History’s unanswered questions

Posted on 28/09/2025 by admin

The creation of Pakistan, as proposed by the Two-Nation Theory, asserts that Hindus and Muslims are separate nations incapable of coexisting. This claim prompts several important inquiries that shed light on the complex factors involved in Pakistan’s formation and subsequent history:

1. **What was the significant role of the Muslim-majority provinces in the establishment of Pakistan?**
2. **What motivated Jogendranath Mandal, a Dalit leader from Bengal, to advocate for the establishment of Pakistan?**
3. **Why did Abul Ala Maududi and other prominent Islamic religio-political parties oppose the Pakistan Movement?**
4. **What factors contributed to the separation of East Pakistan from West Pakistan within 24 years?**
5. **Why did it take nine years to establish Pakistan’s first constitution, despite the possibility of implementing Islamic laws sooner?**
6. **What were the reasons behind Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s appointment of Jogendranath Mandal as the inaugural chairman of the Constituent Assembly and later as the first minister for law and labour?**

Let us explore these critical questions in detail.

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### The Role of Muslim-Majority Provinces in Pakistan’s Creation

The contribution of Muslim-majority provinces, especially Punjab, to the establishment of Pakistan has been extensively studied. Historians highlight Punjab’s strategic significance during the Pakistan Movement as a crucial factor in the All-India Muslim League’s success in the 1945-46 general elections.

In the 1946 elections, the Muslim League won 73 out of 175 seats in Punjab, all of which were Muslim constituencies. These seats were won mainly by local notables, including landlords, who are believed to have aligned with the Muslim League due to fears of potential land reforms proposed by the Indian National Congress. This suggests that their support may have been motivated more by the protection of their economic interests than by religious nationalism alone.

In contrast, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (formerly North-West Frontier Province), another Muslim-majority region, did not have a Muslim League-led cabinet. Its government strongly resisted the idea of Pakistan’s creation, highlighting the diverse political dynamics even within Muslim-majority provinces.

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### Jogendranath Mandal and the Support of Bengali Dalits

Jogendranath Mandal, a prominent Dalit leader from Bengal, supported the Pakistan Movement with hopes that the new political framework would address entrenched social inequalities. The rigid caste system severely curtailed individual freedoms for Dalits, and the Islamic principle of equality presented an attractive alternative.

This participation indicates that the demand for a new state stemmed from social and class struggles rather than purely religious identification. Religion played a role in rallying support in certain areas, but the core of the movement, especially in Bengal, was about structural and social change for the oppressed.

Mandal’s advocacy embodies Marx’s theory of class struggle, where marginalized groups seek liberation through systemic transformation, demonstrating that Pakistan’s foundation was also intertwined with social emancipation aspirations.

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### Opposition from Jamaat-i-Islami and Abul Ala Maududi

Not all Muslim leaders supported the partition of India. Jamaat-i-Islami, led by Abul Ala Maududi, opposed the creation of Pakistan. They viewed partition as a violation of the concept of the **Ummah**, the global Muslim community united beyond geographical borders.

Maududi argued that dividing the subcontinent with artificial borders risked weakening Muslim solidarity and identity. For Jamaat-i-Islami, partition was not just a political change but also a fracture in the religious and cultural unity of Muslims, challenging the idea of the Ummah’s cohesion.

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### Factors Behind the Separation of East Pakistan

The separation of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) from West Pakistan in 1971 resulted from a complex interplay of long-term and immediate causes.

– **Long-term factors** included linguistic discrimination against Bengali speakers and disputes over provincial autonomy.
– **Short-term triggers** involved the 1970 general elections, in which the Awami League, representing East Pakistan, won a majority but was denied power.
– **Immediate causes** comprised military actions such as Operation Searchlight and the intervention of foreign powers like India and the USSR.

This multi-causal explanation for Bangladesh’s independence contrasts with the often-simplified mono-causal narrative of the 1947 partition. A consistent analytical framework comparing both partitions can offer a deeper understanding of the region’s complex historical developments.

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### The Nine-Year Delay in Pakistan’s First Constitution

Pakistan’s constitution was not finalized until nine years after independence, despite the foundational assertion of the Two-Nation Theory and calls for implementing Islamic laws early on.

This delay arose from debates over several critical issues:

– Should Pakistan be a secular state or an Islamic theocracy?
– Which democratic system was preferable: parliamentary or presidential?
– Should the government structure be federal or unitary?
– How should power be balanced between a strong central government and autonomous provinces?
– Would the legislature be bicameral or unicameral?

These fundamental questions reflected the complexities of establishing a new nation-state and negotiating diverse interests and identities within Pakistan.

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### Quaid-i-Azam’s Appointment of Jogendranath Mandal

Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s decision to appoint Jogendranath Mandal, a Hindu Dalit leader, as the inaugural chairman of the Constituent Assembly and later as the first minister for law and labour is particularly noteworthy.

This appointment challenges a narrow interpretation of the Two-Nation Theory by demonstrating attempts at inclusive governance in early Pakistan. It also raises important questions about minority representation and the vision Jinnah had for Pakistan as a state that could accommodate religious diversity and social reform.

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### Conclusion

An analysis of these questions reveals that the creation of Pakistan in 1947 — like the formation of Bangladesh in 1971 — was influenced by a complex set of intertwined factors rather than a single cause. To gain a comprehensive understanding of these historical events, it is essential to examine the partitions within a unified analytical framework.

Moreover, Pakistan’s foundation cannot be seen solely as a product of religious nationalism. Particularly in Bengal, class struggle and social emancipation were powerful driving forces, with marginalized communities seeking improved living conditions within an Islamic socialist vision. These multifaceted motives contributed to the mobilization and collective aspirations that shaped Pakistan’s early history.

