KARACHI, April 20, 2026: The Saudi Riyal (SAR) is trading at Rs74.42 against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) in today’s open market, according to leading currency dealers in Karachi. The selling rate remains around Rs74.99. The pair continues to stay firmly locked in the same exceptionally narrow, low-volatility channel it entered in early January 2026 — now stretching well beyond twelve weeks of remarkably flat price action. Today’s unchanged level keeps the rate significantly below the 2025 mid-year high of Rs76.03 (July peak) and near the softer territory last consistently observed in late October 2025.Remittance lifeline under prolonged pressure The Saudi Riyal continues to serve as the single most important monthly income source for millions of Pakistani households. Workers in Saudi Arabia’s construction, healthcare, hospitality and domestic sectors keep the remittance corridor active and reliable. Saudi Arabia retains its position as the top remittance-origin country, contributing $913.3 million in May 2025 alone — the largest single-country inflow. Cumulative remittances from July 2024 to May 2025 reached $34.9 billion, reflecting a strong 28.8% year-on-year increase. At today’s rate of Rs74.42, every 1,000 Riyals sent home equals Rs74,420 — a gradual but persistent decline from earlier 2025 levels. While still providing essential support for school fees, medical treatment, groceries, utility bills and household expenses, the prolonged softness is putting quiet but mounting pressure on remittance-dependent families amid ongoing inflation.Economic implications of today’s rate A Riyal trading around Rs74.40–74.50 generates opposing forces: Remittance-receiving families face a slow but steady reduction in real purchasing power. Importers of Saudi crude oil, refined products and petrochemicals continue to enjoy lower costs in rupee terms. Pakistan’s trade balance gains modest indirect relief from cheaper imports. Foreign exchange reserves (above $11 billion as of late 2024) are still being steadily supported by these inflows, helping the State Bank manage inflation and external debt obligations. The softer Rupee also helps keep Pakistani exports (rice, textiles, leather, surgical instruments, fresh produce) attractive on international markets.Quick reference: the two currencies Saudi Riyal (SAR) — subdivided into 100 halala, rigidly pegged to the US dollar (≈ 3.75 SAR = 1 USD), managed by SAMA for maximum stability. Pakistani Rupee (PKR) — symbol ₨, operates under a managed float supervised by the State Bank of Pakistan, influenced by inflation, trade balance and — most importantly — remittance volumes. Looking ahead The SAR–PKR pair has now spent more than twelve weeks in this unusually compressed range — one of the longest periods of sustained low volatility in recent memory. With overseas Pakistani worker outflows remaining robust and seasonal drivers (Hajj/Umrah travel, fiscal year-end bonuses) still providing support, the remittance corridor continues to be one of Pakistan’s most reliable economic lifelines. A decisive break from this range would likely require a meaningful shift in global dollar strength, oil prices or domestic reserve dynamics. For the time being, the Riyal at Rs74.42 remains a quiet but critical pillar for millions of households — even as each paisa of erosion is increasingly noticed. Sources: State Bank of Pakistan, Forex Association of Pakistan, open-market dealer quotes

A teenage daughter of Member of the National Assembly Iqbal Mehsud has died after being struck by a stray bullet inside her home in Karachi. The victim, 18-year-old Mah Noor, was a medical student.According to police officials, the incident took place on Saturday night in the Gulshan-e-Iqbal Block 7.Iqbal Mehsud's daughter, Mah Noor was reportedly inside her house when a bullet, fired from an unknown direction, struck her in the head.She was taken to a nearby private hospital, Patel Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries on Sunday morning.Family members have described the incident as the result of a stray bullet and have declined to pursue legal action.However, police say they have initiated an investigation due to the seriousness of the case and are examining multiple angles to determine the origin of the bullet.Funeral prayers for the deceased Mah Noor were held in Gulshan-e-Iqbal, attended by relatives, local residents, and political and social figures. She was later laid to rest in a nearby cemetery.

