Registration of Marriages Solemnised Under Muslim and Christian Personal Laws: Take Steps for Registration as Per Order: HC to Delhi Govt

New Age Islam News Bureau

19 July 2024

The HC said that the respondents, in their reply, had suggested that the couple could apply to register their marriage under the Special Marriage Act, overlooking a “critical aspect” that their marriage is “not an inter-faith union but was solemnised under Muslim Personal Laws”.

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·         Registration of Marriages Solemnised Under Muslim and Christian Personal Laws: Take Steps for Registration as Per Order: HC to Delhi Govt

·         With Mosque Attack in Quiet Oman, A Fragmented Islamic State Group Aims To Show It Can Still Strike

·         Kano Arsonist, Shafi’u Abubakar, Pleads Guilty to Killing 23 Muslims Inside Mosque

·         Afghanistan Journalists Centre: Taliban Shut Down 7 Media Outlets in First Half of 2024

·         Extremist Israeli Minister Makes Provocative Visit To Al-Aqsa Mosque

 

India

·         Assam Cabinet Approves Bill to Abolish Muslim Marriages, Divorce Act; CM Says Repeal Will Be A ‘Significant Step’ Against Child Marriage

·         UP Minister Claims Muslims Using Hindu Names Sell Non-Veg Food to Kanwar Yatris

·         In This Telangana Village, Both Hindus and Muslims Celebrate Peerla Panduga

·         Islam Gymkhana's Alleged Mismanagement of Open Space Reaches HC Bench

·         No Ticket, No Party Posts: BJP in Bengal Has Failed To Engage Muslim Community

·         Security forces foil infiltration bid in J&K’s Kupwara; 2 terrorists killed Srinagar

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Arab World

·         Oman Shiite mosque attackers were Omani citizens, police say

·         Bahrain king receives speaker of Saudi Shoura Council

·         Saudi Arabia rejects, condemns Israeli security minister’s visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque compound

·         Saudi MMA fighters make waves in world of combat sport

·         Saudi Arabia’s ozone-depleting gases reduced to 1%

·         Al-Baha mayor announces launch of ‘Theatrical Nights’ program

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Africa

·         Young Kenyans vow to defy ban on protests

·         263 Boko Haram terrorists surrender in Borno

·         Court orders Nigerian Army to pay N800 million for killing BIRS staff in Benue

·         U.S. pledges $203M in the hopes of averting the crisis in Sudan

·         “Drop your weapons and recognize the state's authority”, Haiti's PM tells gangs

·         Muslims Urge Lagos Govt to Declare Hijrah Holiday

·         Pilgrimage to Mecca: How we spent N90bn subsidy – Hajj Commission

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South Asia

·         Afghans question credibility of India’s Foreign Minister’s claims on people-to-people ties: Afghan Journalist

·         Afghan fathers with daughters believe in gender equality, says new study

·         Afghanistan and Turkey Commit to Boost Bilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation

·         Panjshir Police Command Reports 26 Million Afghanis Revenue from Passport Issuance

·         Amid Bangladesh anti-quota protests, High Commission in Dhaka asks Indians to avoid travel

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Mideast

·         Islamic Jihad: Terrorist Ben Gvir's violation of sanctity of al-Aqsa Mosque "serious attack"

·         UN court opinion due on occupied Palestinian land

·         Senior Hezbollah commander among 5 reported dead in Israel strikes on Lebanon

·         Yemen Houthis claim responsibility for drone attack on Tel Aviv

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Pakistan

·         Nearly Two Dozen Inmates Fall Victim to ‘Delayed Justice’

·         PIA to resume direct flights from Quetta to Jeddah

·         Top politicians fear 'constitutional breakdown'

·         Pakistan, Chinese militaries to continue cooperation: Gen Munir

·         Pakistan's population growth 'highest in region'

·         Imran, Bushra challenge arrest in new Toshakhana reference

·         Azam Tarar backs appointment of retired judges, move to ban PTI

·         Salik stresses skill development for global market competition

·         Finance Minister reaffirms commitment to export-led growth

·         Pakistan Navy continues rescue operation at Chashma Jhelum canal

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Europe

·         MWL Condemns Israeli Official's Storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque

·         Jury out in trial of Islamist preacher Anjem Choudary

·         Tell MAMA: Why Is Government-Funded Group Under-Reporting Anti-Muslim Hate Crimes by More than 90%?

·         Tributes paid to 'figurehead' for city's Muslims

·         Russia doesn’t ‘rule out’ nuclear response to US missiles in Europe – deputy FM

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North America

·         Former St. Anthony Bank Being Converted to Mosque Vandalized or Broken into 7 Times in Two Months

·         Suffolk man faces hate crime charges, accused of ramming car with 4 Muslim men in it

·         US Democrats ramp up calls for Biden to drop out of 2024 election race

·         US military officially ends mission of controversial pier off Gaza's coast

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Southeast Asia

·         Malaysia Enjoys Political Stability; Johari Tells Malaysian Community InDelhi

·         King’s installation a special occasion for Malaysians

·         Malaysia-Philippines bilateral agricultural cooperation to be increased - KPKM

·         OIC condemns Israeli Knesset’s Anti-Palestinian state bill

Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau

URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/registration-marriages-muslim-personal-laws/d/132745

 

Registration of Marriages Solemnised Under Muslim and Christian Personal Laws: Take Steps for Registration as Per Order: HC to Delhi Govt

By: Express News Service

July 19, 2024

The HC said that the respondents, in their reply, had suggested that the couple could apply to register their marriage under the Special Marriage Act, overlooking a “critical aspect” that their marriage is “not an inter-faith union but was solemnised under Muslim Personal Laws”.

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The HC said that the respondents, in their reply, had suggested that the couple could apply to register their marriage under the Special Marriage Act, overlooking a “critical aspect” that their marriage is “not an inter-faith union but was solemnised under Muslim Personal Laws”.

Despite judicial orders issued three years ago, the Delhi government had failed to issue administrative instructions for registration of marriages solemnised under Muslim and Christian personal laws on its e-portal, the Delhi High Court recently observed.

A single-judge bench of Justice Sanjeev Narula, in its July 4 order, observed, “In spite of the assurances given, it is disconcerting to observe that appropriate administrative instructions have yet to be issued, nearly three years following the order dated 4th October 2021. The persistence of the issue, as evident in the present case, underscores a systemic failure.”

The court further said, “There appears to be no established procedure — neither online nor offline — for the registration of marriages under the Compulsory Registration of Marriage Order, 2014, particularly for those solemnised under Muslim Personal Laws or Christian Personal Laws.”

The HC said that this “lack of infrastructure” perpetuates the difficulties faced by parties seeking to fulfil legal requirements like obtaining visas or asserting rights “dependent on official marriage recognition”.

The HC was hearing a plea moved by a couple, married under the Muslim Personal Law in 1995, who wanted to apply for a parental visa to Canada, where two of their children currently reside. Their visa application process required them to submit a marriage registration certificate to the consulate of the foreign country. The couple, therefore, sought to register their marriage under the Delhi (Compulsory Registration of Marriage) Order, 2014 issued by the Delhi government’s Revenue Department.

To meet the visa requirements, the couple initially attempted to submit their application for registration of marriage through the Delhi Government’s Marriage Registration e-portal. But their efforts were thwarted as the portal did not provide an option for registration under the 2014 order, and the available options were limited to registration under the Hindu Marriage Act and the Special Marriage Act.

Consequently, the couple opted to file a “physical application” as prescribed by the 2014 order; however, this application too was not processed. They then approached the HC.

Justice Narula observed that the HC, in October 2021, disposed of another similar writ petition, based on the assurance given by the counsel appearing for the Delhi government, “that appropriate administrative instructions would be issued to address the registration issues faced by parties whose marriages are solemnised under Muslim Personal Laws or Christian Personal Laws, as per the Compulsory Registration of Marriage Order, 2014”.

The HC directed that the couple’s marriage registration application be considered under the 2014 order, and a marriage certificate be issued to them subject to fulfillment of the eligibility criteria and their application being in order.

It further instructed the “IT Department/Marriage Branch of the Revenue Department, Government of NCT of Delhi” to immediately take necessary steps to enable registration of marriages under the 2014 order on the Delhi government’s marriage registration online portal.

“This action is imperative to ensure that similar issues are resolved promptly and do not recur, facilitating smoother administrative processes for the public,” the HC added.

The HC said that the respondents, in their reply, had suggested that the couple could apply to register their marriage under the Special Marriage Act, overlooking a “critical aspect” that their marriage is “not an inter-faith union but was solemnised under Muslim Personal Laws”.

The HC said that the couple wanted to avail the provisions of the 2014 order which is “specifically designed to facilitate the registration of such marriages” and their preference to register under this order “aligns with the nature” of their marriage.

The HC said that satisfactory explanation had not been given by the respondents as to why, despite the issuance of the 2014 order, adequate measures had not been implemented to facilitate marriage registration.

Source: indianexpress.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/take-steps-for-registration-of-muslim-christian-marriages-as-per-order-hc-to-delhi-govt-9462392/

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With mosque attack in quiet Oman, a fragmented Islamic State group aims to show it can still strike

July 18, 2024

FILE – In this photo released by Russian Emergency Ministry Press Service on March 23, 2024, firefighters work in the burned concert hall after an attack on the building of the Crocus City Hall on the western edge of Moscow, Russia. (Russian Emergency Ministry Press Service via AP, File)

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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates -- At the corner of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman has long been seen as one of the safest — if reclusive — countries in the Middle East, spared militant violence that has struck elsewhere.

An attack on a Shiite mosque in the capital this week that killed five worshippers shook that image and underscored the radical Islamic State group's strategy of striking far and wide years after its defeat in Iraq and Syria.

Omani police said Thursday that the three gunmen in the attack — who were killed in a subsequent gunfight — were Omani citizens, all brothers. It was a sign the Islamic State, which claimed responsibility for the mosque storming, is working to recruit in the sultanate, whose nationals have rarely joined international jihadi groups.

Monday night's attack was the latest instance of IS inflicting surprise mayhem in a country where it doesn't have a significant presence. In January, IS claimed responsibility for suicide bombings that killed 84 people in Shiite-majority Iran. In Russia in March, gunmen attacked a Moscow concert hall, leaving more than 130 dead.

IS has “mastered the art of shock tactics,” said Fawaz Gerges, an expert on jihadi groups whose 2016 book “ISIS: A History” traced the rise of the group.

Such attacks “are designed to show its resilience, that it still exists” after a U.S-led coalition shattered its hold in Iraq and Syria, Gerges said.

Oman, Russia and Iran all are outside the areas where IS has its main branches and where its fighters continue to wage low-level but deadly insurgencies – the Sahel region of Africa, Afghanistan, Yemen and its core in Iraq and Syria. In Iraq and Syria, IS fighters hiding in the desert border regions are trying to “reconstitute” with stepped-up attacks, the U.S. Central Command said Wednesday. The number of its attacks – so far 153 this year – is on track to double the number from the previous year, it said.

IS “has to continue these types of attack to show to its followers that they are working on their apocalyptic vision of establishing a long-term caliphate,” said Myles B. Caggins, a retired Army colonel who served as spokesman for the U.S.-led coalition that fought IS in Iraq and Syria. He is now a senior fellow at the New Lines Institute.

The Islamic State group exploded onto the world stage 10 years ago when its fighters captured a large swath of Iraq and Syria and declared a “caliphate.” At its peak, it ruled an area half the size of the United Kingdom, and imposed a virulently radical version of Islamic law, inflicting harsh punishments of Muslims considered apostates, killing thousands of members of the Yazidi religious minority and enslaving thousands of the community’s women and children.

The U.S. coalition battled IS for years, finally shattering it in Iraq and 2017 and in Syria in 2019.

Gerges said the group is reshaping itself as a dangerous “transnational organization.” It is fragmented, with little central command of its various branches – but each of those affiliates is working to expand, he said.

Shiites have long been a target of IS, which considers them heretics. But Oman, on the southeastern edge of the Arabian peninsula, was a startling target.

The sultanate maintains a strict neutrality, often acting as a go-between for Sunni Muslim powerhouse Saudi Arabia and its regional rival, Shiite-majority Iran. Most of its population are Ibadi Muslims, a more liberal offshoot of Islam predating the Sunni-Shiite split.

Peace and stability are a top priority of Oman's government, and the country's tightly controlled state media hardly mentioned Monday night’s attack and has given no details on the investigation.

Gunmen stormed the Imam Ali in the capital Muscat, packed with worshippers holding special prayers on the eve of the Shiite mourning festival of Ashoura. The festival marks the 7th-century martyrdom of the Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Hussein, at Karbala in modern-day Iraq. Many of those inside were Pakistanis, who make up a large number of the nearly 2 million migrants who help power Oman’s economy working in construction and other fields.

One unidentified Pakistani worshipper at the mosque told the Times of Oman, an English-language daily, that the attack and subsequent shoot-out with Omani police lasted an hour and a half.

During the attack, some Pakistanis inside called the Pakistani ambassador in Muscat giving information that helped the police in their counter-assault, the ambassador Imran Ali said in a post on the social media platform X.

Four Pakistanis and an Indian were killed, along with the three attackers, according to their governments and Omani police. At least 28 people were wounded, Omani police said.

Gerges said the Oman, Moscow and Iran attacks were a sign of IS branches seeking out “targets of opportunity” where they can recruit a small number of people. The Oman shooting may have been planned by the IS affiliate in neighboring Yemen, he said.

IS has become “truly transnational. It has the ability to recruit local militants, whether from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Yemen, former Soviet Union or the Sahel,” he said. It’s not a huge organization with mass recruits, but its message of “hyper-sectarian, genocidal” hatred of Shiites finds an appeal among a few radicals whose attacks have a “multiplier effect,” resounding beyond the group’s current size, he said.

Meanwhile, the main IS affiliates work to survive by finding pockets of instability. Its Afghanistan branch appears to be the strongest, exploiting weak control by the Taliban to carry out attacks on its security forces in regions near the Pakistani border, Gerges said.

In Iraq and Syria, it has succeeded in increasing its steady attacks, mainly against Syrian security forces and to a lesser degree against the better organized, U.S.-backed Syrian Kurdish and Iraqi forces.

But the international campaign against IS has severely hampered its capabilities, Caggins said, not just militarily but also by cracking down on its finances and ability to spread propaganda on social media.

It is more difficult now for it to move fighters and money between countries – but the recent attacks show it does still have some capability, he said.

Still, the group “likely will remain incapable of taking and holding territory,” said Caggins.

Source: abcnews.go.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/mosque-attack-quiet-oman-fragmented-islamic-state-group-112058298

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Kano Arsonist, Shafi’u Abubakar, Pleads Guilty to Killing 23 Muslims Inside Mosque

JULY 18, 2024

Mosque on fire

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The Upper Shari’a Court in Kano on Thursday, fixed August 1 to deliver judgment in a suit filed against Shafi’u Abubakar, 38, charged with setting a mosque on fire, killing 23 people.

Mr Abubakar, who lives in Gezawa Local Government Kano, is charged with s culpable homicide and attempted murder, causing grievous hurt and mischief by fire.

The offence contravened the provisions of sections 140, 148, 167 and 370 of Kano State Shari’a Penal Code Law 2000.

Earlier, the prosecution counsel, director of the public prosecution, and the justice ministry, Salisu Tahir, informed the court that he had filed a new charge against the defendant.

He urged the new charge to be read to the defendant.

Mr Tahir alleged that on May 15, at about 5:15 a.m., the defendant sprayed petrol on a mosque in Gadan Larabar Abasawa village of Gezawa local government area, set it alight and locked the doors, trapping 23 worshippers in a burning fire during subhi (dawn prayer).

He said 23 people died while receiving medical attention at the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital Kano.

The prosecution also alleged that on the same date, at about 5:15 a.m., the defendant attempted to kill Shu’aibu Ibrahim and Ibrahim Sani.

The defendant pleaded guilty to all the charges.

The defence counsel, Hasiya Muhammad-Imam, urged the court to temper justice with mercy since the defendant did not stress the court because he admitted to the crime.

The presiding judge, Halhalatu Zakariyya, asked the defendant if he was in his right senses when he took the guilty plea.

He adjourned the matter until August 1 and 2 for judgment in the second and third charges and continuation of the hearing.

Source: gazettengr.com

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https://gazettengr.com/kano-arsonist-pleads-guilty-to-killing-23-muslims-inside-mosque/

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Afghanistan Journalists Center: Taliban shut down 7 media outlets in first half of 2024

July 18, 2024

The Afghanistan Journalists Center (AFJC) reported that seven media outlets have been shut down in the first half of 2024 under Taliban orders. The center also documented 89 violations against journalists and media, including 60 threats and 29 detentions.