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By exploring the intricate dynamics behind Pakistan’s creation and evolution, we better understand not only the nation itself but also the broader socio-political context of South Asia’s turbulent mid-20th century.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346769-historys-unanswered-questions

‘We were back to zero’: Triptii recalls ‘Laila Majnu’ failure

Posted on 28/09/2025 by admin

**“We Were Back to Zero”: Triptii Dimri Recalls ‘Laila Majnu’ Failure**

*By Isha Sharma | Sep 28, 2025, 10:03 am*

Triptii Dimri, who made her lead debut in the 2018 romantic drama *Laila Majnu*, recently opened up about the film’s initial box office failure in an interview with *Filmfare*. Despite receiving positive reviews, the film, which also starred Avinash Tiwary, underperformed commercially.

“When the film did not do well, I felt very disappointed because we were back to zero,” Dimri shared.

**Dimri’s Empathy for Co-star Avinash Tiwary**

Dimri expressed particular concern for her co-star Avinash Tiwary, who had been in the industry much longer than she had. “I had been around for at least two years, but Avinash Tiwary had been here for 14 years,” she recalled. “Then we started giving auditions again, and I felt bad for him.”

Despite the setback, Dimri remained optimistic about the film’s lasting impact on audiences.

**The Film’s Journey: From Failure to Cult Success**

Although *Laila Majnu* struggled initially, it has since gained a huge following and achieved cult status. The film found commercial success during its re-release in 2024, surpassing the lifetime collections of its original run.

“I knew it would receive appreciation, because even today, eight years after its release, people still talk about it,” Dimri said.

**Behind the Scenes of *Laila Majnu***

Reflecting on her experience filming the movie, Dimri described it as both challenging and rewarding. “There were many challenges on a day-to-day basis because we were shooting in the valleys of Kashmir for 20 or even 24 hours at a stretch,” she recalled. “Many times, I cried during that period, wondering what I was doing, because none of it was easy.”

Despite these hardships, she considers *Laila Majnu* a special film that taught her a great deal about acting.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/triptii-dimri-talks-impact-of-laila-majnu-box-office-failure/story

Soundcheck: What Struck A Chord

Posted on 28/09/2025 by admin

Music plays a central role in life, culture, and counterculture. Research shows that listening to music reduces stress hormones, slows the heart rate, and improves mood. It is a simple way to cope with everyday pressures. People turn to music when they want to manage anxiety, recover from grief, sharpen focus while studying, or stay motivated regardless of their goal.

The act of singing or playing an instrument stimulates brain activity, strengthens memory, and builds discipline. It also creates new pathways within the brain and generates new neurons, which is important because it can protect from diseases of the mind that have no cure once the onset begins. Playing an instrument is a skill that carries over to other areas of life.

A familiar melody can unlock memories and help us express emotions that some individuals can’t articulate. It’s almost like magic that a single song can transport you back to a specific moment in time.

Beyond individual well-being, music acts as a social glue that binds communities together. Shared playlists, family gatherings, weddings, and live concerts create spaces where people connect and celebrate together. These shared experiences foster joy and empathy. Feelings of love, loss, and many other emotions become easier to deal with and find expression in a way that language alone sometimes struggles to match. Even the simple act of exchanging song recommendations can deepen friendships.

Culturally, music preserves history and identity in ways that textbooks simply cannot. In Pakistan, centuries-old folk songs pass down stories of place, language, and folklore. They keep a variety of traditions alive from Sindh to Gilgit-Baltistan. These songs carry the voices of our ancestors—their struggles, celebrations, and dreams.

Qawwali, for instance, can open a spiritual door, particularly when all others fail. It is an expression of divine will and consequently lifts the soul. Meanwhile, contemporary genres such as hip-hop, pop, and electronic music give younger generations a platform to reflect on modern realities and global influences.

Streaming services like Spotify and YouTube have dramatically widened this reach. They allow regional artists to find audiences far beyond the regions from which they come. The rules of geography and man-made borders take a backseat. They also make it easier for listeners to explore both ancestral sounds and cutting-edge trends.

Whether ancient or modern, personal or collective, music remains a universal language that speaks to everyone, regardless of background and belief. National shows such as Pakistan Idol add another layer by uncovering hidden singers and giving them a stage to be heard. This serves as a reminder that talent exists everywhere, not just in the big cities. These platforms provide a chance for extraordinary voices to emerge from the most unexpected places, coming from small towns as well as bustling neighborhoods.

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### 313 Productions to Produce Pakistan Idol as It Enters Phase 2 with Record Participation

HL Global has named 313 Productions as the official producing partner of Pakistan Idol, with seasoned producer Badar Ikram at the helm. The show is set to premiere today, a date that means a great deal to music fans across the country.

Badar Ikram, a veteran of Pakistan’s television industry, launched Karachi-based 313 Productions in July after eleven years as SVP and Head of Film at a well-known local channel’s film division. In the past, he was also the Managing Director of Geo TV, which produced the program’s first and only season more than a decade ago. This gives Ikram unique insight into what made the original show work and what needs to be improved for the upcoming second season.

Pakistan Idol hopes to raise production standards and audience engagement while offering a platform to undiscovered singers. The goal is not only entertainment—it is about creating real opportunities for talented individuals who might otherwise never get their big break. Badar Ikram called the project both an honour and a responsibility, words that reflect the weight of nurturing new talent in a country that has an immense pool of ability and potential.

Meanwhile, MHL Global’s Director, Zoya Merchant, praised the energy at auditions and expressed confidence that the show will inspire viewers and highlight new talent. Auditions have been held nationwide, and state-of-the-art sets have been prepared. The competition has now moved into Phase 2 as organizers begin shortlisting contestants from a vast pool of applicants.

This is a task that’s both exciting and daunting given the sheer volume of talent. Auditions drew singers from Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Multan, Sukkur, Quetta, and Peshawar. There was also notable turnout from Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and many smaller towns including Khairpur, Jacobabad, Gujrat, D. G. Khan, D. I. Khan, and Hyderabad. The geographic diversity is remarkable.

Those who auditioned wanted to prove that talent knows no boundaries. While many will not make it as contestants, it was heartening to see the turnout. Venues were busy, often with long queues and hundreds of hopefuls auditioning for a chance to progress to the next round. Many contestants traveled for hours just to perform, carrying dreams that had been years in the making.

