AMMAN: Former senator Mushtaq Ahmed has released a video statement following his release from Israeli detention, saying he has reached Jordan along with 150 companions.
In a post shared on social media platform X, Mushtaq Ahmed said they were held for five days in Israel’s notorious Negev Desert prison, where they were subjected to harsh treatment.
مشتاق احمد خان صاحب اسرائیلی جیل سے رہا ہو کر اردن پہنچ گئے۔
ان کا پیغام ہے کہ اڈیالہ سے لے کر اسرائیلی جیل تک مزاحمت جاری رہے گی
— Senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan | سینیٹر مشتاق احمد خان (@SenatorMushtaq) October 7, 2025
“Our hands were tied behind our backs, blindfolds were placed over our eyes, and shackles were put on our feet during the detention,” he revealed in the video message.
Former senator Mushtaq Ahmed has detailed the severe mistreatment he and others faced during their detention in Israel, following his release and arrival in Jordan with 150 companions.
In a video message posted on social media platform X, Mushtaq said they were attacked by dogs, threatened with guns, and subjected to brutal torture while held for five days in Israel’s notorious Negev Desert prison. He added that detainees were denied access to air, medicine, and even water, forcing them to stage a three-day hunger strike to press their demands.
Mushtaq Ahmed reaffirmed that the struggle for Palestine’s freedom will continue, pledging efforts to save Gaza, bring perpetrators to justice, and repeatedly break Israel’s blockade.c
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.
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!
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
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.
In recent years, gut health has become one of the most searched health topics worldwide. Scientists now agree that the stomach is more than just a digestive organ — it plays a central role in immunity, mental health, and overall well-being.
The Role of Gut Microbiome
Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria, fungi, and microbes collectively called the gut microbiome. These microorganisms help break down food, absorb nutrients, and strengthen the immune system. A healthy gut microbiome reduces the risk of diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and even depression.
Signs of Poor Gut Health
Bloating, gas, or stomach pain
Food intolerances
Weak immunity and frequent infections
Fatigue or lack of focus
How to Improve Gut Health
Eat fiber-rich foods such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Add probiotics and prebiotics – yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods are excellent choices.
Stay hydrated to support digestion.
Reduce processed foods and sugar that harm good bacteria.
Manage stress and sleep – both affect gut balance.
Conclusion
Your gut is directly linked to your body’s defense system and even mental health. By improving your diet and lifestyle, you can restore balance in your gut and enjoy better immunity and energy.
Karachi – September 30, 2025: Pakistan’s leading textile manufacturer, Gul Ahmed Textile Mills Limited (GATM), has announced the closure of its export apparel business after years of financial strain and mounting operational challenges.
In a notice to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), the company stated that its board of directors approved the decision during a meeting held on September 29, 2025. The move comes after a strategic review that highlighted continued losses in the export apparel segment.
According to the company, the export unit has been struggling with rising input costs, especially nominated fabrics, along with higher energy tariffs, policy-driven tax burdens, and a volatile exchange rate that has reduced competitiveness in global markets. Intense competition from regional textile exporters has further squeezed margins.
By shutting down this business line, Gul Ahmed expects to reduce borrowing levels, improve cash flows, and strengthen its focus on profitable areas such as home textiles, spinning, and weaving, which remain operational.
Gul Ahmed, a household name in Pakistan, traces its roots back to the early 1900s as a textile trader and began manufacturing under GATM in 1953. Listed on the PSX since 1955, the company also runs one of the country’s largest retail networks, with more than 40 outlets offering fashion, apparel, and home accessories.
The closure of its export apparel division marks a major restructuring step for the textile giant as it navigates Pakistan’s challenging economic and industrial landscape.
Dubai/Karachi – In a remarkable entrepreneurial journey, Pakistani couple Anam Khalid and Wajdan Gul have taken their gym apparel brand SquatWolf from a small apartment in Dubai to the prestigious Dubai Mall, making it one of the most prominent Pakistani-founded lifestyle brands to achieve such recognition in the Middle East.