On Thursday, July 18th, the Afghanistan Journalists Center highlighted the situation of media and journalists during the first half of 2024. It reported increased pressure and censorship of independent media content by the Taliban.

The findings of the Afghanistan Journalists Center indicate that seven media outlets were closed under Taliban orders during this period. According to the report, “Two television channels in  Kabul by the Taliban Ministry of Justice, two radios by the Taliban municipality in Ghazni, one radio in Laghman, and one radio in Parwan and Khost have been shut down.”

The center mentioned that some of these media outlets remain closed due to the Taliban intelligence not renewing their licenses, leading to their suspension.

The Afghan Journalists Center stated that three local radios were temporarily closed, while two television channels and two radios remain shut without permission to reopen.

The report also highlighted that among detained journalists, one reporter arrested during an operation in Ghazni on April 7, 2024 is still imprisoned.

The center noted that Taliban restrictions on media are more stringent in southern and eastern provinces, with media outlets threatened for broadcasting programs with female voices or musical backgrounds.

According to excerpts from the report, “Local journalists can only collaborate with national media by obtaining approval from local authorities. This pressure extends to the publication of any content on social networks and personal accounts of journalists.”

The Center mentioned that the Taliban prohibit cooperation with active media outlets in exile while restricting access to information.

The center has urged the Taliban to refrain from imposing unjustified and illegal demands on journalists and media and to create an environment where the media can operate without fear.

Meanwhile, the situation facing journalists and media under Taliban rule remains challenging and requires continued international attention and advocacy to uphold freedom of expression and press freedoms in Afghanistan.

Source: khaama.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.khaama.com/afghanistan-journalists-center-taliban-shut-down-7-media-outlets-in-first-half-of-2024/

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Extremist Israeli minister makes provocative visit to al-Aqsa mosque

19 July 2024

Israel’s extremist national security minister has visited the holiest Muslim site in Jerusalem, recording a video saying he went to pray, in a provocative move as he seeks to disrupt ceasefire talks.

Itamar Ben-Gvir, an ultranationalist and champion of the settler movement, recorded footage at al-Aqsa mosque compound, also known as the Temple Mount, a site holy to Muslims and Jews.

In the shadow of the Dome of the Rock, Ben-Gvir spoke with his personal security visible behind him and an armed member of the Israeli border police patrolling nearby. He said he had come to the compound to pray for the return of Israeli hostages held by Palestinian militants in Gaza “but without a reckless deal, without surrendering”.

He added that he was “praying and working hard” for the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, to resist international pressure to sign a ceasefire deal and instead continue a military campaign in Gaza. Israeli attacks have killed more that 38,000 people in the strip since the attack by Hamas militants on 7 October last year.

His visit immediately drew condemnation from the Jordanian foreign ministry, a powerful force within the body administering the holy Islamic compound, which called it “a provocative step” and a violation undertaken by “the extremist Israeli government”.

The Israeli interior minister, Moshe Arbel, of the Jewish religious party Shas, chastised Ben-Gvir for entering the area. “One day, the era of provocations by Ben-Gvir will pass,” Arbel said.

John Kirby, a spokesperson for the US National Security Council, said without naming Ben-Gvir that the White House was “concerned about rhetoric and actions that are counterproductive to peace and security in the West Bank”.

He said: “The president has been pretty strident about his concerns over, for instance, the settler violence and we have also expressed our concerns about activities and rhetoric by certain Israeli leaders. And those concerns remain valid, and what we would continue to urge our Israeli counterparts to do is nothing that inflames passions or could lead to or encourage violent activity one way or the other.”

Biden is expected to speak with Netanyahu next week despite his recent Covid diagnosis, as part of a controversial visit by the Israeli leader to the US, where Netanyahu is expected to also address a joint session of Congress, Kirby said. He said the vice-president, Kamala Harris, who has been suggested as a potential replacement for Biden if he drops out of the election race, was also expected to meet Netanyahu.

Ben-Gvir last visited the site in May in order to state his objection to countries including Spain, Norway and Ireland recognising a Palestinian state. His latest visit is seen as additionally provoking, ahead of Netanyahu’s forthcoming visit to Washington and in the midst of negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza.

Al-Aqsa mosque compound is a highly sensitive site, where efforts by a faction of extremist Jewish settlers to pray there are seen as a violation by Muslim worshippers and observers, symbolising efforts to bring the mosque compound and the divided holy city of Jerusalem under total Israeli control.

Visits by Israeli ministers to the site or incursions by Israeli security forces have proved to be a trigger for protests and violence in the past, notably a visit in 2000 by Ariel Sharon that fuelled an uprising known as the second intifada.

Netanyahu summed up the status quo at al-Aqsa in 2015, saying: “Muslims pray on the Temple Mount, non-Muslims visit.”

Daniel Seidemann, an Israeli lawyer and expert on the politics of Jerusalem, said the rise of a movement of extremist Israeli settlers had changed the fragile balance at the holy site.

Related: National religious recruits challenge values of IDF once dominated by secular elite

“It’s clear in recent years that the status quo has been eroded significantly. First there were daily Jewish prayers that began with people whispering and mumbling,” he said. “Today there are groups escorted by the police, which is a major source of tension although these parties have kept a low profile.

“Over the last 20 years, the events and discourse in Jerusalem have been run by religious pyromaniacs. This conflict did not become a religious war, but the people driving events are fighting one.”

He said Ben-Gvir’s visit was intended as a symbol of “nationalistic triumphalism”, to flex his muscle and gesture at an Israeli victory in Gaza as well as control of key sites long claimed by Palestinians.

Several hardline ministers in Netanyahu’s government, including Ben-Gvir, have attempted to dissuade the prime minister from agreeing to a ceasefire deal, warning they would leave the ruling coalition.

Source: uk.news.yahoo.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://uk.news.yahoo.com/extremist-israeli-minister-makes-provocative-191639258.html

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India

 

Assam Cabinet Approves Bill to Abolish Muslim Marriages, Divorce Act; CM Says Repeal Will Be A ‘Significant Step’ Against Child Marriage

July 19, 2024

The Assam Cabinet on July 18 approved a Bill to abolish the Assam Muslim Marriages and Divorce Registration Act and Rules of 1935, which permitted underage marriages under specific conditions, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said.

The Repealing Bill 2024 will be presented during the upcoming monsoon session of the Assembly.

Earlier this year, the Cabinet approved the abolition of the Act, and Thursday’s meeting authorised the Repealing Bill required to implement this decision.

"We have taken a significant step to ensure justice for our daughters and sisters by putting additional safeguards against child marriage," he posted on X, soon after chairing the meeting of Council of Ministers here.

"In the meeting of the #AssamCabinet today we have decided to repeal the Assam Muslim Marriages and Divorce Registration Act and Rules 1935 vide the Assam Repealing Bill 2024," he added.

The CM said the decision to repeal it is aimed in bringing "parity in registration of marriage and divorce".

The Repealing Bill will be placed before the Assembly in the next Monsoon session for consideration, he said.

"The State Cabinet has also been directed that a suitable legislation be brought for registration of Muslim marriages in Assam, to be considered by the next session of Assembly," the CM added.

The Cabinet had approved the decision to repeal the Act on February 23, in a bid to end the social menace of child marriage in the state.

"This Act contained provisions allowing marriage registration even if the bride and groom had not reached the legal ages of 18 and 21, as required by law. This move marks another significant step towards prohibiting child marriages in Assam," Sarma had posted on X then.

Opposition parties had decried the decision, terming it ‘discriminatory against the Muslims’ brought in to polarise voters in an election year.

Sharing other decisions of Thursday’s Cabinet meet, Sarma said it was decided to reduce VAT on CNG to 5%, funds were approved for development of BTC areas, financial approval was given for key healthcare efforts and cabinet ministers mandated to visited Barak Valley every month.

To combat air pollution through the use of clean fuel, the Cabinet decided to reduce VAT on CNG from 14.5% to 5%, effective until March 31, 2027.

Additionally, funds were allocated for the development of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) areas, and financial approval was given for key healthcare initiatives. Cabinet ministers are now mandated to visit the Barak Valley every month.

The meeting approved a financial sanction of ₹200 crore for the Assam Cancer Care Foundation to support the Assam Cancer Care Project for 2024-25. This project includes the establishment of 17 cancer care hospitals, expected to benefit around 30,000 patients annually, the CM said.

To ensure continued free-of-cost treatment for the poor, the Cabinet approved ₹375 crore for the Mukhya Mantri Ayushman Asom Yojana (MMAAY) for 2024-25. Under MMAAY, families receive cashless medical benefits up to Rs 5 lakh per year, covering 36 lakh families.

The Cabinet also mandated that ministers visit the three Barak Valley districts every month for three days on a rotational basis to ensure the proper implementation of good governance initiatives.

The Cabinet approved release of ₹401.50 crore to Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) as first instalment for the fiscal 2024-45 under the SOPD-G fund, the CM added.

Source: thehindu.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/assam-cabinet-approves-bill-to-abolish-muslim-marriages-divorce-act/article68420569.ece

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UP Minister Claims Muslims Using Hindu Names Sell Non-Veg Food ToKanwar Yatris

Jul 19, 2024

Ahead of the Kanwar Yatra, Uttar Pradesh Minister Kapil Dev Agarwal on Friday claimed that Muslims, under the garb of Hindu names, sell non-vegetarian foods to pilgrims.

"They write names like Vaishno Dhaba Bhandar, Shakumbhari Devi Bhojanalaya, and Shuddh Bhojanalaya and sell non-vegetarian food," the minister stated.

The remarks came after Uttar Pradesh Police in Muzaffarnagar made it "voluntary" for eateries along the Kanwar Yatra route to display the names of their owners following a backlash from the opposition and NDA allies.

Muzaffarnagar falls between Delhi and Haridwar along the Kanwar Yatra route.

The Kanwar Yatra is set to commence on Monday, July 22.

Raising objections against the UP Police order, the minister stated, "My demand to the district administration was to put the names of those running these dhabas on display. What's the objection to this?"

Earlier, after eateries on the Kanwar Yatra route in Uttar Pradesh's Muzaffarnagar were asked to display their owners' names, opposition parties slammed the administration by calling the decision "anti-Muslim."

AIMIM chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi connected Uttar Pradesh's police decision to "apartheid" in South Africa and "Judenboycott" in Hitler's Germany.

"As per the order of the Uttar Pradesh Police, now every food shop or cart owner will have to put his name on the board so that no Kanwariya buys anything from a Muslim shop by mistake," Owaisi tweeted.

Slamming the state government, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said, "Such orders are social crimes. The government wants to spoil the peaceful atmosphere."

Source: indiatoday.in

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/uttar-pradesh-kanwar-yatra-muzaffarnagar-police-muslims-kapil-dev-agarwal-non-veg-food-2568895-2024-07-19

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In This Telangana Village, Both Hindus And Muslims Celebrate Peerla Panduga

JULY 18, 2024

In the state of Telangana, one festival that transcends caste and religious barriers is the festival of Peerla Panduga. It is a mourning festival celebrated by Muslims in Telangana to remember the battle of Karbala and in Rayala Seema region of Andhra Pradesh, A procession is also taken out in remembrance of the martyrdom of Imam Hussain. The residents of the villages of Vallabhapuram and Undrugonda in the Suryapet district informed Local18 that Hindus and Muslims have been jointly celebrating the Peerla festival grandly for the past 150 years.

Going into the details, in Telangana, the village celebrations of the Peerla festival generally present a festive atmosphere. The villages of Vallabhapuram and Undrugonda have a tradition of jointly celebrating the Peerla festival for nearly 150 years. According to the villagers, the Peerla festival in Telangana has a rich history. Devotees from the surrounding districts of Nalgonda, Bhongir, Ranga Reddy, Hyderabad, and even from Andhra Pradesh come to witness the Peerla festival and fulfil their wishes. Those whose wishes are granted return the following year with offerings such as dattis (decorations), kudukus (votive offerings), jaggery, tulsi garlands, and various other items to decorate the deity.

The villagers explain that the specialty of the Peerla festival in their villages is that, starting from the day the festival begins, the celebration lasts for about eleven days, with villagers observing fasting and Hindus and Muslims celebrating together with brotherly feelings, transcending caste and religious boundaries. The Muharram festival is celebrated differently in various regions and villages. In their village, peers such as Radhakrishnan, Vimanakasi, Hussain, and B Fatima perform the celebrations every year. The festival is set according to the lunar calendar in the month of July, with the deities being taken out, bathed in the local stream, and returned to their places.

Source: news18.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.news18.com/india/in-this-telangana-village-both-hindus-and-muslims-celebrate-peerla-panduga-8970485.html

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Islam Gymkhana's alleged mismanagement of open space reaches HC bench

Jul 19, 2024

MUMBAI: A writ petition filed by a sports enthusiast in the Bombay high court against Islam Gymkhana, which was recently converted into a PIL, is slated to come up for hearing on July 26. The petition alleges several irregularities and mismanagement of government resources and open space.

According to petitioner Nabi G Shah Sayed, the main violations by the Marine Drive-facing Islam Gymkhana are unauthorised construction, violation of the terms of the lease deed and restraining public access to the ground by holding wedding functions on its premises. Sayed has listed several instances of the gymkhana management’s “high-handedness”.

Declaring that the state’s objective in leasing the land to the gymkhana at a subsidised cost stands defeated, the petition reads, “The land is not being used for promotion of sports but for various other activities such as marriages, functions and other special occasions. Even the proceeds earned from giving out the land for such activities are not being ploughed into sporting activities or for creation of open green spaces but being misused for creation of further resorts, hotels, recreation spaces, a hookah bar, ice-cream parlour etc.”

The petition also states that the managing committee of the gymkhana runs it in an undemocratic manner and is undermining its secular character by taking decisions “as though the gymkhana is meant only for the benefit of one single community or for the people of one singular religion”.

Highlighting that the state is suffering huge revenue losses, as the land is a premium property capable of fetching much more than the rent paid by the gymkhana, the petition states that such losses are unjustified as the land is not being utilised for the purpose for which it was allotted.

“Several open spaces in the city have been leased out to various clubs and gymkhanas with the public welfare in mind,” said advocate Prerak Choudhary, who is representing Sayed. “Unfortunately, the public is not able to freely access these spaces. The use of such grounds for marriages and functions should be disapproved. The petitioner is hopeful that the concerned authorities will be directed to take strict action and formulate a good policy for dealing with all such gymkhanas and clubs enjoying leases in respect of huge land parcels in the heart of the city.”

When contacted, Yusuf Abrahani, president of Islam Gymkhana and former MLA, claimed that the petition was the work of a lobby of card players. “There was a card room in the gymkhana in 2019,” he said. “After our managing committee was elected, we closed it since gambling is not permitted by law. There was also cricket-betting going on, and the police came to the gymkhana thrice. The 30 people playing cards got aggrieved and went to court three times but all the petitions were rejected. This new petitioner files petitions against everybody; he has been a proxy for these people.”

When questioned about the mismanagement and misutilisation of funds, weddings conducted on the gymkhana grounds and denial of access to the public to use the ground for sporting activities, Abrahani replied, “Whenever there is a wedding in the gymkhana, this lobby takes photographs and writes to the collector. If there is one wedding, they will send four different photographs, saying that four weddings were conducted and the gymkhana should pay four times more.”

The former MLA claimed that all documents were shown to the collector and ₹1 lakh was paid per function as per the lease condition. “For seven years these people have lodged over 100 complaints but not a single complaint was found to be genuine,” he said. “The collector has not passed any order against us.”

Regarding illegal constructions, Abrahani said that Islam Gymkhana had got a letter from C ward, saying there was no single action pending against it. “Previously there were three illegal structures but they were demolished after I became the president,” he said.

When asked about the gymkhana denying access to the public and being allegedly non-secular, Abrahani said, “On weekends, the entire ground is occupied by 500 boys who play cricket. We play day-and-night cricket and take part in all the tournaments. Lots of sports events are held here. We have more than 13 non-Muslim players in the team and have been secular and open. These allegations are motivated, and the petition is a proxy one filed by the card room players.”

Source: hindustantimes.com

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https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/mumbai-news/hc-to-hear-pil-against-islam-gymkhana-for-alleged-mismanagement-of-open-space-101721329588939.html

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No ticket, no party posts: BJP in Bengal has failed to engage Muslim community

Political parties in search of their vote banks have been relying on the extremes of exclusion and appeasement for decades, often ignoring the socio-economic realities of Muslims in the State

July 19, 2024

Shiv Sahay Singh

The statement by the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly Suvendu Adhikari that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) should stop using the slogan of ‘Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas‘ and do away with the party’s Minority Morcha in the State as Muslims had not voted for the party in the recently concluded Lok Sabha election has triggered a fresh debate on ‘Muslim politics’ in West Bengal.

