PPP’s Palwasha Khan eligible to contest Senate election: SHC

KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) dismissed on Monday an appeal challenging the acceptance of PPP candidate Palwasha Khan’s nomination papers for the coming Senate elections.

A two-judge bench of the SHC, comprising Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Amjad Ali Sahito, heard the appeal.

Also Read: Senate elections to be held through secret ballot: SC gives opinion on presidential reference

During the hearing, the appellant’s lawyer Aqib Rajpar contended before the court that the PPP candidate got her vote transferred to Karachi through forgery to contest the Senate polls from Sindh.

At this, the court observed that there exits law that allows vote transfer. “How a person could be disqualified through a writ petition?” asked the bench. “How did vote transfer from Punjab to Sindh violate the law?”

“This court is not an appellate tribunal to examine documents,” Justice Mazhar observed.

Also Read: SHC declares PTI’s Saifullah Abro eligible to contest Senate election

Earlier, on Feb 22, an election tribunal had rejected a plea against the acceptance of Palwasha Khan’s nomination papers for the upcoming Senate elections. Subsequently, an appeal challenging the tribunal’s verdict was filed before the SHC.

The appellant stated that Palwasha Khan got her vote transferred from Punjab to Karachi overnight to contest the Senate elections on a reserved seat for women from Sindh. The vote transfer is a violation of Article 220 and 226 of the Constitution, he said.

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SC directed ECP to ensure transparency in Senate polls: Fawad

ISLAMABAD: Reacting to Supreme Court’s opinion on presidential reference seeking Senate Elections through open ballot, Federal Minister for Science and Technology Fawad Chaudhry on Monday said that the SC  has endorsed the narrative to end corrupt practices and horse-trading in the Senate polls, ARY News reported. 

Taking on the micro-blogging website, Twitter, Fawad Chaudhry said that the court has not accepted complete secrecy of the ballot in the Senate polls.

سپریم کورٹ نے کرپشن کے خاتمے ،ہارس ٹریڈنگ کی حوصلہ شکنی اور اراکین کے لین دین کے معاملات کو ختم کرنے کے مؤقف کو تسلیم کر لیا ہے اور مکمل خفیہ رائے دہی کا اصول نہیں مانا الیکشن کمیشن کو کہا گیا ہے کہ وہ شفاف انتخابات کیلئے اقدامات کرے جس میں Traceable Ballot شامل ہے

— Ch Fawad Hussain (@fawadchaudhry) March 1, 2021

 The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has been asked to ensure transparent elections, he added.

Read more: Senate elections to be held through secret ballot: SC gives opinion on presidential reference

The Supreme Court (SC), in its opinion on the presidential reference on open Senate vote has said that Senate elections will be held through secret ballot.

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SC endorsed govt’s stance for transparent Senate polls: attorney general

ISLAMABAD: Attorney General Khalid Javed said on Monday that the Supreme Court (SC) has endorsed the federal government’s stance for holding transparent elections in Senate, ARY News reported.

Attorney General Khalid Javed told ARY News that the federal government has gotten what it was looking for regarding the Senate elections.

He said that the top court asked for a recognisable Senate paper and it was up to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) now whether to print bar code or write serial number. The Supreme Court (SC) also gave its opinion for holding transparent polls in the Senate.

Read: SC directed ECP to ensure transparency in Senate polls: Fawad

The apex court’s opinion was very important that secrecy of ballot papers was not permanent, added the attorney general.

Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court ruled that the forthcoming Senate elections are to be held through secret ballot under Article 226 of the country’s Constitution.

The apex court’s 4:1 majority decision, however, held that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is empowered to take all measures, including the use of the latest technology, to hold free and fair elections and curb corrupt practices under Article 218 of the Constitution.

Read: Political parties lawyers conclude arguments

A five-judge larger bench of the apex court, headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Gulzar Ahmed and comprising Justice Mushir Alam, Justice Umar Ata Bandial, Justice Ijazul Ahsan and Justice Yahya Afridi pronounced the reserved opinion.

Justice Afridi dissented from the majority opinion.

The court reserved its opinion after all the lawyers had concluded their arguments. At the last hearing, Justice Gulzar Ahmed observed that Parliament only passes resolutions for transparency of the electoral process.

Read: ECP issues deadline for Senate election campaigns

Attorney General Khalid Javed after completion of the arguments of the lawyers in his rejoinder argued that the scrutiny of the vote could not hurt the secrecy. “The presidential reference is not based on a political question, but it seeks an interpretation of Article 226,” the AG argued.

“Will the supreme court’s opinion will be final,” Justice Yahya Afridi asked. “The government will be bound to the court’s opinion,” AG said. “A review plea could be filed over the court’s opinion,” Justice Afridi said.

“Review petition could not be filed over the reference,” the state lawyers.

“The court has no relation with the politics, it will only interpret the constitution,” the chief justice said.

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PPP’s Palwasha Khan eligible to contest Senate election: SHC

KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) dismissed on Monday an appeal challenging the acceptance of PPP candidate Palwasha Khan’s nomination papers for the coming Senate elections.

A two-judge bench of the SHC, comprising Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Amjad Ali Sahito, heard the appeal.

Also Read: Senate elections to be held through secret ballot: SC gives opinion on presidential reference

During the hearing, the appellant’s lawyer Aqib Rajpar contended before the court that the PPP candidate got her vote transferred to Karachi through forgery to contest the Senate polls from Sindh.

At this, the court observed that there exits law that allows vote transfer. “How a person could be disqualified through a writ petition?” asked the bench. “How did vote transfer from Punjab to Sindh violate the law?”

“This court is not an appellate tribunal to examine documents,” Justice Mazhar observed.

Also Read: SHC declares PTI’s Saifullah Abro eligible to contest Senate election

Earlier, on Feb 22, an election tribunal had rejected a plea against the acceptance of Palwasha Khan’s nomination papers for the upcoming Senate elections. Subsequently, an appeal challenging the tribunal’s verdict was filed before the SHC.

The appellant stated that Palwasha Khan got her vote transferred from Punjab to Karachi overnight to contest the Senate elections on a reserved seat for women from Sindh. The vote transfer is a violation of Article 220 and 226 of the Constitution, he said.

