typical full moon.

According to a spokesperson for the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), during the supermoon, the Moon will be approximately 224,000 miles from Earth, appearing 6.6% larger and 13% brighter than a typical full moon.

The phenomenon will be visible in Pakistan as well. The supermoon will rise in the east shortly after sunset and set in the west before sunrise, giving observers ample time to witness the stunning sight.

According to SUPARCO, 2 more super monases will be seen this year. The brightest Super Moon of the year is expected on November 5, 2025, while the third Super Moon will be seen on December 5.

According to astronomers, the super moon appears when the moon is at the closest distance to the earth, which is the moon, which is why the moon looks significantly larger and bright than usual, which is why it is called Super Moon.

Punjab on alert as heavy rains swell rivers

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Punjab

LAHORE: Continuous downpours have led to rising river flows across Punjab, prompting the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) to issue a flood alert and urge caution in low-lying areas.

According to a PDMA spokesperson, water flow in the Jhelum River at Mangla upstream is expected to increase, with the possibility of a medium-level flood within the next 24 hours. Meanwhile, low-level flooding has already been reported in the Sutlej River at Ganda Singh Wala and the Ravi River at Head Sidhnai.

While the worst of the flooding has passed in Bahawalpur district, the devastation it left behind is significant. Thousands of houses have collapsed, and standing crops over hundreds of thousands of acres have been destroyed.

The stagnant floodwaters have now led to a surge in mosquito populations, raising concerns over waterborne and vector-borne diseases.

In Multan’s Jalalpur Pirwala tehsil, drainage operations are still underway, with several low-lying areas remaining submerged. Authorities confirmed that all seven breaches at Noraja Bhutta Bund have been sealed.

However, the M-5 Motorway remains closed for a 25th consecutive day due to flood damage. Officials said a 23-kilometer stretch of the motorway was damaged at more than 13 points, and restoration work will begin soon. Traffic is currently being diverted through alternate routes.

Security Guard caught treating patients at DG Khan cardiac hospital

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Security Guard

DERA GHAZI KHAN: Authorities have launched an inquiry after a video went viral on social media showing a security guard treating patients at a government heart hospital in Dera Ghazi Khan.

According to reports, the incident took place at the Sardar Fateh Muhammad Khan Buzdar Institute of Cardiology, where a patient was brought to the emergency ward with chest pain. Shockingly, instead of medical staff, a security guard was seen examining the patient and even performing an ECG.

Officials have taken notice of the incident and ordered an investigation into the matter.

Taking notice of the incident after the video surfaced online, the Deputy Commissioner of Dera Ghazi Khan formed a three-member inquiry committee headed by the Additional Medical Superintendent (AMS) of the cardiology institute. Officials said action will be taken against those found negligent based on the committee’s findings.

Paresh Rawal’s ‘The Taj Story’ Poster Sparks Taj Mahal Controversy

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Bollywood actor Paresh Rawal unveiling Shiva statue in Taj Mahal dome on The Taj Story movie poster, sparking historical debate

Shiva Temple Claims Ignite Debate in 2025

October 3, 2025 – Veteran Bollywood actor Paresh Rawal finds himself at the center of a fiery Taj Mahal controversy as the poster for his upcoming film The Taj Story goes viral, depicting him unveiling a statue of Lord Shiva inside the iconic monument’s dome. The provocative imagery has reignited long-standing debates over whether the Taj Mahal was a Shiva temple, drawing sharp backlash and support across social media and historical circles.

Directed by Tushar Amrish Geol and co-starring Zakir Hussain, Amruta Khanvilkar, and Senha Wagh, the poster’s bold visual—showing Rawal symbolically “opening” the Taj Mahal to reveal Hindu iconography—has been accused of promoting fringe theories that challenge the site’s Mughal heritage. Shared by Rawal on social platforms, it has amassed millions of views, polarizing opinions in India’s culturally charged landscape.

The Poster’s Provocation: A Visual Nod to ‘Tejo Mahalaya’ Theory

At the heart of the Paresh Rawal Taj Mahal poster controversy is the imagery suggesting the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage site built by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1653 as a mausoleum for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, was originally the Hindu temple ‘Tejo Mahalaya’ dedicated to Lord Shiva. This idea, popularized by historian P.N. Oak in his controversial book, claims the monument predates Mughal rule and was repurposed, a narrative widely debunked by mainstream historians but persistent in certain nationalist circles.

Social media erupted with reactions: Users hailed it as a “bold truth reveal” while others slammed it as “historical revisionism” and an affront to India’s secular fabric. Hashtags like #TajMahalShivaTemple and #TheTajStoryControversy trended nationwide, amplifying the divide.

The film’s plot remains under wraps, but the poster hints at a narrative exploring these very claims, positioning The Taj Story as a potential flashpoint in Bollywood’s tryst with historical fiction.