The remark from a key politician of the State, who has decades of experience, not only drew criticism from the Opposition but also embarrassed the State BJP leadership, which was quick to say that the party believes in the slogan of ’Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas‘ even if Muslims did not vote for the party.

Mr. Adhikari went on to say that he would no longer use the term “nationalist Muslims”, adding that the party was with those who “are with us”.

The remark might reflect the BJP leader’s disappointment over the party’s performance in the Lok Sabha election, but it also indicates a deep malaise in West Bengal politics in which Muslims have been treated only as a vote bank.

 Modi’s ‘ghuspeti’ remark proof that sabka saath sabka vikas sabka vishwas slogan is a lie: Akbaruddin Owaisi

The BJP’s approach to politics in the State has centred around the exclusion of Muslims and polarisation of Hindus. The Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019 and the subsequent Rules published earlier this year before the Lok Sabha election, as well as claims that the CAA would be followed by a National Register of Citizens (NRC) as seen in Assam, created panic among Muslims.

The BJP has failed to engage with Muslims in West Bengal, neither giving members of the community tickets nor inducting Muslim leaders in key party positions. Even during the Lok Sabha election, BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, raised issues of illegal infiltration, targeting the community, and said the entire country was concerned that the demography of the border areas of West Bengal was changing.

Mr. Adhikari’s claims that the community has not supported the party fall flat because the BJP has not done any political ground work to woo this minority.

Interestingly, in the Malda Dakshin Lok Sabha seat, where the majority of the electorate comprises Muslims, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) came third, after the Congress and the BJP. Congress candidate Isha Khan Chowdhury won the seat by a margin of about 1.28 lakh votes. The results indicate that even in a polarised atmosphere, Muslims have voted for candidates of parties other than the TMC.

According to the 2011 Census, Muslims comprise 27.01% population of West Bengal, and they have been firmly behind the Trinamool Congress since 2011, when the party first came to power. However, despite the TMC being in power for the past 13 years, Muslims remain the most economically backward community of the State.

There has only been a nominal increase in Muslims in government jobs under the TMC’s rule when compared with the earlier Left Front regime, and the lack of proportional representation for Muslims in the State’s Council of Ministers as well as in the West Bengal Assembly continues to haunt the Trinamool Congress government.

Districts in West Bengal with a high Muslim population not only lag in human development indicators but have higher migration of workers.

While releasing a report titled ‘Living Reality of Muslims in West Bengal’ in 2016, Nobel Laureate Amartya Sen had said Muslims ”constitute a very large proportion of the poor in the State”.

A couple of weeks ago, State Minister Firhad Hakim courted controversy at a religious gathering by saying that those not born Muslim were unfortunate and the message of the religion should be spread among non- Muslims.

Mr. Hakim, perhaps the only representative of the Muslim community to have a key portfolio in Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s Cabinet, was heard congratulating the organisers of the event for assembling a large gathering of Muslims, thereby alluding to the political clout the community has.

On the other hand, in the past, the Mayor of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation has referred to a neighbourhood in the city as “mini Pakistan”.

The remarks made by Mr. Adhikari and Mr. Hakim are the two extremes in West Bengal politics, and political parties in search of their vote banks have been relying on these extremes for decades.

Occasional studies and reports such as that of the Sachar Committee have shed light on the larger social and economic realities of Muslims in West Bengal, but politicians across parties fixated on the outcomes of electoral battles continue to turn a blind eye to the pressing concerns of the community.

Source: thehindu.com

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https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/west-bengal/between-exclusion-and-appeasement-the-crisis-of-muslim-vote-bank-politics-in-west-bengal/article68418301.ece

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Security forces foil infiltration bid in J&K’s Kupwara; 2 terrorists killed Srinagar

July 18, 2024

Two terrorists were killed as security forces foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara district on Thursday, officials said.

Alert security forces foiled the infiltration bid in the Keran sector of the north Kashmir district, they said. Two terrorists have been killed in the exchange of firing. The operation is on, they said.

The July 8, terror attack on an Army convoy in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir, left five soldiers dead and five injured, took place around 3.10 pm when the convoy was on a bridge over a nullah in the remote Badnota village.

According to sources, a fairly large group of militants was involved. Calling the incident a highly “emboldened terrorist action”, a defence source said there were inputs of a successful infiltration in the area by a large group around two months ago.

The incident took place at the inter-formation boundary between Northern and Western Command. The soldiers who came under attack were among additional troops who had been deployed in the area a few weeks ago. The administrative convoy was attacked from two directions, sources said.

Source: indianexpress.com

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https://indianexpress.com/article/india/security-forces-foil-infiltration-bid-in-jks-kupwara-2-terrorists-killed-srinagar-9461972/

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Arab World

 

Oman Shiite mosque attackers were Omani citizens, police say

July 18, 2024

DUBAI, UAE —

The three gunmen who shot and killed six people at a Shiite Muslim mosque in Oman in an attack claimed by Islamic State this week were all Omani nationals, police said on Thursday.

The assault began on Monday evening at the Ali bin Abi Talib Mosque in the Wadi Kabir neighborhood of Oman's capital, Muscat, as Shiite Muslims gathered.

The Royal Oman Police said the three gunmen were brothers and "were killed due to their insistence on resisting security personnel." It said that police investigations had indicated the three gunmen were "influenced by misguided ideas."

The six people killed by the gunmen were four Pakistani nationals, an Indian, and a police officer responding to the attack, which Islamic State later claimed responsibility for.

Pakistan has labeled the assault a terror attack.

Islamic State on Tuesday said that three of its "suicide attackers" fired on worshippers at the mosque on Monday evening and exchanged gunfire with Omani security forces until morning.

A video of what the Islamic State said were the three attackers behind the shooting was released on Thursday on the group's Telegram channel.

The video showed the faces of the three gunmen and was allegedly recorded before the attack. One of them said that "Islamic State soldiers will be at an infidels’ temple in Muscat."

The Sunni militant group also published what it said was a video of the attack on its Telegram site. It has claimed responsibility this year for high-profile attacks in Russia and Iran that inflicted mass casualties, and it is active in Afghanistan. It had not claimed an assault on the Arabian Peninsula for several years until the attack in Oman.

Its operations have indicated the group is attempting a comeback after it was crushed by a U.S.-led coalition following its occupation of large swaths of territory in Iraq and Syria and declared a caliphate.

It also inspired lone-wolf attacks in the West.

Any Islamic State inroads in Gulf Arab oil producers such as Oman would raise fears in Washington and the region, which has long viewed militant Islamic groups as a major threat.

Dozens of people at the mosque in Oman were wounded with around 30 people treated at local hospitals, including for gunshot wounds.

Monday evening marked the beginning of Ashura, an annual period of mourning, which many Shiite Muslims mark publicly, to commemorate the 7th century death of Hussein, a grandson of the Prophet Mohammad. The observation of Ashura has sometimes triggered sectarian tensions between Sunni and Shiite Muslims in some Middle East countries.

The attack was largely unprecedented in Oman, where most of its citizens follow the Ibadi Muslim faith that shares many similarities with mainstream Sunni Islam. Oman has a small but influential Omani Shiite population. Like other Gulf countries, there is a large and significant foreign workforce in Oman, too.

Source: voanews.com

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https://www.voanews.com/a/oman-shiite-mosque-attackers-were-omani-citizens-police-say/7703706.html

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Bahrain king receives speaker of Saudi Shoura Council

July 18, 2024

RIYADH: Bahrain’s King Hamad received Saudi Shoura Council Speaker Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh at Al-Safriya Palace in Manama on Thursday.

The king praised the deep-rooted relations between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain and the high level of close cooperation and mutual coordination achieved on all fronts to fulfil the interests and aspirations of the two countries, Saudi Press Agency reported.

He also expressed appreciation for King Salman’s efforts to strengthen the historical ties between the two kingdoms.

The king commended the instrumental role of Saudi Arabia’s Shoura Council and Bahrain’s Council of Representatives and Shoura Council in bolstering relations and supporting development in the two countries.

The king also welcomed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Bahraini Council of Representatives and the Saudi Shoura Council, which aims to expand and strengthen cooperation frameworks, exchange expertise and experiences at the legislative and parliamentary levels, and coordinate positions taken at various regional and international parliamentary forums.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2552131/saudi-arabia

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Saudi Arabia rejects, condemns Israeli security minister’s visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque compound

July 18, 2024

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia condemned and rejected in the strongest terms on Thursday a visit made by Israel’s far-right national security minister to Jerusalem’s most sensitive holy site.

Itamar Ben-Gvir, an ultranationalist settler leader, said he had gone up to the Jerusalem hilltop compound of Al-Aqsa Mosque to pray for the return of Israeli hostages on Thursday.

The Kingdom’s Foreign Ministry also condemned an Israeli parliament vote to oppose a Palestinian state.

The 120-member Knesset late on Wednesday passed by 68 votes to nine a resolution that said a Palestinian state on land occupied by Israel would “perpetuate the Israel-Palestinian conflict and destabilize the region.”

These continuing and hostile practices toward Islamic sacred sites and international regulations and resolutions demonstrate the aggressive approach of Israeli authorities, the ministry said.

The ministry added that these practices prevent the achievement of any progress aimed at sparing the blood of innocent people and achieving a just and comprehensive peace.

Earlier on Thursday, the Palestinian Foreign Ministry condemned Ben-Gvir’s visit as a “provocative intrusion” that endangered the fragile status quo regarding the Jerusalem hilltop compound.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2552036/saudi-arabia

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Saudi MMA fighters make waves in world of combat sport

July 18, 2024

RIYADH: Two trailblazing Saudi mixed martial arts fighters making waves in the Professional Fighters League praised the development of the sport in the Kingdom.

Hattan Al-Saif and Abdullah Al-Qahtani, the most recent guests on “The Mayman Show” by Arab News, recalled their journeys in the world of combat sports.

“Combat sports were unknown in Saudi Arabia, but thanks to the Ministry of Sports, everyone was really pushing, pushing in different ways in Saudi Arabia to develop the sports in a really good way,” Al-Saif said. “We have Saudi games ... we have a lot of tournaments, I’m really proud to be Saudi and I feel like I’m prouder day by day for being a sports person from Saudi in Saudi.”

Al-Saif, 22, a pioneering female fighter, has already made history with her gold-medal win at the 2023 International Federation of Muay Thai Associations World Championships.

Professional fighter Al-Qahtani said: “When I got the contract I was the first in Saudi Arabia, and then I go there and have a good record and … you know, they love it, and they gave me more of what I need,” he said.

“They push me to be the best, and now I’m in the league, I’m in the PFL MENA League, before it was just two or three fights on the global (stage).”

Of his PFL victories, Al-Qahtani said the contests “made me like a star, because the fights were crazy, and I did something no one can do, you know.”

Both fighters agree that their trailblazing efforts should make the Kingdom proud.

“I’m gonna represent the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. And it’s not an easy country to represent and they’re not easy people to make them satisfied with what you are doing. But I’m quite sure that I’m a good person to do it, and I am so proud to be this person to do it,” Al-Saif said. “So, I’m always pushing myself. I’m always doing the best.”

She added that she is glad to have Al-Qahtani and others who support her.

“I have my team, I have my coach. And also half of Saudi Arabia are in love with me and they are helping me and they are pushing me,” she said. “I see a lot of comments. I see a lot of DMs. I see a lot of messages of Saudi people telling me they believe in me. They are proud of me.”

Al-Qahtani said much of his success is down to the influence of his mother.

“My mom, you know, she wanted me to be a world champion, but which sport? We didn’t know. Just a world champion, in a combat sport.”

Besides combat sports he said he also likes extreme sports such as dirt biking.

“But, when I grew up, I liked Muay Thai, MMA … kickboxing. I know what this sport is, this is a combat sport. I just saw my mom who wanted to push me. I needed to be a world champion … and so, yeah, I just started that.”

At PFL MENA 2 on July 12, when Al-Saif beat Egypt’s Eman Baraka at Riyadh’s Green Halls Auditorium, she had Al-Qahtani, currently the Kingdom’s biggest MMA star, in her corner.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2551706/saudi-arabia

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Saudi Arabia’s ozone-depleting gases reduced to 1%

July 18, 2024

RIYADH: The National Center for Environmental Compliance revealed today that the proportion of gases emitted in the Kingdom that deplete the ozone layer has decreased to 1 percent.

The results were part of a study conducted on the Kingdom’s refrigeration and air-conditioning facilities to check the extent of their environmental compliance.

A field survey checked more than 1,200 facilities to evaluate their general condition and respective corrective plans were activated.

NCEC made the announcement at the opening of the workshop “Field study of the environmental compliance extent in the refrigeration and air conditioning sector” and attended by executives and specialists from related government and private agencies.

According to SPA, the results of the study showed that, during the past 10 years, the Kingdom’s prohibited gases were reduced to 1 percent, a proportion representing a positive indicator of the reduction of the ozone-depleting gases consumption plan. On the other hand, the Kingdom’s imports of eco-friendly appliances and gases have increased since 2020, as well as an awareness of the Montreal Protocol that aims to reduce the concentration of ozone-depleting gases and use eco-friendly alternatives. As such, the Kingdom could gradually reduce the consumption of ozone-depleting substances and eliminate them radically by 2030.

The study covered 24 factories using the relevant gases (2 percent), 689 maintenance centers (58 percent), 248 gas distributors and suppliers (21 percent) and 28 importers of appliances (2.3 percent).

The Kingdom ratified the Montreal Protocol in 1993 and established the National Ozone Unit, which later joined the NCEC and is responsible for preparing and implementing national plans for compliance with the protocol in cooperation with the pertinent sectors.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2551996/saudi-arabia

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Al-Baha mayor announces launch of ‘Theatrical Nights’ program

July 18, 2024

RIYADH: Ali Al-Sawat, the mayor of Al-Baha region, announced the upcoming launch of the “Al-Baha Theatrical Nights” program, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Organized by the Al-Baha Municipality in collaboration with the Saudi Arabian Society for Culture and Arts and the private sector, the event will be held from July 21 to 27.

Al-Sawat said the program is part of the “A Summer in Al-Baha: Embrace Serenity” festival and includes theatrical performances featuring stars from outside the region, along with artists from Al-Baha. These local artists will introduce themselves to the audience and visitors through seven theatrical performances, all being presented for the first time in Al-Baha region.

He said that the “Al-Baha Theatrical Nights” program will present a diverse range of theatrical performances, including comedic, social, and patriotic themes, all marked by suspense and amazement.”

“These performances will foster a cultural and artistic atmosphere that complements the entertainment events and summer activities. Through this harmony, Al-Baha will be transformed into a vibrant hub featuring international shows, concerts, folk performances, fashion, heritage exhibitions, and culinary arts,” he added.

Al-Sawat confirmed that the theatrical performances include a women-only play, which will be held at the municipality’s theater, the Baljurashi Municipality Theater, and the Wesam Al-Badyah Theater in Al-Mandaq, concluding at the Baljurashi Front Theater. Additionally, the play “Lohmat Watan” (Homeland Kinship) will be staged at the Al-Baha Lights Festival Theater and the Wesam Al-Badyah Theater, with its final performance at the Baljurashi Front Theater.

He said this will be the first time the Al-Baha Summer Festival includes theatrical performances among its various activities, alongside the major events and parties announced in this year’s summer calendar.

According to SPA, with the support of the governor of Al-Baha, the region aims to attract more than 2.5 million visitors and tourists. Al-Baha’s enchanting nature, moderate climate, and well-developed facilities, services and infrastructure have earned it a strong reputation and significant momentum as one of the premier tourist destinations for the Saudi summer this year.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2551981/saudi-arabia

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Africa

 

Young Kenyans vow to defy ban on protests

Police in Kenya have banned protests in the capital indefinitely citing a lack of leadership that would ensure peaceful protests.

The ban was announced hours before a planned protest for Thursday, in which demonstrators were expected to march to the president’s office calling for his resignation over poor governance.

Acting police inspector general, Douglas Kanja, in a statement, said the lack of leadership had “made it difficult to enforce safety protocols.”

Recent protests have left businesses counting losses after the looting and burnings.

Protesters were yet to be spotted Thursday but major roads leading to the president’s office remained barricaded by the police.

Kenya has seen a month of protests that started with calls for legislators to vote against a controversial finance bill that was proposing higher taxes amidst a cost-of-living crisis and ballooning public debt.

At least 50 people have died since the protests began on June 18, according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights.