Pakistan is more than one thing, and this show is ample proof.

The judging panel for Pakistan Idol includes musician and actor Fawad Khan; qawwali and playback singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan; singer Zeb Bangash; and singer-songwriter, scriptwriter, storyteller, and director Bilal Maqsood.

“What makes Idol special is how it brings Pakistan together through music,” said Zoya Merchant. “From the smallest towns to the biggest cities, every voice matters here. This is where dreams meet opportunity and where the next star is born.”

Her words capture something essential about the show’s mission. It’s not just about finding one winner but about celebrating the musical diversity that exists across the country. As part of the global Idol franchise, the show offers the average individual an opportunity to transform their passion into a profession.

Ultimately, Pakistan Idol aims to create a cultural moment that could resonate for years to come. With 313 Productions at the helm and record participation from across the country, the program has the potential to reshape the local music ecosystem. The show could become a genuine launchpad for new careers rather than a one-season spectacle. This depends on whether production value, the judging panel, and broadcast partnerships match the ambition shown at auditions.

The stakes are high, but so is the potential.

For now, the biggest story is the sheer breadth of talent that turned up. It’s a reminder that opportunity, when paired with the right platform, can change lives and revive interest in the local music scene. In a country where musical talent often goes unrecognised, Pakistan Idol represents hope—hope that the next generation of artists will have better opportunities than those who came before them.

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### How to Make the Most of Spotify Free

Spotify, the world’s largest audio streaming platform, is always doing new things to keep listeners engaged. Spotify Free is another step in that direction. It puts a huge library in anyone’s pocket, letting listeners search, play, and share without a subscription.

In Pakistan, many users begin their streaming journey on the free tier, and honestly, it’s a good starting point. You can search for any track, play a suggested playlist, or jump straight into a song a friend has shared. The appeal lies in its simplicity and immediate access to millions of tracks.

Personalized lists such as Discover Weekly and Release Radar help you find new music. The more you listen and share, the more accurate the recommendations become. It feels like having a friend who understands your taste in music and keeps introducing you to new favourites.

Daylist adapts throughout the day to match your routine, providing upbeat tracks for your morning workout and mellow tunes for your evening wind-down. Meanwhile, real-time lyrics make it easy to sing along and share lines to Instagram or WhatsApp. There’s something satisfying about posting those perfect lyrics that capture exactly how you’re feeling at a particular moment.

For local listeners, Spotify Free is an entry point to both familiar favourites and new voices from across the country. It’s where you might discover that incredible singer from Multan or that indie band from Lahore that’s about to blow up. It lowers the barrier to discovery. There’s no financial commitment, only curiosity and a willingness to explore.

For emerging artists, this openness can lead to real exposure. For listeners, it can spark an interest in gigs, particularly local ones or talent shows such as Pakistan Idol. In that sense, the free tier is more of a beginning than an ending. It’s a first step in an ongoing conversation between artists and audiences that helps keep the music alive—the digital equivalent of discovering new music through word of mouth, just on a much larger scale.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346799-soundcheck-what-struck-a-chord

Covering the basics

Posted on 28/09/2025 by admin

Thousands of residents of Farash Town and James Town in the twin cities are pleased because they now have access to clean drinking water. Not just that, they have also learned useful skills like how to reuse water and recharge the water table by employing rain harvesting techniques. This positive change has come through a megaproject focused on water security.

The project was a collaborative programme started by the World Wildlife Fund-Pakistan (WWF-Pakistan) and the Australia-Pakistan Water Security Initiative, an Australian Aid-funded project aimed at strengthening cooperation between Australia and Pakistan on urban water resources management. The megaproject consisted of a series of smaller projects, all scheduled to be operational by the end of December. It is expected that these will be maintained and run with community help.

The primary goal was to tailor, adopt, and demonstrate the Water Sensitive Cities approach in Pakistan. Islamabad and Rawalpindi—two major cities in the country—are among those expected to face water scarcity over the coming years.

### Focus Areas: James Town and Farash Town

The pilot project focused on two neighbourhoods of the twin cities:

– **James Town, Rawalpindi:** Home to over 450 Christian households, James Town has faced acute water shortage problems.
– **Farash Town, Islamabad:** This neighbourhood, with a population of over 20,000, has also been struggling with water scarcity.

“Our area had a severe water shortage. The water table had also gone down. With the help of these projects, we were able to recharge the aquifer and get water from filtration plants installed at various places in the town,” says Yasmin Bibi, a resident of Farash Town.

### Clean Water Access and Community Involvement

WWF installed seven water filtration plants—five within the locality and two in larger schools. As many as 24,500 people now have access to clean drinking water. Impressively, the filtration plants are maintained by the community itself.

“This is a blessing for us,” says Imran Ali, another resident. “Earlier, many families had to go to the Chak Shahzad government filtration plant to get water. We even had to hire rickshaws to fetch water from there. Now, we have clean drinking water at our doorstep.”

Before these interventions, people were so distressed by the water scarcity that those who could afford to were selling their properties and moving to other parts of the city. “But now, with this project, our lives and priorities have changed. It is such a relief not to have to go out of our way to get something as basic as water,” Imran adds.

### Project Interventions

Started in April 2021, the project included several key interventions in both neighbourhoods:

– **James Town:**
– 275 rainwater harvesting systems (RWHS)
– Six water recharge interventions
– Two green spaces
– Two large and one small filtration plants
– 15 solid waste skips
– Two rain gardens
– A sewerage system for 450 houses

– **Farash Town:**
– 375 rainwater harvesting system interventions
– Four ablution water reuse systems
– 31 recharge interventions
– Three green spaces
– Three communal RWHS
– Five large and two small filtration plants
– Four solid waste skips
– Two rain gardens

### Promoting Water Security Awareness

“Such projects are very important. They provide a serious demonstration of models creating awareness about water security,” notes Farah Nadeem, the project lead.

“We have also included water security issues in the curriculum of local schools under this initiative,” she adds.