The post PPP’s Palwasha Khan eligible to contest Senate election: SHC appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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SC directed ECP to ensure transparency in Senate polls: Fawad

ISLAMABAD: Reacting to Supreme Court’s opinion on presidential reference seeking Senate Elections through open ballot, Federal Minister for Science and Technology Fawad Chaudhry on Monday said that the SC  has endorsed the narrative to end corrupt practices and horse-trading in the Senate polls, ARY News reported. 

Taking on the micro-blogging website, Twitter, Fawad Chaudhry said that the court has not accepted complete secrecy of the ballot in the Senate polls.

سپریم کورٹ نے کرپشن کے خاتمے ،ہارس ٹریڈنگ کی حوصلہ شکنی اور اراکین کے لین دین کے معاملات کو ختم کرنے کے مؤقف کو تسلیم کر لیا ہے اور مکمل خفیہ رائے دہی کا اصول نہیں مانا الیکشن کمیشن کو کہا گیا ہے کہ وہ شفاف انتخابات کیلئے اقدامات کرے جس میں Traceable Ballot شامل ہے

— Ch Fawad Hussain (@fawadchaudhry) March 1, 2021

 The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has been asked to ensure transparent elections, he added.

Read more: Senate elections to be held through secret ballot: SC gives opinion on presidential reference

The Supreme Court (SC), in its opinion on the presidential reference on open Senate vote has said that Senate elections will be held through secret ballot.

The post SC directed ECP to ensure transparency in Senate polls: Fawad appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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Oil prices climb after progress on huge US stimulus bill

SINGAPORE: Oil prices rose more than $1 on Monday on optimism in the global economy thanks to progress in a huge US stimulus package and on hopes for improving oil demand as vaccines are rolled out.

Brent crude futures for May rose $1.07, or 1.7%, to $65.49 per barrel by 0042 GMT. The April contract expired on Friday.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures jumped $1.10, or 1.8%, to $62.60 a barrel.

“Oil prices are recovering this morning in line with most risk assets on the back of the US stimulus bill passing the House and as central banks continue to sabre rattle to ward off market-implied financial tightening,” Stephen Innes, chief global markets strategist at Axi, wrote in a note on Monday.

US House of Representatives passed a $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package early Saturday. Democrats who control the chamber approved the sweeping measure by a mostly party-line vote of 219 to 212 and sent it to the Senate, where Democrats planned a legislative manoeuvre to allow them to pass it without the support of Republicans.

More positive news on the coronavirus vaccination front and signs of an improving Asian economy also boosted prices.

A US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advisory panel voted unanimously on Sunday to recommend Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 shot for widespread use, and US officials said initial shipments would start on Sunday.

J&J expects to ship more than 20 million doses by the end of March and 100 million by midyear, enough to vaccinate nearly a third of Americans.

Over in Japan, a private survey showed factory activity expanding at the fastest pace in over two years in February, adding to signs of a rebound in Asian growth.

On the flip side, investors are betting that this week’s meeting of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allies, a group known as OPEC+, will result in more supply returning to the market.

“More supply needs to come onto the market to ensure OPEC+ meets incremental demand and keeps internal discipline ducks in a row,” Innes added.

The post Oil prices climb after progress on huge US stimulus bill appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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ATC issues non-bailable arrest warrants of PTM leaders

KARACHI: An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Karachi has issued non-bailable arrest warrants of Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) leaders Manzoor Pashteen and Mohsin Javed Dawar in a case related to inflammatory speech and sedition, ARY News reported on Monday.

The ATC made major progress in inflammatory speech and sedition case against the PTM leaders Manzoor Pashteen. During the hearing, the anti-terrorism court approved the interim challan against Pashteen and Dawar which declared the PTM leaders as fugitives.

Later, the court issued non-bailable arrest warrants against them and ordered the authorities to arrest and produce the accused till March 9.

Read: Accused PTM lawmaker Ali Wazir brought to Karachi in special flight

According to the police challan, five more arrests were made against those nominated in the case. The arrested persons included Javed, Tahir, Ibrahim, Naimat and Sarwar over allegedly delivering objectionable remarks against the national institutions.

It is pertinent to mention here that the case was registered against PTM’s Ali Wazir and others in the Sohrab Goth police station in Karachi.

Earlier in February, the ATC had ordered to block National Computerized Identity Cards (CNICs) of Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) leaders Manzoor Pashteen and Mohsin Javed Dawar.

Read: Sindh govt approved case against Ali Wazir, investigaion officer tells ATC

Both Manzoor Pashteen and Mohsin Dawar had been declared fugitives in the case, after their continued non-appearance before the court.

The PTM, formerly the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement, gained momentum following the extra-judicial murder of Naqeebullah Mehsud in Karachi.

It sought capital punishment for the prime suspect in the Naqeebullah murder case, former SSP Malir Rao Anwar, recovery of missing persons and removal of landmines in tribal areas.

The post ATC issues non-bailable arrest warrants of PTM leaders appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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Senate elections to be held through secret ballot: SC gives opinion on presidential reference

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court ruled on Monday that the forthcoming Senate elections are to be held through secret ballot under Article 226 of the country’s Constitution, reported ARY News. 

The apex court’s 4:1 majority decision, however, held that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is empowered to take all measures, including the use of the latest technology, to hold free and fair elections and curb corrupt practices under Article 218 of the Constitution. The bench further observed that the secrecy is not “absolute”.

A five-judge larger bench of the apex court, headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Gulzar Ahmed and comprising Justice Mushir Alam, Justice Umar Ata Bandial, Justice Ijazul Ahsan and Justice Yahya Afridi pronounced the reserved opinion.

Justice Afridi dissented from the majority opinion.

Also Read: Supreme Court reserves opinion on Presidential Reference

The court had reserved its opinion after all the lawyers had concluded their arguments. At the last hearing, Justice Gulzar Ahmed observed that Parliament only passes resolutions for transparency of the electoral process.

Attorney General Khalid Javed after completion of the arguments of the lawyers in his rejoinder argued that the scrutiny of the vote could not hurt the secrecy. “The presidential reference is not based on a political question, but it seeks interpretation of the Article 226,” the AG argued.

Also Read: Political parties lawyers conclude arguments

“Will the supreme court’s opinion will be final,” Justice Yahya Afridi asked. “The government will be bound to the court’s opinion,” AG said. “A review plea could be filed over the court’s opinion,” Justice Afridi said.

“Review petition could not be filed over the reference,” the state lawyers. “The court have no relation with the politics, it will only interpret the constitution,” the chief justice said.

