He stated that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had been subjected to discriminatory treatment for the past 78 years and made testing ground for policies, shaped by external powers, according to a statement.

Addressing Traders Convention organised by Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Traders Wing in Nishtar Hall, Mr Afridi said that KP should not continue to serve as testing ground for every new experiment. He said that people of KP could not be treated as expendable.

He said that the decision, regarding Pakistan’s participation in the US-led war against terrorism, was not driven by national interests of the country but by the military leadership, the repercussions of which were disproportionately borne by the people of KP.

CM alleges KP subjected to discriminatory treatment

The chief minister said that nearly 80,000 lives had been sacrificed in the fight against terrorism to restore peace. He paid tribute to the people of the province and the country’s security forces.

He alleged that following the removal of the PTI government led by Imran Khan, a new policy framework resulted in the resurgence of terrorism. He stated that his party had consistently warned that militants were regrouping and peace would once again come under threat, but those warnings were dismissed as propaganda.

He said that PTI had cautioned that renewed terrorism would lead to further loss of life and inflict severe damage on businesses and economic activities.

He said that no individual or group should be allowed to pursue personal or financial interests at the cost of the lives of KP people.

Referring to the prevailing security situation, the chief minister said that challenges confronting KP had intensified and similar circumstances had emerged in Balochistan, with their effects extending beyond the two provinces.

He also expressed concern over violence affecting the people of Jammu and Kashmir, reiterating Pakistan’s longstanding position that Kashmir was the country’s jugular vein.

Afridi said that lasting peace and stability could not be achieved solely through use of force.

If military force alone was sufficient to resolve such challenges, KP would have achieved complete peace after more than two decades of counterterrorism operations, he added.

“Why, despite 78 years of experience, the country’s governance system failed to deliver lasting stability,” he questioned, referring to recent public statements by a federal minister regarding the collapse of the system.

The chief minister questioned as to why individuals, who had damaged the country’s governance system, were subsequently brought to power. He reiterated his party’s longstanding position that the existing system failed to deliver.

He said that Pakistan required leadership that enjoyed the confidence of people and possessed the capacity to steer the country out of present crisis. He said that the use of force against peaceful protesters could not provide a sustainable solution to political disputes.

Published in Dawn, August 3rd, 2026

A bench consisting of Justice Salahud Din and Justice Qazi Jawad Ehsanullah disposed of two petitions filed by close relatives of the two patients, directing them to instantly approach competent authorities for the grant of a medical visa or submit an appropriate application before the ministry of interior to seek permission to remain in Pakistan until completion of their medical treatment.

In both the petitions, the bench ordered that upon receipt of such application, competent authorities should consider and decide the same expeditiously strictly in accordance with law and on its own merits after taking into consideration the petitioners’ medical condition and material place before them.

In the meanwhile, the bench directed, having regard to the petitioners’ ongoing medical treatment, that petitioners should neither be arrested nor deported back to Afghanistan for a period of 30 days from the date of that order, thereby enabling them to avail the remedy as indicated by the court.

Directs petitioners to approach govt for medical visa

One of the petitions was field by an Afghan national, Ubaidullah, presently residing in Swat, claiming that his father Haji Ghulam Rasool had been suffering from liver cancer.

Their counsel Neelam Abrar stated that the patient initially remained under treatment at Saidu Group of Teaching Hospital, Saidu Sharif, for liver cancer.

However, she stated that owing to the progression of the disease to its advanced stage, he was referred to Kings Hospital, Saidu Sharif, where he was presently receiving continuous medical treatment.

She said that the attending medical team clearly advised that treatment was ongoing and critical. She added that medical reports clearly stated that any interruption would result in irreversible deterioration and risk to his life.

The other petition was jointly field by Afghan nationals Dawlat Khan, his ailing wife Sakina and their son Aftab.

Their counsel Naeem Khan stated that the petitioners had legally been residing on the strength of their Proof of Registration (PoR) cards, which was no longer a valid document for residing in Pakistan. He stated that Ms Sakina suffered from brain stroke and was undergoing continuous medical treatment in Pakistan.

He said that her treating physicians advised uninterrupted medication, regular neurological follow-up, and continued medical supervision.

In both the cases, petitioners stated that respondents including federal government and its law enforcement agencies initiated coercive measures for their deportation, which, if carried out, would forcibly interrupt the lifesaving medical treatment of the two patients.

“Whether petitioners should be permitted to remain in Pakistan on medical grounds squarely falls within the domain of competent authorities, who are vested with the statutory power to consider such request in accordance with the applicable immigration laws and policy,” the bench ruled.

“At this stage, this court considers it appropriate to afford the petitioners an opportunity to avail the remedy available to them under the law by approaching the competent forum rather than the court itself adjudicating upon the merit of such request in its constitutional jurisdiction,” the bench maintained.

The assistant attorney general, Said Jamil Shah, appeared for federal government in both the cases and stated that since the PoR cards of petitioners stood cancelled, they had no lawful authority to continue residing in Pakistan.

He said that they were at liberty to approach competent authorities for the grant of medical visa or to seek appropriate permission from the ministry of interior to remain in the country until treatment of the two petitioners.

Published in Dawn, August 3rd, 2026

Built in 1852, the historic British compound (deputy commissioner’s compound) in Bannu has regained its original identity and historical significance.

The compound was constructed during the tenure of British officer John Nicholson in 1852. At the time, it served as the principal administrative and judicial centre for the southern districts, where government affairs were conducted, court proceedings were held and tribal jirgas were convened.

Comprising courthouse, judicial buildings, jirga hall, guardhouse and other government offices, the historic complex remained the administrative heart of the region for nearly two centuries and stands today as one of the most important architectural legacies of the colonial period in the Indian subcontinent.

According to Bannu division commissioner Khalid Mahmood, the restoration project was completed at a cost of Rs138.4 million, fully funded by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government. He said that the objective of the project was to preserve the region’s historical heritage while restoring the buildings for official government use.

“The Bannu historic compound is far more than a collection of bricks and stones,” the commissioner said. “It represents an important chapter in the administrative history of the subcontinent. Its restoration is not only an effort to revive the past but also a practical step toward preserving our historical heritage for future generations,” he said.

Senior employee Kifayatullah from the commissioner’s office Bannu explained that during British rule, Bannu served as the administrative headquarters for what is now southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, from where the affairs of the entire region were managed.

Following the creation of Pakistan, the historic buildings suffered decades of neglect and inadequate maintenance. As a result, their condition steadily deteriorated, leaving much of the complex in ruins.

Several months ago, the divisional administration initiated a comprehensive restoration programme aimed at reviving the long-abandoned heritage site. The project included structural repairs, conservation work and extensive renovation while carefully preserving the compound’s original architectural character.

With the restoration now complete, the 19th-century buildings have been equipped with modern facilities without compromising their historic design.

Today, the harmonious blend of historic architecture and modern amenities has transformed the compound into an attractive destination for visitors, historians and heritage enthusiasts alike.

More importantly, it serves as a bridge connecting younger generations with their past, culture, and historical identity.

Published in Dawn, August 3rd, 2026

PTI workers welcomed her at various locations and pledged to demonstrate their political strength by participating in large numbers in the party’s August 5 rally.

Aleema Khan went to Central Prison Bannu, where she met PTI workers who had been convicted in cases related to the May 9 incidents.

She inquired about their well-being and expressed solidarity with them.

MNA Maulana Syed Naseem Ali Shah, MPA Malik Pakhtoon Yar Khan, former minister Malik Shah Mohammad Khan Wazeer, PTI regional general secretary Malik Adnan Khan, district president Malik Gul Baz Khan, general secretary Iqbal Jadoon Khan, and others were present.

Later, addressing party workers at Ahmad Khan Chowk, Aleema said the country’s current system was no longer sustainable, alleging that the “Form-47 government” had itself acknowledged its failures.

She said that the security situation during the PTI government was different from the present circumstances. She said that police personnel and members of the security forces were sacrificing their lives in the fight against terrorism. She added that their sacrifices would not be allowed to go in vain.

Aleema said the PTI founder had consistently advocated for the rule of law, constitutional supremacy, and the protection of public rights. She further claimed that the party founder would eventually “break the chains of slavery” and regain his freedom.

