Blog - Page 7 of 251

Juvenile card requirement dropped for MDCAT candidates in Sindh

September 19, 2026 by Pakistan Desk

KARACHI: The mandatory juvenile card requirement for candidates appearing in the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) 2026 in Sindh has been waived, allowing students without the document to take the exam.

According to a press release, the relaxation was approved by the MDCAT committee on the instructions of the Sindh Health Department.

Candidates who do not have a juvenile card have been directed to bring their original, photograph-bearing marks sheet for identification at the examination center.

The original marks sheet for either matriculation or intermediate will be accepted, and candidates’ identities will be verified against the document at the test center.

The press release said the requirement was relaxed to facilitate candidates who did not have juvenile cards.

The MDCAT 2026 examination in Sindh will be conducted by Sukkur IBA Testing Services.

PTI to challenge IHC ruling on Sept 27 long march in Supreme Court

September 19, 2026 by Pakistan Desk

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced plans to challenge an Islamabad High Court ruling against its planned Sept. 27 long march in the Supreme Court.

PTI Central Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram said the Sept. 27 long march would not be postponed and that the party would challenge the high court’s order in the Supreme Court and other higher courts.

Akram criticized Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s remarks, questioning whether government ministers should threaten opposition parties with the use of force.

The Islamabad High Court issued a 37-page detailed ruling on a petition challenging the PTI’s planned long march, stating that activities that infringe on citizens’ fundamental rights would amount to a violation of the Constitution.

The court said no political party had a legal right to block highways or roads and directed provincial governments not to use public funds or state resources for the Islamabad march.

It also prohibited the use of government vehicles and machinery to facilitate the long march.

The court ordered that an immediate helpline be established for government employees facing unlawful orders and warned that those violating court directives or affecting citizens’ rights could face legal action.

The ruling further stated that a public officeholder who violates the Constitution or law would be considered to have breached their oath of office.

It added that government officials could face consequences if their actions resulted in violations of citizens’ fundamental rights.

Edible oil tanker association fined Rs60m for fixing transport rates

September 19, 2026 by Business Desk

ISLAMABAD: The Competition Commission of Pakistan has fined the All Pakistan Edible Oil Tankers Owners Association Rs60 million for collectively fixing transportation rates for edible oil and ghee and allocating business among tanker operators.

The CCP said the association was fined Rs30 million for collective determination of transport rates and another Rs30 million for allocating business through a token and rotation system.

According to the commission, the association had agreed to increase transport rates by 0.75% whenever diesel prices rose by Rs1, while reducing rates by only 0.5% when diesel prices fell by Rs1.

The CCP said transport rates were collectively revised 89 times over six years, including 52 increases and 37 decreases. Tanker owners offering discounted rates were allegedly threatened with blacklisting, while mills seeking lower rates were threatened with suspension of edible oil supplies.

The commission said tankers were allocated business through a token and rotation system rather than through free competition. A penalty of Rs500,000 was prescribed separately for each tanker and its owner for violating certain conditions.

Despite a show-cause notice, the association issued a new rate circular in August 2026 covering transportation to 81 locations, the CCP said. It warned that higher transportation costs could further increase the prices of essential commodities such as ghee and edible oil.

The CCP said about 2,362 tankers and 1,700 owners were registered with the association, while 250 to 300 association tankers visited ports daily. The association accounted for about 83% of the market when compared with the National Logistics Corporation’s 50 to 60 tankers, it added.

The commission said the association had an agreement with the Pakistan Vanaspati Manufacturers Association for determining transport rates. Representatives of the tanker association acknowledged that rates were fixed through a mutual agreement.

The transport-rate agreement was initially reached in 2011 and updated in 2022, according to the CCP.

During a search, the commission seized six years of rate circulars, agreements and computer records. It said its earlier proceedings had also uncovered agreements between PVMA and oil tanker associations for fixing transport rates.

In that earlier case, the CCP had fined PVMA Rs50 million for violating Section 4 of the Competition Act by fixing prices.

The CCP has ordered the immediate termination of collective rate fixing and the token-and-rotation system.

EU approves stricter return rules for illegal immigrants

September 19, 2026 by World Desk

The European Parliament has approved new rules aimed at strengthening the return of non-EU nationals who have no legal right to remain in EU member states. The Parliament adopted its position on the new Return Regulation on June 17, 2026.

The rules apply not only to rejected asylum seekers but also to other non-EU nationals whose visas or residence permits have expired or who otherwise have no legal right to stay and are subject to a return decision.

Under the new framework, people facing a return decision will be required to leave within the specified period and cooperate with authorities. Failure to cooperate can lead to consequences under national law, including reduced benefits or, where permitted, criminal sanctions.