Dubai / Karachi, April 20, 2026 – The UAE Dirham (AED) is trading at 76.06 Pakistani Rupees in the open market today, showing only minimal movement from recent levels. The pair continues to hover comfortably within the narrow 76.00–76.50 PKR range that has been the dominant trading zone for the past several months, offering the kind of predictability that Pakistani expatriates and their families have come to rely on.The steady foundation of the Dirham The Dirham’s reliable performance stems from its fixed peg to the US Dollar at 3.6725 AED per USD — a policy that has remained unchanged since 1997 and continues to provide strong protection against sharp volatility. The Pakistani Rupee, while floating, has been quietly supported by healthy foreign reserves and consistent remittance inflows, helping it maintain balance against the AED. Today’s rate of 76.06 PKR per AED reflects this ongoing equilibrium, offering a dependable and slightly more favorable conversion for cross-border transfers.Real support for Pakistani families For the estimated 1.5 million Pakistanis living and working in the UAE — from construction sites to corporate offices — today’s rate means each dirham sent home now converts to 76.06 PKR. Monthly remittances from the UAE regularly exceed $700 million, so even a small daily improvement adds up to meaningful assistance for families covering school fees, medical expenses, groceries, utility payments, and other essentials in Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and beyond. These funds remain a vital economic lifeline, helping millions manage daily life and invest in a better future.Today's Quick Snapshot Current Rate: 1 AED = 76.06 PKR Change: Stable / minor softening 7-day high: 76.50 PKR 30-day average: ~76.30 PKR 2025 high (July): 77.61 PKR 2025 low (Jan): 75.44 PKR 2026 Outlook Most market projections see the AED-PKR pair staying between 75.80 and 77.00 through the first half of 2026, with the central tendency around 76.10–76.60 by Q2. The UAE’s ongoing diversification into technology, renewables, logistics and tourism, combined with Pakistan’s remittance stability and reserve accumulation, is expected to keep volatility moderate.Today’s rate: 1 AED = 76.06 PKR A calm, dependable figure that quietly keeps delivering value to millions of families spanning the UAE and Pakistan.

KARACHI: Inspector General (IG) Sindh Javed Alam Odho has taken stern notice of the rising number of robbery incidents across Karachi, ARY News reported.The IG has sought a detailed report on all recent robberies from Additional IG Karachi, Azad Khan. He emphasized that strict measures must be implemented to control and prevent street crimes.Furthermore, he instructed the formation of specialized police teams to promptly arrest suspects involved in these incidents.Javed Alam Odho directed all Zonal Deputy IGs (DIGs) and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) to accelerate intelligence-based operations against criminal elements.The IG also ordered enhancements to police patrolling and the snap-checking system.He directed officials to identify crime "hotspots" and ensure they are placed under special surveillance.To prevent further incidents, the IG stated that the force must leverage modern technology, including increased CCTV monitoring.Additionally, he urged the police force to redress public complaints promptly and improve emergency response times."The law and order situation must not be allowed to deteriorate at any cost," he stressed.Earlier today, in a continued effort to purge the police of “black sheep,” Deputy Inspector General (DIG) South Zone Asad Raza has taken major disciplinary action.Following a strict anti-corruption and anti-smuggling drive, DIG South has suspended 19 police personnel on various charges.According to details, officers from the District Keamari police were found involved in illegal activities.A formal investigation has been launched against the suspended personnel, and their suspension orders have been issued with immediate effect.The group includes Assistant Sub-Inspectors (ASIs), Head Constables, and Constables from various police stations.All suspended personnel have been transferred to the “Suspended Men Company” at Garden Headquarters.They will be required to attend daily roll calls and parades. Per standard rules and regulations, their salaries will continue to be paid pending the completion of the investigation.The suspension orders were signed by DIG South Asad Raza, who has directed respective officers to ensure the prompt implementation of the notification.

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) of Pakistan has suspended several senior customs officers, including a Collector and a Deputy Collector, in connection with an alleged scandal involving the replacement of seized silver with lead.According to an official FBR statement, those suspended include one Collector of Customs, one Deputy Collector, one Assistant Collector, and three officers of Grade 16.The FBR said the suspensions were necessary to ensure a transparent and independent investigation into the serious incident.In a swift administrative move, three new officers have been immediately posted to Customs Enforcement Quetta to replace those suspended and to remove any possible influence on the probe.The FBR reiterated its firm commitment to rooting out corruption, warning that all those involved in the silver substitution scam would be brought to justice and given strict punishment.“No leniency will be shown to any official found involved in corruption, regardless of their rank or position. Disciplinary proceedings will continue to maintain transparency and accountability within the department,” the statement added.It is to be remembered that after reports that silver confiscated by customs authorities had been illicitly replaced or tampered with, dealing a significant blow to the reputation of the customs department, after that FBR has taken administrative steps.