Through this project, WWF-Pakistan has helped improve access to safe water and sanitation services for two disadvantaged communities. The initiative has also ensured community resilience to climate change and other water-related shocks, while building the capacity of key stakeholders regarding water use and conservation.

### The Bigger Picture: Water Stress in Pakistan

Pakistan is one of the most water-stressed countries in the world, with an average per capita water availability of only 964 cubic meters per annum. Scientific studies suggest that Pakistan is undergoing significant depletion of groundwater resources. This problem adds to the climate change-induced vulnerabilities faced by millions of people already affected by the lack of water, food, health services, and energy security.

The success of the Farash Town and James Town water security megaproject offers a hopeful example of how community involvement, innovative techniques, and international cooperation can address critical water challenges in Pakistan.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346830-covering-the-basics

Famed roboticist thinks spending billions on humanoids is a waste

Posted on 28/09/2025 by admin

**Famed Roboticist Warns: Spending Billions on Humanoids Is a Waste**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 28, 2025, 10:01 AM*

Rodney Brooks, a leading roboticist and co-founder of iRobot, has issued a stark warning to investors pouring billions into humanoid robot startups. In a recent essay, Brooks criticized the prevalent approach of teaching robots dexterity by showing them videos of humans performing tasks, calling it “pure fantasy thinking.”

### The Challenges of Replicating Human Dexterity

Brooks emphasized the unmatched complexity of the human hand, which is equipped with approximately 17,000 specialized touch receptors. According to him, no robot has yet been able to replicate this intricate level of sensitivity and control.

He also raised safety concerns regarding full-sized walking humanoid robots. These machines consume significant amounts of energy to maintain balance and pose serious risks if they fall.

### A Different Vision for the Future of Robots

Looking ahead, Brooks predicts that successful “humanoid” robots 15 years from now will likely feature wheels, multiple arms, and specialized sensors — rather than attempting to closely mimic the human form.

He expressed skepticism about the massive investments currently being made, suggesting that much of the funding is directed toward expensive training experiments unlikely to scale to mass production.

This isn’t the first time Brooks has challenged the lofty expectations set by overly optimistic entrepreneurs and investors in the robotics industry.

### Market Growth Despite Warnings

Despite Brooks’s cautionary stance, the market for humanoid robots continues to expand rapidly. Apptronik, a prominent humanoid robot manufacturer, has raised nearly $450 million from investors including Google. Similarly, Figure — another key player backed by Microsoft and the OpenAI Startup Fund — recently announced over $1 billion in committed capital from its latest funding round.

As investments pour in, the debate over the most realistic and practical paths for humanoid robotics development remains very much alive.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/famed-roboticist-warns-investors-on-humanoid-robots/story

Strategic alignment

Posted on 28/09/2025 by admin

**Saudi Arabia and Pakistan Sign Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement: A New Chapter in Regional Security**

On September 18, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement, marking a significant milestone in regional geopolitics. Under this pact, any attack on either nation will be considered an attack on both countries. Sparked by Israel’s attack on Qatar, the agreement reflects a strategic pivot by both states to counter the perceived unreliability of traditional Western security guarantees.

**A Historic Milestone with Strategic Nuance**

Hailed as a historic milestone, the agreement establishes a reciprocal defence framework, committing both nations to support each other in countering foreign aggression. However, will this pact automatically result in military support whenever either nation is threatened? Such agreements are best understood through historical context.

Pakistan, with its long history of forming strategic alliances—especially during the Cold War when it joined US-led security arrangements like SEATO and CENTO—did not receive automatic military assistance during its wars with India in 1965 and 1971. Ambassador Naghmana Hashmi highlighted Pakistan’s tradition of strategic restraint, noting its decisions to refrain from deploying troops in the Korean War to avoid confrontation with China, and its choice to decline participation in the 2015 Saudi-led intervention in Yemen.

She further indicated that, given Saudi Arabia’s growing ties with New Delhi, Saudi support in an India-Pakistan conflict would likely be diplomatic or economic rather than military. Saudi Arabia’s trade volume with India is 10 to 14 times larger than with Pakistan, offering considerable economic leverage to deter aggression.

**Strengthening Pakistan’s Strategic Position**

Analyst Michael Kugelman observed that while the pact is unlikely to deter India from aggressive actions, it significantly strengthens Pakistan’s regional stance. The backing of Saudi Arabia, China, and Turkey could elevate Pakistan’s strategic standing, potentially encouraging India to reconsider its regional policies to avoid economic repercussions.

Thus, the agreement’s political significance arguably outweighs its immediate military utility. It functions as a multi-layered signal—reassuring Saudi citizens of Pakistan’s support, warning Israel and other actors that Saudi Arabia is not isolated, and nudging the United States to give Gulf security concerns greater priority.

Salman Bashir, former Foreign Secretary of Pakistan, describes the pact as “a strategic political gesture and deterrent signal, rather than an operational blueprint for military integration.”

**Maintaining Traditional Security Partnerships**

Riyadh has long sought a US defence pact and nuclear cooperation as part of normalizing relations with Israel. However, progress in these areas was disrupted by the Gaza conflict. Bashir clarified that this pact does not signal a departure from Saudi Arabia’s longstanding security partnership with the United States.

“The US remains close to Saudi Arabia. They understand the significance and context of this agreement between two of its allies,” he stated.

The primary purpose of the pact is to project solidarity and deter aggression by signaling that an attack on one nation is an attack on both. As Bashir puts it, “It serves as a strong declaratory warning to potential adversaries, emphasizing that any aggression will face a unified response.”

**Historical Defence Cooperation**

Defence collaboration between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan dates back to the 1960s, beginning with training agreements. It expanded notably after the 1979 incident, with Pakistani troop deployments including a brigade in 1983 and over 20,000 personnel through the 1980s. Pakistan also sent 11,000 troops during the 1990-91 Gulf War.

Cooperation continued with arms purchases and participation in the 2015 Islamic Military Counter-Terrorism Coalition, which was led by a former Pakistani army chief.