She alleged that the PTI founder was being held in solitary confinement at Adiala Jail and was being denied basic facilities, claiming that his only “offence” was refusing to accept what she described as “subjugation.”

Published in Dawn, August 3rd, 2026

Presently, the vital transport corridor remains open round the clock.

According to the NHA notification, the revised schedule was designed to ensure a smooth flow of traffic through the 10-kilometre-long tunnel, which handles thousands of vehicles daily.

Under the new rules, the tunnel is stated to operate on a rotational basis: closing for three hours and opening for three hours, totaling 12 hours of closure each day.

The people of Chitral have challenged the NHA’s logic. They argued that the sudden closure intervals would create traffic hazard and massive gridlock, as hundreds of vehicles would accumulate at both ends during the three-hour shutdown periods.

Local commuters expressed deep concern that allowing a massive convoy of hundreds of accumulated vehicles to pass through the unfinished tunnel simultaneously would lead to a catastrophic accumulation of poisonous emissions, given the complete lack of a proper ventilation system inside the structure.

Condemning the move, senior spokesman for the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, Niaz A. Niazi termed the NHA’s decision wrong, illogical and incomprehensible.

In a press release, Niazi pointed out that no such timing restrictions existed for the Kohat and Swat tunnels.

“Keeping the Lowari Tunnel closed to traffic for 12 hours daily under the guise of standard operating procedures amounts to a double standard and open discrimination by the NHA,” Niazi asserted.

He demanded the immediate withdrawal of the discriminatory order, warning that the closure schedule would force thousands of passengers including students, women, patients, and children to endure unbearable traveling hardships.

Meanwhile, keeping in view the alert issued by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) regarding potential glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF) triggered by a sudden surge in temperature, Rescue 1122 Lower Chitral has established joint Quick Response Teams (QRTs) in the highly vulnerable valleys of Golen, Madaklasht, and Arkari.

A spokesman for Rescue 1122 told Dawn that these joint teams have been formed in close cooperation with the district administration.

The personnel comprise frontliners from Rescue 1122, the local police, Chitral Scouts, and the Levies Force. The core objective of this deployment is to ensure a timely, well-coordinated and effective emergency response in the event of a GLOF, flash flood, landslide or any other climate-induced natural disaster.

To review the field preparedness, Deputy Commissioner Lower Chitral, Mr. Rao Hashim, along with the District Emergency Officer of Rescue 1122, visited the sensitive, GLOF-prone areas to inspect the operational readiness and logistical arrangements of the deployed response units.

The emergency plan also includes enhancing the local Early Warning System (EWS) and building community resilience by collaborating with local volunteers. The specific roles and responsibilities of all deployed personnel have been clearly defined to enable swift action.

Published in Dawn, August 3rd, 2026

Swat police spokesperson Nasir Iqbal Karimi, while speaking to Dawn, confirmed the death toll.

Malakand Division Deputy Inspector General of Police Fida Hussain told AFP that police officers were among those martyred.

He added that another body, suspected to be that of the bomber, had been brought to the hospital.

According to the Swat District Police Officer (DPO) Umar Khan, the suicide bomber detonated explosives after police personnel attempted to stop and search him at the entrance of the police station.

The DPO said that the police remained on high alert. “Security forces have cordoned off the area, and an investigation is underway to collect further evidence,“ he added.

The explosion occurred near the gate of Kabal police station while hundreds of people were participating in a public demonstration at nearby Kabal Chowk against the recent wave of terrorism in Swat Valley.

The bodies of nine victims were shifted to Central Hospital Saidu Sharif, while the bodies of five others were moved to Kabal Hospital, where doctors confirmed their deaths, said Rescue 1122 Spokesperson Bilal Ahmed Faizi.

The spokesperson added that two of the injured are reported to be in critical condition.

The powerful blast caused multiple casualties, prompting an immediate emergency response from police, rescue teams and local authorities. Security personnel also sealed off the area and launched a search operation.

The protest had drawn a large crowd from across the district and the attack occurred as the final speaker was addressing the crowd, triggering panic among participants. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Addressing the gathering before the blast, the speakers condemned the resurgence of terrorism in Swat and demanded that the government ensure lasting peace. They said their movement had a single agenda: the restoration of peace and the elimination of terrorism from the region.

The speakers stressed that maintaining law and order and eradicating terrorism were the state’s responsibility, warning that continued insecurity could trigger widespread public unrest, citing recent protest movements in other countries as examples of growing public frustration.

The speakers also criticised the authorities for what they described as action against peaceful citizens while terrorists continued to operate in the mountainous areas of Swat. They alleged that terrorists had openly circulated videos on social media and questioned why stronger action had not been taken against them.

“Our children deserve education, and our families deserve to live in peace,” one speaker told the gathering.

“We have witnessed years of bloodshed. Our mothers, sisters, and daughters have suffered immensely, and we do not want another generation of widows and orphans.”

Condemnations pour in

President Asif Ali Zardari expressed sorrow over the loss of life and called for a comprehensive investigation into the incident, according to a statement issued by his office on X.

President Zardari directed the relevant authorities to provide the best possible medical facilities to those injured.

“Terrorists will never succeed in their nefarious efforts to undermine peace, national unity and the writ of the state,” he was quoted as saying. He added that the sacrifices of the KP police were “a source of pride for the entire nation”.

KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi also condemned the blast.

“Terrorists cannot demoralise the nation with cowardly attacks,” Kundi was quoted as saying, as per a statement.

KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, condemning the incident, sought a report from the KP Inspector General of Police (IGP) and offered condolences to the families of the deceased.

“The elements hostile to peace will never be allowed to succeed in their nefarious intentions,” the chief minister was quoted as saying.

Earlier in the day, an IED blast near the Peshawar-Islamabad motorway toll plaza injured two policemen in the provincial capital Peshawar. On July 30, a terrorist attack on a police checkpost in Hangu martyred nine policemen.

KP has seen an uptick in terrorist activity. According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies’s monthly security assessment, KP, excluding the merged districts, recorded 154 terrorism related deaths in July, compared with 75 in June, representing an increase of 105 per cent.

Security sources said the slain terrorist was identified as Amir Mauviya, and he was killed during an intelligence-based operation in Hangu’s Chapri Naryab.

According to the sources, the slain terrorist held an important position among Fitna-al-Khawarij in Kurram, and was wanted in several other terrorism cases.

Fitna-al-Khawarij is a term the state uses for the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan.

The sources added that under Operation 11 Garaj, operations against terrorists had been intensified.

The attack on the Khazina Banda checkpost had claimed the lives of nine police personnel, including a deputy superintendent of police, and left 28 injured. Police officials said an exchange of fire had broken out after the terrorists attacked the checkpost, and 15 terrorists were killed in retaliatory action.

More recently, two police personnel sustained minor injuries in an improvised explosive device explosion targeting a police van near Pir Zakorhi Bridge near the Peshawar-Islamabad motorway toll plaza on Sunday.

On July 29, a policeman was martyred and four terrorists were killed during an operation in Swat’s Matta tehsil, police and security sources said.

It was merely five days after a terrorist attack on a joint police checkpost in KP’s Tank district martyred 15 people, including 14 security personnel.

Among those martyred were 12 soldiers, two policemen and a government official, the military’s media affairs wing said.

It added that the attackers attempted to breach the checkpost’s perimeter, but their attempts were “swiftly and decisively foiled” by security forces, who eliminated 12 terrorists.

Inter-Service Public Relations (ISPR) said the attackers then rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the perimeter wall and infrastructure at the checkpost was seriously damaged by the impact of the resulting blast.

Security personnel and law enforcers have been coming under attack in KP, which continues to face terrorism.

According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies’ (PICSS) monthly security assessment released on Saturday, Security personnel deaths in terrorism incidents in KP, excluding merged districts, increased from 12 in June to 38 in July and terrorist deaths from 37 to 108, reflecting a rise by 192pc. But civilian deaths fell from 26 to seven, a decline by 73pc. One peace committee member was also killed.

Security personnel deaths in merged districts rose from six to 11 and terrorist deaths fell from 72 to 55. Civilian deaths, meanwhile, rose by 86pc, increasing from seven to 13.