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) has dismissed the petition filed by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) seeking the dismissal of 10 employees and has ordered the SBP to make all 10 employees permanent and pay them all their dues.Justice Abid Hussain of the Lahore High Court pronounced the detailed eight-page written verdict.The LHC upheld the judgments of the Labour Court and the NIRC and quashed the SBP order of verbal dismissal of the employees.The High Court directed the bank management to immediately make all 10 employees permanent and pay them all their past dues.In the written judgment, the court laid down important legal principles regarding employment. It held that an employee who works continuously for more than nine months is legally entitled to permanent employment.The court declared the artificial breaks in service, introduced by the SBP to prevent employees from becoming permanent, as illegal, terming them an attempt to violate the rights of the employees.The High Court made it clear that the internal rules of the SBP cannot unlawfully override or eliminate the basic rights of any employee.The court observed that it was an unlawful attempt to deprive the employees of the benefits associated with permanent employment.

Karachi, April 20, 2026 – Silver prices in Pakistan have maintained firm upward momentum today, with the chandi ka rate at Rs. 8,481–8,742 per tola—demonstrating sustained strength driven by international precious metals trends and active local demand. This performance continues the recent positive pattern, as silver remains highly responsive to global market signals and safe-haven buying interest. Current local rates stand at Rs. 7,269–7,493 per 10 grams and Rs. 726.9–749.3 per gram, supported by international spot silver activity and its reliable linkage to gold. The metal continues to draw attention as a practical safe-haven choice and vital industrial resource in the prevailing economic climate. This firmness aligns with gold’s steady positioning (local 24K gold around Rs. 510,000+ per tola), highlighting the synchronized dynamics between the two metals amid ongoing market conditions.Key Factors Driving the Silver Price Increase in Pakistan Strong Link to Gold Rally – Gold’s solid footing (international spot near $5,100+/oz and local rates firm) supports silver, as traders regularly combine both for protection and diversification aims. International Spot Silver Momentum – Global silver has preserved forceful upward influence (spot levels in elevated ranges), swiftly amplifying local PKR valuation via import outlays and currency exchange impacts. Reliable Industrial Demand – Silver’s pivotal applications in solar panels, electric vehicles, electronics, and clean energy domains secure ongoing uptake, fortifying prices through assorted market situations. Local Buyer Engagement – Pakistani acquirers and jewelers are exhibiting steady participation with silver as a shield against inflation and a comparatively economical precious metal relative to gold, powering today’s firm trend in Sarafa markets. Analysts stress silver’s oscillating yet hopeful nature—recent movements have sustained this steady phase—upheld by investment attractiveness and industrial core elements. Buyers and investors should always verify live Sarafa market quotes prior to transactions, as prices respond swiftly to international shifts and local conditions.Current Silver Rates in Pakistan - April 20, 2026 Weight Rate (PKR) Notes 1 Gram 726.9 – 749.3 Fine/Pure Silver 10 Grams 7,269 – 7,493 Fine/Pure Silver 1 Tola 8,481 – 8,742 Standard Rate Rates are approximate and based on latest Karachi Sarafa/local reports

ISLAMABAD: The Power Division of Pakistan has warned of a potential surge in electricity shortages as rising temperatures drive up demand across the country.In a formal letter to the Petroleum Division of Pakistan, officials from the Power Division have requested the urgent supply of 400 MMCFD per day of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to boost power generation.The move comes as authorities scramble to manage increased electricity consumption during the ongoing heatwave.According to sources, the Power Division cautioned that failure to immediately activate LNG-based power plants could lead to an uncontrollable electricity shortfall. These plants have the capacity to generate up to 6,000 megawatts of electricity.Sources further revealed that K-Electric has also informed the government of its LNG requirements.It was made clear in the letter that the supply of LNG is inevitable. Officials say LNG is currently a more cost-effective option for electricity generation compared with diesel and furnace oil.Without adequate LNG supplies, reliance on more expensive fuels is expected to rise, potentially increasing costs for consumers through monthly fuel price adjustments.The Power Division has also shared forecasts for electricity demand and supply in the coming weeks.The Petroleum Division has been asked to make immediate arrangements for additional LNG cargoes from Qatar to address the gas shortfall and help avert a major load-shedding crisis.