Source: africanews.com

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https://www.africanews.com/2024/07/18/young-kenyans-vow-to-defy-ban-on-protests/

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263 Boko Haram terrorists surrender in Borno

July 19, 2024

The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) fighting insurgency in the Lake Chad region says 263 Boko Haram terrorists and their families have surrendered to troops.

This was contained in a statement issued by Lt.-Col. Abubakar Abdullahi, the Chief Military Public Information Office of MNJTF in N’djamena, Chad.

He said that the insurgents surrendered between July 11 and July 17, 2024, during the ongoing Operation Lake Sanity II.

“The wave of surrenders began on July 1, when five terrorists surrendered to MNJTF troops in Wulgo, on the Nigeria-Cameroon border.

“Preliminary information indicated these individuals hailed from Tumbuma and Kutumgulla in Marte Local Government Area (LGA), Nigeria.

“On the same day, Malum Kori Bukar, a 50-year-old, escaped from the Jibilaram hideout and surrendered to the troops.

“Additionally, on 11 July, 19 terrorists surrendered in the village of Madaya, extreme North Cameroon, and another 11 surrendered in Wulgo from the Tumbuma hideout in 2 waves.

“On 12 July 2024, 64 individuals surrendered in Bonderi, Cameroon, including 6 adult males, 20 women, and 38 children. Moreso, on 13 July, 27 terrorists surrendered,” he said.

He said that preliminary investigation revealed that all the surrendered individuals belong to Nigerian communities.

“Consequently, they were handed over to the troops of Operation HADIN KAI for further action,” he added.

Source: dailypost.ng

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https://dailypost.ng/2024/07/19/263-boko-haram-terrorists-surrender-in-borno/

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Court orders Nigerian Army to pay N800 million for killing BIRS staff in Benue

July 19, 2024

A Benue State High Court sitting in Makurdi, Thursday, awarded the sum of N800 million against the Nigerian Army and 10 others over the brutal murder of Sixtus Akure.

The judgement came three years after the deceased, Mr. Akure, a senior tax officer with the Benue Internal Revenue Service, BIRS, died from a brutal assault by soldiers in 2022 and the case was brought before the court by former Chairman of BIRS, Mrs Mimi Orubibi.

Mr Akure, who was attached to the BIRS, Gazetted Inspection Point, near the “C” Division Police Station, in the North Bank area of Makurdi, was found lifeless by the roadside near Aper Aku Estate in North Bank, Makurdi, a day after he was abducted at his duty post on Saturday, January 15, 2022 and was whisked away by men of the Nigerian Army.

On March 19, 2022, a Coroner Inquest into the gruesome murder of Mr Akure commenced at the Chief Magistrate Court 1, Makurdi, with the late Mike Utsaha and Desmond Tor Wendeh as counsels to the BIRS.

The Coroner Inquest found the Nigerian Army culpable in the death of Sixtus Akure.

The BIRS under the leadership of Mimi Adzape-Orubibi filed a suit on behalf of the family of the deceased.

The Nigerian Army, Nigerian Army Council, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Defence Staff, Commanding Officer, 72 Special Forces, Makurdi, Captain Osita Obe (then adjutant of 72 Special Forces) and the five soldiers who were identified as culprits were joined as defendants in the suit.

The Nigerian Army through their counsel, Isah Shaibu, filed their response to the suit.

In a well-considered judgment delivered by the trial Judge, Justice Theresa Shija, he dismissed the preliminary objection raised by the counsel to the defendants and determined the case on its merit.

Justice Shija awarded judgment in favour of the wife of the deceased BIRS staff, Catherine Akure.

Justice Shija ordered the Nigerian Army and all the respondents to pay the sum of N800 million to Mrs Catherine Akure for violating the fundamental right to life of her husband.

The Court further ordered the BIRS to immediately give a permanent and pensionable appointment to Mrs Catherine Akure, whose husband was gruesomely murdered by men of the Nigerian Army at his duty post in North Bank, Makurdi.

It will be recalled that the then BIRS Chairman, Mimi Orubibi gave Mrs Sixtus Akure a casual appointment as a BIRS staff after the death of her husband.

Reacting to the judgment, Mrs Akure appreciated the judiciary for being the last hope of the common man.

She commended the immediate past chairman of the BIRS, Chief Mrs Mimi Adzape-Orubibi for standing by her and the family throughout their trying time, describing her as a mother.

She equally commended her lawyer, Desmond Wendeh for his legal services and support and disclosed that the money awarded to her by the court will be used in catering for her children and the surviving mother of her husband.

Source: dailypost.ng

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https://dailypost.ng/2024/07/19/court-orders-nigerian-army-to-pay-n800-million-for-killing-birs-staff-in-benue/

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U.S. pledges $203M in the hopes of averting the crisis in Sudan

U.N. ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the U.S. is pledging $203M in the hopes of averting the crisis in Sudan to spill over into the region.

Close to 9 million people have fled their homes, according to the United Nations, and more than 1 million have left the country. Thousands have been killed in a conflict overshadowed by the ones in Gaza and Ukraine.

“We hope this new round of aid serves as a call to action for others to follow. Partners will use this funding to build new shelter for refugees or provide cash assistance so that they can pay rent, and it will help children whose lives have been upended by conflict return to school,” among other things, Thomas-Greenfield told reporters in New York on Thursday.

“Three quarters of a million people, women and children, the very old and very young, facing famine, starvation, IPC five level conditions. People are eating dirt to survive, relying on tree leaves for nutrition,” she also said.

The war in Sudan began a little over a year ago causing tens of thousands to flee into neighboring Chad in search of safety.

The U.N. says it has asked for $2.7 billion in funding to respond to humanitarian needs but has received $155 million — or 6%.

“My call is for those who have influence on the warring parties to press them, to urge them to come to the table, because until they come to the table, the people of Sudan will continue to suffer. There is no military solution to this situation,” the ambassador also said.

Source: africanews.com

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https://www.africanews.com/2024/07/19/us-pledges-203m-in-the-hopes-of-averting-the-crisis-in-sudan/

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“Drop your weapons and recognize the state's authority”, Haiti's PM tells gangs

In an address to the nation Wednesday, Haiti's Prime Minister called gangs to surrender their weapons.

“Life every day in Port-au-Prince has turned into a battle for survival,” Gary Conille said.

According to the UN, 2,500 people, including at least 82 children, were killed, or injured because of gang violence in the first three months of the year.

It is estimated that gangs control about 80% of the capital.

“Drop your weapons and recognize the authority of the state,” Conille said in a message to gangs.

When assuming office in June, Conille promised to "deliver" for the Caribbean nation grappling with overlapping security, humanitarian and political crises.

Earlier this month, Jimmy Cherizier, a powerful gang leader accused the Prime minister of not opening dialogue with the alliance that he represents.

Cherizier who is best known as Barbecue called for a national dialogue.

A Multinational Security Support Mission comprising police officers from Kenya, Chad and Benin is deploying to Haiti with a mandate to help their local counterparts restore security.

In late February, gangs launched coordinated attacks targeting key state infrastructure. They seized control of more than two dozen police stations; opened fire on the main international airport, forcing it to close for nearly three months; and stormed Haiti’s two biggest prisons, releasing more than 4,000 inmates.

The violence led to the resignation of former Prime Minister Ariel Henry in late April and the installation of a transitional presidential council and Conille as the new prime minister.

Diego Da Rin, with the International Crisis Group, noted that gang violence began diminishing in late May, with the first contingent of Kenyans arriving in late June.

He noted that so far, Kenyans appeared to have limited their patrols to neighborhoods in Port-au-Prince that have not been seized by gangs.

No offensive operations just yet

“There really hasn’t been any offensive operations,” he said.

In upcoming months, the Kenyans will be joined by police and soldiers from the Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Benin, Chad and Jamaica for a total of 2,500 personnel.

Conille said restoring security is a top priority for him but warned it would take time. He said the objective is to recapture all gang-controlled territory “house by house, neighborhood by neighborhood, community by community.”

The resolution UN authorized the force to deploy for an initial one-year period with a review after nine.

“We need to free Haiti from all sorts of gangs that are killing and raping the population,” Conille said.

Gang violence also has left more than half a million people homeless in recent years as rival gangs fight for control of more territory. More than half of those displaced are women and girls, with many living in crowded and unsanitary makeshift camps and shelters.

On Wednesday (Jul. 17), the U.N. noted that rape is being used in most camps as a deliberate tactic to control women’s access to scarce humanitarian aid.

Sima Bahous, executive director of U.N. women, urged Haiti’s newly appointed government to prevent and respond to such violence.

“The level of insecurity and brutality, including sexual violence, that women are facing at the hands of gangs in Haiti is unprecedented,” she said in a statement. “It must stop now.”

Source: africanews.com

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Muslims urge Lagos Govt to declare Hijrah Holiday

The Lagos Central Mosque has commemorated the 1446AH Hijrah with a call on the state government to emulate other states in declaring a public holiday for subsequent celebrations of the new Islamic year.

The Baba Adinni of Lagos State and Executive Chairman of Lagos Central Mosque, Alhaji Sikiru Alabi-Macfoy, urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to emulate Oyo, Ogun and Osun states in declaring every Muharram 1, as a public holiday.

The event, held at the Lagos Central Mosque, Idumota, was well-attended by the representatives of the divisional Imams, scholars, leaders of various Muslim associations, women groups, students from Arabic and Islamic institutions, among others.

Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy described the hijrah as a significant event in the history of Islam.

He urged Nigerians to imbibe the lessons of hijrah by moving away from sinful acts and turn a new leaf.

Chairman on the Occasion, Major-General Tajudeen Olanrewaju (retd) enjoined Muslims to always maintain peaceful coexistence with their neighbours.

The former Minister of Communications described the Hijrah as a milestone in the prophethood of Prophet Muhammad, as it marked the beginning of liberation for the believers.

“Hijrah is an established event in Islam that happened some 1446 years ago when the Holy Prophet migrated from Makkah to Madinah. It was a sacrifice on the part of the people of yesterday, which has become the ease the Muslims of today enjoy,” he said.

A major highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the 1446 Hijrah Calendar by the Lagos Central Mosque.

The guest lecturer/Chief Imam of Oluwole Ogba Central Mosque, Sheikh Sa’adullah Bello, said Hijrah, by implication, goes beyond the migration of Prophet Muhammad and his companions from Makkah to Madinah, saying it also includes eschewing bad deeds for good deeds, and promoting what is right always against the wrong.

Sheikh Bello urged leadership of the Muslim Ummah to always be role models to young ones.

“The Lagos Central Mosque has served the purpose of settling disputes. We have had instances where constitutional courts referred cases to the Lagos Central Mosque. At our council level, we have prevented crises and brought about lasting peace, even in cases of land disputes,” he said.

“The Prophet established harmonious relationship between Muslims and other people in the community, including the Christians, Jews and pagans,” he added.

The guest lecturer warned Muslims against hypocrisy, saying it destroys one’s good deeds.

According to him, “The atmosphere where hypocrisy operates does not yield positive things.”

Source: thenationonlineng.net

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Pilgrimage to Mecca: How we spent N90bn subsidy – Hajj Commission

July 18, 2024

The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, (NAHCON) Malam Jalal Arabi, has said that the N90 billion subsidy provided by the Federal Government for the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage was largely used as intervention to bridge gaps in pilgrims’ flight fares.

A total of 65,000 Nigerian pilgrims performed this year’s Hajj in Saudi Arabia, while 40 of them died during the pilgrimage.

The House of Representatives had constituted a committee, chaired by Sada Soli (APC Katsina), to probe NAHCON’s performance during the pilgrimage after some state governors expressed dissatisfaction with the Commission, especially over alleged inadequate provision of accommodation in Muna, Saudi Arabia, and insufficient Basic Travel Allowance, BTA, for pilgrims from their states.

Making clarification on the utilization of the fund, Arabi explained that the subsidy was utilized to address the increase in the 2024 Hajj costs.

“The Federal Government granted us a N90 billion subsidy, which we carefully utilised to address the unprecedented increase in Hajj costs.

“The high dollar exchange rate caused the cost per seat to surge above N9 million, necessitating our intervention to mitigate the burden on pilgrims.

“To address the issue, we convened a meeting with representatives from all states to discuss the matter. We then compiled a list of intending pilgrims who had already paid the approved N8 million.

“Subsequently, we supplemented the remaining N1.6 million for each of the over 50,000 pilgrims to complete the payment, ensuring that their Hajj journey was not disrupted,” he said.

“The N1.6 million used to supplement the Hajj fares of 50,000 pilgrims would amount to N80 billion, leaving about N10 billion from the money provided by the government. In the interview, Arabi said the remaining funds were prudently used for other logistics but did not provide the breakdown,” he stressed.

Arabi added that, unlike other commissions in Nigeria, NAHCON does not receive regular subventions from the Federal Government, either monthly or annually, to fund its operations.

On the achievements of NAHCON under his leadership, he said: “In our first year in the helms of affairs, we made concerted efforts to deliver optimal results, acknowledging that we faced some obstacles.

“Nevertheless, we have drawn valuable insights from our experiences and are committed to building upon our progress.

“The Commission has already commenced preparations for next year’s Hajj, and we are confident that our services will be even more efficient and effective, surpassing the expectations of our esteemed pilgrims.”

It would be recalled that NAHCON concluded the airlift of Nigerian pilgrims from Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, with the arrival of 312 pilgrims from Kwara State.

Source: dailypost.ng

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South Asia

 

Afghans question credibility of India’s Foreign Minister’s claims on people-to-people ties: Afghan Journalist

July 18, 2024

In response to India’s Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar’s recent assertions on the foundational role of people-to-people connections in India’s relationship with Afghanistan, many Afghans express skepticism and disappointment, perceiving these claims as lacking substantive support.

Jaishankar emphasized India’s commitment to fostering bilateral ties through humanitarian aid, highlighting contributions such as food, essential medicines, and pesticides to alleviate Afghan challenges. He underscored historical ties as the cornerstone of these relations and reiterated India’s proactive stance at international forums like the SCO, addressing Afghanistan’s developmental and capacity-building needs.

However, the perspectives from Afghanistan present a contrasting view. Bilal Sarwary, a prominent Afghan journalist, says, “Over 3,000 Afghan students, legitimate enrollees in Indian universities, continue to wait for their visas to complete their studies. Do they have no future? Why are they denied visas if people-to-people connections are so foundational?”

The absence of visas for Afghan patients since 2021 contradicts India’s proclaimed humanitarian assistance ethos. Furthermore, India’s contribution of 50,000 tons of wheat over three years falls short of Afghanistan’s weekly food needs amidst deepening economic hardship.

Sarwary continued his critique, highlighting, “For almost two decades, over 60,000 Afghan patients sought medical treatment in India annually. Since 2021, no visas have been issued to Afghan patients. Where is the humanitarian assistance that India professes to offer under its neighborhood first policy?”

He also pointed out, “India’s contribution of 50,000 tons of wheat assistance in 3 years falls short when the weekly need is over 100,000 tons in the country. Has this truly alleviated the worst humanitarian crisis in the world in India’s neighborhood?”

Furthermore, Bilal Sarwary, an Afghan journalist, stated, “Trade between the two countries has significantly decreased given strict restrictions on Afghan imports. How does this align with the claims of strong bilateral relations? he continued, “Many Afghans feel neglected, seeing themselves as casualties in Indo-Pak rivalries, amid allegations of Afghan lives lost due to ISI hostility towards Indian affiliations.”

Afghans feel abandoned by India, which they perceive as having disregarded them as if they never existed. It is saddening to say, but many believe that India can never be a trusted partner, given its recurrent pattern of disengagement whenever there is a change in  Kabul, he stated.

Meanwhile, Jaishankar reaffirms India’s enduring commitment to Afghanistan’s stability and socio-economic development. Yet, Afghan sentiment reveals a profound sense of disillusionment and abandonment.

As Afghanistan navigates uncertain times, the expectations of its people for meaningful support and sustained engagement from international partners, including India, remain high, demanding more than rhetorical assurances to rebuild trust and foster genuine bilateral cooperation.

Source: khaama.com

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Afghan fathers with daughters believe in gender equality, says new study

July 18, 2024

In a recent study from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, research shows that fathers with first-born daughters demonstrate a stronger commitment to women’s human rights in Afghanistan.

The research advises Afghan men to support women and girls to bring about real change in Afghanistan. Conducted by researchers at the Lab for Human Security at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, the study was released on Wednesday, July 17th, the eve of the third anniversary of the Taliban’s return to power.

Spanning a relatively long period since the withdrawal of U.S. forces on August 30, 2021, the study analyzed responses from 26,000 randomly selected individuals.

According to the university, “Fathers with older daughters are among Afghans who have a stronger commitment to women’s rights as a national priority.”