**Responding to a Collapsing Regional Security Framework**

The pact responds to a collapsing regional security framework, particularly following Israel’s attack on Qatar—a non-NATO US ally—which exposed the fragility of American security guarantees. The US’s failure to protect Gulf countries during the Doha attack drove Saudi Arabia to seek alternative alliances.

In the Middle Eastern context, where many nations lack the capacity to counter Israeli aggression, Pakistan emerges as a natural, practical, and credible partner. This perception stems not only from Pakistan’s military capability—a battle-hardened, professional force—but also from the profound reverence its people hold for the Haramain Sharifain (the two holy mosques in Saudi Arabia).

For Saudi Arabia, this alliance also supports Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s domestic transformation agenda.

**Ambiguity Over Nuclear Dimensions**

The publicly released text of the defence agreement employs general language such as “strengthening joint deterrence” and avoids referencing specific weapon systems. The notion of a nuclear umbrella remains speculative.

Salman Bashir asserts that Pakistan’s nuclear doctrine remains exclusively oriented toward deterring India, with no indication that this posture has changed. The pact is a diplomatic instrument designed to reinforce deterrence and stability, not to enable the sharing or deployment of nuclear capabilities.

Ambassador Naghmana Hashmi suggests the agreement was designed with deliberate ambiguity regarding the employment and deployment of strategic assets. In the case of an existential threat, depending on circumstances, the nuclear option “cannot be ruled out.”

Nonetheless, she clarifies that such assets are unlikely to be stationed in Saudi Arabia. Similar to how the US deploys nuclear weapons in Europe—including non-NPT signatories—while retaining full control, Pakistan, a non-signatory that respects the NPT, mirrors this stance. Saudi Arabia, by contrast, is an NPT signatory.

Ultimately, the extension of the nuclear umbrella remains uncertain, as the official text contains no mention of nuclear weapons.

**Pakistan’s Emerging Role in Middle Eastern Security**

The agreement formally acknowledges Pakistan’s vital role as a security provider, integrating it into Middle Eastern defence architecture.

Bashir commented, “Essentially, it brings Pakistan to the fore in the Middle Eastern situation. Pakistan becomes as much a Middle Eastern power as it is in South Asia.”

This elevated role carries inherent risks. Pakistan must proceed with strategic caution to avoid entanglement in intra-Arab disputes.

China’s mediation facilitated a Saudi-Iranian detente, with Iran acknowledging Saudi and Pakistani support during its conflict with Israel. This was demonstrated by Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid’s urgent meeting with Iran’s Supreme Leader to pledge solidarity, alongside Riyadh’s successful lobbying against US-led regime change efforts pushed by Israel.

Following a meeting between Iranian official Ali Larijani and Saudi leadership, Islamabad must actively address Tehran’s concerns to maintain this diplomatic momentum.

Ambassador Javed Hafiz reaffirmed Pakistan’s longstanding policy of never initiating aggression against Iran—a stance maintained for decades. Despite challenges from India and Afghanistan, Islamabad’s policy has been to avoid a “hot border” with Iran. Pakistani armed forces have never been deployed along the Iranian border, though there have been occasional spikes in counter-terrorism operations, which Ambassador Hafiz characterized as border management issues rather than hostility.

This clarification has come amid a recent thaw in Islamabad-Tehran relations, underscored by Pakistan’s full support for Iran in the UN Security Council.

He also pointed to Iran’s strategic challenges, surrounded by Azerbaijan, GCC states, and Pakistan. Even before recent Israeli attacks, Iran’s regional influence had waned due to the weakening of its proxy forces in Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq.

**Potential Risks and Regional Security Dynamics**

Ambassador Hafiz warned that the defence agreement could make Pakistan a target for Israel. While an attack on a nuclear-armed state with strong conventional forces is unlikely, Israeli policy has historically opposed Muslim nuclear powers, as seen in its destruction of Iraq’s Osirak reactor and similar attempts against Iran.

An Israeli attack on Pakistan could trigger massive retaliation and risk all-out war. Pakistan must therefore strengthen its counter-terrorism efforts and safeguard its national interests in light of intelligence suggesting Israel used Indian agents to prepare for attacks on Qatar and Iran.

Should Israel contemplate an attack on Saudi Arabia, the risks escalate dramatically. Such a move could ignite a massive, uncontrollable regional war expanding beyond previous engagements in Qatar and Iran.

Having already targeted several neighbours, Israel must carefully reassess the prohibitive risks and consequences of initiating conflict with a state of Saudi Arabia’s stature and alliances.

**Pakistan Air Force Preparedness Against Israeli Threats**

The historical rivalry between the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) and Israel includes notable victories for Pakistani pilots.

– In the 1967 Six Day War, Flight Lieutenant Saif-ul Azam, flying a Jordanian Hawker Hunter, downed three Israeli jets—Dassault Mystere IV, Vautour IIA, and Mirage III—setting a record for the most Israeli Air Force aircraft shot down, according to Air Marshal Arshad Aziz Malik (retired).

– In 1973, Flight Lieutenant Sattar Alvi, flying a Syrian MiG-21, destroyed an Israeli Phantom.

For decades, the PAF has prepared and rehearsed contingency plans against potential threats from Israel alongside its primary focus on India.

Air Marshal Malik noted that Israel had at least three times planned to attack Pakistan’s nuclear facilities. The PAF regularly conducts rehearsals with aircraft and sensors, practicing war plans to counter threats from all directions.

Pakistan has repeatedly thwarted potential airstrikes by Israeli forces. On one occasion, a timely alert from an ally exposed an Israeli Air Force strike package using a civilian airliner as cover to evade radar. PAF fighter jets were scrambled immediately, forcing the Israeli mission to abort.

In another instance, Israeli Defense Forces jets reached Afghanistan with a refueller aircraft to attack Pakistan. However, PAF air controllers vectored the pilots to border areas, causing the Israeli strike package to quickly withdraw.