The post Senate elections to be held through secret ballot: SC gives opinion on presidential reference appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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Lockdown enforced in Mirpur amid rising coronavirus cases

MUZAFFARABAD: Lockdown enforced in Mirpur district of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), after alarming spike in coronavirus cases, ARY News reported on Monday.

All educational institutions, public transport will remain closed and other religious, political, social and sports activities have also been banned, according to an order issued by the office of the deputy commissioner Mirpur.

According to the notification, all grocery stores, bakeries, meat, fruit and vegetable shops, and LPG cylinder shops would do business from 8am to 4pm twice a week, (Tuesday and Friday), while pharmacies and petrol pumps will be open round the clock throughout the week in accordance with SOPs.

Read more: 1,392 new infections, 36 Covid deaths reported in 24 hours

All marriage halls, parks and recreation centres will remain closed for one month. No hotel would host a wedding party while wedding ceremonies in homes will not be allowed to host more than 25 guests.

Furthermore, only 50 persons are allowed to attend funerals in the district. Magistrates have been appointed to enforce the lockdown orders in the distrct.

The post Lockdown enforced in Mirpur amid rising coronavirus cases appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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Oil prices climb after progress on huge US stimulus bill

SINGAPORE: Oil prices rose more than $1 on Monday on optimism in the global economy thanks to progress in a huge US stimulus package and on hopes for improving oil demand as vaccines are rolled out.

Brent crude futures for May rose $1.07, or 1.7%, to $65.49 per barrel by 0042 GMT. The April contract expired on Friday.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures jumped $1.10, or 1.8%, to $62.60 a barrel.

“Oil prices are recovering this morning in line with most risk assets on the back of the US stimulus bill passing the House and as central banks continue to sabre rattle to ward off market-implied financial tightening,” Stephen Innes, chief global markets strategist at Axi, wrote in a note on Monday.

US House of Representatives passed a $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package early Saturday. Democrats who control the chamber approved the sweeping measure by a mostly party-line vote of 219 to 212 and sent it to the Senate, where Democrats planned a legislative manoeuvre to allow them to pass it without the support of Republicans.

More positive news on the coronavirus vaccination front and signs of an improving Asian economy also boosted prices.

A US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advisory panel voted unanimously on Sunday to recommend Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 shot for widespread use, and US officials said initial shipments would start on Sunday.

J&J expects to ship more than 20 million doses by the end of March and 100 million by midyear, enough to vaccinate nearly a third of Americans.

Over in Japan, a private survey showed factory activity expanding at the fastest pace in over two years in February, adding to signs of a rebound in Asian growth.

On the flip side, investors are betting that this week’s meeting of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allies, a group known as OPEC+, will result in more supply returning to the market.

“More supply needs to come onto the market to ensure OPEC+ meets incremental demand and keeps internal discipline ducks in a row,” Innes added.

The post Oil prices climb after progress on huge US stimulus bill appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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ATC issues non-bailable arrest warrants of PTM leaders

KARACHI: An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Karachi has issued non-bailable arrest warrants of Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) leaders Manzoor Pashteen and Mohsin Javed Dawar in a case related to inflammatory speech and sedition, ARY News reported on Monday.

The ATC made major progress in inflammatory speech and sedition case against the PTM leaders Manzoor Pashteen. During the hearing, the anti-terrorism court approved the interim challan against Pashteen and Dawar which declared the PTM leaders as fugitives.

Later, the court issued non-bailable arrest warrants against them and ordered the authorities to arrest and produce the accused till March 9.

Read: Accused PTM lawmaker Ali Wazir brought to Karachi in special flight

According to the police challan, five more arrests were made against those nominated in the case. The arrested persons included Javed, Tahir, Ibrahim, Naimat and Sarwar over allegedly delivering objectionable remarks against the national institutions.

It is pertinent to mention here that the case was registered against PTM’s Ali Wazir and others in the Sohrab Goth police station in Karachi.

Earlier in February, the ATC had ordered to block National Computerized Identity Cards (CNICs) of Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) leaders Manzoor Pashteen and Mohsin Javed Dawar.

Read: Sindh govt approved case against Ali Wazir, investigaion officer tells ATC

Both Manzoor Pashteen and Mohsin Dawar had been declared fugitives in the case, after their continued non-appearance before the court.

The PTM, formerly the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement, gained momentum following the extra-judicial murder of Naqeebullah Mehsud in Karachi.

It sought capital punishment for the prime suspect in the Naqeebullah murder case, former SSP Malir Rao Anwar, recovery of missing persons and removal of landmines in tribal areas.

The post ATC issues non-bailable arrest warrants of PTM leaders appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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Senate elections to be held through secret ballot: SC gives opinion on presidential reference

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court ruled on Monday that the forthcoming Senate elections are to be held through secret ballot under Article 226 of the country’s Constitution, reported ARY News. 

The apex court’s 4:1 decision, however, held that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is empowered to take all measures, including the use of the latest technology, to hold free and fair elections and curb corrupt practices under Article 218 of the Constitution. The bench further observed that the secrecy is not “absolute”.

A five-judge larger bench of the apex court, headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Gulzar Ahmed and comprising Justice Mushir Alam, Justice Umar Ata Bandial, Justice Ijazul Ahsan and Justice Yahya Afridi pronounced the reserved opinion.

Justice Afridi dissented from the majority opinion.

Also Read: Supreme Court reserves opinion on Presidential Reference

The court had reserved its opinion after all the lawyers had concluded their arguments. At the last hearing, Justice Gulzar Ahmed observed that Parliament only passes resolutions for transparency of the electoral process.

Attorney General Khalid Javed after completion of the arguments of the lawyers in his rejoinder argued that the scrutiny of the vote could not hurt the secrecy. “The presidential reference is not based on a political question, but it seeks interpretation of the Article 226,” the AG argued.

Also Read: Political parties lawyers conclude arguments

“Will the supreme court’s opinion will be final,” Justice Yahya Afridi asked. “The government will be bound to the court’s opinion,” AG said. “A review plea could be filed over the court’s opinion,” Justice Afridi said.

“Review petition could not be filed over the reference,” the state lawyers. “The court have no relation with the politics, it will only interpret the constitution,” the chief justice said.

The post Senate elections to be held through secret ballot: SC gives opinion on presidential reference appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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Lockdown enforced in Mirpur amid rising coronavirus cases

MUZAFFARABAD: Lockdown enforced in Mirpur district of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), after alarming spike in coronavirus cases, ARY News reported on Monday.