Based on the findings, these fathers ranked gender equality from one to five, giving the highest marks compared to others, and more than others agreed with the statement: “I believe achieving human rights for women is one of the main priorities for the future of my country.”

With the Taliban’s return, conditions have worsened for depriving and discriminating against girls in educational and social institutions. Charlie Carpenter, a professor of political science and director of the Human Security Lab, who worked as the lead researcher in this study, says that focusing on women’s rights is the first step.

She added, “Men must also act on behalf of their women and daughters to truly change their circumstances.”

“Just caring about women’s rights is the first step; but men must also act on the behalf of women and girls to truly bring about change. The question of men’s support for women’s human rights is not just a question for Afghanistan, but for all countries,” Carpenter said.

Published in the scientific journal “Politics and Gender,” the study notes that when male participants whose first child is a daughter were given space and encouragement to think about their child’s gender, they prioritized defending women’s rights more.

The authors of the study recommend that human rights advocacy groups implement initiatives that encourage men to think about and support their daughters.

This study underscores the pivotal role fathers can play in advancing women’s rights in Afghanistan. By recognizing and supporting their daughters’ rights, they contribute significantly to fostering a more equitable and inclusive society for all women in Afghanistan.

Source: khaama.com

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Afghanistan and Turkey Commit to Boost Bilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation

2024-07-18

KABUL(BNA): The Acting Minister of Industry and Commerce of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan convened with members of the Turkish Entrepreneurship and Business Ethics Association (İGİAD) to discuss the enhancement of trade and economic relations between the two nations.

According to the Ministry’s press release, Al-Hajj Nooruddin Azizi, the Acting Minister of Industry and Commerce, along with Ahmadullah Zahid, Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce, met with members of the Turkish Entrepreneurship and Business Ethics Association.

During the meeting, both sides emphasized the historically strong relations between Afghanistan and Turkey and discussed ways to further strengthen trade and economic cooperation.

Initially, Nooruddin Azizi highlighted Afghanistan’s strategic position as a link between regional countries and provided insights into sectors with high potential for investment and success in Afghanistan.

Notably, the Turkish Entrepreneurship and Business Ethics Association (İGİAD), comprising 350 active members, stands as the largest trade association in Turkey, encompassing diverse sectors. The delegation’s visit aimed to share insights on the growth and strengthening of trade and economic ties, as well as to explore potential investment opportunities in Afghanistan.

Source: bakhtarnews.af

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Panjshir Police Command Reports 26 Million Afghanis Revenue from Passport Issuance

2024-07-18

PANJSHIR(BNA): The Passport Department of the Panjshir Police Command has generated substantial revenue of 26 Million Afghanis in the the current year 2024, reflecting effective administrative operations and service delivery.

Abidullah Uqab Farooqi, spokesperson for the Panjshir Police Command, informed Bakhtar News Agency that this revenue was accumulated through the issuance of 4,789 passports to citizens. The funds have been securely deposited into the account of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.

Farooqi highlighted that the passport issuance process in Panjshir is proceeding transparently and efficiently, ensuring smooth and hassle-free service for the citizens. This achievement underscores the department’s commitment to maintaining high standards of public service and operational integrity.

Source: bakhtarnews.af

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Amid Bangladesh anti-quota protests, High Commission in Dhaka asks Indians to avoid travel

The mission also provided multiple 24-hour emergency numbers for any assistance.

July 19, 2024

People run as police fire teargas during a coffin rally of anti-quota protesters at the University of Dhaka, a day after the clash with Bangladesh Chhatra League, the student wing of the ruling party Bangladesh Awami League, and anti-quota protesters, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, July 17, 2024. (REUTERS)People run as police fire teargas during a coffin rally of anti-quota protesters at the University of Dhaka, a day after the clash with Bangladesh Chhatra League, the student wing of the ruling party Bangladesh Awami League, and anti-quota protesters, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, July 17, 2024. (REUTERS)

The Indian High Commission in Dhaka Thursday advised Indians in the country to avoid leaving their places of residence in the wake of the intense anti-quota protests that have killed at least a dozen people.

The protests against reservation in government jobs for the family members of Liberation War veterans prompted the Bangladesh government to close all universities, schools and colleges for an indefinite period late Tuesday. The government even asked residential students to leave their dormitories.

“In view of the ongoing situation in Bangladesh, the Indian community members and members and the Indian students residing in Bangladesh are advised to avoid travel and minimise their movement outside their living premises,” the Indian High Commission said in a statement Thursday.

The mission also provided multiple 24-hour emergency numbers for any assistance. There are approximately 7,000 Indians in Bangladesh, according to the High Commission.

The nationwide protests are the largest and most intense since Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was re-elected to a fourth term in office, and are fuelled by high unemployment among the youth, with nearly a fifth of the 170 million population out of work or education.

The clashes broke out Monday as members of the ruling Awami League’s student outfit clashed with anti-quota protestors who say the system blocks meritorious students from government services. Demonstrators accused the ruling party’s student wing, Bangladesh Chhatra League, of attacking their “peaceful protests” with backing from police. The student protesters Thursday moved to enforce a nationwide shutdown.

Fifty-six per cent of government jobs are reserved under the current quota system. Of this, 30 per cent is for the descendants of the 1971 Liberation War freedom fighters, 10 per cent for backward administrative districts, 10 per cent for women, five per cent for ethnic minority groups and one per cent for people with disabilities.

Bangladesh government officials told The Indian Express that while there may be 30 per cent reservation on paper for descendants of the 1971 Liberation War veterans, only about 10 per cent of this category is filled.

Thousands of students armed with sticks and rocks clashed with armed police in Dhaka Thursday as Bangladesh authorities cut some mobile internet services to quell the protests.

Law Minister Anisul Huq said the government was willing to talk to the protesters, who want the state to stop setting aside 30% of government jobs for the families of those who fought in the 1971 war of independence from Pakistan.

“We are willing to sit (and talk with them). Whenever they want to sit in the discussion, it will happen,” Huq said.

On August 7, the Supreme Court is due to hear the government’s appeal against a High Court verdict that ordered the reinstatement of the quota. Hasina has asked the students to be patient until the verdict.

Source: indianexpress.com

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Mideast

 

Islamic Jihad: Terrorist Ben Gvir's violation of sanctity of al-Aqsa Mosque "serious attack"

18 Jul 2024

GAZA July 18. 2024 (Saba) - The Islamic Jihad Movement in Palestine on Thursday considered terrorist Itamar Ben Gvir's violation of the sanctity of the courtyards of the blessed al-Aqsa Mosque Thursday morning, armed with the weapons of the occupation police, a serious attack that reveals the entity's continuation and persistence in Judaization plans and efforts to extend control over the sanctities of our nation.

In a press statement issued on Thursday, the movement mobilized the sons of the Palestinian people and all Muslims everywhere to respond to this barbaric terrorist attack, in defense of the path of our noble Messenger, may God bless him and grant him peace, and our sanctities.

The movement condemned the Arab and Islamic silence regarding these attacks that target the sanctities of the nation, its dignity and its history.

The Jihad Movement held the regimes that normalized relations with the entity fully responsible for their continued normalization, saying "Whoever takes the blood of children, women and civilians lightly, the enemy will not respect his dignity or sanctities."

Source: saba.ye

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UN court opinion due on occupied Palestinian land

July 19, 2024

THE HAGUE: The UN’s top court will on Friday hand down its view on the legal consequences of Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories since 1967, amid growing international pressure over the war in Gaza.

Any opinion delivered by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) would be non-binding, but it comes amid mounting concern over Israel’s war against Hamas sparked by the group’s brutal October 7 attacks.

A separate high-profile case brought before the court by South Africa alleges that Israel has committed genocidal acts during its Gaza offensive.

Judges will read their findings at 1300 GMT at the opulent Peace Palace in The Hague, the home of the ICJ.

The UN’s General Assembly asked the ICJ in late 2022 to give an “advisory opinion” on the “legal consequences arising from the policies and practices of Israel in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem.”

The ICJ held a week-long session in February to hear submissions from countries following the request — supported by most countries within the Assembly.

Most speakers too during the hearings called on Israel to end its 57-year occupation. They warned a prolonged occupation posed an “extreme danger” to stability in the Middle East and beyond.

But the United States said Israel should not be legally obliged to withdraw without taking its “very real security needs” into account.

Israel did not take part in the oral hearings.

Instead, it submitted a written contribution in which it described the questions the court had been asked as “prejudicial” and “tendentious.”

The General Assembly has asked the ICJ to consider two questions.

Firstly, the court should examine the legal consequences of what the UN called “the ongoing violation by Israel of the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination.”

This relates to the “prolonged occupation, settlement and annexation of the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967” and “measures aimed at altering the demographic composition, character and status of the Holy City of Jerusalem.”

In June 1967, Israel crushed some of its Arab neighbors in a six-day war, seizing the West Bank including east Jerusalem from Jordan, the Golan Heights from Syria, and the Gaza Strip and Sinai Peninsula from Egypt.

Israel then began to settle the 70,000 square kilometers (27,000 square miles) of seized Arab territory.

The UN later declared the occupation of Palestinian territory illegal, and Cairo regained Sinai under its 1979 peace deal with Israel.

The ICJ has also been asked to look into the consequences of what it described as Israel’s “adoption of related discriminatory legislation and measures.”

Secondly, the ICJ should advise on how Israel’s actions “affect the legal status of the occupation” and what are the consequences for the UN and other countries.

The ICJ rules in disputes between states. Normally, its judgments are binding although it has little means to enforce them.

In this case however, the opinion it issues will be non-binding, although most advisory opinions are in fact acted upon.

Source: arabnews.com

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Senior Hezbollah commander among 5 reported dead in Israel strikes on Lebanon

July 19, 2024

BEIRUT: Israeli strikes on Thursday killed at least five people, including the commander of a Hamas-allied group in Lebanon, militant groups and a security source said.

Since Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel sparked war in Gaza, Israel has repeatedly targeted militants of Jamaa Islamiya, whose armed wing has launched attacks on Israel from southern Lebanon over the past nine months.

A Lebanese security source said that an Israeli strike on a house near the southern village of Jmaijmeh killed three people and wounded several more.

Hezbollah said two of its members were among the dead, including Ali Jaafar Maatouq. A source close to the Islamist group described him as a commander of its elite Al Radwan operational unit.

The Israeli army confirmed that its air force had "eliminated" Ali Jaafar Maatouq in a strike against "a command centre where Hezbollah terrorists were operating in the Jmaijmeh region".

Hezbollah earlier announced the death of another member in an Israeli raid in southern Lebanon. The Israeli army confirmed that it had killed him "in the Qana area", adding that he had been "involved in numerous attacks against Israel".

The army said it killed another Al Radwan commander in Majdal Selm, near Jmaijmeh, which was not immediately confirmed by Lebanese sources.

Jamaa Islamiya, a military group close to Hamas, said in a statement that its commander Mohamad Jbara had died in a "despicable Zionist raid" in Lebanon's eastern Bekaa Valley.

Hamas's armed wing also announced Jbara's death and said he was one of its commanders.

Lebanon's state-run National News Agency said Jbara was killed when an "enemy drone" targeted his vehicle in the village of Ghazze.

The Israeli military said it "eliminated" Jbara in a strike, who was "responsible for carrying out terror attacks and missile launches" against Israel.

Jamaa Islamiya, formed in the 1960s, has claimed responsibility for multiple attacks against Israel, including joint operations with Hamas in Lebanon.

The cross-border violence since October has killed 516 people in Lebanon, according to an AFP tally. Most of the dead have been fighters, but they have also included at least 104 civilians.

On the Israeli side, 18 soldiers and 13 civilians have been killed, according to authorities.

The violence has raised fears of all-out conflict between the two foes, who last went to war in the summer of 2006.

Source: arabnews.com

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Yemen Houthis claim responsibility for drone attack on Tel Aviv

July 19, 2024

TEL AVIV: Yemen’s Houthis military spokesperson said on Friday the group attacked Tel Aviv with a drone and will continue to target Israel in solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza war.

A statement from the militia, who have carried out dozens of attacks against Red Sea shipping in what they say is an act of solidarity with Palestinians during the Gaza war, said their “UAV force” attacked “one of the important targets in the occupied Jaffa region, what is now called Israeli Tel Aviv.”

The drone attack killed one man and slightly wounded four others, the Israeli military and emergency services said.

The explosion, which did not trigger air raid alarms, occurred hours after the Israeli military confirmed it had killed a senior commander of the Iran-backed Hezbollah militia in southern Lebanon.

An Israeli military official said a “very big” drone was used in an attack on Tel Aviv on Friday that killed one person, and “human error” led to the missile not being intercepted.

The military official told a briefing that an attack by the Iran-backed Houthis was “one of the possibilities” being investigated.

The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said “a very big drone that can travel long distances” was used in the attack which was at 3.12 a.m. (0012 GMT).

He said the drone “crashed into an apartment building” and “it wasn’t a tiny drone.”

The official said the aim was “terrorism.” “Their main goal was to kill civilians in Israel.”

The official said the drone was detected but the alarm was not immediately raised because of “human error.”

“There was no alert that sounded in Tel Aviv because it wasn’t activated.

“There was a human error that caused the interception and defense systems not to be operated,” the official said.

“Obviously, one of the possibilities we’re looking into is Yemen because of the Houthi announcements. But we’re not ruling out anything.”

The official said another drone was detected on Israel’s eastern border.

“Last night, there was another incident where we thwarted a UAV on our eastern border, another UAV.” He gave no details on where it came from.

The attack on Tel Aviv is likely to fan fears about further fallout from the Gaza war, as the Houthis and other Iranian proxies side with the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

It said air patrols had been increased to protect Israeli airspace but said it had not ordered new civil defense measures, however the mayor of Tel Aviv said the city, Israel’s economic center, had been moved to a state of heightened alert.

A spokesman for Yemen’s Houthi militants, which like Hezbollah are backed by Iran, said the group had attacked Tel Aviv with a drone and would continue to target Israel in solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza war.

In a televised speech, spokesperson Yahya Saree called Tel Aviv a primary target “within the range of our weapons.”

Israel’s emergency services said the body of a 50 year-old man was found in an apartment close to the explosion and said the circumstances were being investigated.

Four people were taken to hospital with slight shrapnel injuries and four others were treated for shock. All of them were later released, the hospital said.

Footage from the site showed an apparent impact on a building located close to US embassy premises in Tel Aviv. Broken glass could be seen strewn across the city pavements as crowds of onlookers gathered nearby. The site was sealed off by police tape.

Israeli media said fragments from an drone of a kind widely used by Iranian-backed militia groups in the region had been recovered nearby.

Israel has been exchanging daily missile and artillery fire with Hezbollah along its northern border and in southern Lebanon since the start of the war in Gaza, prompting fears of a wider regional conflict if the situation escalates.

The Houthis have also stepped up attacks against Israel and Western targets, saying they are acting in solidarity with the Palestinians.

Israel invaded the Gaza Strip following an attack by Hamas militants on southern Israel in October last year.

Source: arabnews.com

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Pakistan

 

Nearly two dozen inmates fall victim to ‘delayed justice’

July 19, 2024

ISLAMABAD: The plan to appoint ad-hoc judges in the Supreme Court to clear the backlog of pending criminal cases has underscored a sorry state of affairs in the judiciary, revealing how litigants, especially those who filed jail petitions, are suffering due to the inefficiency of the system where justice is mostly delayed.

According to the Supplementary Cause List for July 10, a three-judge bench consisting of Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail, Justice Ayesha A. Malik and Justice Malik Shahzad Ahmad Khan, was set to take up a raft of 45 jail petitions, but it turned out that at least 10 of the appellants on the list had passed away before the top court could even take up their pleas, much less adjudicate on them.

A month ago, the same bench had taken up 50 similar pleas, only to find that 12 of the convicts had already died.

Ironically, the majority of these jail petitions were filed in 2017, though some were filed over subsequent years as well. However, most of them were fixed for hearing in May or July of the current year. All the jail pleas were taken up for hearing for the first time by the court and since these had become infructuous, they were subsequently disposed of accordingly.

Though a number of convicts whose cases were heard by the bench had already been released on different dates, the petitioners who filed jail petitions were facing life imprisonment under different sections of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), including murder charges or rape.

Jail pleas

“Jail petitions suggest that the convict who filed the petition believing that he has been wrongly arraigned in the charge has no means to engage a private counsel,” commented Qazi Adil, Vice Chairman of Islamabad Bar Council, while talking to Dawn.

Mr Qazi, who specialises in criminal cases, said these jail petitions should always be heard on an urgent basis since unlike civil cases, no compensation could be granted to the accused or convict if they were charged for an offence, served out a large time in jail or expired while serving the jail term, but were later held to be innocent at the appeal stage.