These successes followed earlier threats of a joint Israeli-Indian plan to attack the Kahuta nuclear facility in the 1980s. Ahead of the 1998 Chagai nuclear tests, the PAF kept fighters airborne on high alert. Jets also rehearsed sending a one-way strike package to retaliate against critical Israeli facilities and naval platforms using Exocet missiles—demonstrating Pakistan’s strategic reach and resolve in an era before long-range missiles.

Today, an arsenal of missiles and integrated air defence provides Pakistan with greater assurance and sustainability in projecting power.

“Israel is part of our threat spectrum; we have always prepared against them and have the intent, resolve, and capacity to hit where it hurts the most,” said Air Marshal Malik.

Recent Israeli support to India through Harop drones and technical advisory assistance has further underscored the importance of this preparedness.

**International Reception and Future Outlook**

Regarding global reactions, Ambassador Hashmi noted that the agreement arrived with tacit blessings from both the United States and China.

– China views the pact as a stabilizing force safeguarding its massive Belt and Road Initiative investments.

– The US, recognising Saudi security anxieties, may tolerate the agreement given its alliances with both Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. However, Washington will firmly oppose any arrangement that threatens or undermines Israel’s security.

Significant diplomatic work lies ahead, including clarifying expectations and operational boundaries to ensure both countries can manage future crises effectively.

Barring extreme and direct threats, this pact is unlikely to compel either country into military actions instigated by the other.

The term “strategic” now encompasses broad domains aligned with Saudi Vision 2030’s economic and social transformation goals. Unlike Cold War-era alliances, this agreement could meld Saudi financial resources, Pakistan’s skilled workforce, and Chinese technology.

**Economic and Defence Collaboration Prospects**

The pact opens avenues for defence collaboration, with Saudi investment potentially funding joint production of Pakistani military systems such as Al-Khalid tanks and JF-17 fighter aircraft, reducing reliance on US supplies.

Such cooperation could catalyse Pakistan’s economic growth by creating jobs and expanding vocational training—mutually supporting the development ambitions of both nations while promoting regional stability.

By integrating Pakistan into Middle Eastern security architecture, the agreement enhances regional stability, pressures global powers like the US to prioritize Gulf security, and supports China’s Belt and Road investments as a strategic deterrent.

Nonetheless, Pakistan must clearly define its operational boundaries to avoid entanglement in Middle Eastern conflicts or becoming an unnecessary target for Israel and its Western allies.

—

This defence pact marks a transformative shift, underscoring evolving alliances in a turbulent region and highlighting the complex interplay of military, economic, and diplomatic interests shaping the future of Middle Eastern and South Asian security.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346524-strategic-alignment

Faith, friendship and quiet harmony

Posted on 28/09/2025 by admin

At dawn, when the first rays of sunlight hit the snow-capped peaks of Speen Ghar — [trans: The White Mountain] — the valley below glows in soft gold. Parachinar, the only Shiite-majority city among the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa tribal districts, lies cradled in this rugged frontier along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.

For decades, these hills were known for sectarian clashes and roadblocks, not peace. Yet, beneath the towering ridges of Speen Ghar, a quieter story unfolds; one of faith, friendship, and lasting coexistence.

Near Parachinar, in the village of Malana, tucked amid walnut groves and spring-fed streams, an Imambargah and a Sikh Gurdwara stand right next to each other. Their shared wall tells a story older than the conflicts that have scarred this borderland.

“This is Baba Nanak House,” says Barkat Ali, aged 60, the caretaker of the Gurdwara, pointing to the modest building marked by an orange Sikh flag. Inside, a green cloth drapes the Takht, where ceremonial kirpans (daggers) gleam softly in the morning light.

“Sikhs are our brothers. During their festivals, we open our Imambargah doors for them and offer them accommodation. We even provide wood for their cooking,” Barkat Ali explains.

Centuries ago, the Turi tribe, a Shiite Pashtun community in Kurram, donated this very land to the Sikhs and helped build their Gurdwara, a gesture of solidarity that continues to resonate through the village’s stone courtyards and narrow alleys.

Though no Sikh families remain in Malana today, devotees travel from across Pakistan to visit Baba Nanak House, where tradition holds that Guru Nanak, the early 16th-century founder of Sikhism, once stayed.

In nearby Parachinar’s bustling Turi Market, the Singh brothers — Mukesh and Rakesh — carry that legacy into the present. In their early thirties, the twins run a family spice shop and speak fluent Pashto, dressed in the same shalwar kameez as their Muslim neighbours.

Every Muharram, as Shiite mourners mark the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the Singhs serve tea, sweet drinks, and baskets of candies to participants.

“This is our way of honouring our friends,” Rakesh says. “Our fathers and grandfathers did it, and we will pass it on to our children.”

“Before 2007, Shiite, Sunni, Sikh, Hindu, and Christian neighbours celebrated each other’s festivals,” he adds. “We danced the Attan together at weddings. Those were beautiful days.”

Their Muslim neighbours return the affection. Gul Hassan, a dry fruit vendor, recalls attending the brothers’ weddings and gifting them a traditional sehra, a bridal headdress.

“We share tea, lunch, and life,” he says with a smile.

Kurram once had a thriving Sikh community, with three functioning Gurdwaras and nearly 80 families before sectarian violence erupted in 2007. Today, only seven families, around 45 people, remain. Many left for larger cities such as Peshawar, Lahore, and Hasan Abdal, seeking safety during years when the main Parachinar-Tal Road remained sealed by conflict.

Yet even in those violent times, Sikh lives were spared. Local Muslim elders ensured safe passage for those who chose to leave.

“During the conflict, the roads were opened and security provided so Sikh families could leave safely,” recalls Mukesh Singh.

Santokh Singh, who migrated to Peshawar, remembers the Parachinar of his youth with fondness.

“Before 2007, Shiite, Sunni, Sikh, Hindu, and Christian neighbours celebrated each other’s festivals,” he says. “We danced the Attan together at weddings. Those were beautiful days.”

Despite the shrinking population, acts of generosity continue to knit the communities together.