All educational institutions, public transport will remain closed and other religious, political, social and sports activities have also been banned, according to an order issued by the office of the deputy commissioner Mirpur.

According to the notification, all grocery stores, bakeries, meat, fruit and vegetable shops, and LPG cylinder shops would do business from 8am to 4pm twice a week, (Tuesday and Friday), while pharmacies and petrol pumps will be open round the clock throughout the week in accordance with SOPs.

Read more: 1,392 new infections, 36 Covid deaths reported in 24 hours

All marriage halls, parks and recreation centres will remain closed for one month. No hotel would host a wedding party while wedding ceremonies in homes will not be allowed to host more than 25 guests.

Furthermore, only 50 persons are allowed to attend funerals in the district. Magistrates have been appointed to enforce the lockdown orders in the distrct.

The post Lockdown enforced in Mirpur amid rising coronavirus cases appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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Oil prices climb after progress on huge US stimulus bill

SINGAPORE: Oil prices rose more than $1 on Monday on optimism in the global economy thanks to progress in a huge US stimulus package and on hopes for improving oil demand as vaccines are rolled out.

Brent crude futures for May rose $1.07, or 1.7%, to $65.49 per barrel by 0042 GMT. The April contract expired on Friday.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures jumped $1.10, or 1.8%, to $62.60 a barrel.

“Oil prices are recovering this morning in line with most risk assets on the back of the US stimulus bill passing the House and as central banks continue to sabre rattle to ward off market-implied financial tightening,” Stephen Innes, chief global markets strategist at Axi, wrote in a note on Monday.

US House of Representatives passed a $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package early Saturday. Democrats who control the chamber approved the sweeping measure by a mostly party-line vote of 219 to 212 and sent it to the Senate, where Democrats planned a legislative manoeuvre to allow them to pass it without the support of Republicans.

More positive news on the coronavirus vaccination front and signs of an improving Asian economy also boosted prices.

A US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advisory panel voted unanimously on Sunday to recommend Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 shot for widespread use, and US officials said initial shipments would start on Sunday.

J&J expects to ship more than 20 million doses by the end of March and 100 million by midyear, enough to vaccinate nearly a third of Americans.

Over in Japan, a private survey showed factory activity expanding at the fastest pace in over two years in February, adding to signs of a rebound in Asian growth.

On the flip side, investors are betting that this week’s meeting of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allies, a group known as OPEC+, will result in more supply returning to the market.

“More supply needs to come onto the market to ensure OPEC+ meets incremental demand and keeps internal discipline ducks in a row,” Innes added.

The post Oil prices climb after progress on huge US stimulus bill appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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ATC issues non-bailable arrest warrants of PTM leaders

KARACHI: An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Karachi has issued non-bailable arrest warrants of Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) leaders Manzoor Pashteen and Mohsin Javed Dawar in a case related to inflammatory speech and sedition, ARY News reported on Monday.

The ATC made major progress in inflammatory speech and sedition case against the PTM leaders Manzoor Pashteen. During the hearing, the anti-terrorism court approved the interim challan against Pashteen and Dawar which declared the PTM leaders as fugitives.

Later, the court issued non-bailable arrest warrants against them and ordered the authorities to arrest and produce the accused till March 9.

Read: Accused PTM lawmaker Ali Wazir brought to Karachi in special flight

According to the police challan, five more arrests were made against those nominated in the case. The arrested persons included Javed, Tahir, Ibrahim, Naimat and Sarwar over allegedly delivering objectionable remarks against the national institutions.

It is pertinent to mention here that the case was registered against PTM’s Ali Wazir and others in the Sohrab Goth police station in Karachi.

Earlier in February, the ATC had ordered to block National Computerized Identity Cards (CNICs) of Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) leaders Manzoor Pashteen and Mohsin Javed Dawar.

Read: Sindh govt approved case against Ali Wazir, investigaion officer tells ATC

Both Manzoor Pashteen and Mohsin Dawar had been declared fugitives in the case, after their continued non-appearance before the court.

The PTM, formerly the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement, gained momentum following the extra-judicial murder of Naqeebullah Mehsud in Karachi.

It sought capital punishment for the prime suspect in the Naqeebullah murder case, former SSP Malir Rao Anwar, recovery of missing persons and removal of landmines in tribal areas.

The post ATC issues non-bailable arrest warrants of PTM leaders appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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https://ift.tt/2TtfjRG

Senate elections to be held through secret ballot: SC gives opinion on presidential reference

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court ruled on Monday that the forthcoming Senate elections are to be held through secret ballot under Article 226 of the country’s Constitution, reported ARY News. 

The apex court’s 4:1 decision, however, held that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is empowered to take all measures, including the use of the latest technology, to hold free and fair elections and curb corrupt practices under Article 218 of the Constitution. The bench further observed that the secrecy is not “absolute”.

A five-judge larger bench of the apex court, headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Gulzar Ahmed and comprising Justice Mushir Alam, Justice Umar Ata Bandial, Justice Ijazul Ahsan and Justice Yahya Afridi pronounced the reserved opinion.

Justice Afridi dissented from the majority opinion.

Also Read: Supreme Court reserves opinion on Presidential Reference

The court had reserved its opinion after all the lawyers had concluded their arguments. At the last hearing, Justice Gulzar Ahmed observed that Parliament only passes resolutions for transparency of the electoral process.

Attorney General Khalid Javed after completion of the arguments of the lawyers in his rejoinder argued that the scrutiny of the vote could not hurt the secrecy. “The presidential reference is not based on a political question, but it seeks interpretation of the Article 226,” the AG argued.

Also Read: Political parties lawyers conclude arguments

“Will the supreme court’s opinion will be final,” Justice Yahya Afridi asked. “The government will be bound to the court’s opinion,” AG said. “A review plea could be filed over the court’s opinion,” Justice Afridi said.

“Review petition could not be filed over the reference,” the state lawyers. “The court have no relation with the politics, it will only interpret the constitution,” the chief justice said.

The post Senate elections to be held through secret ballot: SC gives opinion on presidential reference appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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Lockdown enforced in Mirpur amid rising coronavirus cases

MUZAFFARABAD: Lockdown enforced in Mirpur district of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), after alarming spike in coronavirus cases, ARY News reported on Monday.

