SARGODHA: The denial of a party ticket for NA-87 to Sumera Malik has triggered a wave of resignations within the PML-N.

After MS Malik resigned from the office of the Punjab PML-N vice president, 10 office-bearers in Khushab district handed in their resignations to the party leadership. The mass exodus is proving to be a setback for the PML-N ahead of the general elections.

Prominent figures among those who resigned include district senior vice-president Malik Aziz Mustyal Awan, district vice presidents Malik Masood Nazir Rajar and Malik Tariq Awan Panja; senior vice president of PP-81 Pir Zia Maher Geelani; vice president of PP-81 Haji Muhammad Sarfraz; provincial secretary of the youth wing Malik Samiul Haq; district kissan wing president Shaukat Khan; and vice presidents of PP-81 Malik Nasir Hadhal, Malik Abdul Ghafoor Awan, and Shajar Hussain Awan.

FESTIVAL: The two-day Narangi Mela (Orange Festival) will begin on Jan 18, organised in collaboration with the divisional and district administrations, and support from the federal government.

A meeting, chaired by Commissioner Ajmal Bhatti, finalised the arrangements.

The events of the festival will take place at the Sargodha Arts Council Complex, with invitations extended to ambassadors from different countries, federal ministers, and other notable personalities.

The fair will feature stalls by organisations, kinnow growers, and exporters.

Renowned artists, including Fazal Jat, Shaukat Dholia, and the Bakshi brothers, will showcase their talents, adding to the festivities with Ladi, Bhangra and Qawwali performances.

Over 30 artisans will set up exhibition stalls, and the festival will include food stalls offering orange-based products.

Mr Bhatti said orange is the identity of Sargodha, and the primary goal of the festival is to internationally promote local malta. He urged widespread participation from both public and private institutions, emphasising the importance of making the festival a success.

Published in Dawn, January 17th, 2024