According to the police, the driver of a police van and a constable sustained minor injuries, while the vehicle itself sustained damage.

“Both the cops have been shifted to the hospital,” the city police spokesperson Alam Khan told Dawn.

The bomb disposal unit (BDU) reached the scene shortly after the incident was reported.

“It was a roadside IED explosion, and the bomb was planted in the green belt [next to the vehicle],” Peshawar Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Farhan Khan told Dawn.

He said the BDU was busy scanning the green belt for other devices, adding that both cops were stable and had only scratches on their bodies.

Peshawar Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Dr Mian Saeed Ahmed also visited the blast site and later met the injured at the Lady Reading Hospital in Peshawar, who were identified as constables Haider Ali and Yousaf, according to a separate police statement.

The incident comes days after nine cops, including a deputy superintendent of police (DSP), were martyred and 28 others were injured in a terrorist attack on a checkpost in Hangu district.

On July 29, a policeman and four members of a village defence committee were martyred, while six terrorists were killed during a joint security operation in the mountainous areas of Swat’s Kabal and Matta tehsils.

According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies’ (PICSS) monthly security assessment, at least 112 security personnel lost their lives during July in terrorist attacks, the highest monthly toll since January 2023 and the second-highest recorded in more than a decade.

KP, excluding the merged districts, recorded 154 deaths in July, up from 75 in June, an increase of 105pc. The number of people injured rose from 60 to 98. Security personnel deaths in mainland KP increased from 12 to 38, while terrorist deaths rose by 192pc, from 37 to 108.

“The Hazara Electricity Supply Company continuously suspended power supply to Baffa town and its adjoining localities for over 36 hours. When people took to the streets, its workers’ union lodged an FIR against me, which further agitated the people,” Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf leader and former provincial assembly candidate Abdul Shakoor Khan Lughmani told reporters.

The charged protesters set ablaze tyres and blocked the Karakoram Highway and Hazara Expressway. They were demanding registration of an FIR against office-bearers of the Hazeco workers’ union and their suspensions, who, according to them, had agreed to resolve the issue following the protest on Friday but later got an FIR registered against Mr Lughmani.

The protesters raised slogans in support of their demands and against Hazeco, saying they would resume their protest if police did not quash the FIR registered against Mr Lughmani and suspend the office-bearers of the workers’ union.

Baffa police had lodged the FIR against Mr Lughmani on Friday after protesters blocked the KKH and Hazara Expressway against the continued suspension of power supply to the people.

KILLED: Three brothers were killed and their nephew sustained injuries after their family refused to accept the demand of the alleged assailants to end an engagement that had been arranged in accordance with Kohistani customs and traditions six years ago.

“The alleged assailants asked the family to break off the engagement because they wanted the girl to marry one of them. However, the family refused, saying the demand was against their traditions. They were then attacked,” Superintendent of Police (City) Shahnawaz Khan told reporters on Saturday.

The incident occurred in the Karkala area within the jurisdiction of Lari Adda police station on Friday night when a group of armed men allegedly barged into the house of a Kohistani family that had been living in Mansehra for decades. They opened fire, killing three brothers and injuring their nephew.

According to the first information report (FIR), complainant Nadeem Gul stated that he had been engaged to a girl about six years ago in accordance with Kohistani customs and traditions. He alleged that Mohammad Naseem and Abdul Razzaq had repeatedly approached him to end the engagement, but he and his family refused.

“The assailants barged into our house and opened fire, killing my three brothers Mohammad Nazir, Gul Nawaz and Kaseer Gul and critically injuring my nephew before fleeing the scene,” he stated in the FIR.

After the completion of autopsies and other medico-legal formalities, the bodies were handed over to the family for burial.

Police registered an FIR against 11 suspects including two women, under Sections 302, 324, 452, 148, 149, 109 and 756 of the Pakistan Penal Code and conducted raids to arrest the accused.

Published in Dawn, August 2nd, 2026

Speaking to a delegation of journalists here on Saturday, he said recent incidents in Hangu and Dera Ismail Khan had highlighted the seriousness of the security situation.

Mr Kundi said the federal and provincial governments needed to work together, recalling that during the Pakistan Peoples Party government from 2008 to 2013, coordination between the two governments had helped conduct ‘effective’ counter-terrorism operations in Swat.

“Without coordination between the Centre and the province, operations against terrorism will face difficulties,” he said, adding that all political parties and security institutions needed to work together for restoring peace in the province.

Claims PPP has evidence of irregularities in AJK elections

The governor opposed dialogue with groups that had taken up arms against the state and did not recognise the country’s Constitution and laws.

He questioned how groups claiming to be fighting for an Islamic system could justify attacks on mosques, imambargahs and educational institutions.

Mr Kundi said Pakistan had an opportunity to attract greater investment if peace was restored in KP. “If we bring peace to our province, no power in the world can stop us from turning it into a developed region,” he said.

The governor said the PPP was not a supporter of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz government but stood with it on issues concerning state stability and democracy.

He said the party had chosen not to become part of the government or accept ministries, but had supported it where the interests of the state and democracy were involved.

Mr Kundi also criticised the federal and provincial governments over urban flooding following recent rains, saying the situation in major cities had exposed shortcomings in planning and drainage systems.

The governor also raised concerns over the role of federal ministers and the PML-N in the ongoing political activity surrounding elections in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

He said if the PML-N was genuinely serious about the Kashmir cause, political representation for AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan should be considered in the federal parliament.

Mr Kundi alleged that the PPP had evidence of irregularities affecting its candidates in the Kashmir elections and said the party would present the evidence before the relevant forums.

He criticised the involvement of federal ministers and the use of buses from Punjab in the election campaign, arguing that government resources should be transferred through institutional, government-to-government mechanisms rather than being presented as ‘political gifts’.

He said the PPP would welcome development projects in any part of the country, but stressed that such projects should be implemented through proper government procedures.

Referring to recent attacks in Manjhikhel and Hangu, Mr Kundi said terrorism was not confined to Dera Ismail Khan and Hangu, with security concerns also emerging in the southern districts, merged areas, Swat and Dir.

He called for intelligence-based operations across the province and said he would discuss the matter with the chief minister.

The governor said the KP government should address the police’s concerns and involve elected representatives and political parties in efforts to improve the security situation.

He maintained that issues involving the province’s financial and administrative interests, including the CNG and wheat issues, taxation in the Malakand division and funds owed by the federal government, should not be politicised.

Published in Dawn, August 2nd, 2026

The ceremony, named “Shuhada-i-Bajaur”, was arranged by the JUI-F local chapter in Khar the other day and was attended by scores of party workers and leaders.

Political figures from different parties, elders and family members of those slain in the July 30, 2023, suicide bombing were also present to observe the third anniversary of what was described as the deadliest and most tragic incident in Bajaur’s history.

JUI-F district head Maulana Abdur Rasheed, Bajaur Amn Jirga head and JI district emir Sahibzada Haroon Rashid, PPP provincial leader Syed Akhunzada Chattan, PML-N district president Malik Gul Kareem Khan, religious scholar Maulana Zakirullah, former Khar tehsil council chairman and JUI-F deputy chief Said Badshah, Maulana Muhammad Tariq, Mian Habib Gul and Malik Mohammad Ayaz Khan addressed the event.

They said: “The July 30, 2023 bombing at the peaceful JUI-F workers’ convention, in which about 63 innocent people of various ages, most of them party workers, were martyred and more than 123 others wounded, was a tragic incident.”

The speakers said the attack had not only claimed precious lives but also created an atmosphere of panic and fear among citizens, especially the victims’ families, relatives, friends and colleagues.

Paying rich tribute to the departed souls, they said those who lost their lives in the bombing were “truly the heroes of Bajaur as they sacrificed their lives for peace.”

Expressing deep concern over the prolonged unrest in the district, the speakers urged the relevant authorities to make sincere efforts to ensure lasting peace in the region.

Published in Dawn, August 2nd, 2026

Dengue situation report released by Integrated Diseases Surveillance and Response System (IDS&RS) at Directorate General Health Services Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on weekly basis has been listing the only challenge it faces in connection with preventive activities regarding the vector-borne ailment that MTIs are not sharing line-lists with health department.