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has announced 1,394 positions and invited applications from candidates across Pakistan, ARY News reported.According to FIA officials, the recruitment drive aims to attract young and capable individuals willing to join a professional law enforcement organization committed to combating crime, ensuring national security, and upholding integrity.Interested applicants can submit their applications online through the official portal (www.npftas.pk). The deadline for submission of applications is May 4, 2026.The FIA plays a key role in safeguarding national security, protecting public interests, maintaining the rule of law, and tackling complex crimes that threaten the country’s social and economic structure.The recruitment offers an opportunity for individuals seeking a career in federal law enforcement and public service. Latest Jobs— News & Updates Earlier, the Sindh High Court (SHC) directed the deputy commissioners of Karachi to fill the disability quota job vacancies within two months.As per details, the issue of failure to recruit under the disability quota across all districts of the city came before SHC for hearing.According to the petitioner’s counsel, more than 3,000 positions remain vacant in government departments across Karachi.The petition stated that educated persons with disabilities are not being provided government employment opportunities.The lawyer also pointed out that, under the law, a 5 per cent quota is reserved for persons with disabilities in public-sector jobs.After the arguments, the Sindh High Court directed deputy commissioners to fill all vacant positions within two months.  

KARACHI: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of Pakistan has uncovered a major visa tampering network in Karachi, arresting three suspects accused of altering visa documents.According to the officials of the Anti-Human Trafficking Circle of FIA, the group was involved in manipulating family visas and converting them into individual visas.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLeBHaHYBxY&t=6sSpeaking at a press conference, FIA officer Muhammad Aftab said the investigation began after a passenger was deported from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and sent back to Pakistan.He said that following initial investigations, FIA has arrested three suspects linked to a travel agency allegedly facilitating the scheme.According to investigators, the suspects used sophisticated methods to tamper with visa documents.They reportedly charged each client around Rs. 240,000 for the illegal service.An FIA officer said that numerous travellers were unaware of the fraud until they arrived at Dubai airport, where they were denied entry and deportedInvestigators also allege that the suspects attempted to tamper with the visas of individuals who had already been deported, further exploiting victims.The FIA said it had recovered 21 passports and other travel documents from the suspects. Forensic analysis of their mobile phones reportedly provided clear and irrefutable evidence of visa tampering.Muhammad Aftab said that the network had been operating for an extended period, with around 100 visas suspected to have been altered.Further investigations are underway to identify additional members and facilitators involved in the fraud. 

KARACHI: In a continued effort to purge the police of "black sheep," Deputy Inspector General (DIG) South Zone Asad Raza has taken major disciplinary action, ARY News reported.Following a strict anti-corruption and anti-smuggling drive, DIG South has suspended 19 police personnel on various charges.According to details, officers from the District Keamari police were found involved in illegal activities.A formal investigation has been launched against the suspended personnel, and their suspension orders have been issued with immediate effect.The group includes Assistant Sub-Inspectors (ASIs), Head Constables, and Constables from various police stations.All suspended personnel have been transferred to the "Suspended Men Company" at Garden Headquarters.They will be required to attend daily roll calls and parades. Per standard rules and regulations, their salaries will continue to be paid pending the completion of the investigation.The suspension orders were signed by DIG South Asad Raza, who has directed respective officers to ensure the prompt implementation of the notification.Earlier, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Sindh Complaint Cell, also known as the IGP Complaint Management System (CMS), is designed to address public grievances against police misconduct, demand of bribe, particularly the non-registration of an FIR. By following the steps below, citizens can easily file complaints for the redressal of their issues.How to file a complaint Citizens can reach the IGP Sindh Complaint Cell through several official channels:Helpline: Citizens can call 1715 for direct assistance.WhatsApp: Send a message to 0314-105831.Online Portal: Register and track your complaint of FIR delay via the IGP Complaint Management System.Email: Send details to aigcomplaints.cpo@sindhpolice.gov.pk.Issues you can report The cell specifically handles complaints regarding:Non-registration of FIR: When a police station refuses to file your report.Faulty Investigation: Biased or unprofessional handling of a case.Corruption: Demands for bribes or illegal practices.Misconduct: Illegal detention, false FIR registration, or harassment by police personnel.May be an image of phone and textImportant instructions for citizens Citizens have been directed to ensure they mention their CNIC number when filing a complaint against FIR delay. and for any query, they have been directed to contact 021-99212681 and 021-99211663 between 9am to 5pm.