Authorities may detain individuals following an individual assessment if they fail to cooperate, pose a risk of absconding or present a security risk. Detention can last up to 24 months, with a possible extension of up to six months under specified circumstances. Alternatives such as regular reporting, residence at a designated location, financial guarantees or electronic monitoring may also be used.

People considered security risks may face entry bans exceeding the usual 10-year maximum, or even indefinite bans in certain cases.

The new rules also allow EU member states to establish agreements with countries outside the bloc for so-called return hubs. People with final return decisions could, under such arrangements, be transferred to a third country that agrees to accept them, either as a final destination or as a transit point for onward return.

Such arrangements must respect international human rights standards and the principle of non-refoulement. Unaccompanied minors are excluded from these arrangements.

The framework requires respect for fundamental rights and international law. Return arrangements cannot be made with countries where the person would face a real risk of serious harm in violation of the non-refoulement principle. The rules also provide legal safeguards and remedies against return decisions.

For Pakistani citizens planning to travel to Europe, the rules underscore the importance of complying with visa and residence conditions. Overstaying or remaining without legal status can result in a return decision and, depending on the circumstances, detention or an entry ban.

Note: The European Parliament adopted its position on June 17, but the final EU legislative process and the date on which individual provisions become applicable depend on formal adoption and publication. The Council and Parliament had reached a provisional agreement earlier in June.

Simple smartphone setting could help extend battery life

September 18, 2026 by Technology Desk

Smartphone users who frequently struggle with their batteries running out quickly can improve battery life by changing a simple setting, according to the information provided.

One of the common causes of faster battery drain is keeping mobile data enabled even while connected to Wi-Fi.

When mobile data remains active, the smartphone continues maintaining a connection with cellular networks, even when Wi-Fi is being used.

This allows the phone to automatically switch to cellular connectivity when Wi-Fi is turned off or the device moves out of Wi-Fi range. However, maintaining this capability can also consume additional battery power.

Disabling mobile data when it is not needed can therefore help reduce unnecessary battery consumption.

The main drawback is that when users leave a Wi-Fi zone, they may need to manually enable mobile data again. It can then take around 10 seconds for the phone to reconnect to the cellular network.

For users who spend most of their time connected to Wi-Fi, turning off mobile data when it is not required may be a simple way to reduce battery usage.

‘For Pakistan’s Sake, Give Us Your Phone’: Rizwan’s mobile taken in England

September 18, 2026 by Sports Desk

LONDON: Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Rizwan was asked to hand over his mobile phone at around 1:30 a.m. while in England, with sources saying he was questioned about online betting companies and gambling.

According to the sources, Rizwan was called from his hotel room to the lobby, where a Pakistan Cricket Board official and an unidentified man were present. He was questioned about online betting platforms and asked to hand over his phone.

The sources said Rizwan initially refused several times and asked why his phone was being taken and what allegations he faced. After repeated requests, he was told, “For Pakistan’s sake, give us your phone,” following which he agreed to hand it over.

Rizwan was reportedly assured that the phone would be returned within a few hours. However, as he was scheduled to fly back to Pakistan the following day, he objected to returning without his phone and repeatedly asked the team manager about it, but did not receive a satisfactory response, the sources said.

Rizwan later learned that his phone had been taken to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) office in Lahore and had still not been returned.

Sources close to Rizwan said the cricketer had no objection to an investigation but had concerns about the procedure followed in taking his phone.

They questioned whether a written report, explanation or receipt was issued when the phone was taken, and asked what authority was used to seize it if the International Cricket Council’s anti-corruption code was not invoked.

The sources also questioned why the phone was transferred out of the United Kingdom and retained for weeks despite the assurance that it would be returned within hours.

They asked whether the Metropolitan Police or the UK’s National Crime Agency had been informed when the phone was taken in London, and whether any warrant, court application or legal authorization had been obtained from British authorities.

If the matter involved alleged corruption in an international match, the sources also questioned when the ICC was informed.

The ICC has not issued a statement on the matter so far, according to the sources.

Rizwan also wants clarification about questions concerning visits to a mosque, including which specific day, practice session or meeting he allegedly missed that could constitute a disciplinary or security violation, the sources said.

They further questioned whether the same rules were being applied to two former players in relation to betting platforms.

The sources said Rizwan was awaiting written responses to his questions from the PCB, England and Wales Cricket Board, ICC or British authorities.

Anil Kapoor credits daughters for major joy in his life

September 18, 2026 by Entertainment Desk

MUMBAI: Veteran Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor has spoken about his family and career, describing his daughters Sonam and Rhea Kapoor as a major source of joy in his life.

Recalling the birth of his daughter Rhea, Kapoor said he arrived late at the hospital and regretted not being able to see her on time. He said the experience stayed with him throughout the night.