However, MTIs continue to ignore requests made by the department now and then to start sharing details of patients visiting OPDs with it. According to the latest report of IDS&RS, the provincial tally of dengue patients has reached 250 with Peshawar topping the list with 134 patients.

Health officials said that they were taking prompt action in the areas from where dengue cases were recorded due to which there was no cluster so far but only sporadic infections were recorded.

Health dept urges MTIs to share data of patients with it

“However, it can jeopardise the situation if MTIs continue its lacklustre response to requests about sharing patients’ information with the department,” they said. Health officials associated with anti-dengue efforts had held meetings with administration of MTIs but they did share the requested information with them.

So far, 1,354 suspected patients have been recorded and tested at Public Health Reference Lab (PHRL) of Khyber Medical University free of cost. The department has been providing free courier services in all districts for rapid transportation of suspected samples to PHRL to ensure that in case of infections, preventive measures are taken in a timely manner.

So far, 21 districts have reported infections including Peshawar having 134 dengue cases, Kohat 45, Bannu 14, Bajaur eight, Swabi and Mohmand six cases each, Karak five and Hangu, Dir Lower and Nowshera four cases each while the remaining districts had recorded one and two infections.

Officials said that sharing information by MTIs was desperately required to devise comprehensive strategy for elimination of virus. According to them, their workers have mechanically destroyed larvae found in 392 houses of the total 279,062 sites inspected by surveillance staff and 914 containers out of one million whereas 182 outdoor places laced with larvae have also been chemically sprayed.

Experts say that Peshawar has been the mainstay of dengue virus as it reports cases every year. Bulk of dengue cases in the past were reported at MTIs which used to share information with the department enabling the latter to take preventive measures, such as carrying out spray and testing the close contacts of infected people.

“MTIs have also been testing patients with dengue symptoms on payment and those tested positive are sent back to home where they can spread the disease,” they said.

Experts said that Peshawar was home to mosquitoes, the carrier and transmitter of dengue, due to which the chances of spread of the ailment was higher. “When a mosquito bites an infected person then it becomes source of transmission to others, due to which the department requires all details about cases, their address etc so that preventive measures could be started,” they said.

As there is excessive power outages, so the chances of mosquito bites are more and people stay exposed to the virus.

Officials in health department say that they held 66,869 sessions where they educated people regarding the causes and prevention of dengue. They said that 287,418 women and 75,229 men attended the sessions. “However, we need information to start such sessions in the infected areas. We heavily bank on MTIs as far as Peshawar is concerned,” they added.

Otherwise, situation could go 2017’s way when Peshawar recorded 70 deaths and 60,000 dengue cases and hospitals were overcrowded with patients, most of them were treated in corridors for want of space, they said.

Published in Dawn, August 2nd, 2026

The protest, organised by Shangla Coal Mine Workers Association (SCMWA), coincided with the arrival of the victims’ bodies from Balochistan.

A number of people gathered at Bada Gata before accompanying the bodies to their native villages for burial.

The demonstrators accused the mining company of negligence and urged the Balochistan government to conduct a fair investigation into the incident that claimed 34 lives.

Carrying placards and chanting slogans, protesters criticised the area’s elected representatives, alleging that successive governments had failed to create employment opportunities in Shangla, forcing residents to seek work in hazardous coal mines in Balochistan.

They said unemployment had compelled generations of young men from the district to work under dangerous conditions to support their families, while recurring mining accidents continued to claim lives.

Twenty-six miners belonging to Shangla were laid to rest in their ancestral graveyards in the Mian Kalay, Kana and Bely Baba areas after their bodies were brought from Balochistan. Two others were likely to arrive on Saturday night. Emotional scenes were witnessed as several families buried more than one relative.

Addressing the gathering, SCMWA leaders Ali Bash Khan and former senator Rahat Hussain demanded that those responsible for negligence be held accountable.

They said repeated mining disasters had left dozens of families in Shangla without breadwinners and urged the federal and provincial governments to formulate policies to provide safer working conditions for miners and create alternative sources of employment in the district.

The speakers said Shangla remained one of the country’s most underdeveloped districts, where limited economic opportunities had forced a large number of residents to migrate to coalfields in Balochistan to earn a livelihood.

They also called for adequate compensation and long-term support for the families of the deceased miners.

Opposition Leader in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, Ibadullah Khan, MPA Abdul Munim and others, who were also present on the occasion, promised early compensation for the victims’ heirs.

Twenty-eight coal miners, who died in the mine incident in Quetta, were from the Shangla district, and 23 of them from Mian Kalay village.

Shangla has long been a major source of Pakistan’s coal mine workforce, with thousands of its residents employed in mines across Balochistan.

Fatal mining accidents have repeatedly claimed the lives of workers from the district, prompting recurring demands for improved safety standards and employment opportunities closer to home.

Published in Dawn, August 2nd, 2026

During the operation, security forces also killed five terrorists affiliated with Fitna al Khawarij, according to the military’s media wing.

Fitna al Khawarij is a term the state uses for terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

The ISPR said that Major Hafiz Ihsan Elahi, 34, from Mianwali district, was “a brave officer who was leading his troops from the front, fought gallantly, paid the ultimate sacrifice” and embraced martyrdom.

Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the killed terrorists, “who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities” against security forces and law enforcement agencies, as well as in the killing of civilians.

“Sanitisation operations are being conducted to eliminate any other India-sponsored terrorist found in the area. Relentless counter-terrorism campaign under the vision ‘Azm-i-Istehkam’ (as approved by Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan) by security forces and law enforcement agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country,” the ISPR statement read.

“Such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further reinforce our unwavering commitment of safeguarding our nation at all costs.”

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the government was implementing a comprehensive and effective strategy to “completely eliminate” the menace posed by the proscribed Fitna-al-Hindustan, Fitna-al-Khawarij and other terrorist outfits to the country.

Pakistan has seen a surge in terrorism since the banned TTP ended its ceasefire deal with the government in November 2022, vowing to increase attacks.

Last month, in the wake of multiple major attacks in Balochistan, Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir had reaffirmed that terrorism “emanating from across the borders will be crushed with full might of the state”.

On July 29, the military’s media wing said security forces killed 32 terrorists during operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

7 terrorists killed in Nushki IBO

In a separate statement, ISPR said security forces killed “seven Indian-sponsored terrorists” during an IBO in Balochistan’s Nushki district on the night of July 30/31 July.

Among those was a would-be suicide bomber, the ISPR said, noting that the IBO was carried out on the “reported presence of terrorists belonging to Indian proxy, Fitna al Hindustan” — a term designated by the state for terrorist organisations in Balo­chistan.

During the operation, a terrorist hideout was “identified, monitored and busted through prompt surgical action by own forces, killing all seven Indian sponsored terrorists, including a suicide bomber”, the statement said.

It added that ammunition and improvised explosive devices found there were also destroyed on-site.

Sanitisation operations were underway to eliminate “any other Indian sponsored terrorist found in the area”.

The military’s media affairs wing reaffirmed that the counter-terrorism campaign under Vision Azm-i-Istehkam would continue “at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and -supported terrorism from the country”.

A day earlier, Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti vowed that the state would not retreat “even an inch” in its fight against terrorism.

Last month, security forces killed at least 16 terrorists during “Operation Al-Azm” in Balochistan’s Mastung district, which was launched after a shooting on a Karachi-bound coach claimed three lives and injured five others.

Security concerns heightened in Balochistan after a spate of major terrorist attacks took place in early July, which prompted counterterrorism operations across the province.

Among the counterterrorism efforts was Operation Shaban, in which 91 terrorists were killed between July 5 and July 16, according to security sources cited by state media. This took the tally of terrorists eliminated in operations across the province during the period to 129.

District Police Officer (DPO) Muhammad Tahir said that the incident occurred after Friday prayers when unidentified assailants on a motorcycle opened fire on Ismail, killing him on the spot. The official said the assailants managed to escape from the scene.

The DPO said that an initial report of the incident had been registered and an investigation into the killing had been launched. He added that police were examining the incident from all angles.

According to police officials and local tribal elders, the deceased was a resident of Kazha Panga and was serving as a teacher at a religious seminary in the area.