All educational institutions, public transport will remain closed and other religious, political, social and sports activities have also been banned, according to an order issued by the office of the deputy commissioner Mirpur.

According to the notification, all grocery stores, bakeries, meat, fruit and vegetable shops, and LPG cylinder shops would do business from 8am to 4pm twice a week, (Tuesday and Friday), while pharmacies and petrol pumps will be open round the clock throughout the week in accordance with SOPs.

Read more: 1,392 new infections, 36 Covid deaths reported in 24 hours

All marriage halls, parks and recreation centres will remain closed for one month. No hotel would host a wedding party while wedding ceremonies in homes will not be allowed to host more than 25 guests.

Furthermore, only 50 persons are allowed to attend funerals in the district. Magistrates have been appointed to enforce the lockdown orders in the distrct.

The post Lockdown enforced in Mirpur amid rising coronavirus cases appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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Can you spot the snake in this photo?

Snake catchers in Brisbane and the Gold Coast uploaded a photo of a garage in Australia’s Queensland which left the social media users stumped for spotting the reptile.

The users have been challenged to spot the snake in the picture of the garage in Sunnybank which was posted on a Facebook page with 34,000 followers.

Although the garage was not messy and plenty of space was available for a small reptile to hide, however, there were a few items that could be mistaken for a snake.

However, many users have failed to find the snake except for some of them.

The small snake was seen hiding a corner on top of the saw which was spotted by some social media users after zooming the picture.

The post Can you spot the snake in this photo? appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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Can you spot the snake in this photo?

Snake catchers in Brisbane and the Gold Coast uploaded a photo of a garage in Australia’s Queensland which left the social media users stumped for spotting the reptile.

The users have been challenged to spot the snake in the picture of the garage in Sunnybank which was posted on a Facebook page with 34,000 followers.

Although the garage was not messy and plenty of space was available for a small reptile to hide, however, there were a few items that could be mistaken for a snake.

However, many users have failed to find the snake except for some of them.

The small snake was seen hiding a corner on top of the saw which was spotted by some social media users after zooming the picture.

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Can you spot the snake in this photo?

Snake catchers in Brisbane and the Gold Coast uploaded a photo of a garage in Australia’s Queensland which left the social media users stumped for spotting the reptile.

The users have been challenged to spot the snake in the picture of the garage in Sunnybank which was posted on a Facebook page with 34,000 followers.

Although the garage was not messy and plenty of space was available for a small reptile to hide, however, there were a few items that could be mistaken for a snake.

However, many users have failed to find the snake except for some of them.

The small snake was seen hiding a corner on top of the saw which was spotted by some social media users after zooming the picture.

The post Can you spot the snake in this photo? appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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1,392 new infections, 36 Covid deaths reported in 24 hours

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has recorded 36 more coronavirus-related deaths in the past 24 hours, surging the overall death toll to 12,896, ARY News reported on Monday.

According to the latest statistics of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), the COVID-19 has claimed 36 more lives and 1,392 fresh infections were reported.

The total count of active cases is 22,098 and the positivity rate stands at 3.63 per cent.

In the past 24 hours, as many as 1,094 patients have recovered from the virus in a day and 1,568 patients are still in critical condition.

According to the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), with the fresh inclusion of the infections in the country the national tally of cases now currently stands at 581,365.

A total of 38,338 tests were conducted across the country during this period. Overall 546,371 people have recovered from the deadly disease so far while 8,990,176 samples have been tested thus far.

The post 1,392 new infections, 36 Covid deaths reported in 24 hours appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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1,392 new infections, 36 Covid deaths reported in 24 hours

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has recorded 36 more coronavirus-related deaths in the past 24 hours, surging the overall death toll to 12,896, ARY News reported on Monday.

According to the latest statistics of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), the COVID-19 has claimed 36 more lives and 1,392 fresh infections were reported.

The total count of active cases is 22,098 and the positivity rate stands at 3.63 per cent.

In the past 24 hours, as many as 1,094 patients have recovered from the virus in a day and 1,568 patients are still in critical condition.

According to the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), with the fresh inclusion of the infections in the country the national tally of cases now currently stands at 581,365.

A total of 38,338 tests were conducted across the country during this period. Overall 546,371 people have recovered from the deadly disease so far while 8,990,176 samples have been tested thus far.

The post 1,392 new infections, 36 Covid deaths reported in 24 hours appeared first on ARY NEWS.

from ARY NEWS https://ift.tt/37U7uyw

1,392 new infections, 36 Covid deaths reported in 24 hours

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has recorded 36 more coronavirus-related deaths in the past 24 hours, surging the overall death toll to 12,896, ARY News reported on Monday.

According to the latest statistics of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), the COVID-19 has claimed 36 more lives and 1,392 fresh infections were reported.

The total count of active cases is 22,098 and the positivity rate stands at 3.63 per cent.

In the past 24 hours, as many as 1,094 patients have recovered from the virus in a day and 1,568 patients are still in critical condition.

According to the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), with the fresh inclusion of the infections in the country the national tally of cases now currently stands at 581,365.

A total of 38,338 tests were conducted across the country during this period. Overall 546,371 people have recovered from the deadly disease so far while 8,990,176 samples have been tested thus far.

The post 1,392 new infections, 36 Covid deaths reported in 24 hours appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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UK’s Sunak to provide 5 billion pounds of grants to pandemic hit businesses in budget

LONDON: British finance minister Rishi Sunak will announce 5 billion pounds ($7 billion) of additional grants to help businesses hit hard by pandemic lockdowns in his budget statement next week, the government said on Saturday.

Shops, bars, clubs, hotels, restaurants, gyms and hair salons would be among nearly 700,000 companies eligible for new direct cash grants of up 18,000 pounds.

The government said the funding takes the total spent on direct grants to businesses during the crisis to 25 billion pounds.

Encouraged by the rapid roll-out of vaccines, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has unveiled a route out of lockdown for England. However, some businesses will need to remain shuttered until the summer.

“There’s now light at the end of the tunnel and this 5 billion pounds of extra cash grants will ensure our high streets can open their doors with optimism,” said Sunak.

Local authorities in England will also get an extra 425 million pounds to distribute grants to businesses not eligible for the restart grants, while the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will receive 794 million pounds of extra funding.

The government has already racked up more than 280 billion pounds in coronavirus spending and tax cuts, pushing Britain’s borrowing to its highest level since World War Two.

