Islamabad (Azadi Times July 9, 2024) – Pakistan’s federal government has recently authorized the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency to monitor citizens’ phone calls, a move aimed at bolstering national security measures amidst concerns of potential criminal activities.

According to media reports, the government’s decision allows the ISI to listen in on and potentially trace phone conversations as well as intercept messages, underlining the administration’s proactive stance on safeguarding public safety.

The decision, ratified through a cabinet circulation summary, underscores the government’s commitment to utilizing legal frameworks such as the Pakistan Telecommunication (Reorganization) Act of 1996, Section 54. This enables authorized agencies to monitor and record communications deemed suspicious or potentially harmful, both through landline exchanges and mobile networks.

Critics argue that such measures may raise concerns about privacy and civil liberties, prompting debates on the balance between security imperatives and individual rights. As Pakistan navigates these complex dynamics, the authorization represents a significant development in its national security strategy, signaling heightened vigilance in an increasingly interconnected digital landscape.

Washington, D.C. – Former President Donald Trump has made pointed criticisms regarding President Joe Biden’s ongoing presidential campaign and the influence of Biden’s son, Hunter Biden. In a recent interview with Fox News’ Sean Hannity, Trump suggested that Hunter Biden is making critical decisions behind the scenes and claimed that President Biden’s refusal to withdraw from the presidential race is driven by his ego.

During the interview, Trump expressed his readiness to face Biden in the upcoming November elections, regardless of Biden’s decision to continue his campaign. “They are protecting him, and still are, but it’s getting very hard to do so,” Trump stated. “I think Jill wants him to remain there; she’s having a good time. It seems like she’s enjoying herself, and I’m hearing Hunter is making decisions.”

Trump further elaborated on his views, suggesting that Biden’s ego is a significant factor in his determination to stay in the race. “I think he’ll likely stay. He has an ego and doesn’t want to quit. No one wants to lose like that.”

The former president’s remarks come at a time when President Biden has reaffirmed his commitment to remain in the presidential race, despite some senior Democrats suggesting that Vice President Kamala Harris should take over the reins for the 2024 election. This internal party debate coincides with Biden’s preparations to host a major NATO summit in Washington, D.C.

Amidst the political turbulence, several Democratic representatives, including the influential Adam Schiff, have publicly voiced support for Harris as the party’s candidate. In private crisis talks led by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, some members proposed that Biden, now 81, should consider stepping aside following his challenging debate performances.

In a recent interview with ABC, President Biden insisted that only a higher power could persuade him to step down, expressing confidence in his ability to challenge Trump. Over the weekend, during a campaign stop in Pennsylvania, Biden reiterated his stance on MSNBC’s Morning Joe, asserting his suitability for the role.

The White House has also responded to health-related rumors, denying allegations that President Biden is suffering from Parkinson’s disease during a daily briefing on Monday.

As the 2024 presidential race heats up, Trump’s comments underscore the ongoing debate within the Democratic Party and the broader political landscape about the best path forward for the upcoming election.

Gilgit (Azadi Times) – The Central Cabinet of the Awami Action Committee Gilgit-Baltistan convened an important meeting in Gilgit under the leadership of Central Chairman Ehsan Advocate. The session focused on the aftermath of the committee’s historic event and preparations for the upcoming Muharram.

During the meeting, the cabinet, leaders, and youth of the Awami Action Committee were commended for their efforts and dedication in making the recent event a success.

Central Chairman Ehsan Advocate and other leaders addressed the meeting, highlighting the committee’s significant achievement in uniting the people and leadership of Gilgit-Baltistan on a single platform to safeguard their resources. They firmly stated that the people of Gilgit-Baltistan would no longer permit the exploitation of their resources, including lands, mountains, and forests.

The Awami Action Committee announced its plans to launch a historic movement soon, focusing on green tourism, tax implementation, and other key demands outlined in their charter. This movement is expected to be decisive in shaping the future of the region.

The meeting also assessed the law and order situation in light of the upcoming Muharram and appealed to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan to maintain an atmosphere of unity and brotherhood during these sacred days. They urged vigilance against elements attempting to incite unrest. The leaders emphasized that Muharram teaches the importance of raising the word of truth against oppression and supporting the oppressed.

Social activist Yawar Abbas made a special appearance at the meeting. The leaders of the Awami Action Committee congratulated Abbas on his release and praised his struggle and perseverance. In response, Yawar Abbas thanked the committee leaders for their strong support and reaffirmed his commitment to dedicating all his energies to the committee’s movement.

The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and determination among the attendees to continue their efforts in protecting the rights and resources of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Muzaffarabad, July 8, 2024 — In response to recent violent protests over the demand for affordable electricity and flour, the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) police have established a Special Anti-Riot Force to manage such situations more effectively in the future.

Announcement by IGP Rana Abdul Jabbar

During his first press briefing, the newly appointed Inspector General of Police (IGP), Rana Abdul Jabbar, announced the formation of this specialized unit. The force comprises 500 personnel aged between 20 and 30, receiving special training from master trainers in Punjab.