In May, renowned cleric and former JUI-F MPA Maulana Muhammad Idrees was killed in Charsadda after unidentified assailants opened fire on him.

In January, JUI-F leader Maulana Sultan Muhammad Wazir succumbed to his injuries after being critically wounded in a bomb blast near a madressah in South Waziristan’s Wana bazaar area.

Rescue 1122 spokesperson Bilal Ahmed Faizi told Dawn that they rescued 120 persons from Sardar Colony after heavy rains early on Friday. He said 40 rescuers and four rescue vehicles were deployed in the area. Besides, he said that five persons were rescued from the Khushal Bagh area on Warsak Road. He said rescuers were also deployed to Safia Homes and Nasir Bagh Road; however, no evacuations were made from these areas.

However, he said that no casualties were reported.

TransPeshawar, the operator of Peshawar Bus Rapid Transit, said it suspended the services due to the closure of the Budhni Bridge.

Peshawar witnessed heavy rains during the early hours of Friday, and according to the Met department, the provincial capital received 21mm of rain.

According to Rescue 1122, rainwater accumulated on roads in Swat and Khyber districts as well; however, no casualties were reported. It said that they used dewatering pumps to drain rainwater from several areas.

Meanwhile, in a statement, Peshawar Electric Supply Company said that 84 feeders tripped after the rain and windstorm. It said the tripping of feeders resulted in the suspension of electricity in Peshawar, Khyber, Mardan, Swabi and Swat circles. It said that 41 feeders tripped in Peshawar circle, 22 in Khyber, 12 in Mardan, five in Swabi and four in Swat circle. The power utility said that its staff was working to restore power supply.

Meanwhile, floodwaters caused the collapse of the Topi-Kotha causeway in Swabi, suspending traffic between Topi and various villages.

The causeway built on the Topi Nullah also provided a shortcut to Topi main city for the people of different regions.

The nullah was in high flood due to overnight torrential rain in the Gadoon mountainous region. The causeway was reconstructed only a year ago.

As soon as the incident was reported, officials of the tehsil municipal administration, Rescue 1122 and Civil Defence reached the spot.

Residents alleged the use of substandard material in the construction of the causeway.

Published in Dawn, August 1st, 2026

A bench consisting of Justice Wiqar Ahmad and Justice Inamullah Khan ruled: “Having considered the matter in its entirety, this Court has not been persuaded that the ongoing recruitment process suffers from any material illegality warranting interference in the exercise of constitutional jurisdiction.”

“Judicial intervention at this stage would inevitably impede and delay the recruitment of essential healthcare professionals, thereby adversely affecting the public interest and the provision of healthcare services throughout the Province, particularly in far-flung areas where the shortage of medical personnel is most acute,” the bench observed.

The bench on July 29 disposed of multiple petitions filed by several candidates requesting to declare as illegal the recruitment process of around 2,500 doctors and nurses and a notification issued on Feb 26, 2026, through which divisional commissioners were appointed as chairmen of departmental selection committee.

Directs health dept to make grievance committee fully functional

The bench referred individual grievances of the petitioners to the grievance redressal committee for decision.

In its 17-page detailed judgment the bench pointed out that the relevant advertisement envisaged the constitution of a grievance redressal committee for resolution of individual grievances arising out of the recruitment process.

“In the circumstances, it is directed that said Committee shall be made fully functional and shall effectively discharge its statutory mandate,” the bench ordered.

“The Committee shall afford every aggrieved candidate a reasonable opportunity of personal hearing, where so desired, and shall decide each grievance through a detailed and reasoned speaking order, clearly identifying the grievance raised, examining the relevant record and assigning cogent reasons for acceptance or rejection thereof,” the court ordered.

The bench further directed: “The decisions of the Grievance Redressal Committee shall be uploaded on the official website and shall also be communicated individually to the concerned candidates through their provided email addresses and mobile numbers. Any person remaining dissatisfied with decision of the Committee shall be at liberty to avail the appropriate remedy in accordance with law, including filing an independent constitutional petition before this Court, accompanied by a copy of the speaking order passed by the Committee.”

“Accordingly, the individual grievances raised in the present and connected writ petitions are referred to the Grievance Redressal Committee for adjudication strictly in accordance with law and in the light of the observations made hereinabove,” the bench ordered.

“The committee shall decide all such grievances by passing independent speaking orders. Upon such determination, the petitioners, if still aggrieved, shall remain at liberty to challenge same before the appropriate forum in accordance with law,” the bench maintained.

An additional advocate general, Asad Jan, and additional secretary health Minhasuddin had informed the bench that an unusually large number of vacancies had existed in various healthcare institutions, adversely affecting the delivery of medical services, particularly in remote and underdeveloped areas.

They stated that to address this shortage, the provincial government allocated substantial financial resources and adopted a decentralized mechanism by constituting divisional selection committees to ensure expeditious completion of the recruitment process.

The petitioners had raised multiple objections to the recruitment process, claiming that the respondents including the health department had unlawfully altered the selection criteria after commencement of the recruitment process; constituted the departmental selection committees chaired by respective divisional commissioners contrary to the applicable Rules; failed to ensure transparency in the preparation and publication of merit lists; and adopted an arbitrary and discriminatory method of evaluation during interviews.

They alleged several petitioners were either awarded unjustifiably low or zero interview marks, wrongly shown as absent, denied due weightage for their academic qualifications and experience, or otherwise deprived of fair consideration, while candidates possessing inferior merit were recommended for appointment.

They contended that Rule 4 of the KP Health Department Contract Appointment of Doctors (Fixed Pay) Rules, 2022, provided that only director general health should head the selection committee and not the commissioner.

The AAG rebutted the argument stating that amendments were made in the rules in 2026 whereby it was provided that any other person could be appointed as chairman of the committee by the secretary.

The bench observed that as the petitioners had not challenged the amended rules, the court couldn’t examine it in the present proceedings.

“Consequently, the legal position obtaining today is that the Rules expressly authorize constitution of the Selection Committee in the manner adopted by the respondents during the impugned recruitment process,” the bench ruled.

Published in Dawn, August 1st, 2026

The plan included continuous monitoring, irrigation, maintenance, and protection measures to maximise the long-term success and sustainability of plantation efforts.

He stated this while addressing the Fourth Online Open Forum of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change, Forestry, Environment and Wildlife Department here on Friday.

The forum provided citizens from across the province with an opportunity to directly engage with senior officials, raise questions, share suggestions, and register concerns regarding forestry, environmental protection, afforestation, wildlife conservation, and departmental services.

Speaking on the occasion, Junaid Khan stated that planting a tree was an investment in the security and prosperity of future generations, while cutting down a tree was not merely the loss of timber; it was a loss to the environment, biodiversity, water resources, and the rights of generations yet to come.

He remarked that growing a tree required patience, dedication, and years of care, whereas felling one took only a few moments. Therefore, safeguarding forests was not only a governmental obligation but also a shared national, moral, and constitutional responsibility.

He emphasised that every officer and official of the forest department served as a true guardian of the province’s forests and natural heritage. They must remain steadfast in protecting forests, biodiversity, wildlife, and natural resources. He further stressed that forest conservation could not be achieved by government institutions alone; every citizen had an equally important role to play in preserving Pakistan’s green legacy.

Junaid Khan announced that with the onset of the monsoon season, the department had officially launched its province-wide monsoon plantation campaign. Millions of saplings were being planted across all districts, while free saplings were also being distributed among citizens to encourage broad public participation.

He noted that in the face of escalating climate change, rising temperatures, air pollution, floods, landslides, and increasing water scarcity, large-scale tree plantation remained the most effective and sustainable solution. He further announced that the forest department had designated March 23 and August 14 as permanent annual calendar events for province-wide mega plantation campaigns.

Published in Dawn, August 1st, 2026

The agreement was concluded in May during the SAC sit-in inside Pesco building in the district headquarters.

The protesters had gathered at Karnal Sher Khan Chowk in the district headquarters, chanting slogans against government and Pesco for increasing power outage to 18 hours per day, making people’s lives miserable in the prevailing harsh summer.

The district police had closed the Swabi-Topi Road with barbed wire to stop protesters from crossing Iqthidar Chowk but the protesters removed the barbed wire and continued march towards Swabi deputy commissioner’s office.