Launched in 2016 with an initial investment of AED 250,000, SquatWolf was born out of the couple’s observation that the UAE fitness community lacked a locally tailored sportswear alternative to global giants like Nike and Adidas. Their early focus on quality, niche market segments, and community-building helped the brand gain traction across the Gulf.
By 2018, SquatWolf expanded into Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait, while their innovative content campaigns during the COVID-19 pandemic boosted visibility worldwide. Today, the brand claims a presence in 120 countries and continues to grow rapidly.
The milestone of opening a store in Dubai Mall was achieved through a customer-led introduction to Emaar’s CEO, leading to swift approval and store allocation. “Being in Dubai Mall is more than just retail — it’s global brand validation,” said Wajdan Gul.
The founders emphasize team-building as a key factor in their success. “If you are the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room,” Wajdan remarked, highlighting the importance of hiring top talent to sustain growth.
SquatWolf now operates three outlets in Dubai, including its flagship at Dubai Mall, and has set its sights on further global expansion — positioning itself as a leading sportswear brand with Pakistani roots and international ambition.
In a vibrant ceremony that blended eco-innovation with women’s empowerment, the Sindh government rolled out the first batch of free electric scooters under its flagship Pink EV Scooty Scheme, handing over keys to 200 lucky female beneficiaries. The event, held on September 25 at a bustling venue in Karachi, marked a milestone in the province’s push for gender-inclusive, sustainable transport, drawing cheers from recipients, officials, and supporters alike.
Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari led the distribution, personally handing over the sleek pink scooters to a diverse group of female students, teachers, and working professionals. “Today, we are taking another big step by distributing electric scooters free of cost to women, which will not only ease their daily commute but also provide greater access to employment opportunities,” Bilawal Bhutto Zardari declared, emphasizing the scheme’s role in national progress. He highlighted the contrast with restrictive policies elsewhere, stating, “We want to send a strong message to Pakistan and the world—the Pakistan Peoples Party stands with the women of this country.”
The initiative, launched in April 2025 by the Sindh Transport and Mass Transit Department under Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, aims to distribute 1,000 such scooters across the province by year’s end. Each scooter comes equipped with safety features, including helmets, road safety training, and access to EV charging stations, in partnership with private entities like KFC Pakistan, which provided rider training and licensing support. “This pink scooter scheme is not just about transportation; it’s about women empowerment,” Memon noted earlier this month.
From Application to Asphalt: A Transparent Journey
The scheme’s selection process—online applications via the Sindh Mass Transit Authority (SMTA) portal, followed by skill tests and a public lottery—ensured fairness, with media and a supervisory committee overseeing the draw. Recipients like Maria Mazhar Ghori, a schoolteacher from Karachi, shared her excitement: “I’ve received training from the Bint-i-Ahan women’s bike club, and now with this scooter, I can commute safely without relying on crowded buses. It’s a game-changer for women like me.”
Eligibility remains straightforward: Women aged 18+ residing in Sindh, holding a valid driving license, and either enrolled as students or employed. Applications are still open on the SMTA website (smta.sindh.gov.pk), with phased distributions continuing into October. No prior vehicle ownership is allowed, and scooters are for personal use only to prevent misuse.
Broader Impact: Green Mobility Meets Gender Equity
This rollout aligns with national efforts like the federal Prime Minister’s Electric Bike Scheme 2025, which plans to distribute 116,000 e-bikes nationwide, but Sindh’s Pink EV focus zeroes in on women-specific barriers in urban hubs like Karachi and Hyderabad. By promoting electric vehicles, the program cuts fuel costs by up to 80% and reduces emissions, supporting Pakistan’s New Energy Vehicle Policy 2025–2030.
Looking ahead, Bhutto Zardari teased the launch of “Pink Taxis”—a women-operated ride service promising safe travel and job creation. As one recipient put it, “These wheels aren’t just for getting around; they’re for breaking barriers.”
For eligible women in Sindh, the message is clear: Apply now and ride the wave of change. The Pink EV Scooty Scheme isn’t just distributing vehicles—it’s accelerating a future where women lead the way, one eco-friendly mile at a time.