During Ramadan, Mukesh discreetly distributes food to poor Muslim families, fulfilling the Sikh tradition of charity without seeking recognition.

Local Muslim leaders, too, step forward in times of need.

“Nazir Hussain, secretary of the Parachinar Shopkeepers Union, often donates to Sikh religious events. ‘Whenever the Sikh community asks for help, we provide every possible support,’ he says.”

Farther west in Tirah Valley, near central Kurram, Bhagat Singh, a shopkeeper with a long white beard wrapped in a dark blue turban, reflects on three centuries of shared history.

“Our families have lived here for 300 years,” he says softly. “These valleys are my home. I was born here and here I will die.”

In a region once synonymous with bloodshed, the quiet companionship of an Imambargah and a Gurdwara offers a different narrative.

As the golden light of Speen Ghar falls over Parachinar, it illuminates not just mountains, but a truth often overlooked: that faith, when rooted in respect, can build bridges where politics too often builds walls.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346828-faith-friendship-and-quiet-harmony

Durga Puja 2025: How Bollywood Brought Bengal’s Festival Spirit To Mumbai

Posted on 27/09/2025 by admin

In the early ’70s, some prabashi (migrant) Bengalis who had settled in Mumbai’s western suburbs—Khar, Bandra, and Santa Cruz—decided to organise a Durga puja of their own. Since Shakti Samanta was a big name, with a string of blockbusters like *Kashmir Ki Kali*, *An Evening in Paris*, *Aradhana*, and *Kati Patang*, they reached out to him.

Subsequently, the Notunpalli Sarbojanin Durgotsav Committee was formed with businessman Arun Banerjee as the first president, Shakti Samanta as the chief advisor, and several Bollywood personalities pitching in. These included filmmakers Pramod Chakraborty, Hrishikesh Mukherjee, Basu Chatterjee, and Basu Bhattacharya; actor Manik Dutta; and composers Salil Chowdhury and R.D. Burman. Together, they hosted the first puja in 1972 at the Raosaheb Patwardhan Udyan, opposite Bandra’s National College.

“It became an annual event and, over the years, came to be known as ‘Shakti Samanta’s Durga puja’ even though dad voluntarily never served as president of the committee,” smiles the filmmaker’s son, producer-director Ashim Samanta.

Shankar Maitra, nephew of the late actor Abhi Bhattacharya and the present general secretary, informs that in 53 years, there’s never been a break in the celebrations. Even during the Covid-19 pandemic, some committee members performed a symbolic puja following all the SOPs with a small idol.

“The biggest threat came after the BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) turned Patwardhan Park into a public garden, following which some neighbours moved court, objecting to us taking over the ground every year, for almost a fortnight, for a religious function,” Maitra explains.

In 1987, the committee was allotted an open plot behind Balgandharva Rangmandir theatre, which is one-fourth the size of the original venue. “But the puja is celebrated with the same fanfare,” he asserts.

Maitra adds that bhog is served by members of the ‘Mukto Mela’, started by Salil Chowdhury, to 2,000-3,000 devotees for five days from Panchami to Dashami. Local artistes are given a platform to showcase their talent alongside more established names.

“Singers Abhijeet Bhattacharya and Kumar Sanu have performed at our puja, Mithun Chakraborty has served bhog, Sushmita Sen with her family is a regular visitor, and Bipasha Basu too has been spotted,” he shares.

Ashim, who never misses Ashtami Pushpanjali, points out that from the ’70s right up to the ’90s, Notunpolli was among the city’s biggest Durgotsavs. “But at the turn of the century, the Mukherjees’ puja took centrestage,” he acknowledges.

—

The North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja was started in 1947 at the Sri Mandal Hall in Santa Cruz by film producer and founder of Filmistan Studio Sashadhar Mukherjee and 26 of his friends. “Back then, it was a small, gharua (homely) puja with everyone running to my Dada (grandfather), the financier, whenever money ran short.

“His six children—Rono, Joy, Deb, Shomu, Shibani, and Subir—and their cousins and friends served bhog to devotees seated on mattresses on the floor, my Badi Maa (grandmother Sati Rani) insisting that they be treated as honoured guests,” recalls Rono’s daughter, actress Sharbani Mukherji.

The tradition continues today, with her grandchildren, including family members and puja committee members, serving a seven-course meal. The menu changes daily during the five-day festivities, and guests are now seated on chairs at tables in an air-conditioned hall, making the long wait for bhog worthwhile, Sharbani asserts.

Earlier, she would accompany her mother, Samita, to homes of family friends like Basu Chatterjee or take the chanda (donation) book to school and cajole teachers for contributions. Once Puja started, she would take a half-day holiday from studies and rush to the pandal with her siblings Samrat and Siddharth for pushpanjali. Their biggest responsibility then was to serve bhog with their cousins and partners-in-crime.

“Now, I supervise the arrangements and assist our priest, Ujjwal Bhattacharya, with the rituals. It’s something Badi Maa taught my mother, her eldest daughter-in-law, who has been training me,” Sharbani shares.

Samrat is in charge of bringing the idols to the pandal. Earlier, the idols were physically carried to the stage; now, they are forklifted.

“My brother was trained by Ayan’s dad (Deb Mukherjee). Once Debu kaka entered the picture, he made the puja his annual magnum opus project—roping in sponsors, taking it to a larger venue like Tulip Star Hotel, and serving elaborate bhog with mineral water bottles. Even the idol got bigger and the décor more lavish, but Maa’s face, moulded by Nemai Pal and now by his son Amit, hasn’t changed from what my Badi Maa had decided on,” reveals Sharbani.

She never met her grandmother but recalls stories of how, despite being diabetic, Sati Rani would sit with a handi of rasgullas and greet guests by popping a sweet into their mouths and one into her own.

Her brothers Ashok Kumar, Kishore Kumar, and Anoop Kumar were roped in for donations and the evening’s entertainment, alongside Hemant Kumar and Bappi Lahiri.