While Sunak’s March 3 budget will include more spending to prop up the economy during what he hopes will be the last phase of lockdown, he will also probably signal tax rises ahead to plug the huge hole in the public finances.

In an interview with the Financial Times, Sunak said he would use the budget to level with the public over the “enormous strains” in the country’s finances, warning that a bill will have to be paid after further coronavirus support.

Earlier on Saturday the government said Sunak is also expected to announce an initial 12 billion pounds of capital and 10 billion pounds of guarantees for the new UK Infrastructure Bank.

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Over 600,000 migratory birds flocked to Sindh this year: survey

KARACHI: More than 600,000 migratory birds visited Sindh this year (2020-21), according to a survey carried out by the provincial wildlife department.

Every year, the department carries out a survey of migratory birds, particulary waterfowls, visiting the province’s wetlands like Nariri Lagoon, Charwo, Phoosna, Runn of Kutch, Manchhar Lake, Lungh Lake, Sukkur Barrage, Mehrano, Kursh, Acch, Keenjhar, Haleji, Hub Dam, Hawksbay, Ibrahim Hyderi, Korangi Creek, and coastal wetlands of Thatta, Sujawal and Karachi.

Every year #Wildlife Department #GoS carries out migratory bird particularly waterfowl survey. Similarly this year’s (2020-21) survey held from 27th January to 18th February.
Many wetlands like Nariri Lagoon, Charwo, Phoosna, Runn of Katch,
Manchhar lake, Lungh Lake, 1/5 pic.twitter.com/t99uoGhhcp

— SindhWildlife (@sindhwildlife) February 26, 2021

“Historically survey methodology is to reach the target wetland[s], fill [out] information sheet by number counting, round block & transect methods,” the department said.

This year, as many as 612,397 migratory birds visited the province as compared to 741,042 in 2020, 248,105 in 2019, 153,916 in 2017, 150,000 in 2016 and 17,568,90 in 1990.

According to data, species’ diversity witnessed an increase as 32 new species of waterfowls were spotted whereas a total of 86 types of migratory water birds visited these wetlands.

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PM to launch Al-Beruni Radius tourism project at Nandana Fort

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Imran Khan will launch Al-Beruni Radius, a tourism project for the revival of Pakistan’s heritage on Sunday.

PM Khan is keen on the preservation and conservation of the site, aimed at converting it into an international tourism site.

The site’s archeological significance dates back to the 11th century when famous scholar Abu Rehan Al-Beruni during his stay quantified the circumference of the Earth.

Al-Beruni later wrote a famous book about the region and mentioned Nandana as a great center of learning.

The historical Nandana Fort is located in tehsil Pind Dadan Khan of district Jhelum.

Read more:Promotion of tourism sector govt’s top priority: PM Imran

Earlier on December 11, Prime Minister Imran Khan had said that the promotion of tourism sector was the top priority of the government.

He had said this while addressing a ceremony in Islamabad after witnessing an agreement signing between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government and World Bank for ECO Tourism.

The government would expand road networks to boost tourism, PM Imran had said, adding that unplanned tourism had badly affected tourist spots. He had underlined the need for protection and preservation of the environment of tourist spots in the country.

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UK’s Sunak to provide 5 billion pounds of grants to pandemic hit businesses in budget

LONDON: British finance minister Rishi Sunak will announce 5 billion pounds ($7 billion) of additional grants to help businesses hit hard by pandemic lockdowns in his budget statement next week, the government said on Saturday.

Shops, bars, clubs, hotels, restaurants, gyms and hair salons would be among nearly 700,000 companies eligible for new direct cash grants of up 18,000 pounds.

The government said the funding takes the total spent on direct grants to businesses during the crisis to 25 billion pounds.

Encouraged by the rapid roll-out of vaccines, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has unveiled a route out of lockdown for England. However, some businesses will need to remain shuttered until the summer.

“There’s now light at the end of the tunnel and this 5 billion pounds of extra cash grants will ensure our high streets can open their doors with optimism,” said Sunak.

Local authorities in England will also get an extra 425 million pounds to distribute grants to businesses not eligible for the restart grants, while the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will receive 794 million pounds of extra funding.

The government has already racked up more than 280 billion pounds in coronavirus spending and tax cuts, pushing Britain’s borrowing to its highest level since World War Two.

While Sunak’s March 3 budget will include more spending to prop up the economy during what he hopes will be the last phase of lockdown, he will also probably signal tax rises ahead to plug the huge hole in the public finances.

In an interview with the Financial Times, Sunak said he would use the budget to level with the public over the “enormous strains” in the country’s finances, warning that a bill will have to be paid after further coronavirus support.

Earlier on Saturday the government said Sunak is also expected to announce an initial 12 billion pounds of capital and 10 billion pounds of guarantees for the new UK Infrastructure Bank.

The post UK’s Sunak to provide 5 billion pounds of grants to pandemic hit businesses in budget appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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Over 600,000 migratory birds flocked to Sindh this year: survey

KARACHI: More than 600,000 migratory birds visited Sindh this year (2020-21), according to a survey carried out by the provincial wildlife department.

Every year, the department carries out a survey of migratory birds, particulary waterfowls, visiting the province’s wetlands like Nariri Lagoon, Charwo, Phoosna, Runn of Kutch, Manchhar Lake, Lungh Lake, Sukkur Barrage, Mehrano, Kursh, Acch, Keenjhar, Haleji, Hub Dam, Hawksbay, Ibrahim Hyderi, Korangi Creek, and coastal wetlands of Thatta, Sujawal and Karachi.

Every year #Wildlife Department #GoS carries out migratory bird particularly waterfowl survey. Similarly this year’s (2020-21) survey held from 27th January to 18th February.
Many wetlands like Nariri Lagoon, Charwo, Phoosna, Runn of Katch,
Manchhar lake, Lungh Lake, 1/5 pic.twitter.com/t99uoGhhcp

— SindhWildlife (@sindhwildlife) February 26, 2021

“Historically survey methodology is to reach the target wetland[s], fill [out] information sheet by number counting, round block & transect methods,” the department said.

This year, as many as 612,397 migratory birds visited the province as compared to 741,042 in 2020, 248,105 in 2019, 153,916 in 2017, 150,000 in 2016 and 17,568,90 in 1990.

