RAWALPINDI: A meeting of the Central Cabinet, presided over by President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, today [April 18] discussed with all its implications the communique issued from Delhi yesterday, a Government spokesman said tonight. The Cabinet gave careful weight and consideration to the terms of the Delhi communique, he said.

The spokesman added … that the matter of Pakistani prisoners of war detained in India is of great importance. … The Government is considering all aspects and elements of the communique and wants to take the public feeling and opinion into consideration on this matter. Meanwhile, it was understood that there were meetings and consultations planned for tomorrow to consider all aspects of the announcement made in Delhi and a decision is expected shortly. — News agencies

[Meanwhile, as reported by news agencies from Dacca,] at least 500 people were feared dead and several thousands were reported injured after a 100 miles per hour tornado lashed Manikganj district west of Dacca yesterday [April 17], Police reported. Bangla­desh Relief Minister Mizanur Rahman, who visited the disaster area today, said more than 100 bodies had so far been recovered and relief workers were continuing the search for more.

Published in Dawn, April 19th, 2023