Usually, the jail superintendent has the authority to facilitate an inmate to submit a simple application on a piece of paper if he believes that the convict has no means to engage a private counsel to plead his innocence in the courts. In such cases after receiving jail petitions, the Supreme Court office prepares a file by assigning a number under the jail plea in which the state counsel is hired to defend the petitioner.

Recently, the counsel regretted, that the same bench on Tuesday last acquitted four men convicted of the 2004 murder of Inspector Raja Saqlain, who investigated the assassination attempt on former military dictator Pervez Musharraf in Rawalpindi.

The Supreme Court acquitted Arshad Sati, Tahir Abbasi and Qari Younis on the basis of weak evidence, but ironically one of the accused Eid Muhammad had died in prison, Qazi Adil said, adding that had he been alive, he would have also walked out of the prison as a free man.

“Laws governing criminal cases should be amended in a way by providing a direct appeal before the Supreme Court against the conviction by the lower judiciary than going through the arduous task of first granting leave to appeal and then taking up the appeal in the normal course,” said a senior lawyer from the Punjab prosecution department.

Waiting for justice

The supplementary cause list for July 10, which consists of 45 cases, revealed that Muhammad Arif, who was sentenced to 25 years for offences under Section 376(1) of the PPC (it pertains to rape), died on Oct 14, 2018, when his jail petition of 2017 was taken up by the court. Likewise, Muhammad Boota, facing life imprisonment, died on Sept 7, 2021, when his 2017 jail petition was taken up by the court.

Saifullah, facing life imprisonment, died on Aug 19, 2022, when his 2017 jail petition was taken up; Falakh Sher died on Jan 7, 2018; Muhammad Ramzan expired on March 28, 2020; Abdul Rehman died on July 6, 2020; Moeen Akhtar died on Aug 8, 2023; Bux Ali died on Jan 25, 2023; Pir Bux died on March 22, 2021; and Qaim Muhammad died on Oct 30, 2023.

Likewise, the supplementary cause list of May 28 showed that Muhammad Younis, facing life imprisonment, died on May 29, 2023; Shaukat Ali died on Nov 1, 2020; and Rasheed Ahmad died on March 1, 2022. Their jail appeals relate to 2018.

Likewise, Abdul Khalid died on Oct 8, 2022, Muhammad Aslam died on Feb 3, 2022; and Aqib died on July 23, 2021. Baboo, who had filed a jail petition in 2019, died on Dec 7, 2021.

Muhammad Ameen died on Nov 19, 2021, even though he had filed his jail plea in 2020, Abdul Ghaffar had also filed an appeal in 2020 but died on Oct 21, 2022.

Liaquat Ali, who filed an appeal in 2021, died on Nov 2, 2021, Muhammad Akram filed his plea in 2020 but passed away on June 8, 2024, Ghulam Farid died on July 29, 2023, three years after he filed his appeal. Muhammad Murad died on April 8, 2024; he had filed his plea in 2018.

Source: dawn.com

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PIA to resume direct flights from Quetta to Jeddah

July 18, 2024

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) on Thursday announced that it will resume direct flights from Quetta to the Saudi Arabian capital of Jeddah from next month, a spokesperson for the carrier confirmed.

The news comes as PIA goes through the process of privatisation. The privatisation of the loss-making state-owned enterprises has long been on the International Monetary Fund (IMF)’s list of recommendations for the country, which is seeking to strike a deal with the fund for a longer-term bailout this month.

The privatisation commission pre-qualified six consortiums for bidding in June and expects to conclude the privatisation process soon.

PIA’s sales officer for Hajj and Umrah coordination, Shabbir Tareen, told Dawn.com today that the airline would launch direct flights between the two cities by August 6 next month.

“[Up to] 340 passengers could be taken from Quetta to Jeddah within a week through two flights,” he said, stating that the flights between the two cities were discontinued after the coronavirus pandemic halted travelling.

Moreover, due to construction work being done on the runway of the airport, foreign flights could not be launched, he added.

He added that with the reintroduction of direct flights from Quetta to the Kingdom, Umrah pilgrims will be able to avoid the hassle of going to Islamabad, Karachi, or Lahore first.

Balochistan Governor Sheikh Jaffar Khan Mandokhail — according to a statement issued by his public relations officer — appreciated the resumption of direct flights between the cities, adding that the decision was a “people-friendly” one and that it was “highly commendable”.

“Pakistan International Airlines is resuming direct flights from Quetta to Jeddah for Umrah [pilgrims] from August 6,” the governor said.

“With this good initiative, the people of the entire province will get rid of the compulsion to go to Islamabad, Karachi, or Lahore before going to Saudi Arabia,” he said.

“I would like to express my gratitude to the Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif and his entire team and the PIA officials,” he added.

Source: dawn.com

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Top politicians fear 'constitutional breakdown'

July 19, 2024

ISLAMABAD: The main ruling and opposition parties have expressed fear that a constitutional breakdown could occur as the controversy over reserved seats verdict rages on.

Senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader and lawyer Hamid Khan said on Thursday that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)-led government was pushing the country towards a constitutional breakdown through its unconstitutional actions.

He said this while talking on Geo News' programme "Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath" after a senior ruling party member shared similar concerns on the matter.

Citing the government’s resistance against the top court order allowing the PTI to claim reserved seats in the assemblies, Hamid said the entire constitutional system would fall apart if the Supreme Court's rulings were not enforced.

Earlier, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif expressed fears about a “constitutional meltdown” in the country.

“I don’t have any information [but] this is just my gut feeling that constitutional breakdown is about to happen.. sooner or later [but] it is going to happen,” he said without elaborating further.

However, the PML-N leader clarified that he was not discussing the possibility of martial law being imposed in the country. “There should be a political solution to political problems,” he maintained.

Amid opposition from friends and foes alike, the federal minister admitted that the PML-N government announced the move to ban the PTI in haste. “Yes, you can say that we declared this prematurely and consultation with the allies [in this regard] is mandatory,” he added.

Asif said any decision regarding imposing a ban on the PTI would be taken in line with the consensus among the allies. “We will take this major step after creating broad consensus InshaAllah,” he maintained.

When asked about the perception that the incumbent rulers are playing the role of facilitator in the institutions’ alleged fight against jailed PTI founder Imran Khan, he rejected the perception saying: “This is about Pakistan”.

“Since their [PTI] ouster from power and the attitude they adopted, the PTI has become an existential threat to the country,” the senior PML-N leader said, adding that the embattled party was receiving all-out support from the US “either diplomatic or legislative”.

He also claimed that the PTI hired lobbyists in the US “who have garnered [them] support of different lobbies”.

Separately, speaking in another news channel programme, the defence minister warned “We would go to every extent to save the government”, The News reported.

He said the PML-N government would go to any extent to salvage the current setup.

He said there were whispers, “let October come, and then they will also file an application regarding elections. There are whispers in certain circles for cancelling the elections on a petition. But we will go to any extent to save the government”.

Source: thenews.com.pk

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Pakistan, Chinese militaries to continue cooperation: Gen Munir

July 18, 2024

Emphasising on all-weather friendship between Pakistan and China, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir has said that bilateral ties between both countries are "exceptional" and their militaries will "continue to engage in bilateral military cooperation".

Revitalising bilateral ties between the South Asian neighbours, General Munir said that both countries "have always weathered the vicissitudes of the strategic environment with mutual trust and unwavering belief in each other's support".

The army chief made the remarks on the occasion of the 97th anniversary of the founding of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) of China hosted at the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi, a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Thursday.

According to the military's media wing, Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong was the chief guest on the occasion. Defence Attaché Major General Wang Zhong, Chinese Embassy officers and officials from the tri-services of Pakistan attended the event.

General Munir, while welcoming the Chinese guests, congratulated the PLA and praised its contribution to Chinese defence, security and the nation's development.

During his speech, the army chief termed the Pak-China bilateral ties "exceptional" and based on "unwavering belief in each other’s support".

"Relations between the Pakistan Army and the Peoples Liberation Army are strong and both militaries continue to engage in bilateral military cooperation, demonstrating the iron-clad brotherhood between the two countries," he concluded.

Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Zaidong thanked COAS Munir for hosting the event for the 97th anniversary of the founding of the PLA.

"Pakistani military has always been at the forefront of countering terrorism and has made great sacrifices for the peace and stability of Pakistan and the region," the diplomat said.

"We stand ready to work with our brethren to combat terrorism and firmly believe that no force can destroy the iron-clad friendship between China and Pakistan and the brotherhood between the two militaries," he concluded.

Prior to this prestigious event, Chinese Minister of the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC) Liu Jianchao paid a three-day visit to Pakistan last month to co-chair the third meeting of the Pakistan-China Joint Consultative Mechanism (JCM) for the political parties on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

In his meeting with COAS Munir, he had lauded the Pakistan Army’s support in providing security to Chinese nationals and projects in the country, according to the ISPR.

They had also discussed matters of mutual interest, including regional peace and stability, and reviewed progress on the multibillion-dollar CPEC project.

The COAS reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to the strategic partnership with China and pledged full support for the successful implementation of CPEC, a flagship project of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Chinese investment and financial support for Pakistan since 2013 have been a boon for the South Asian nation's struggling economy, including the rolling over of loans so that Islamabad is able to meet external financing needs at a time when foreign reserves are critically low.

Beijing has over $65 billion in investment in road, infrastructure and development projects under the CPEC as part of the Belt and Road scheme.

Source: thenews.com.pk

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Pakistan's population growth 'highest in region'

July 18, 2024

Pakistan ranked as the fifth most populous country in the world, with a population growth rate which is the highest in the region, data shared by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) suggested. 

Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal on Thursday unveiled the “First Ever Digital Census Key Findings Report”, compiled by the PBS.

The report, which marks a significant milestone for Pakistan, provides comprehensive data crucial for the development of urban and rural areas and effective disaster response.

According to the detailed results of the 7th Population and Housing Census-2023, Pakistan is the 5th most populous country in the world with a total population of 241.49 million with all the provincial capitals' most populous cities.

The census data shows that the current population growth rate is 2.55% and if it continues, the country's population will be doubled by 2050.

As per the stats, Karachi is ranked the 1st most populous city with a population of 20.4 million while the Sindh province’s count stands at 55.70 million.

Meanwhile, Lahore is the 2nd most populous city with 13 million and the provincial population count stands at 127.69 million.

Peshawar ranks 3rd with 4.76 million Khyber Pakhtunkhawa’s population is 40.86 million, while Quetta ranks 4th with 2.59 million and 14.89 million for the provincial population count in Balochistan.

The federal capital of Islamabad’s population count stood at 2.36 million.

The census data shows that the total population of the country, 241.49 million, is represented by 51.48% males and 48.51% females, with a gender ratio of 106.12.

The average number of members in a Pakistani family is 6.30 while the dominant religion is Islam representing 96% of the population.

The age-wise enumeration of the population shows 36.47 million people under five years, 97.53 million under 15 years, 62.58 million between 15 to 29 and 190.27 million below 40 years of age.

Meanwhile, the literacy indicators show 61% of Pakistan's population aged ten years and above is literate.

As per the PBS data, population growth is adversely affecting the per capita income and standard of living of citizens. There is a need to develop an effective strategy for population control for better distribution of resources and economic prosperity.

Addressing a ceremony, the minister highlighted Pakistan’s achievement as the first country in South Asia to conduct a digital census.

“The data collected through this census will be instrumental in guiding our development efforts and enhancing our ability to respond to natural calamities,” he stated.

The census, mandated by the Constitution to be conducted every ten years, faced scrutiny in 2017 when the Sindh government expressed concerns over the results, he said.

Source: thenews.com.pk

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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1210894-pakistans-population-growth-highest-in-region-pbs

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Imran, Bushra challenge arrest in new Toshakhana reference

July 18, 2024

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi on Thursday moved the Islamabad High Court (IHC) against their arrest in a new Toshakhana reference filed by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).

The legal woes of the deposed prime minister and his spouse refused to die down following the couple's arrest in the fresh NAB reference related to state gifts, which came just hours after their acquittal in the iddat case last week — also known as the un-Islamic nikah case — which was the last hurdle in their release from jail.

In the petition filed in the IHC against the arrests, Khan has nominated the chairman, director general and other officers of the anti-graft watchdog as respondents.

“The petitioners have been arrested in violation of law, Constitution and fundamental rights,” the petition stated.

It maintained that Khan and Bushra had been “illegally” remanded into NAB’s custody while their arrest had affected the fundamental rights of “liberty and pre-arrest”.

On July 13, a team of the anti-corruption watchdog headed by Deputy Director Mohsin Haroon had arrested Khan and Bushra from the Adiala Jail in the new reference related to alleged "misuse of power for acquiring Toshakhana gifts".

The NAB team rearrested Bushra Bibi after she was released from Adiala Jail's Gate No 3, following her exoneration in the iddat case.

Subsequently, an accountability court on Sunday approved eight-day physical remand each of the PTI founder and his wife in the fresh graft reference.

Khan has been behind bars since August last year after he was sentenced in the Toshakhana criminal case and subsequently sentenced in other cases ahead of the February 8 elections.

Although the former PM has been granted bail in several May 9 cases registered in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Faisalabad, an anti-terrorism court (ATC) last week cancelled his bail in 12 May 9 cases registered against him and thousands of his supporters in connection with violence against the military and other state installations that erupted following his arrest in May 2023.

In June, the Islamabad High Court overturned Khan's conviction on charges of leaking state secrets in the cipher case wherein he was handed down a 10-year prison sentence on charges of making public a classified cable sent to Islamabad by Pakistan's ambassador in Washington in 2022.

Also, the ex-premier Khan was given jail sentences — one of 14 years and the other three years — in two cases pertaining to illegally acquiring and selling state gifts. Both sentences have been suspended by high courts while his appeals are heard — however, the conviction in both cases still stands.

Source: thenews.com.pk

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Azam Tarar backs appointment of retired judges, move to ban PTI

July 18, 2024

The ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) isn't coming slow on its move to slap a ban on the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as another federal minister came in support of the government's potential move.

Turning up the political heat, Federal Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar on Thursday put his weight behind the government's plan to ban the Imran Khan-founded party.

Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, addressing a press conference in Islamabad on July 15, announced the PML-N-led government's decision to ban the former ruling party as well as file references against former prime minister Imran Khan and ex-president Arif Alvi for treason under Article 6 for their involvement in the dissolution of the National Assembly in April 2022.

Expressing his opinion in a statement today, the federal minister also defended the Judicial Commission of Pakistan's (JCP) proposal to appoint retired jurists in the Supreme Court as ad hoc judges, saying that the country's Constitution allows such appointments.

The issue of invoking Article 6 against the PTI leaders could be brought before the Parliament House for a debate by lawmakers, he added.

"There is a genuine case of Article 6 against the PTI leaders as the Constitution was violated by dissolving the [National] Assembly in the presence of a no-confidence motion."

The decision to ban the PTI, the law minister said, was not taken last year only to maintain the political environment in the country.

Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa, who chairs the JCP, had nominated four judges — Justice (retd) Mushir Alam, Justice (retd) Maqbool Baqir, Justice (retd) Mazhar Alam Miankhel, and Justice (retd) Sardar Tariq Masood — as ad hoc judges in the Supreme Court. However, two judges, Justice Mushir and Justice Baqir, have so far declined the offer.

Talking to Geo News today, Justice (retd) Baqar said he was deciding against becoming an ad hoc judge due to "personal reasons".

However, he mentioned that the appointment of ad hoc judges to the apex court is in line with the law and that criticism is "baseless".

Meanwhile, Justice (retd) Alam's letter addressed to the JCP chairman, states: "After careful deliberation, under present circumstances, it is with a heavy heart that I regret to inform you that I am unable to accept this esteemed appointment."

The JCP, chaired by CJP Isa, is set to meet tomorrow (Friday) to consider the appointment of four retired apex court judges, according to the official note which describes the high pendency of cases as the reason for the appointment of ad hoc judges.

However, the PTI termed the move as "dishonesty," as the party's chairman Gohar Ali Khan, in a statement on X on July 16 said: "There is a genuine apprehension that the move is aimed at PTI's reserved seats judgement and its standing as a party."

Earlier today, PTI Secretary-General Omar Ayub Khan, in conversation with journalists in Islamabad, also said that hiring three or four judges won't address the issue of thousands of pending cases.

"The motive behind the move is to appoint 'like-minded' judges to the Supreme Court. Political workers and the lawyers' fraternity reject the move," Ayub, the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, said.

In the same statement, Law Minister Tarar dismissed reports about an extension in the tenure of CJP Isa, saying that the debate about the extension of the tenure of government employees arose because of the high pension bill.