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has reaffirmed her commitment to transforming barren lands across the province into productive economic zones under the Blue Economy Programme, with significant progress reported on shrimp farming and aquaculture projects, ARY News reported.According to official details, major infrastructure development is underway at shrimp farming sites in Sargodha Estate, Ali Wala, and Shahgarh. Maryam Nawaz appreciated the pace of work and commended the project teams for their performance.At the Sargodha shrimp farming project, 118 out of 126 ponds have been excavated, while boring of 116 tube wells has been completed. Land clearing and surveying of 365 acres have been fully accomplished. The project spans 500 acres, with 90 percent of warehouse construction completed, while work on the admin block and feed store is progressing rapidly.In Ali Wala, 90 percent of the allocated 1,267 acres has been cleared, and 642 out of 737 ponds have been excavated. Drainage system work is 91 percent complete, while earth filling has reached 80 percent. Construction of administrative offices, hostels, warehouses, and labor residences is underway, with foundation work fully completed. Govt Schemes— Latest News & Updates At Shahgarh shrimp farm, water supply is 90 percent complete, electrification has reached 95 percent, and 97 percent of the link road construction has been finalized, according to experts’ reports submitted to authorities.The chief minister said the promotion of modern, internationally compliant shrimp farming and aquaculture would help revive barren lands, create employment opportunities, and boost exports. She added that the initiative marks Punjab’s first government-backed project utilizing advanced scientific methods for shrimp cultivation.Experts have reported favorable water temperatures for shrimp growth, with daily feed provision of 114 kilograms. Supplement use has also shown encouraging results in improving quality and yield to meet international standards.Maryam Nawaz Sharif emphasized that the project would position Punjab as a hub for aquaculture while contributing significantly to economic development.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to hosting talks between Iran and the United States, ARY News reported, citing official sources.Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level consultative meeting on Monday regarding the second round of negotiations between the US and Iran in Islamabad.The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and other senior officials.The participants discussed the current diplomatic situation following Iran’s refusal to attend the scheduled second round.During the session, the Interior Minister briefed the Prime Minister on his recent meetings with the US and Iranian ambassadors.Sources stated that the government reaffirmed its determination to facilitate the dialogue in Islamabad.It was also agreed that Pakistan would remain in contact with Iranian authorities to ensure their participation in the upcoming talks.Earlier, Iran said on Monday that no decision has yet been made on whether to participate in the next round of Islamabad talks with the United States, amid escalating tensions following the seizure of an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel in the Strait of Hormuz.Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei, speaking at a weekly press briefing, said Tehran has not finalised its position regarding the proposed negotiations in Islamabad.“As of now, we have no agenda for the next round of negotiations, and no decision has been made in this regard,” he said, adding that Washington does not appear serious about pursuing diplomacy.Baqaei accused the United States of engaging in a “blame game” rather than pursuing constructive engagement, adding that Iran could not expect honesty from Washington.He also criticised both the US and Israel for alleged violations of international law, and called on global institutions, including the United Nations, to play a more effective role.He further stated that Pakistan, as a mediator, had been informed of ceasefire violations, alleging that Washington used bases in neighbouring countries to carry out actions against Iran. He reiterated that Iran reserves the right to defend itself against external aggression.The developments come hours after Donald Trump announced that US negotiators would travel to Pakistan ahead of a possible new round of talks.Iran and the United States, along with Israel, are just days away from the end of the two-week ceasefire that halted the Middle East war, ignited by surprise US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28. 