Echoes of Past Disputes: From Petitions to Political Claims

This isn’t the first time the Taj Mahal’s origins have stirred unrest. In 2022, activist Rajneesh Singh petitioned India’s Supreme Court for a fact-finding probe into the monument’s history, demanding access to 22 sealed rooms rumored to house Hindu idols—a plea still pending. That same year, BJP MP Diya Kumari, from Jaipur’s royal lineage, asserted that the land belonged to her ancestors, fueling similar speculations.

The Taj Mahal Shiva temple debate ties into broader Hindutva narratives, where monuments like the Babri Masjid (now Ram Temple) serve as cultural battlegrounds. Critics argue such portrayals in cinema risk communal tensions, while supporters see them as reclaiming “suppressed history.”

Paresh Rawal, known for roles in Hera Pheri and political stances as a BJP MP, has yet to respond directly to the uproar, but his history of endorsing right-wing views adds fuel to the fire.

Bollywood’s Risky Gamble: Art, History, and Public Fury

As The Taj Story gears up for release—details TBD—the controversy underscores Bollywood’s tightrope walk between entertainment and education. Past films like Padmaavat faced similar boycotts over historical liberties, highlighting how cinema can ignite real-world discourse.

For Rawal, 69, this marks another provocative project following Welcome 3. Will it flop amid backlash or become a cult hit? Only time—and box office—will tell.

Fans and foes alike are watching closely, with the poster becoming a meme-fest and debate catalyst. As India navigates its pluralistic identity, The Taj Story poses a poignant question: Can art rewrite history without rewriting peace?

Stay locked for updates on Paresh Rawal upcoming movies 2025, Taj Mahal controversy latest, and Bollywood’s bold takes!

Indonesia Suspends TikTok Registration Over Data Sharing Failures: What It Means for Users in 2025

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akarta protesters holding smartphones with TikTok logo, illustrating 2025 registration suspension over live streaming data issue

Jakarta, Indonesia – October 3, 2025

In a bold regulatory crackdown, Indonesia’s communications and digital ministry has suspended TikTok’s registration as an electronic system provider due to data sharing failures during recent nationwide protests. The move targets TikTok’s incomplete disclosure of live streaming data, amid concerns over online gambling and content misuse, leaving millions of users in limbo as the platform faces potential further restrictions.

This TikTok Indonesia suspension escalates tensions between Southeast Asia’s tech regulators and global giants like ByteDance-owned TikTok, which boasts over 100 million users in the country—one of its largest markets. As of Friday, the app remains operational, but the halt on its licensing could lead to a full TikTok ban in Indonesia if compliance isn’t restored swiftly.

The Spark: Protests, Gambling, and Live Streaming Chaos

Indonesia’s student-led protests from late August to September 2025 ignited fury over issues like excessive lawmaker perks and alleged police violence. Amid the unrest, TikTok live streaming became a hotspot for exploitation, with accounts tied to online gambling using broadcasts to monetize illicit activities. In response, TikTok temporarily disabled its live feature to foster a “safe and civil space,” but the damage was done.

Under strict local laws, licensed platforms must share traffic, streaming, and monetization data for government oversight. TikTok provided only partial info, citing internal hurdles, prompting ministry official Alexander Sabar to declare it a violation of obligations as a private electronic provider. “This isn’t just about data—it’s about accountability during national crises,” Sabar noted.

The Indonesia TikTok data sharing issue echoes past clashes, including a 2020 e-commerce ban and ongoing fights against harmful content like disinformation and pornography. Platforms now risk fines or outright suspensions for non-compliance, aligning with ASEAN-wide pushes to tame digital harms.

Broader Impacts: A Wake-Up Call for TikTok’s Global Empire

For everyday users, the TikTok suspension Indonesia 2025 means no immediate blackout, but uncertainty looms. Content creators reliant on live streams for income could see earnings plummet, while advertisers eye alternatives amid the regulatory storm. TikTok, silent on comment requests, must now scramble to meet demands or face escalated penalties in this key revenue hub.

Experts see this as a test of digital sovereignty in Indonesia, where the government prioritizes national security over unchecked innovation. “It’s a signal to all Big Tech: Play by our rules, or pay the price,” says digital rights analyst Lina Mariya. The saga also spotlights ByteDance’s challenges in navigating geopolitics, from U.S. scrutiny to Asian crackdowns.

As protests fade, the focus shifts to resolution. Will TikTok fully comply, or is a partial TikTok ban Indonesia on the horizon? Stay updated on this fast-evolving social media regulation story.

Why This TikTok News is Dominating Searches in 2025

The Indonesia TikTok controversy has surged in popularity, blending tech drama with real-world unrest. It’s a must-watch for anyone tracking social media bans and data privacy laws in emerging markets

Apple Removes ICE Tracking Apps After Trump Administration Pressure

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Apple App Store logo with ICE tracking app removed after Trump administration pressure.