However, the protesters were stopped from marching beyond the office of the assistant commissioner, where they staged a sit-in. Their leaders addressed the participants, reiterating their demands and criticising the district administration.

Later, SAC members and leaders of various political parties held talks with district administration officials at the district administration mosque.

Following the meeting, the two sides reached a consensus, which was conveyed to the protesters.

Speaking to reporters afterwards, SAC spokesperson and former Awami National Party provincial general secretary Salim Khan advocate said the committee had unanimously decided not to hold further negotiations with the district administration, accusing it of violating the previously signed agreement and commitments made in the presence of religious elders.

“How can we negotiate with officials who failed to honour their promises and did not implement the agreement?” he asked.

He said the committee had also unanimously decided to launch a district-wide campaign urging electricity consumers not to pay their monthly bills until their demands were accepted.

He urged residents not to allow Pesco staff or police to remove electricity meters or service wires, insisting that consumers had paid for the installations. “The meters and service wires belong to the consumers,” he said.

SAC member and former Qaumi Watan Party provincial deputy general secretary Masood Jabar warned that if the authorities failed to meet the committee’s demands, protesters

would block the Islamabad-Peshawar Motorway and march towards Tarbela Dam, saying local people had made immense sacrifices for the construction of the project.

The protest also brought traffic on the Swabi-Topi Road to a standstill for more than three hours, leaving long queues of vehicles stranded and forcing commuters to wait until the road was reopened.

Published in Dawn, August 1st, 2026

Mohmand Mining Development Association organised the protest outside the press club, followed by a rally from the Ghalanai Bypass.

Carrying banners and placards, the protesters demanded the restoration of explosives licences, describing the suspension as a serious blow to the mining industry and the livelihoods of thousands of families.

Mohmand Mining Development Association general secretary Taufiq, PTI leader Rahim Shah, Petroleum Association president Hazrat Shah Safi, Transport Association president Qari Arifullah, Frontier Mines Association senior vice-president Asghar Khan Afridi, All Pakistan Frontier Mines Association senior vice-chairman and provincial chairman Sher Bandi Khan Marwat, Mohmand Minerals president Jan Sher and Mohmand Welfare Organisation president Mira Fazal Mohmand addressed the protesters.

The speakers said the suspension of explosives licences had halted mining operations, marble processing and related activities across the district. They claimed that nearly 200,000 workers, transporters and others directly or indirectly linked to the sector had lost their source of income.

They argued that the mining industry was the economic backbone of Mohmand and other merged districts, where employment opportunities were already limited.

According to the speakers, any prolonged suspension of mining activities would have far-reaching consequences for the local economy.

The protesters urged the government to review its policy and introduce a practical regulatory framework that addressed security concerns without paralysing legitimate mining operations.

They maintained that if restrictions were imposed in the interest of security, affected workers and businesses should also be provided with viable alternative livelihood opportunities.

They urged the authorities to engage with industry representatives and resolve the issue through dialogue.

Meanwhile, the district administration has imposed a ban on the sale, purchase, transportation, possession and use of urea fertiliser across Mohmand under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, citing security concerns.

Deputy Commissioner Bilal Shahid Rao issued a notification, stating that credible intelligence reports indicated that urea fertiliser could be used in the preparation of improvised explosive devices and other unlawful activities.

It warned that the unrestricted sale, purchase, transportation, possession and use of the fertiliser could pose a serious threat to public safety.

The notification said the restrictions took effect from July 28 and will remain in force for 30 days.

Published in Dawn, August 1st, 2026

The Shangla Coal Mine Workers Association said that following the deaths of 23 miners from Mian Kaly, almost every household in the village was mourning the loss of a family member.

Abid Yaar, president of the Shangla Coal Mine Workers Association, said that Mian Kaly had become the epicentre of repeated coal mine tragedies.

“A total of 28 deceased workers were from Shangla district — 23 from Mian Kaly (Pir Abad), two from Kana, and one each from Bada and Gata Bely Baba,” he said.

He added that the victims, aged between 17 and 25, belonged to the same families and were cousins or close relatives. According to Yaar, several of the deceased were orphans whose fathers had also lost their lives in previous coal mine accidents.

He alleged that the tragedy resulted from the mine administration’s negligence and the absence of essential safety measures, claiming that there was no proper ventilation system in the government-run mine, which led to the deadly gas explosion.

“It is not just an accident but a lifelong trauma for the families, orphans, widows and mothers who lost their loved ones. These young men had gone there only to earn a livelihood and support their families back home,” Yaar said.

Responding to a question, he noted that Shangla lacked factories and other opportunities for skilled employment, forcing young people to work in hazardous coal mines and risk their lives to make ends meet.

The victims’ family members criticised the government for not arranging ambulances to transport their loved ones’ bodies, adding that they had to bring the remains in a van at their own expense.

According to the Shangla administration, one body arrived on Friday evening, with the others expected to arrive later at night and early on Saturday morning.

Three of the miners who lost their lives in the tragedy were brothers.

Earlier today, rescue teams recovered 32 bodies overnight from two coal mines in the Sorange coalfield near Quetta after a methane gas explosion, while the search for two more miners was underway.

The explosion occurred on Thursday at a private coal mine in the Sorange coalfield, about 30 kilometres northeast of Quetta. The methane gas explosion triggered a fire, caused the mine to collapse, and affected another nearby mine.

Chief Inspector of Mines Balochistan Muhammad Atif told Dawn that 34 miners were inside the two mines when the explosion occurred.

“So far, 32 bodies have been recovered from both mines,” he said. “The operation is continuing in the mine where the explosion took place to recover two miners.”

The explosion severely affected another mine near the main site, with 12 miners working in the second mine at the time.

In June, at least three people were injured after explosive material used in mining accidentally detonated in the Khanuzai area.

In April, at least five coal miners were killed in two separate mine accidents that took place in the Bolan and Duki coalfield areas of Balochistan.

Regional Police Officer Ghulam Mubashir Mekan said the attack occurred within the limits of the Choudhwan police station when armed men opened fire on a police party returning from the site of a protest.

Police said the incident followed the fatal shooting of a civilian on Thursday night.

Officials said unidentified gunmen attempted to stop two men travelling on a motorcycle in the Choudhwan area a day earlier. When the riders failed to stop, the attackers opened fire, killing one of the men.

The killing prompted residents to block Daraban Road on Friday morning. The road was later reopened after successful negotiations between the protesters and police.

Officials said four policemen travelling on two motorcycles after the protest ended were ambushed near Shah Alam Mor by armed men lying in wait.

Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Faqir Hussain and Head Constable Wazir Khan were martyred in the attack, while the two other policemen remained unharmed.

Police and security personnel rushed to the scene, shifted the bodies to hospital for legal formalities and launched a search operation to trace the attackers. An investigation is underway.

Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi condemned the attack and sought a report from senior police officials.

The governor paid tribute to the fallen policemen, describing them as “the nation’s heroes” whose sacrifices were acknowledged across the country.

Kundi also expressed condolences to the bereaved families and colleagues of the martyred officers, saying he stood with them in their grief.

In a statement on X, the ministry said representatives from all chambers of commerce spoke about the security situation in their respective provinces and the challenges they were facing.

For his part, Naqvi briefed the delegation on the overall security situation in the country, particularly in KP and Balochistan, and the steps taken by the government in this regard, the statement added.

“He assured the business community of complete cooperation,” it stated, further quoting Naqvi as saying: “The government will employ all available resources to resolve the issues of traders and industrialists and ensure their protection.”

He further said that he would soon visit Peshawar and Quetta and hold detailed meetings with the business community in the presence of senior government officials and representatives so that “a permanent and practical solution” for the challenges being faced by traders and industrialists could be worked out.

He further said, “The private sector plays a key role in stabilising the country’s economy. Pakistan’s progress lies in the progress of the business community. The government is with you and we will resolve all your legitimate issues.”

Naqvi’s meeting with members of the business community takes place against the backdrop of security challenges in KP and Balochistan.

A monthly security assessment released in early June by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) said that after two consecutive months of improvement, Pakistan’s security situation deteriorated sharply in May, driven primarily by escalating terrorist violence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

Earlier this month, security forces and law enforcement personnel jointly launched Operation Shaban in Balochistan in retaliation for a deadly attack on a police post at the Mangi Dam pumping station in Ziarat on July 6. During that assault, armed attackers kidnapped and killed 27 police officers.

