27th August 2024

The Top News Stories from Pakistan During Week 35

TL:DR : Sharam karo aik page ki email hai

• Balochistan is experiencing a surge in militancy, with attacks on security forces and civilians becoming more frequent and deadly. The region's instability is fueled by ethnic tensions, economic grievances, and the involvement of external actors. Despite efforts to address these issues, the situation has worsened, pushing Balochistan deeper into a vortex of violence. The growing unrest is a significant challenge for both provincial and federal authorities, who are struggling to restore peace and stability in the region.

  Read more at Dawn.

• Cyclone Asna has shifted away from Karachi, now located 230 km southwest of the city. Despite this, heavy rains and strong winds are still expected in coastal areas, including Karachi, Hyderabad, and parts of Balochistan. The cyclone, which formed unusually during the monsoon season, is anticipated to weaken within two days. Precautionary measures have been taken, including school closures and restrictions on sea activities, as heavy rains have already caused fatalities and significant damage across the country.

  For more details, visit Dawn.

Abdullah Shah Ghazi bhai legend thank you love you ❤️ 

• A fourth case of the mpox virus, previously known as monkeypox, has been confirmed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The infected individual is receiving treatment, and health officials are monitoring the situation closely to prevent further spread. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and follow health guidelines to curb the virus's transmission. This case adds to concerns about the re-emergence of mpox, prompting efforts to enhance detection and response measures in the region.

  Read more at Dawn.

• Pakistan has invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Islamabad. This move is seen as an attempt to open diplomatic channels between the two countries, which have had strained relations since 2019. While it's uncertain whether Modi will accept the invitation, his presence would be significant, offering a rare opportunity for dialogue on the sidelines of the multilateral event. The decision now rests with Modi, and whether he will engage in this diplomatic overture.

  For more details, visit Dawn.

• Pakistani celebrities are speaking out against cyberbullying, emphasizing the importance of creating safer digital spaces. The discussion has been sparked by recent online harassment incidents, prompting stars to call for collective action to protect individuals, especially women and marginalized groups, from such harmful behavior. They urge for stricter regulations and public awareness to address the growing problem of cyberbullying in Pakistan, advocating for a more supportive and respectful online environment.

  What a coincidence, the government also wants to put up restrictions against social media.

  Read more at Dawn Images.

• Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to be privatized by October 1, according to the Secretary of the Privatisation Commission. The decision is part of the government's broader plan to divest loss-making state-owned enterprises. The privatization process aims to make PIA more efficient and reduce the financial burden on the government. The move comes amid ongoing economic challenges, with the government looking to attract private investment to improve the airline's operations.

  Read more at ANI News.

• Optimism about Pakistan's economic future is rapidly declining as concerns over rising inflation, currency depreciation, and political instability grow. Business leaders and citizens alike are increasingly worried about the country’s economic prospects, with fears that the situation could worsen if immediate corrective measures aren't taken. The government's ability to implement effective policies is under scrutiny, and there is a growing sense of uncertainty about Pakistan's economic stability.

  Read more at Dawn.

Podcast of the Week

Aaah Yahya Khan, you drunk piece of shit. Raftar is doing a great job of opening up the past through its wonderful videos.

Bonus Podcast (For those interested in what’s going on in Balochistan. Eon did a great job in describing the history of Balochistan and why there’s an insurgency brewing up for the past 77 years.

Lastly, given the horrible state of affairs in Balochistan, here’s another podcast with Akhter Mengal, ex-MNA form Balochistan. This interview is frightening because if someone who’s been on the side of the establishment is now agreeing with the insurgency then we know we’re in deep waters.

Bubyeee

To summarise week 35, things are still bad in Balochistan which is the most frightening ongoing news. Other than that, a cyclone avoided Pakistan (or did it..), Modi probably won’t come, and the threat of a social media ban looms in the air.

Have a great week! The weather is getting cold so you don’t feel all that thirsty so make sure you drink plenty of water because hydration is important.