Washington, October 3, 2025 – Apple has removed ICE tracking apps from its App Store, including the widely used ICEBlock app, after pressure from the Trump administration and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). The apps allowed users to track and report the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during raids.

According to Apple, the decision was made following concerns raised by U.S. law enforcement, which claimed the apps posed safety risks to ICE agents. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed that Apple was asked to remove the applications, calling them a threat to national security and public safety.

The apps, especially ICEBlock, had more than 1 million downloads and were popular among immigrant communities and activists, who used them to share real-time alerts about ICE raids. Critics argue that Apple’s decision represents a serious blow to free speech, digital privacy, and civil liberties, while supporters say the apps could compromise law enforcement operations.

The developer of ICEBlock, Joshua Aaron, defended the app, saying it only provided crowdsourced information and did not endanger agents or promote violence. Civil rights groups have compared Apple’s move to its 2019 removal of the HKMap app during the Hong Kong protests, citing growing concerns about government pressure on Big Tech companies.

The removal has sparked a debate over the role of technology companies in law enforcement, censorship, and digital rights, with immigration activists accusing Apple of siding with the Trump administration instead of protecting vulnerable communities.

Noor Zaman Powers into Charlottesville Open 2025 Semifinals: Pakistan’s Rising Squash Star Set for Epic Clash

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Noor Zaman Powers into Charlottesville Open 2025

Charlottesville, Virginia – October 3, 2025 – In a display of sheer dominance, Pakistan’s prodigious squash talent Noor Zaman has marched into the semifinals of the Charlottesville Open 2025, captivating fans worldwide with his blistering form on the PSA World Tour. The 21-year-old U23 World Squash Champion dismantled Egypt’s third seed Yahya Elnawasany in a clinical straight-games victory (11-9, 11-9, 11-9) during the quarterfinals, clocking just 35 minutes of intense rally play.

This triumph marks another milestone for Noor Zaman squash sensation, who is riding high after clinching the Nash Cup 2025 title in Canada just days ago. There, he stunned the No. 2 seed in a thrilling 3-0 final (19-17, 11-7, 11-9), solidifying his status as one of the most searched Pakistan squash players in 2025.

Unstoppable Run: From Round of 16 to Semifinal Glory

Zaman’s path to the last four of the $31,250 PSA Charlottesville Squash Open has been nothing short of spectacular. Earlier in the tournament, the eighth seed overcame England’s Tom Walsh in a hard-fought 3-1 quarterfinal qualifier (13-11, 11-5, 5-11, 11-5), showcasing his resilience and tactical prowess. Against Elnawasany, Zaman’s precision and court coverage left little room for error, edging out razor-thin margins in each game to secure his spot.

Fellow Pakistani contenders faced tougher fates: Muhammad Asim Khan fell 3-0 to top seed Timothy Brownell in the Round of 16, while Muhammad Ashab Irfan was edged out 3-1 by India’s Veer Chotrani. Despite the early exits, Zaman carries the hopes of a nation, continuing Pakistan’s storied legacy in international squash tournaments.

Other quarterfinal highlights included England’s Sam Todd’s 3-0 rout of Argentina’s Leandro Romiglio (11-8, 11-8, 11-8) and Egypt’s Salman Khalil’s gritty 3-1 comeback over India’s fourth seed Velavan Senthilkumar (12-10, 9-11, 11-8, 11-3). Brownell, the American No. 1, advanced with a 3-1 win over Chotrani (11-6, 9-11, 11-1, 11-6) in 41 minutes, setting up a blockbuster semifinal showdown.

The Road Ahead: Zaman vs. Brownell – A Battle for the Ages

All eyes now turn to the Charlottesville Open semifinals on October 3, where Noor Zaman faces formidable top seed Timothy Brownell. This clash pits the young Pakistani phenom against the home-crowd favorite, promising high-octane action in the PSA World Tour Copper event. Zaman, a nominee for PSA Men’s Young Player of the Year, enters with momentum from his World Under-23 Squash Championship gold in April 2025, where he made history as Pakistan’s first men’s U23 winner.

Born in Peshawar and standing at 180cm, the grandson of squash legend Qamar Zaman has quickly risen to No. 1 in Pakistan’s national ranks. His partnership with PTCL Group underscores his growing global profile, making him a hot topic in squash news 2025.

Fans can catch live updates on the PSA Squash TV platform, with the winner advancing to the final against the victor of Todd vs. Khalil.

Why Noor Zaman is Dominating Squash Searches in 2025

As Pakistan squash continues to shine on the world stage, Noor Zaman’s exploits have spiked interest in squash results and PSA events. His blend of power, agility, and mental fortitude positions him as a future world No. 1 contender.