He further said that in late April or early May, there was a meeting with the Chief Justice regarding the Judicial Commission in which he said that he was not interested in extending the tenure.

Source: thenews.com.pk

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Salik stresses skill development for global market competition

July 18, 2024

Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, has directed the Workers Welfare Fund to prioritize skill development initiatives and proposed collaboration with external companies to establish state-of-the-art skill development institutes.

During his visit to the Workers Welfare Fund, the Minister expressed his appreciation for the Fund's overall achievements and emphasized the need to expedite the processing of welfare grants to ensure that workers benefit in the shortest possible time.

He was briefed on the Fund's operations and achievements.

During the briefing, the Minister highlighted that major economically developed countries, including Saudi Arabia, Germany, Korea, and Japan, are experiencing a shortage of skilled human capital.

Highlighting the critical need for skill development globally, the Minister noted that economically strong countries are facing a shortage of skilled human capital.

He stressed that Pakistan should seize this opportunity by focusing on skill development for its youth.

The Minister's visit underscores the government's commitment to enhancing the welfare and development of workers in Pakistan, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills to compete in the global market.

Source: radio.gov.pk

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https://www.radio.gov.pk/18-07-2024/govt-committed-to-enhancing-worker-welfare-salik

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Finance Minister reaffirms commitment to export-led growth

July 18, 2024

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has reaffirmed government's commitment for fostering export-led growth and providing a conducive environment for local manufacturers.

He was talking to a delegation of the Pakistan Mobile Phone Manufacturers Association in Islamabad today.

The Minister emphasized the importance of increasing the focus on the policy framework for exports.

He also acknowledged the valuable feedback and underscored the government's commitment for expanding the entire digital ecosystem in the country.

The delegation highlighted the necessity for a stable and supportive policy environment that encourages local manufacturers.

The meeting agreed on the need for a strategic and supportive policy framework aimed at fostering local manufacturing and enhancing export potential.

Source: radio.gov.pk

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Pakistan Navy continues rescue operation at Chashma Jhelum canal

July 18, 2024

Rescue operations by the Pakistan Navy continue at the Chashma Jhelum Link Canal.

According to details, a special diving team from the Pakistan Navy has recovered the bodies of five out of six individuals, who drowned in the canal.

Other rescue departments and local administration are also coordinating with the Pakistan Navy in the search for the remaining body.

Source: radio.gov.pk

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Europe

 

MWL Condemns Israeli Official's Storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque

19 July 2024

The Muslim World League (MWL) condemned on Thursday the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque by an Israeli official, and the Knesset’s endorsement of a resolution rejecting the establishment of a Palestinian state, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

MWL Secretary-General Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa denounced in a statement Israel's hostile practices which he said constitute an assault on the sanctity of the holy sites and a dangerous defiance of international laws.

He added that Israel’s practices undermine the efforts exerted to achieve comprehensive peace for all and end the large-scale suffering in the Palestinian territories.

On Thursday, Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir stormed into Jerusalem’s most sensitive holy site, threatening to disrupt Gaza cease fire talks.

Moreover, the Knesset passed a resolution rejecting the establishment of a Palestinian state.

Source: english.aawsat.com

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https://english.aawsat.com/gulf/5041608-mwl-condemns-israeli-officials-storming-al-aqsa-mosque

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Jury out in trial of Islamist preacher Anjem Choudary

18-07-24

A jury has retired to consider verdicts in the trial of Islamist preacher Anjem Choudary who is accused of directing a terrorist organisation.

Choudary, who was convicted of supporting the so-called Islamic State in 2016, is accused of taking a “caretaker role” in directing Al-Muhajiroun (ALM), as well as being a member of the banned organisation and encouraging support for it through online meetings.

The 57-year-old, of Ilford, east London, is said to have given lectures to the New York-based Islamic Thinkers Society (ITS), which prosecutors allege was “the same” as ALM.

ALM was proscribed as a terror organisation in the UK in 2010, though it is said the group has continued to exist under various names.

Shortly after 3pm on Thursday, Judge Mr Justice Wall sent the jury out to begin deliberating on verdicts at Woolwich Crown Court.

During the trial, Choudary denied inviting support to ALM through lectures to ITS because the group “didn’t exist”.

Also on trial is Khaled Hussein, 29, whom prosecutors say was a “follower and dedicated supporter” of Choudary.

He has pleaded not guilty to membership of ALM while Choudary denies directing a terrorist organisation, being a member of a proscribed organisation and addressing meetings to encourage support for a proscribed organisation.

Choudary was arrested in east London on July 17 of last year while Hussein, from Canada, was detained at Heathrow Airport having arrived on a flight the same day.

The jury was sent home by Mr Justice Wall at 4.15pm on Thursday and will resume its deliberations at 10am on Friday.

Source: belfasttelegraph.co.uk

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https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/uk/jury-out-in-trial-of-islamist-preacher-anjem-choudary/a460981056.html

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Tell MAMA: Why Is Government-Funded Group Under-Reporting Anti-Muslim Hate Crimes by More than 90%?

18 July 2024

Acompany receiving millions of pounds in public funding as the Government’s flagship agency monitoring anti-Muslim hate crimes has systematically underestimated the national scale of incidents, analysis by Byline Times has found.

Tell MAMA (Measuring Anti Muslim Attacks) was formed in 2012 as an initiative of the community interest company Faith Matters.

But, from 2017 to 2022, the figures it has compiled are consistently lower than anti-Muslim hate crime statistics published by the Home Office based on police data – raising fundamental questions about the accuracy and value of Tell MAMA’s figures.

A Byline Times analysis comparing Crime Survey estimates with Home Office data shows that police records severely under-report anti-Muslim hate crimes in Britain by nearly 90%. This suggests that Tell MAMA’s data provides an even poorer picture – failing to capture what is likely to be many tens of thousands of incidents every year.

As anti-Muslim hatred appears to have reached epidemic levels since 2019, the Government lacks the institutional capacity to understand the scale of this national crisis.

Faith Matters did not respond directly to this newspaper’s questions.

Instead, it replied through its legal representatives, Mishcon de Reya, and published a public response. According to Mishcon de Reya, Tell MAMA’s under-reporting is entirely legitimate as the agency cannot be expected to report more incidents than the police – even though other hate crime monitoring services such as the Community Security Trust tend to produce higher figures for antisemitic hate incidents than those published by the Home Office.

A Decade of Failure?

Last July, Tell MAMA published a major report, ‘A Decade of Anti-Muslim Hate’. This was the first time it had released statistics on anti-Muslim hate crimes since its annual report in March 2020.

According to Mishcon de Reya, “this shows that the number of cases reported has increased steadily over time, including increasing from 1,223 in 2016 to 2,301 in 2021”. It described the report as evidence of Tell MAMA’s national monitoring service since 2012.

“The figure for 2022 is 2,656 and the figure for 2023, which is yet to be published, is higher still… In total, over 20,000 Muslims in the UK have used Tell MAMA’s reporting and monitoring service.”

But, from 2017 to 2022, Tell MAMA’s statistics were consistently lower than anti-Muslim hate crime figures published by the Home Office based on police data.

This is particularly questionable given that, as the UK Statistics Authority points out, police data systematically underestimates hate crimes. Under-reporting is likely worse for anti-Muslim hate crimes due to a lack of trust among communities in how authorities deal with such issues.

For 2017/18, the Home Office reported 2,965 anti-Muslim hate crimes for England and Wales based on police data. For 2017, Tell MAMA reported 1,400 anti-Muslim hate crimes across the entirety of the UK (1,565 fewer cases).

The Home Office reported 3,530 anti-Muslim hate crimes for 2018/19; Tell MAMA reported 2,000 for 2018 (1,530 fewer). The Home Office reported 3,089 for 2019/20; Tell MAMA reported 2,100 for 2019 (503 fewer). The Home Office reported 2,703 for 2020/21; Tell MAMA reported 2,200 for 2020 (503 fewer). The Home Office reported 3,459 for 2021/22; Tell MAMA reported 2,301 for 2021 (1,158 fewer). The Home Office reported 3400 for 2022/23; Tell MAMA reported 2,656 for 2022 (744 fewer).

Despite stating that it works in close cooperation with UK police forces, Tell MAMA’s 10-year report throws little light on how the cases logged in this period relate to police data. The report also adopts a way of categorising each year that isn’t consistent with Home Office annual reporting, further undermining ways to compare data.

If Tell MAMA’s national monitoring service was robust and useful, its figures would be expected to fill the gaps missed due to police under-reporting.

Overall, from 2017 to 2022, the police recorded 19,146 anti-Muslim hate crimes for England and Wales (excluding Scotland). In the same period – which is when Faith Matters ceased mentioning that it was running a national anti-Muslim hate crime monitoring service in its CIC filings – Tell MAMA reported 13,143 anti-Muslim hate crimes for England, Scotland and Wales combined – 6,003 fewer than the police figures.

Tell MAMA’s figures in this period were, on average, 32% lower than police data.

Police Not Seeing Most Anti-Muslim Hate Crimes

Tell MAMA’s figures therefore offer even less of a useful picture than that provided by flawed police data.

How badly police data under-reports anti-Muslim hate crimes can be understood by comparing data from the Crime Survey for England and Wales, which provides large-scale statistics based on long-term trends derived from surveying the public, with recorded police data published by the Home Office.

The latest available data from the Crime Survey is for 2019/20. It shows that the estimated number of hate crimes was about 190,000. That is approximately 45% higher than hate crimes recorded by the police which were 105,090, indicating that police figures are nearly half the real scale of hate crimes.

The gap is even wider for anti-Muslim hate crimes.

That year, the Crime Survey estimated that 0.8% of the Muslim population (about 3.8 million people according to the 2021 Census) had experienced religiously-motivated hate crimes – which would translate into an estimated 30,400 people experiencing hate crimes. In contrast, the police recorded just 3,089 anti-Muslim hate crimes.

According to the latest data, then, the police under-report anti-Muslim hate crimes by a little under 90%.

Given that Tell MAMA’s statistics from 2017 to 2022 are overall 32% lower than police figures, this suggests that Tell MAMA underestimates the scale of anti-Muslim hate crimes in Britain even further – by more than 90%.

And, after 12 years in operation, Tell MAMA not only appears to lack any strategy to do anything about this, but seems reluctant to even acknowledge the problem.

Distorting the National Picture

The statistical significance of missing more than 90% of anti-Muslim hate crimes cannot be overstated. It means that anti-Muslim hatred is now a national crisis – but one the Government is largely blind to.

Earlier this year, Tell MAMA reported 2,010 incidents of anti-Muslim hatred between 7 October 2023 and 7 February 2024. This is likely to be a small fraction of the real number, which could be closer to more than 20,000 hate crimes (the same number of users Tell MAMA says it has served since 2012).

Tell MAMA’s figures obscure rather than illuminate this crisis, leaving the Government asleep at the wheel on one of the most divisive issues of our time – a challenge which plagues both political parties.

The prevailing approach to this crisis is not based on reality, but on statistical artefacts derived from a tiny fraction of actual incidents.

When Byline Times’ findings were put to Faith Matters for comment, Mishcon de Reya made clear that it wanted this newspaper to refrain from publishing the article until it had sent over a “substantive” reply. Before that reply was sent, however, Tell MAMA published a statement on its website responding to Byline Times’ analysis of its figures.

In this statement, Tell MAMA did not dispute the analysis, but claimed that “it is impossible to record all hate crimes and particularly difficult given the scale, nature, geographical location and nationality of British Muslims from over 50 Muslim-majority countries”.

“We are not meant, nor resourced to be, an organisation that looks for hate incidents or crimes on the internet or at a street level,” it said. “We report on what is provided to us by victims, and which is unsolicited.”

It added: “No third-party hate crime reporting service will have data that is higher than police forces. That is a simple fact.”

Yet, during the past five years, figures for antisemitic incidents in the UK produced annually by the Community Security Trust (CST) – the Jewish community service which Tell MAMA was modelled on – have been consistently higher than national police figures.

For 2023, CST reported 4,103 incidents of anti-Jewish hate, whereas the Home Office recorded only 1,510 anti-Jewish hate-crimes in this period. In 2021, CST reported 2,261 incidents, while the Home Office recorded 1,288 incidents. In 2020, CST recorded 1,684 antisemitic incidents, while the Home Office recorded 1,205 incidents. (In the past five years, CST figures were only lower than police figures in 2022, by around 300 reports).

The Tell MAMA statement appears to concede that the organisation does little in terms of outreach work to ensure that it can detect cases more accurately, noting: “We do not go looking for cases or seeking material online or offline. If we did so, we would be here with a workload that would far exceed the limited resources we have and the data would not be credible.”

It accepted that “of course, the numbers of cases we receive will be less than the police”.

Given that police data systematically fails to capture the vast majority of cases of anti-Muslim hate incidents across the country, Tell MAMA’s statement is notable for at once admitting that its figures are even lower than the police’s, while simultaneously failing to acknowledge that missing 90% of anti-Muslim hate crimes is a problem that must be urgently addressed.

The evidence of poor quality data reinforces concerns raised by cross-bench peer Baroness Shaista Gohir – supported by a number of British Muslim members of the House of Lords including former Conservative Party co-chair Baroness Sayeeda Warsi – in several letters sent to ministers of the last Government, seen exclusively by Byline Times.

As reported in the first part of this investigation, those letters raised concerns about Tell MAMA’s opaque governance, its lack of transparency in use of public funds, poor data practices, and a lack of accountability.

Against this backdrop, the question of how the new Labour Government will address rising Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hatred is urgent but unclear.

Faith Matters appears to have spent a considerable resources attempting to silence criticism, rather than addressing concerns. The idea of a Government-funded entity threatening litigation to block publication of criticisms of its work raises a question of its own: is it financing this using public funds? Like much else about the organisation, we may never know.

Source: bylinetimes.com

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https://bylinetimes.com/2024/07/18/tell-mama-why-is-government-funded-group-under-reporting-muslim-hate-crimes-by-more-than-90/

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Tributes paid to 'figurehead' for city's Muslims

Tributes have been paid to a figurehead of Bradford's Muslim community after his death at the age of 88.

Syed Mahroof Shah helped to found the Bradford Council of Mosques, which on Thursday described him as a "revered spiritual leader" in the city, "the UK and around the world".

Thousands of people are expected to turn out for his funeral on Friday. He had been suffering from a long illness.

Pir Sahib, as he was affectionately known, was credited with helping to set up an organisation which developed and managed 18 different mosques.

In a statement announcing his death, the Bradford Council of Mosques Executive said he was a "pioneer" of the Masajid movement, which began in the city and influenced the development of mosques throughout the UK and Europe.It added: "His vision and dedication laid the foundations for a stronger, more connected Muslim community, fostering spiritual growth and unity.

"His presence was a constant source of inspiration and his contributions to to our community will be deeply missed.

"Thousands of his followers found solace and direction in his teachings and his absence leaves a void that will be felt by all who knew him."

Writing on her Facebook page, the MP for Bradford West, Naz Shah, also paid tribute, describing Pir Sahib as a "towering figure who always gave me time".

She said: "He was an instrumental leader who brought together not only the local Muslim community in Bradford but many across this country.

"His efforts to the local community are unmatched and will be remembered for generations to come."

Community organisation the Khidmat Centre described Pir Sahib's death as the "passing of a religious icon".

Writing on X, formerly known as Twitter, the organisation said he had left an "indelible mark on the spiritual and religious landscape of the Muslim world."

Source: bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9e97k038yjo

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Russia doesn’t ‘rule out’ nuclear response to US missiles in Europe – deputy FM

18 Jul, 2024

Moscow reserves the right to deploy missiles with nuclear warheads if the US goes ahead with plans to station longer-range missiles in Germany, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov told journalists on Thursday.

Ryabkov was commenting on a recent announcement by Washington and Berlin, in which the two nations said the weapons could arrive in Germany as early as 2026. Asked about a potential Russian response to the deployment, he stated that “no options are ruled out,” including nuclear options.

According to the deputy foreign minister, Moscow should measure its response to these types of steps on the basis of the combined power of all NATO members. This means that Russia should not impose any “internal restraints” upon itself, he said, adding that Moscow should have “the broadest possible” number of options.

Any move on Russia’s part would not be a “threat to anyone” but rather “the most effective… approach to responding to changing threats,” Ryabkov said. He also argued that if Berlin believes that “escalatory actions” are justified, then Moscow is free to react “in a way it deems the most appropriate.”

In a joint press release published by the White House on July 10, Washington and Berlin said the US “will begin episodic deployments of the long-range fires capabilities of its Multi-Domain Task Force in Germany in 2026” as part of a strategy involving long-term deployment in the future.

The list of the US weapons that could end up in Germany includes SM-6s, Tomahawk missiles, and hypersonic weapons which are still in development, according to the statement. The missiles will only have conventional armaments, the document said.