According to data, species’ diversity witnessed an increase as 32 new species of waterfowls were spotted whereas a total of 86 types of migratory water birds visited these wetlands.

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Myanmar police crack down on protests for second day; one dead, several hurt

Myanmar police shot and killed one protester on Sunday and wounded several as they cracked down in a bid to end weeks of demonstrations against a Feb. 1 military coup, a politician and media said.

Police opened fire in the town of Dawei, killing one and wounding several, politician Kyaw Min Htike told Reuters from the southern town. The Dawei Watch media outlet also said one person was killed and more than a dozen wounded.

Police and the spokesman for the ruling military council did not respond to phone calls seeking comment.

Myanmar was thrown into chaos when the army seized power and detained elected government leader Aung San Suu Kyi and much of her party leadership, alleging fraud in a November election her party won in a landslide.

The coup, which stalled Myanmar’s progress toward democracy after nearly 50 years of military rule, has brought hundreds of thousands of protesters onto the streets and drawn condemnation from Western countries, with some imposing limited sanctions.

In the main city of Yangon, several people, some bleeding heavily, were helped away from protests, images posted by media showed.

It was not clear how they were hurt but media reported live fire. Myanmar Now media group said people had been “gunned down”, but it did not elaborate.

Police also threw stun grenades, used tear gas and fired into the air, witnesses said.

Junta leader General Min Aung Hlaing has said authorities have been using minimal force to deal with the protests.

Nevertheless, at least three protesters have died over the days of turmoil. The army said a policeman has been killed in the unrest.

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Principal fixes insecure student’s hair instead of punishing him for wearing hat

A principal in Indiana, US is winning hearts for helping out one of his students by fixing his haircut instead of disciplining him for wearing a hat in violation of school dress code.

Jason Smith was asked to step in when student Anthony Moore refused to take his hat off after having a half-an-hour conversation with the school dean.

“I sat across from him and asked, ‘What’s wrong? Why are you being defiant? Why are you refusing to take your hat off? It’s a pretty simple request,” Smith said. “And he explained that his parents took him to get a haircut and he didn’t like the results.”

“I told him, ‘Look, I’ve been cutting hair since I was your age,’ and I showed him pictures of my son’s haircuts that I did and some of me cutting hair in college. And I said, ‘If I run home and get my clippers and fix your line, will you go back to class?’ He hesitated but then he said yes.”

Smith drove back home to get his stuff to the school and called up Anthony’s parents for consent to give his hair a trim.

“He didn’t say straight out, but I feel like he didn’t want to be laughed at. The barbershop and hair cuts as Black males is very important in the community and looking your best and being sharp — it’s just a cultural aspect. Just from my being a Black male myself and coming through that culture and you know, I really think girls matter at that age, which [means] appearance then could matter. He was scared he was going to be laughed at and we were pretty sure no one would notice, but he was looking through his lens,” he continued.

The principal gave the student’s hair a touch-up and checked on him throughout the day and found that he was studying and didn’t have his hat on.

“All behavior is communication and when a student is struggling, we need to ask ourselves what happened to this child instead of what’s wrong with the child. What need is the child trying to get met and really, the future of urban education rests on that question,” he said.

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Myanmar police crack down on protests for second day; one dead, several hurt

Myanmar police shot and killed one protester on Sunday and wounded several as they cracked down in a bid to end weeks of demonstrations against a Feb. 1 military coup, a politician and media said.

Police opened fire in the town of Dawei, killing one and wounding several, politician Kyaw Min Htike told Reuters from the southern town. The Dawei Watch media outlet also said one person was killed and more than a dozen wounded.

Police and the spokesman for the ruling military council did not respond to phone calls seeking comment.

Myanmar was thrown into chaos when the army seized power and detained elected government leader Aung San Suu Kyi and much of her party leadership, alleging fraud in a November election her party won in a landslide.

The coup, which stalled Myanmar’s progress toward democracy after nearly 50 years of military rule, has brought hundreds of thousands of protesters onto the streets and drawn condemnation from Western countries, with some imposing limited sanctions.

In the main city of Yangon, several people, some bleeding heavily, were helped away from protests, images posted by media showed.

It was not clear how they were hurt but media reported live fire. Myanmar Now media group said people had been “gunned down”, but it did not elaborate.

Police also threw stun grenades, used tear gas and fired into the air, witnesses said.

Junta leader General Min Aung Hlaing has said authorities have been using minimal force to deal with the protests.

Nevertheless, at least three protesters have died over the days of turmoil. The army said a policeman has been killed in the unrest.

The post Myanmar police crack down on protests for second day; one dead, several hurt appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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Principal fixes insecure student’s hair instead of punishing him for wearing hat

A principal in Indiana, US is winning hearts for helping out one of his students by fixing his haircut instead of disciplining him for wearing a hat in violation of school dress code.

Jason Smith was asked to step in when student Anthony Moore refused to take his hat off after having a half-an-hour conversation with the school dean.

“I sat across from him and asked, ‘What’s wrong? Why are you being defiant? Why are you refusing to take your hat off? It’s a pretty simple request,” Smith said. “And he explained that his parents took him to get a haircut and he didn’t like the results.”

“I told him, ‘Look, I’ve been cutting hair since I was your age,’ and I showed him pictures of my son’s haircuts that I did and some of me cutting hair in college. And I said, ‘If I run home and get my clippers and fix your line, will you go back to class?’ He hesitated but then he said yes.”

Smith drove back home to get his stuff to the school and called up Anthony’s parents for consent to give his hair a trim.

“He didn’t say straight out, but I feel like he didn’t want to be laughed at. The barbershop and hair cuts as Black males is very important in the community and looking your best and being sharp — it’s just a cultural aspect. Just from my being a Black male myself and coming through that culture and you know, I really think girls matter at that age, which [means] appearance then could matter. He was scared he was going to be laughed at and we were pretty sure no one would notice, but he was looking through his lens,” he continued.

The principal gave the student’s hair a touch-up and checked on him throughout the day and found that he was studying and didn’t have his hat on.

“All behavior is communication and when a student is struggling, we need to ask ourselves what happened to this child instead of what’s wrong with the child. What need is the child trying to get met and really, the future of urban education rests on that question,” he said.

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Myanmar police crack down on protests for second day; one dead, several hurt

Myanmar police shot and killed one protester on Sunday and wounded several as they cracked down in a bid to end weeks of demonstrations against a Feb. 1 military coup, a politician and media said.