Later, security forces also launched Operation Al-Azm in the province after a shooting on a Karachi-bound coach coming from Quetta claimed three lives and injured five others last week.

More recently, in KP, nine policemen, including a deputy superintendent of police, were martyred and 28 others injured after terrorists attacked the Khazina Banda checkpost in Hangu district late on Wednesday.

A statement issued by KP Inspector General Zulfiqar Hameed said that the checkpost was attacked by Fitna-al-Khawarij, a term the state uses for terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan.

Also on Wednesday, a policeman was martyred and four terrorists were killed during an operation in Swat’s Matta tehsil.

On July 24, terrorists also attempted to breach a joint police checkpost’s perimeter in Tank, and according to ISPR, the attempt was “swiftly and decisively foiled” by security forces, who eliminated 12 terrorists.

On Thursday, Naqvi had held a meeting with President Asif Ali Zardari, during which both reviewed the country’s overall law and order situation, with particular focus on the security situation in KP and Balochistan.

The interior minister had briefed the president on the prevailing law and order situation in the two provinces, as well as the ongoing measures being taken to combat terrorism.

BAJAUR: Unknown miscreants blew up a government primary school in Lowi Kharkai area of War Mamund tehsil here late on Wednesday night.

Officials and locals told Dawn on Thursday that unidentified miscreants entered the Government Primary School for Boys late on Wednesday night and planted explosives inside the building, which went off with a big bang, damaging most of the school structure.

“The overnight bombing at the school has created panic among locals, as it was the second educational institution in the area to be attacked in the past 10 days,” they added.

Police confirmed the incident, saying that three rooms of the school were badly damaged in the blast, which occurred around 3am in the morning.

According to an official report from War Mamund police station, no one was hurt as the building was empty at the time of explosion. The report stated that besides three rooms, furniture and other items inside the rooms were also destroyed in the blast.

A police official of the War Mamund police station said that a police team reached the scene and collected evidence for the investigation and to trace those involved.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack which drew strong condemnation from people across different walks of life, who called it “an act of the enemies of education”.

In social media posts, they urged authorities to ensure safety of educational institutions and to punish those behind such attacks.

Meanwhile, in a separate incident on Wednesday night, unknown miscreants destroyed the main gate of the house of local elder Malik Shah Mahmood in the same area (Lowi Kharkai) with an explosive device.

Police and residents said the explosion occurred in Lowi Kharkai area of War Mamund tehsil. A police official said that an investigation was underway to trace those behind the explosion.

Published in Dawn, July 31st, 2026

The decision was made at a meeting chaired by District Election Commissioner Jamshed Khan, attended by representatives of district administration, education department, social organisations and other stakeholders. The meeting reviewed low ratio of women voters in the district and stressed the need for coordinated efforts to bridge the gender gap in voter registration.

The officials decided to launch a special awareness and registration campaign from Aug 4 to Aug 27 across different parts of the district. Under the schedule, awareness activities will be held in village council Satandar in Balambat tehsil on Aug 4, Katiari in Adenzai tehsil on Aug 5, Mayar Jandol in Samar Bagh tehsil on Aug 12, Khairabad Kotigram on Aug 18, Government Degree College Lal Qila on Aug 20, Sultan Khel Adokai in Khall tehsil on Aug 25 and Tando Dag Tazagram on Aug 27.

During the campaign, women will be informed about the importance of voter registration, obtaining national identity cards and participating in the electoral process.

Published in Dawn, July 31st, 2026

In a letter titled “request for adjournment of proceedings”, sent to the deputy director of Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE), the secretary of HMC board said that the proceedings might be adjourned for at least 10 days to facilitate appropriate response along with relevant documentary evidence. The secretary has written a letter to ACE with approval of the BoG.

On July 28, ACE informed the BoG of HMC that an open inquiry was initiated regarding allegations of misuse of official authority, financial irregularities, illegal appointments, unlawful administrative actions and other related matters in HMC. It directed the BoG to submit written statements by today (Friday).

According to the letter, ACE wants statements regarding appointments of finance director Ikramullah Jan Khattak, chief internal auditor Shabbir Khattak, director supply chain Mohammad Ishaq Khattak, senior consultant heart failure Dr Mukhtar, senior consultant critical care Dr Shahida Rukhsana Khan, director research and clinical audit Dr Almas Fash, director pharmacy Roheena Zafar and media manager Waseem Khattak in addition to details about upgradation and re-designation of finance department staffers Jahangir Khan, Said Nabi and Mohammad Aftab.

ACE has initiated inquiry into affairs of the teaching hospital

It has instructed BoG to furnish replies backed by relevant documentary evidence and applicable legal provisions. The ACE’s letter said that whether the eligibility criteria prescribed for each of the advertised posts had been duly approved by the BoG prior to issuance of the respective advertisements. “If so, provide details and documentary proof of such approval,” it added.

Whether the appointments, re-designations and upgradations in question were made strictly in accordance with the provisions of Medical Teaching Institutions Reform Act, 2015, the relevant MTI Regulations, and other applicable laws, rules, and government policies, questioned the letter.

“In case of any deviation from the approved eligibility criteria, recruitment procedure, or regulatory framework, specify the nature of such deviation and provide copies of the approvals, if any, obtained from MTI-Policy Board or the BoG of HMC,” it said.

Additionally, ACE has asked the BoG if the academic qualifications, professional credentials and experience certificates of relevant appointees were duly scrutinised and verified by the competent authority of the hospital prior to appointment and whether such documents were found to be genuine and valid. “Relevant verification record may also be furnished,” it said.

It has also asked that if the appointments, re-designations, and upgradations were placed before, considered by, and approved with the knowledge of the BoG and whether the same were in conformity with the law.

Meanwhile, sources said that dean, former hospital director and medical director of HMC have recorded their statements. HMC, one of the biggest tertiary care hospitals in KP, has been in the news following allegations of illegal appointments. Hospital director has also been placed under suspension after he wrote to government as well Policy Board to hold a probe into the allegations.

Last week Young Doctors Association observed four-day strike and called it off on assurance of a probe into the matter. Health department in a notification requested Policy Board to conduct an impartial probe into HMC’s affairs. Policy Board is yet to receive the notification issued by health department on Tuesday.

Sources said that the BoG of HMC denied any wrongdoing and claimed that all appointments were made as per law intended to improve patient care.

Published in Dawn, July 31st, 2026

Chairing a meeting to review the overall law and order situation in the province, he stated that provincial government remained committed to ensuring a secure environment for people while advancing good governance and effective public service delivery.

The meeting was attended by provincial minister for information, special assistant to chief minister on home affairs, chief secretary, additional chief secretary, police chief and other senior officials, according to a statement.

One of the participants of the meeting said that police force was fighting an invisible enemy and fighting an invisible enemy required resources, which police lacked. “Police are incapable and lack the capacity to fight the enemy which we don’t see. The enemy is invisible,” he said.

CM assures full support to families of martyred policemen

Officials briefed the chief minister on recent developments, operational measures and broader security landscape. The chief minister reaffirmed provincial government’s resolve to employ all available resources to eliminate terrorism and strengthen sustainable peace across the province.

He said that government was implementing a coordinated, comprehensive and intelligence-led strategy for lasting peace and security of people.

Mr Afridi paid rich tribute to the professionalism, dedication, and sacrifices of KP police and Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD). He said that cowardly acts of terrorism could not undermine the resolve or morale of province’s security forces.

He said that the sacrifices rendered by police personnel in the fight against terrorism were invaluable and would never be allowed to go in vain.

Earlier, Mr Afridi visited Hangu district where he met with the families of police personnel, who embraced martyrdom in the recent terrorist attack. He offered prayers for the eternal peace of the departed souls, the elevation of their ranks and strength and patience for the bereaved families.

He stated that the police personnel, who laid down their lives in defence of nation and for the protection of its citizens, were true national heroes whose sacrifices would forever be remembered with honour and gratitude. He assured their families that government would stand firmly by them during that difficult time.