Commenting on the development, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius told several local media outlets that the future deployment is “nothing other than a [response] to the Russian threat of the Iskander [missiles] in Kaliningrad.” Pistorius also called the US weapons a deterrent, adding that “we need to protect ourselves the best we can.” He also claimed that the US and Germany “do everything to ensure that no escalation occurs.”

On Thursday, Ryabkov said that a further escalation is “not predetermined.” Instead, it is the West that “uses trumped-up pretexts” and accuses Russia of somehow threatening its security and then “following this escalation path.” He called this policy “regrettable,” but stated that it would not stop Russia from ensuring its own national security.

Source: rt.com

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https://www.rt.com/russia/601284-nuclear-response-us-missiles-europe/

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North America

 

Former St. Anthony bank being converted to mosque vandalized or broken into 7 times in two months

July 18, 2024

A building being established as a youth-focused center and mosque in St. Anthony has been vandalized and broken into seven times in two months, according to the Council on American-Islamic Relations.

Damage is estimated to exceed $20,000 and the Minnesota chapter of CAIR is asking law enforcement to investigate whether the incidents at the Tibyan Center were motivated by bias.

“These attacks have shaken our community, and many members who were excited about the opportunity the new center represents are now feeling fearful and vulnerable,” Jaylani Hussein, CAIR-Minnesota executive director, said in a Wednesday statement. “We believe these attacks may be part of a broader effort to intimidate and harm Muslim communities and we call on law enforcement and the community to help in bringing these perpetrators into custody.”

The incidents began at the end of May after the Tibyan Center announced plans for the former Bremer Bank building on Lowry Avenue near Stinson Parkway, according to CAIR-MN.

There are no signs outside the building indicating the plans or who owns it, according to St. Anthony Police Chief Jeff Spiess.

“The owner indicated to us that he believes the crime is bias-motivated, though I am unable to determine at this time the motivations of the suspects involved,” Spiess said Thursday. The department is investigating five reports it has received: three were classified as burglaries, one an attempted burglary and one criminal damage to property.

During the first break-in, fire extinguishers were sprayed and computers and other items were broken; a window was broken in June, according to CAIR-MN. A member of the center stopped a break-in on July 7. During the latest incident on Tuesday, windows were broken and there was other vandalism.

Security cameras have captured the incidents and, in two of the cases, police noted that surveillance video showed juvenile suspects.

CAIR-MN asked anyone with information to contact them or call St. Anthony police at 612-782-3350.

The Tibyan Center project is in the application phase and is scheduled to be presented to the Planning Commission on Aug. 20, according to the city.

Nick Ferraro contributed to this report.

Source: twincities.com

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https://www.twincities.com/2024/07/18/st-anthony-bremer-bank-building-mosque-vandalized/

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Suffolk man faces hate crime charges, accused of ramming car with 4 Muslim men in it

Jul 19, 2024

A Suffolk County man is facing hate crime charges, accused of threatening four Muslim men in traditional dress and ramming the car they were in.

Brendan Marchetti, 35, is the defendant.

He lives near the Huntington mosque the men said they’d been heading to for prayer.

The alleged incident happened in June.

News 12 spoke with an 18-year-old, who didn’t want his name used, who said he was in the car with his brother, who was driving, and two uncles, when the defendant told them they “don’t belong here” and that he “wants to kill all of us.”

He said he was in shock and couldn’t believe it.

Suffolk District Attorney Ray Tierney said: “Prosecuting hate crimes is essential to not only protect victims but to also uphold the values of tolerance and respect, especially for other people’s religions. It is unconscionable that my prosecutors cannot ask for bail on cases such as this due to ‘Bail Reform,’ especially where such violence is alleged.”

News 12 went to Marchetti’s home and a man at the house said they had no comment.

Source: longisland.news12.com

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https://longisland.news12.com/suffolk-man-faces-hate-crime-charges-accused-of-ramming-car-with-4-muslim-men-in-it

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US Democrats ramp up calls for Biden to drop out of 2024 election race

18 July 2024

Top Democratic leaders have increased pressure on US President Joe Biden to drop out of the race for reelection amid worries about his chances against Republican opponent Donald Trump.

Chuck Schumer, Hakeem Jeffries, Nancy Pelosi, and Adam Schiff, are the latest Democratic leaders who are pressuring Biden to withdraw from the 2024 election, US media reported on Wednesday.

The reports came as California Representative Adam Schiff became the 20th congressional Democrat to publicly call for Biden to drop out of the race.

“While the choice to withdraw from the campaign is President Biden’s alone, I believe it is time for him to pass the torch,” said Schiff in a statement shared by US media outlets.

Also Schumer, the Senate Democratic leader, and Jeffries, the House Democratic leader, told 81-year-old Biden to withdraw from the presidential race, the ABC News broadcaster reported, citing a source familiar with the conversation.

Moreover, CNN reported that former House speaker Pelosi reportedly warned Biden in a recent phone call that polling suggests he may not be able to beat his Republican challenger Trump and could harm Democrats' chances of winning the House of Representatives in November.

A recent poll by AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research revealed that almost two-thirds of Democrats across the United States prefer a different candidate. It indicated that roughly 30% of Democrats expressed strong confidence in Biden's mental capability to effectively serve as president, a slight decrease from the 40% reported in a February poll.

The Democratic president, who tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday and his health issues have come under scrutiny following the disastrous first televised presidential debate with Trump, has repeatedly rejected calls from Democrats to drop out of the race.

“The President told both leaders he is the nominee of the party, he plans to win, and looks forward to working with both of them to pass his 100 days agenda to help working families,” White House spokesperson Andrew Bates said in a statement.

However, in an interview with BET News yesterday, Biden said that that he would consider stepping down from the presidency in his second term if health concerns required it, despite downplaying the likelihood of such a scenario.

Amidst preparations for the Democratic National Convention in Chicago from August 19 to 22, Democrats are contemplating the possibility of a virtual vote to formally nominate Biden as the party's nominee in early August.

However, there are some members of Congress who are advocating for a delay and have circulated a letter urging the party to hold off on the nomination.

Source: presstv.ir

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https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2024/07/18/729565/US-democrats-call-Biden-drop-out-election

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US military officially ends mission of controversial pier off Gaza's coast

18 July 2024

The US military has officially declared an end to the mission of its floating pier off the coast of the Gaza Strip that was apparently used to facilitate an Israeli massacre instead of delivering aid to the besieged territory.

Speaking at a news briefing on Wednesday, Navy Vice Admiral Brad Cooper, the deputy commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM), claimed that the water dock had “achieved its intended effect to surge a very high volume of aid into Gaza”.

"The maritime surge mission involving the pier is complete. So there's no more need to use the pier," he added.

US President Joe Biden announced back in March the construction of the $230 million pier that involved 1,000 US soldiers and sailors.

However, bad weather delayed the initial installment of the maritime corridor, and then in late May, broke it apart. Since then, the US military has detached the pier and moved it to the port of Ashdod.

As a result, the pier operated only 25 days and delivered supplies equivalent to just a couple of days’ worth of the aid that flowed into Gaza before Israel’s ongoing genocidal war.

Meanwhile, reports said it facilitated the Israeli massacre against the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza that killed at least 274 people and wounded nearly 700 others on June 8.

The ex-US aid director for the West Bank and Gaza, Dave Harden, said that the now-closed pier was “interesting in theory, but in practice, an absolute failure – and my concern is who will be held accountable?”

“What we have not seen is a robust opening of the crossings … I think this goes first to the Israelis, and second to the Americans,” he told Al Jazeera. “And in the meantime, the Gazans themselves continue to suffer. This was a tragedy compounding a tragedy."

Biden had already expressed disappointment in the temporary water dock, saying, “I was hopeful that would be more successful.”

Several congressmen had also criticized the Gaza pier for its cost and potential risk to US troops.

Furthermore, the Gaza government had condemned the US project as a publicity stunt “to beautify its ugly face.”

Similarly, aid groups had denounced the pier as a distraction, saying Washington should have instead put pressure on Israel to open Gaza crossings and allow humanitarian aid to enter the blockaded Palestinian territory.

“The US wanted to show that it was doing something to aid the humanitarian effort, and yet it wasn’t successful in pushing Israel to do the most obvious necessary thing — which is to allow full access via the land crossing, or allow access from Israeli and West Bank markets,” said Tania Hary, the executive director of Gisha, an Israeli rights group.

“So it put in this incredibly expensive, inefficient workaround that ended up proving to be a completely disastrous waste of money, and a colossal and embarrassing failure on top.”

Israel unleashed its brutal Gaza onslaught on October 7, 2023, after the Hamas resistance group carried out its historic operation against the occupying entity in retaliation for the regime’s intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people.

According to the Gaza Health Ministry, the Tel Aviv regime has so far killed at least 38,794 Palestinians, mostly women, and children, in Gaza, and injured 89,166 others.

Source: presstv.ir

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https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2024/07/18/729537/US-ends-mission-pier-Gaza-coast

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Southeast Asia

 

Malaysia enjoys political stability, Johari tells Malaysian community in Delhi

19-07- 2024

NEW DELHI: Malaysia enjoys political stability and the next elections will not be held before 2027, Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said.

The minister said this while speaking at a Malaysian community event in New Delhi on Thursday evening.

While stating that Malaysia remains politically stable, Johari stressed the need for greater engagement with the youth.

He said every year there will be 400,000 new voters and the younger generation is well-informed about what is happening in the world.

Johari also told the gathering about his engagements during the July 16-19 India visit.

Highlighting the potential to grow Malaysia-India economic relations, Johari said “after China, the next country Malaysia should look at is India.”

Johari praised India’s focus on achieving food security, saying it ensures political stability.

Source: thesun.my

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://thesun.my/home-news/malaysia-enjoys-political-stability-johari-tells-malaysian-community-in-delhi-GA12745003

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King’s installation a special occasion for Malaysians

19-07- 2024

KUALA LUMPUR: Shouts of Daulat Tuanku! Daulat Tuanku! will reverberate through the air as His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar is installed tomorrow as the 17th King of Malaysia in a ceremony steeped in royal tradition.

The installation will certainly be a very special moment for the King as he goes through a similar process that his father, the late Sultan Iskandar Sultan Ismail, underwent when he ascended to the federal throne as the eighth Yang di-Pertuan Agong 40 years ago.

The Grand Chamberlain of Istana Negara Datuk Azuan Effendy Zairakithnaini said recently that the ceremony, which will reflect royal traditions, would evoke memories of Sultan Iskandar’s installation as Sultan Ibrahim will sit on the same throne used by his father.

Sultan Ibrahim will surely be known for his affirmative actions, self-assuredness and single-minded focus to ensure that his subjects’ welfare is always put first.

Known for his outspokenness and tough stand against attempts to cause disunity among the people, the King is set to put the nation on the right footing towards greater prosperity for all.

More than just a constitutional monarch, His Majesty has a history of speaking his mind. He has put politicians, civil servants and even the man on the street on notice that he will not tolerate any shenanigans.

As the Johor Sultan, he once ordered a “Muslim-only” laundrette to stop its discriminatory practice, saying it was embarrassing and against his inclusive vision of a Bangsa Johor.

His Majesty said such “nonsense” was unacceptable, and told the operator to either comply or risk enforced closure.

“This is not a Taliban state and as the Head of Islam in Johor, I find this action unacceptable as this is extremist in nature,” he said, calling on the owner to apologise to him and Johoreans.

In another incident, six months after the 15th general election was held in 2022, His Majesty expressed concern over “incessant reports regarding the Malaysian government’s stability”.

He chided the 222 MPs for not being able to get on the same page and for efforts to derail the stability that was being carefully built.

“Enough is enough. How long more must the 30 over million people of our country endure this situation? The economy must recover and Malaysia’s prosperity must be prioritised,” His Majesty stressed.

To mark the Lunar New Year in 2021, the then Johor Sultan paid tribute to the Chinese community for helping to develop the state since the beginning of its Sultanate in the 16th century.

“My forefathers had the foresight to forge a unique relationship with the Chinese. They are not pendatang (immigrants). They were invited to Johor to open our land and cultivate plantations. They are Bangsa Johor – just like the Malays, Indians and others, who are all Malaysians,” His Majesty said.

Today, the King’s subjects are exuberant and looking forward to his reign with great hope and the assurance of a brighter future for all under the Malaysian sun.

Physiotherapist Siti Aminah Taufek Hisham, 28, from Shah Alam, said the people’s unity would be forged deeper under His Majesty.

“I believe His Majesty will admonish politicians who use harsh words against the various races, and there will be greater unity among the people.”

Dr Subramaniam Gopinath, 49, from Petaling Jaya said: “I am convinced that His Majesty will be close to the people. I believe he will keep an eye on government policies and ensure that all Malaysians and especially the lower income groups are never neglected.”

Madeline Chan, 33, an accountant from Subang Jaya, who is originally from Johor Bahru, said as Johor Sultan, His Majesty looked after the people’s interests and forged Bangsa Johor.

“So I do not doubt that his reign will usher in Bangsa Malaysia, where the people will live in peace and harmony, with respect for one another.”

Source: thesun.my

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://thesun.my/local-news/king-s-installation-a-special-occasion-for-malaysians-AA12744217

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Malaysia-Philippines bilateral agricultural cooperation to be increased - KPKM

19-07- 2024

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia and the Philippines will increase bilateral relations in the field of agriculture, especially in terms of agricultural trade as well as technical cooperation in the sub-sector of crops, livestock and fisheries.

The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry (KPKM) in a statement today said the matter was discussed by its minister, Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu during a meeting with the Philippine Ambassador to Malaysia, Maria Angela Abrera Ponce at Menara Lembaga Pertubuhan Peladang (LPP) here on Wednesday.

According to the statement, the meeting was the first held since Ponce took up her diplomatic appointment in Malaysia at the end of November last year.

“During the courtesy call, Ponce said Malaysia is the largest trading partner for the Philippines’ agricultural sector in the ASEAN region and that she has been given the responsibility by the Philippine government to strengthen agricultural cooperation especially from the perspective of food security with Malaysia,“ the statement said.

Trade data for 2023 recorded that the value of exports from Malaysia to the Philippines is as much as RM5.41 billion compared to the value of imports from the Philippines to Malaysia which is as much as RM1.28 billion which contributes to a positive trade balance for the country.

In the meeting, Mohamad also invited Ponce to the Agriculture, Horticulture and Agro Tourism (MAHA) Exhibition 2024, to be held from Sept 11 to 22, in addition to inviting the Philippines to also participate in the bi-annual event.

Also present at the meeting were KPKM deputy secretary-general (policy) Datuk Azah Hanim Ahmad, Department of Agriculture Malaysia director-general Datuk Nor Sam Alwim and officers from KPKM as well as from departments and agencies under KPKM’s purview.

Source: thesun.my

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://thesun.my/local-news/malaysia-philippines-bilateral-agricultural-cooperation-to-be-increased-kpkm-KA12745492

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OIC condemns Israeli Knesset’s Anti-Palestinian state bill

19-07- 2024

KUALA LUMPUR: The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has strongly condemned the Israeli Knesset’s recent approval of a bill rejecting the establishment of a Palestinian state, calling it a continuation of colonial occupation policies and a violation of Palestinian rights.

In a statement released Thursday, the OIC emphasised that this act defies international law and relevant United Nations (UN) resolutions.

The OIC reiterated its unwavering support for a two-state solution and urged the international community to take responsibility in ending the Israeli occupation.

“The organisation called for a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace in the region, enabling Palestinians to enjoy their legitimate national rights, including the right to return, self-determination, and the establishment of an independent sovereign state along the borders of June 4, 1967, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital,“ the statement read.

In the statement, the OIC also condemned the intrusion of extremist Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir into the courtyards of the Al-Aqsa Mosque, which occurred under the protection of Israeli occupation forces.

The organisation stressed the need to defend the mosque and restore it to Palestinian sovereignty, considering it an integral part of Palestinian territory occupied in 1967.

The OIC also voiced support for efforts by the State of Palestine to mobilise the international community and activate mechanisms of international justice to hold Israel accountable for its actions.

Furthermore, it condemned Israeli attempts to undermine the status and role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) by attacking its facilities and employees and impeding its activities.

Reaffirming its resolutions from previous summits and ministerial councils, the OIC urged continued collaboration with international actors to halt Israeli military aggression against Palestinians, particularly in the Gaza Strip.

The organisation called on all countries that have not yet recognised the State of Palestine to do so and to support its bid for full membership in the United Nations.

Source: thesun.my

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://thesun.my/local-news/oic-condemns-israeli-knesset-s-anti-palestinian-state-bill-EA12745436

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