Police opened fire in the town of Dawei, killing one and wounding several, politician Kyaw Min Htike told Reuters from the southern town. The Dawei Watch media outlet also said one person was killed and more than a dozen wounded.

Police and the spokesman for the ruling military council did not respond to phone calls seeking comment.

Myanmar was thrown into chaos when the army seized power and detained elected government leader Aung San Suu Kyi and much of her party leadership, alleging fraud in a November election her party won in a landslide.

The coup, which stalled Myanmar’s progress toward democracy after nearly 50 years of military rule, has brought hundreds of thousands of protesters onto the streets and drawn condemnation from Western countries, with some imposing limited sanctions.

In the main city of Yangon, several people, some bleeding heavily, were helped away from protests, images posted by media showed.

It was not clear how they were hurt but media reported live fire. Myanmar Now media group said people had been “gunned down”, but it did not elaborate.

Police also threw stun grenades, used tear gas and fired into the air, witnesses said.

Junta leader General Min Aung Hlaing has said authorities have been using minimal force to deal with the protests.

Nevertheless, at least three protesters have died over the days of turmoil. The army said a policeman has been killed in the unrest.

The post Myanmar police crack down on protests for second day; one dead, several hurt appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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Principal fixes insecure student’s hair instead of punishing him for wearing hat

A principal in Indiana, US is winning hearts for helping out one of his students by fixing his haircut instead of disciplining him for wearing a hat in violation of school dress code.

Jason Smith was asked to step in when student Anthony Moore refused to take his hat off after having a half-an-hour conversation with the school dean.

“I sat across from him and asked, ‘What’s wrong? Why are you being defiant? Why are you refusing to take your hat off? It’s a pretty simple request,” Smith said. “And he explained that his parents took him to get a haircut and he didn’t like the results.”

“I told him, ‘Look, I’ve been cutting hair since I was your age,’ and I showed him pictures of my son’s haircuts that I did and some of me cutting hair in college. And I said, ‘If I run home and get my clippers and fix your line, will you go back to class?’ He hesitated but then he said yes.”

Smith drove back home to get his stuff to the school and called up Anthony’s parents for consent to give his hair a trim.

“He didn’t say straight out, but I feel like he didn’t want to be laughed at. The barbershop and hair cuts as Black males is very important in the community and looking your best and being sharp — it’s just a cultural aspect. Just from my being a Black male myself and coming through that culture and you know, I really think girls matter at that age, which [means] appearance then could matter. He was scared he was going to be laughed at and we were pretty sure no one would notice, but he was looking through his lens,” he continued.

The principal gave the student’s hair a touch-up and checked on him throughout the day and found that he was studying and didn’t have his hat on.

“All behavior is communication and when a student is struggling, we need to ask ourselves what happened to this child instead of what’s wrong with the child. What need is the child trying to get met and really, the future of urban education rests on that question,” he said.

The post Principal fixes insecure student’s hair instead of punishing him for wearing hat appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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Pakistan reports 23 fresh coronavirus deaths

ISLAMABAD: Coronavirus has claimed 23 more lives in Pakistan in the past 24 hours, surging the overall death toll to 12,860, ARY News reported on Sunday.

According to the latest statistics of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), the COVID-19 has claimed 23 more lives and 1,176 fresh infections were reported.

The total count of active cases is 21,836.

In the past 24 hours, as many as 871 patients have recovered from the virus in a day and 1,562 patients are still in critical condition.

According to the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), with the fresh inclusion of the infections in the country the national tally of cases now currently stands at 579,973.

A total of 38,920 tests were conducted across the country during this period. Overall 545,277 people have recovered from the deadly disease so far while 8,951,838 samples have been tested thus far.

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Pakistan reports 23 fresh coronavirus deaths

ISLAMABAD: Coronavirus has claimed 23 more lives in Pakistan in the past 24 hours, surging the overall death toll to 12,860, ARY News reported on Sunday.

According to the latest statistics of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), the COVID-19 has claimed 23 more lives and 1,176 fresh infections were reported.

The total count of active cases is 21,836.

In the past 24 hours, as many as 871 patients have recovered from the virus in a day and 1,562 patients are still in critical condition.

According to the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), with the fresh inclusion of the infections in the country the national tally of cases now currently stands at 579,973.

A total of 38,920 tests were conducted across the country during this period. Overall 545,277 people have recovered from the deadly disease so far while 8,951,838 samples have been tested thus far.

The post Pakistan reports 23 fresh coronavirus deaths appeared first on ARY NEWS.

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Seven-year-old girl sells lemonade to fund her own brain surgeries

Instead of saving up for a new toy or a trip to Disney World, a 7-year-old girl from Alabama has set up a lemonade stand to fund her upcoming brain surgeries.

Liza Scott, the seven-year-old daughter of owner Elizabeth Scott, has set up a lemonade stand inside the bakery in Homewood.

Savage’s Bakery in Alabama is serving a cool, thirst-quenching treat. For Liza, it is a sign of hope and perseverance in the face of difficulties because the proceeds from each glass of lemonade will help fund her upcoming brain surgeries.

Also, @idotvnews and I may have been a little sidetracked with just how cute Liza is. If I miss deadline, it’s because we were making a music videos pic.twitter.com/rdqhbW45EZ

— Malique (@MaliqueRankin) February 25, 2021

“She has three cerebral malformations,” Elizabeth Scott said. “One is what they call a schizencephaly. So it’s a cleft in the frontal lobe in the right side of her brain, and we think that’s what’s causing the seizures.”

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, schizencephaly is ‘an extremely rare developmental birth defect characterized by abnormal slits, or clefts, in the cerebral hemispheres of the brain.’

Less than a month ago, Liza began to have grand mal seizures which caused unconsciousness and violent muscle contractions. 

Later, doctors discovered that she has an “extra special brain.”

Liza and her mother will fly to Boston Children’s Hospital for the first of a series of surgeries next week. 

“You know, in the moments that I feel like I can’t breathe, or I’m awake in the night and I can’t sleep, I pray,” Liza said. “I’m on my hands and knees, literally, praying.”

Elizabeth also purchased additional insurance to help pay for Liza’s brain surgeries. But with travel and hotel costs along with medical expenses, the family is already struggling financially.

“As a single mom and the financial supporter of both of my children, this is not something you can budget for,” Elizabeth Scott said.

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