Pakistan Rejects Trump’s 20-Point Gaza Peace Plan: “It’s Not Ours”, Says FM Ishaq Dar

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Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar speaking in parliament as Pakistan rejects Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace plan.

While PM Shehbaz Sharif initially welcomed the plan, Islamabad now distances itself, sparking domestic backlash and diplomatic scrutiny.

Islamabad, October 3, 2025 – Pakistan has formally distanced itself from the 20-point Gaza peace plan announced by former U.S. President Donald Trump, with Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar declaring that the version released publicly is not the one Pakistan (or allied Muslim nations) had agreed to. Reuters+1

Speaking in the national assembly, Dar asserted that key modifications had been made to the text, diverging from the coalition draft submitted by Pakistan along with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, and Indonesia. Reuters+2India Today+2

“These 20 points which Trump has made public are not ours. Some changes have been made from the draft we had,” Dar told lawmakers. Reuters+1

He also criticized international institutions — including the UN, Security Council, and OIC — for failing to prevent the ongoing Gaza war. Reuters

PM Sharif’s Earlier Endorsement & Domestic Fallout

Prior to Dar’s clarification, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had tweeted a welcome message for Trump’s plan, calling it a “vital step” toward ending the war. Wikipedia+2India Today+2

Tweet by PM Shehbaz Sharif (CMShehbaz):

That tweet triggered criticism from opposition figures and civil society, with voices accusing the government of undermining Pakistan’s historic pro-Palestine stance and appearing to side too closely with U.S. interests. India Today+2X (formerly Twitter)+2

What Does Trump’s 20-Point Plan Propose?

The U.S. plan — which has already been endorsed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu — includes demands such as:

  • A ceasefire and return of all hostages (alive and dead) within 72 hours of a ceasefire
  • Partial Israeli withdrawal, leading to a phased full withdrawal under international oversight
  • Disarmament of Hamas, and removal of its role in governance
  • Reconstruction of Gaza under an international “Board of Peace,” with oversight from global partners Reuters+2Reuters+2

However, the plan leaves many critical issues open for negotiation, including long-term governance, security guarantees, and the pathway to a Palestinian state. Reuters+2Reuters+2

Why Pakistan Is Pushing Back

  1. Sovereign stamp concerns
    Pakistan insists it should not be seen as having fully endorsed a plan in which it had no say in the final text. Dar emphasized that the published version does not match the coalition draft. Reuters+1
  2. Domestic political sensitivity
    The government faces pressure from political factions and public sentiment that strongly support the Palestinians. Any perception of alignment with U.S./Israeli interests could provoke backlash.
  3. Regional diplomatic stakes
    As part of the coalition of Muslim nations that developed the original draft, Pakistan may want to protect its credibility among Arab and Islamic states.
  4. Negotiation leverage
    By rejecting the version released by Trump, Pakistan may aim to push for further revisions or clarifications that better protect sensitive points (e.g. full Israeli withdrawal, protection for Palestinian rights).

Reactions & Next Moves

  • Hamas has not publicly accepted the plan, calling parts of it biased and demanding changes. Reuters+1
  • Other countries (e.g. Saudi Arabia, Egypt) have reportedly engaged in ongoing talks with the U.S. to adjust or clarify the text. Reuters+2India Today+2
  • Pakistan will likely submit formal amendments or objections through diplomatic channels; further statements from the Foreign Office are expected in the coming days.

University of Karachi Opens Doors for 2026 Admissions Complete Guideline

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karachi university

Diverse Programs, Aptitude Tests, and Merit-Based Opportunities Await Aspiring Students

Karachi, October 1, 2025 – The University of Karachi (UOK) has launched online admissions for the 2026 session, offering BS programs, Pharm D, and Visual Studies via https://www.uokadmission.edu.pk. Fees range from PKR 3,000–5,000; applications start September 29 for test-based options.https://www.uok.edu.pk/admissions/index.php#adm2026

Key deadlines: Aptitude tests for Visual Studies (B.Arch, BFA, B.Design) on Oct. 18; Pharm D/BS entrance exams Oct. 25–26 (apply by Oct. 10). Open merit BS (morning) from Oct. 27–Nov. 7; evening programs Nov. 17–28. Reserved/self-finance seats open Oct. 27/Nov. 6.

Eligibility: 45%+ in HSSC (50% for Visual Studies); up to 5 program choices. Submit CNIC, marks sheets, character certificate. Hafiz-e-Quran get +20 marks. Foreigners need IBCC/IELTS 5.0.

Over 40 departments include AI, Biotech, Economics, Psychology. Merit lists from Nov. 5. Contact: Dr. Saima Akhter at admissions@uok.edu.pk. Full details at https://www.uok.edu.pk/admissions/index.php#adm2026.