Objectives of the Special Anti-Riot Force

IGP Jabbar emphasized that the primary goal of the new force is to manage public crowds without resorting to excessive use of force, ensuring minimal harm to both sides. He stated, “The purpose of creating this force is to ensure that public gatherings are controlled by the police through non-violent means, preventing any unnecessary casualties.”

Deployment and Training

The Special Anti-Riot Force will have 100 personnel stationed at each of the three divisional headquarters, ready to be deployed by the respective Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs) as needed. The remaining 200 personnel will be based in Muzaffarabad, serving as a backup force under the DIG Rangers and Reserve.

Workshop for District Police Heads

To ensure effective utilization of the Special Anti-Riot Force, IGP Azad Kashmir Jabbar announced a two-day workshop for district police heads. This workshop aims to familiarize them with the operational protocols and deployment strategies for the new unit.

The formation of the Special Anti-Riot Force marks a significant step towards improving the management of public protests in AJK. By emphasizing non-violent methods and specialized training, the AJK police aim to handle future demonstrations more effectively, ensuring public safety and order.

About IGP Azad Kashmir Rana Abdul Jabbar

IGP Rana Abdul Jabbar is the newly appointed Inspector General of Police for Azad Jammu and Kashmir, committed to enhancing the region’s law enforcement capabilities and maintaining public order through innovative and effective strategies.

Kotli: July 8, 2024, Kotli Pakistan-Administered Jammu and Kashmir: In the aftermath of a humiliating defeat in a recent public movement, Pakistani agencies have intensified their campaign against pro-independence leaders in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir. Despite the tragic killing of four young activists, the thirst for retribution among these agencies shows no signs of abating.

Propaganda and Threats

Dr. Toqeer Gilani, a prominent pro-independence leader, and his allies are facing relentless smear campaigns and threats. Pakistani agencies and their local operatives are actively labeling these leaders as Indian agents, spreading malicious propaganda through public and social media channels.

Fake identities, audio, and screenshots are being manufactured and attributed to Dr. Gilani and his associates, aiming to tarnish their reputation and undermine their struggle.

In a recent social media post, Dr. Toqeer Gilani highlighted the concerted efforts to damage their movement and warned supporters against falling prey to such deceitful tactics. He urged the public to scrutinize any propaganda and seek the truth directly from the source.

Emphasizing that their lives, struggles, and actions are transparent and well-documented, he called on friends, allies, and supporters to remain vigilant and not inadvertently support the vile campaigns of oppressive institutions and their affiliates.

Unyielding Commitment

Dr. Gilani reaffirmed his and his allies’ unwavering commitment to their cause. He stated that no amount of malicious propaganda or conspiracies could deter them from their rightful path. Their resolve remains steadfast in the face of ongoing threats and smear campaigns.

Conclusion

The ongoing situation highlights the severe challenges faced by pro-independence leaders in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir. As they continue to fight for their rights and freedom, the hostile actions of Pakistani agencies and their collaborators serve as a stark reminder of the obstacles to their movement. Dr. Toqeer Gilani’s call for solidarity and vigilance resonates strongly within the community, reinforcing their dedication to the struggle for independence.

About Dr. Toqeer Gilani

Dr. Toqeer Gilani is a leading pro-independence figure in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir, known for his relentless advocacy for freedom and rights. His efforts have inspired many, despite facing significant opposition and threats.

Muzaffarabad, Azad Kashmir (PaJK) , July 7, 2024 — The Azad Kashmir Cabinet has given final approval to a reduction in electricity rates.

In Muzaffarabad, the Cabinet approved the previous notification setting the electricity price at PKR 3 per unit. Additionally, it approved the payment of all outstanding electricity bills in 12 equal installments.

The notification regarding the reduction in electricity rates, issued on May 13, was deliberated for two months. The Public Action Committee had announced a boycott of electricity bills until the price was set at PKR 3 per unit.

With the Cabinet’s final approval of the reduced electricity rates, the price per unit for domestic electricity in Azad Kashmir will now be PKR 3. Following the state-wide protests led by the Public Action Committee, Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, announced a historic package for Kashmir, which included the approval of PKR 23 billion.

According to the notification issued by the Department of Energy, the price for up to 100 units of electricity will be PKR 3 per kilowatt-hour, while for commercial electricity, the price per unit will be PKR 10 for up to 300 units.

For usage between 100 and 300 units, the price will be PKR 5 per unit, and for usage above 300 units, the price will be PKR 6 per unit. Previously, the price for usage above 300 units was set at PKR 15 per unit.

In the meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, a PKR 23 billion package for Kashmir was announced, which also included the implementation of a flour subsidy.

Following this, the Department of Food, Azad Kashmir, reduced the current price of a 40-kilogram bag of flour from PKR 3100 by PKR 1100. Now, a 20-kilogram bag of flour is available for PKR 1000, and a 40-kilogram bag is available for PKR 2000. Additionally, there was a reduction of PKR 1100 on a 40-kilogram bag of flour in Azad Kashmir.

After two months of deliberation, the Government of Azad Kashmir has finally approved the reduction in electricity prices, which was notified on July 4, 2024.