Published in Dawn, July 31st, 2026

PESHAWAR: Senior gynaecologist Dr Parveen Azim, known for promoting women medical education, died on late Wednesday night and was laid to rest in Hayatabad Township here.

Wife of paediatric surgeon Dr Said Alam Mahsud, she graduated from Khyber Medical College and later completed specialisation in gynaecology and obstetrics from College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan. She also did MS.

Dr Parveen, 73, got married in 1995. She is survived by one daughter Dr Maryam Mahsud.

She served as head of gynaecology department at Khyber Medical College Peshawar and was recipient of lifetime achievement award conferred upon her in recognition of her services and outstanding contribution to medicine and medical education.

After retirement, Dr Parveen joined Gandhara Medical College, where she also got a lifetime achievement award. She courageously overcame breast cancer and, 10 years later, battled tongue cancer. On June 10, 2026, she suffered a severe stroke.

Besides being a distinguished physician, she was also a poet and writer. She authored the acclaimed Urdu book “Gorkhi Ki Maa” on which a PhD thesis was completed

She was a very literary person. Her colleagues say that she was innocent-looking but was very brave and always supported the helpless people. She wrote fiction and the characters were always downtrodden people.

Dr Parveen remained very friendly with her patients and tried to bring smile on the faces of seriously-ill people in hospital.

Published in Dawn, July 31st, 2026

A statement issued by KP Inspector General (IG) Zulfiqar Hameed said that the checkpost was attacked by Fitna al Khawarij, a term the state uses for terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), while police personnel were present.

He said that the police personnel responded bravely, while additional personnel were also dispatched. However, the terrorists ambushed the contingent, due to which an armoured personnel carrier was damaged.

The IG said that despite these challenges, the personnel fought with bravery and professionalism.

“Fifteen kharji were killed while multiple others were injured due to the police’s response,” he said. The IG added that during the intense and long exchange of fire, nine cops, including DSP Diyar Khan, were martyred while 28 others were injured.

The IG asserted that KP police’s morale and resolve were strong, adding that the battle to wipe out terrorists from every corner of the province would continue.

Speaking to Dawn, a senior police official also confirmed the number of casualties. He said that an exchange of fire broke out after the terrorists attacked the checkpost.

Separately, a police checkpost in the Adezai area, within the jurisdiction of Peshawar’s Mattani police station, was also attacked by terrorists late on Wednesday night.

“Terrorists fired at the post but cops responded, prompting the former to escape,” a senior police official said, adding that all the cops remained unhurt.

Condemnations

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the attack on the Khazina Banda checkpost in Hangu.

In a statement, the president expressed “deep grief” over the martyrdom of the personnel, terming their sacrifices “an asset for the nation”.

“The complete eradication from the homeland of terrorists and their facilitators operating with foreign backing will be ensured,” he said.

Praying for the martyrs’ ranks and the recovery of the injured, President Zardari commended KP Police for eliminating terrorists.

PM Shehbaz, in a statement carried by state-run Radio Pakistan, expressed deep grief and sorrow over the martyrdom of nine police personnel, including DSP Diyar.

The premier also commended KP Police for eliminating 15 terrorists in a “retaliatory operation”. “Police have always served as the frontline force in the fight against terrorism,” he noted.

The prime minister reaffirmed the government’s firm resolve to eliminate terrorism “in all its forms” from the country.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also condemned the attack and offered his condolences to the families of the martyred officials and prayed for the recovery of the injured.

Denouncing the attack, KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi sought a detailed report on the incident from IG Hameed, according to a statement by his office.

CM Afridi paid tribute to the DSP and other police personnel who embraced martyrdom in the attack, along with directing that the best possible treatment be provided to the injured.

The chief minister further ordered that the provincial government extend every possible support to the families of the martyrs.

Terming the cops’ sacrifices as “unforgettable”, he said, “Establishing peace is our foremost priority. We will not let the sacrifices of the police forces go in vain.”

CM Afridi asserted that the nation was united in the fight against terrorism and that terrorists will be taken to justice.

KP Information Minister Shafi Jan also condemned the “cowardly” attack in a post on X and expressed grief over the deaths of policemen.

A monthly security assessment released in early June by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) said that after two consecutive months of improvement, Pakistan’s security situation deteriorated sharply in May, driven primarily by escalating terrorist violence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

On Wednesday, a policeman and four members of a village defence committee were martyred, while six terrorists belonging to TTP were killed during a joint security operation in the mountainous areas of Swat’s Kabal and Matta tehsils.

On July 6, 27 policemen were martyred in a terrorist attack on a police post in Balochistan’s Ziarat district; nine police personnel were killed on the spot, while 18 others were killed by the terrorists after being kidnapped.

President briefed on security situation

Separately, the interior minister also called on President Asif Ali Zardari, according to a handout issued by the President’s Secretariat.

The statement said that a detailed discussion was held on the overall law and order situation, especially the security situation in KP and Balochistan.

“The interior minister briefed the president on the current law and order situation in KP and Balochistan and the ongoing measures against terrorism,” it said.

It added that President Zardari paid tribute to the bravery, professionalism and sacrifices of the Pakistan Army, law enforcement agencies and police in the fight against terrorism. He said that the entire nation stood with its security forces to eradicate terrorism and establish lasting peace in the country.

“During the meeting, the current political situation was also discussed in detail as well as other important national issues of mutual interest,” the statement said.

The chief minister is controlling authority of all boards of intermediate and secondary education in the province.

The elementary and secondary education department has conveyed the directives of chief minister to all education boards in the province through a notification.

“In exercise of the powers conferred under Section-12 of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Boards of Intermediate and Secondary Education Act, 1990, read with Section-21 of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Private Schools Regulatory Authority Act, 2017, the chief minister, has been pleased to direct all chairmen of education boards to forthwith initiate proceedings for de-affiliation of all private schools and educational institutions, which are not registered with PSRA,” said the notification.

Dept gives three-month time to such institutions for registration with PSRA

However, education department has directed all the boards that before passing any order of de-affiliation, the relevant board should issue a notice to each such institution, allowing them a period of three months from the date of issuance of notice to obtain mandatory registration from PSRA.

“Upon failure to secure registration within the stipulated period, the relevant board shall withdraw the affiliation of such institution forthwith in accordance with law,” the notification said.

It said that all boards of intermediate and secondary education should ensure strict and time-bound compliance with those directions and should furnish a comprehensive compliance report to education department immediately upon expiry of the notice period, indicating the institutions that obtained registration as well as those against whom de-affiliation was affected.

The secretary of elementary and secondary education department, Mohammad Khalid, told Dawn that legal action would be taken against those schools that were not following Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Private Schools Regulatory Authority Act, 2017. “The de-affiliation of unregistered private schools will remain intact until their registration with PSRA,” the secretary said.

The managing director of PSRA, Javed Iqbal, told Dawn that around 387 private high and higher secondary schools were not registered with PSRA but all of them were affiliated with different education boards for conducting matriculation and intermediate examinations of their students.

He said that such private schools had been functioning since long but their owners were not following instructions of PSRA about registration of their schools.

He said that unregistered private schools were located in different parts of the province and tribal districts.

According to official data, 196 unregistered private schools are affiliated with Peshawar Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, 100 with Swat board, 47 with Mardan board, 10 with Malakand board, four with Dera Ismail Khan board and 15 with Abbottabad board while 12 schools are affiliated with Bannu education board.

Section 21 (1) of KP Private Schools Regulatory Authority Act, 2017, provides that “no school shall be opened or operated in the province, irrespective of its affiliation, if any, with the inland or foreign board or certificate awarding body or students assessment and testing body, as the case may be, without registration with the regulatory authority.”

Officials said that PSRA had so far registered 11,587 private schools. However, a considerable number of unregistered private schools were still operating in the province, creating impediments in proper estimation of the reported out of school children, they added.

They said that PSRA officials had approached unregistered private schools for registration but the owners never honoured their request for registration. They added that the registration process was very easy and its fee was nominal.

Officials said that provincial government fixed Rs45,000 monthly salary as minimum wage for unskilled labour while most of the private schools were paying lesser salaries than minimum wage to their teachers and other employees. In the absence of registration, such private schools couldn’t be regulated, they added.

Published in Dawn, July 30th, 2026