“Now, Bappi kaka’s children, Reema and Bappa, along with Samrat and Raja (Rani’s brother) supervise the bhog distribution, while Ayan, with others, decides the cultural programmes,” Sharbani informs.

Durga Puja has always been celebrated with much gusto by the Mukherjees, but this year, the family is mourning three losses—Deb (March 14), Rono (May 28), and their sister Shibani (August 10).

“I feel lost without them. Towards the end, baba was undergoing dialysis, but he would go only after pushpanjali and bhog, returning after it was over. Debu kaka too, despite being unwell, was around even when the pandal was being erected. We will dedicate a night to the three pillars of our North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja,” Sharbani says emotionally.

Meanwhile, Subir Mukherjee has taken over as president of the committee from Rono, and Kajol’s children, Nysa and Yug, have been seen distributing flowers during Pushpanjali and serving bhog at earlier pujas. Rani is also passing down the same beliefs and values to her daughter Adira as the puja continues from one generation to the next.

And with Abhijeet Bhattacharya, Kumar Sanu, and singer-composer Pritam Chakraborty hosting their own pujas, Mumbai and Bollywood’s bond with Bengal and Maa Durga remains as strong as ever.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/weekend/durga-puja-2025-how-bollywood-brought-bengals-festival-spirit-to-mumbai

Air raid warnings across Ukraine, eastern Poland airspace closed due to unplanned military activity

Posted on 27/09/2025 by admin

Air Raid Warnings Across Ukraine as Eastern Poland Airspace Closed Due to Unplanned Military Activity

Ukraine is currently facing countrywide air raid alerts following overnight strikes by Russia. In response to the heightened military activity, Poland has closed its eastern airspace to ensure safety.

Residents across Ukraine have been urged to take immediate shelter as the attacks continue. In Kyiv, people sought refuge in metro stations during a recent Russian drone attack, highlighting the ongoing threat to civilian areas.

![People take shelter in a metro station during a Russian drone attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine September 28, 2025.](https://example.com/photo-reuters-thomas-peter.jpg)
*Photo credit: REUTERS/THOMAS PETER*

Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops.

— By REUTERS
https://www.jpost.com/international/internationalrussia-ukraine-war/article-868770

Crime that unsettles

Posted on 27/09/2025 by admin

Netflix has released the second chapter of its *Monsters* anthology, **The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story**, a dramatization that revisits a case embedded in American popular culture for more than three decades. The series focuses on the 1989 murders of Jose and Kitty Menendez by their two sons, Lyle and Erik, and the subsequent trials that became a national spectacle.

The production raises uncomfortable questions about privilege, secrecy, and abuse, concentrating both on the violence itself and the social environment that shaped the brothers. Across nine episodes, the story unfolds in a strictly chronological order but employs alternating perspectives, shifting between the courtroom, the family home, and the media frenzy that surrounded the brothers.

This narrative approach keeps the tension alive while reflecting how the public encountered the case in fragments during the early 1990s. Viewers are constantly reminded that the truth is layered and contested, heightening the unease that defines the series from start to finish.

At the heart of the production are the performances of Nicholas Alexander Chavez as Lyle Menendez and Cooper Koch as Erik Menendez. Chavez captures the intensity and defiance of the elder brother, while Koch conveys the fragility and self-doubt of the younger sibling. Together, they paint a portrait of two young men deeply connected yet burdened with conflicting emotions about their parents and themselves. The bond between the brothers, carrying both tenderness and despair, feels authentic, adding a profoundly human dimension to the story.

What sets this production apart from other true crime dramatizations is its refusal to offer clear answers. The series does not suggest whether the brothers should be viewed as cold-blooded killers or victims of long-term abuse. It presents evidence, perspectives, and memories, leaving viewers to wrestle with the contradictions on their own.

Javier Bardem delivers a commanding performance as Jose Menendez, portraying a man driven by ambition and a will to control. His presence dominates the household scenes, embodying both the promise of success and the fear it instilled in his children. Chloe Sevigny plays Kitty Menendez with a mixture of vulnerability and volatility, suggesting a woman caught between dependence and resentment. Their portrayals ensure the parents are seen not merely as victims but as complex individuals with their own flaws and contradictions. This choice prevents the narrative from descending into moral simplicity.

The dialogue throughout the series is precise. Courtroom exchanges are brisk yet intense, while domestic scenes often rely on silences and hesitations that carry as much weight as spoken words. This balance allows viewers to experience both the noise of public spectacle and the quiet pain of private life. Rather than leaning heavily on drama, the series builds tension through subtlety, making the story even more unsettling.

One of the most challenging aspects of the show is its depiction of abuse. The production does not sensationalize these elements, nor does it obscure them. By presenting detail candidly, the series forces viewers to confront the disturbing claims that shaped the brothers’ defense. Whether or not particular accounts are accurate becomes less important than their emotional impact on the audience. The series powerfully conveys how trauma can remain hidden within families that outwardly appear secure and successful. This thematic choice makes the series difficult to watch but leaves a lasting impression.

The supporting cast enriches the production further. Ari Graynor as defense attorney Leslie Abramson demonstrates both empathy and strategic determination, while Nathan Lane as journalist Dominick Dunne highlights the media’s role in shaping public perception of the case. Their performances add essential layers, reminding viewers that the Menendez story extends beyond the family to engage broader conversations about wealth, justice, and the spectacle of televised trials.

As a viewing experience, *The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story* is demanding. It is not casual entertainment; it requires attention, patience, and a willingness to endure disturbing material. Those who invest this effort are rewarded with a portrayal that is both emotionally powerful and intellectually engaging.

Combining strong performances with thoughtful storytelling, the series unsettles rather than comforts and questions rather than simplifies. It succeeds precisely because it avoids sensational shortcuts, presenting a disturbing family tragedy with honesty and care. This approach creates a portrayal marked by complexity rather than caricature.

For viewers prepared to sit with discomfort, the series offers an absorbing examination of one of the most notorious cases in American criminal history—a poignant reminder that beneath public spectacle often lies private pain.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346827-crime-that-unsettles-in-1989-two-brothers