Tensions have escalated between the Pakistan Peoples Party and the Muttahida Qaumi Movement over the issue of a judicial inquiry into the Gul Plaza fire incident. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf has called for a nationwide wheel-jam and shutter-down strike on 8 February, marking two years since the general elections. The dispute that arose during the court appearance of Iman Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha has been resolved. A decision on whether Pakistan will participate in the T20 World Cup is expected in the coming days. Ten terrorists were killed during a CTD operation in Balochistan.
The federal and provincial governments have come face-to-face over the issue of an operation in the Tirah Valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said that no operation is taking place in the Tirah Valley, adding that people are migrating due to severe weather conditions. However, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has accused the federal government of carrying out an operation in the Tirah Valley and displacing residents.
Tensions have escalated between Sindh’s two major political parties over the Gul Plaza incident. The MQM has alleged that following its demand for a judicial commission, the Sindh government withdrew security from its central leaders, the opposition leader and federal ministers. The Sindh government has dismissed the allegations as political.
No family members, lawyers or party leaders were allowed to meet former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is imprisoned in Adiala Jail. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf has expressed concern over reports regarding Imran Khan’s health.
DIG Operations Jawad Tariq and DIG Security Muhammad Atiq Tahir formally and unconditionally apologised to the lawyers over their eviction during the court appearance of Iman Mazari and Hadi Ali Chhatta at the Judicial Complex. Following the apology, the lawyers announced an end to their strike.
Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has said that a decision on whether Pakistan will participate in the T20 tournament is expected on Friday or Monday.
(Courtesy: Asghar Hayat, Pakistan)