The 69-year-old actor, speaking on The Anil Kapoor Show, said his daughters were nothing short of a blessing and that his family was more important to him than his career.

According to Kapoor, Rhea’s birth made him realize the additional happiness that having a daughter could bring. With two daughters, Sonam and Rhea, he said that happiness had effectively doubled.

Kapoor began gaining prominence with the 1983 film Woh Saat Din and has built a career spanning more than four decades in the Indian film industry.

The actor remains active in show business and is currently hosting a quiz show.

Sindh to hold MDCAT 2026 examination on Sept 20

September 18, 2026 by Pakistan Desk

KARACHI: The Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) for admission to medical and dental colleges in Sindh will be held Sunday, September 20, with examination centers established in seven cities across the province.

The test will be conducted in Karachi, Hyderabad, Jamshoro, Mirpurkhas, Larkana, Shaheed Benazirabad and Sukkur.

In Hyderabad, the Public School Unit No. 3 in Latifabad has been designated as the examination center. In Jamshoro, the test will be held at Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences.

Mir Sher Muhammad Talpur Public School has been designated as the center in Mirpurkhas, while the Police Training School Ground will host the examination in Larkana.

In Shaheed Benazirabad, the examination center will be at Quaid-e-Awam University of Engineering, Science and Technology. In Sukkur, candidates will take the test at IBA Public School on Old Airport Road.

The SIBA Testing Services said maps of the examination centers had also been released to help candidates. Separate entrance routes have been marked on the maps for the NED University and Dow University centers in Karachi.

SIBA Testing Services advised candidates to check their reporting time, examination center and designated entrance in advance.

The MDCAT examination will last three hours. Question papers will be collected from candidates after the examination, according to SIBA Testing Services.

Fox News poll shows Trump approval at 39%, 61% disapprove

September 18, 2026 by World Desk

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump’s job approval rating stands at 39%, while 61% of registered voters disapprove of his performance, according to a new Fox News national poll.

The survey found that 60% of voters believe the decision to launch U.S. military action against Iran was wrong, compared with 37% who said it was the right decision. The share opposing the action has risen from 58% in June.

About 70% of voters said the Trump administration does not have a clear strategy for ending the war with Iran. That view was shared by 95% of Democrats, 83% of independents and 43% of Republicans, according to the poll.

The survey also found that 47% of voters believe the conflict will make the United States less safe in the long term, while 32% said it would make the country safer and 20% expected little change.

Trump’s ratings varied across policy areas. His overall rating on foreign policy was negative, while economic concerns remained a major issue for voters.

A separate Fox News poll found that the cost of living and inflation were among the leading concerns, with 61% describing gasoline prices as a major problem and 62% saying the same about grocery prices.

The latest findings come as the U.S.-Iran conflict enters its seventh month. Reuters reported on Sept. 18 that the prolonged conflict has contributed to military strain, higher energy prices and political pressure on the Trump administration.

Suicide bombing at Kohat police lines mosque kills 21, injures 103

September 18, 2026 by Pakistan Desk

KOHAT: A suicide bombing during Friday prayers near a police lines complex in Kohat killed 21 people, including 15 police officers, and wounded 103 others, officials said.

The blast occurred during Friday prayers and caused a crater outside the mosque, severely damaging its exterior and collapsing part of a wall, police said.

Kohat Medical Superintendent Dr. Tahir said six civilians and 15 police personnel were among those killed. The wounded included 73 police officers and 30 civilians.

Among those killed was Dr. Israel Khan Orakzai, chief district specialist at Liaquat Memorial Hospital, he said.

Of the 103 wounded, 90 were taken to the District Headquarters Hospital and 13 to Liaquat Memorial Hospital. Four patients were later referred to hospitals in Peshawar, while 34 injured people remained under treatment, Dr. Tahir said.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hameed told Geo News that a vehicle packed with explosives rammed into the gate of the old police lines before exploding. Gunfire also erupted, followed by another suicide blast at the Special Branch building, he said.

The Central Police Office in Peshawar said seven armed militants had entered the police lines and that police and counterterrorism personnel engaged them. Six militants, including a suicide bomber and a sniper, had been killed, it said.

Security forces and police cordoned off the area as rescue operations continued.

Emergency declared at DHQ Hospital

An emergency was declared at the District Headquarters Hospital, where several wounded police officers were being treated, hospital officials said.

Police closed the Kohat-Hangu Road to traffic and deployed additional personnel around the police lines.

Rescue officials said nearby buildings were also damaged in the blast and rescue operations were continuing at the scene.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi condemned the attack and sought a detailed report from police officials.

He said the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had made major sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and that such attacks would not weaken the nation’s resolve.