PESHAWAR: A new bill aimed at eliminating begging has been introduced in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Assembly, proposing strict measures against professional beggars across the province, ARY News reported.Under the proposed Vagrancy Act 2026, the law will be implemented province-wide, with authorities empowered to take action against individuals involved in organized begging networks. The bill also calls for the establishment of a provincial steering committee to oversee implementation and policy direction.According to the draft law, the committee will have the authority to block national identity cards and passports of habitual offenders. First-time offenders may face up to one month in prison, while repeat offenders could be sentenced to up to one year in jail.Harsher penalties are proposed for those involved in fraudulent begging, with up to two years of imprisonment, while individuals running organized begging rackets could face up to three years behind bars. Those forcing children into begging may be fined up to Rs400,000.Also Read: Robber posing as beggar loots motorist at gunpoint on Karachi’s Tariq RoadThe bill grants police and social welfare officials the power to arrest professional beggars without a warrant. Arrested individuals must be presented before a special magistrate within 24 hours.Importantly, courts will have the option to send beggars to rehabilitation centers instead of prison. These centers will provide vocational training and psychological support to help reintegrate individuals into society.Children found begging will be handed over to child protection units under the proposed legislation.The draft also includes plans to introduce biometric tracking and modern technology for continuous monitoring of beggars. Begging in public places will be declared a punishable offense, and facilitators will also face legal action.The provincial steering committee will review the law’s implementation progress every three months.

KARACHI: Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Karachi on Monday filed a contempt of court petition in the Sindh High Court against the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) over prolonged loadshedding in the city.In its petition, JI stated that on November 6, 2025, the SHC had directed NEPRA to submit a response over loadshedding. However, the regulatory authority has yet to comply with the court’s order.The petition argued that failure to abide by the court's directives amounts to contempt of court and has caused significant hardship for Karachi residents, particularly amid rising temperatures and continued power outages.JI requested the court to initiate contempt proceedings against NEPRA officials.Speaking to the media, JI Karachi chief Monem Zafar Khan said the party had approached the court after authorities failed to act despite clear instructions.“The court had directed NEPRA to submit its response on loadshedding within one month, but even after six months, no reply has been filed,” he said.He said that prolonged outages have plunged large parts of the city into darkness and criticised K-Electric for failing to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply.The JI chief also questioned the privatisation of the utility, stating that the number of consumers had increased significantly over the years, yet service delivery had not improved. He further alleged that subsidies were being extended to a private entity without corresponding relief for consumers.Monem Zafar also accused NEPRA, K-Electric, and the federal government of failing to address the issue effectively, adding that citizens were bearing the brunt of rising electricity costs and prolonged loadshedding.

LARKANA: A mother and her teenage daughter were allegedly murdered in a suspected ‘honour’ killing in Larkana, police said.The victims were identified as 45-year-old Shahida Jatoi and her 18-year-old daughter, Naghma Jatoi.According to police, the incident occurred on April 8 within the jurisdiction of Bakrani Tehsil.The accused, identified as Ghulam Ali alias Ali Haider Jatoi, allegedly killed his widowed sister-in-law, Shahida Jatoi, and his niece, Naghma Jatoi, and threw their bodies into the Indus River.Upon receiving information, police recovered the bodies from the river and shifted them for postmortem examination.A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered on the complaint of a relative, Hakim Khatoon.Initial investigations suggest that the killings stemmed from a refusal to agree to a marriage proposal.Police further stated that the suspect allegedly vandalised the victims’ house and set it on fire after committing the crime.The accused has been arrested along with the weapon allegedly used in the killings, and further investigations are underway. Officials added that the suspect had previously been involved in a murder case.The Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC) took suo motu notice of the incident and sought a detailed report from the Senior Superintendent of Police, Larkana.The commission strongly condemned the killings, terming them a grave violation of fundamental human rights. It emphasised that violence carried out in the name of so-called ‘honour’ is unacceptable and must be dealt with strictly under the law.The SHRC stressed the need for a transparent, swift, and merit-based investigation. It also raised concerns over the handling of the case, including reports of disciplinary action against the concerned station house officer.Reiterating that women and girls have an equal right to life, dignity, and freedom of choice, the commission urged the Sindh government and law enforcement agencies to ensure justice is delivered without delay or external influence.Earlier, on Apr 15, 2026, a young woman was brutally killed in the name of so-called honour, referred to as karo kari, in Sindh’s Khairpur district, in an incident that has sparked widespread outrage.The murder took place in the Tando Masti Khan. According to police, the victim, 22-year-old Khalida, wife of Rashid Chandio, was accused of karo kari with a man from the same community.

KARACHI: The Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) of Karachi Police busted a gang involved in cheating in matriculation examinations, arresting four suspects in a targeted operation, officials said on Monday.According to Deputy Inspector General (CIA) Muqaddas Haider, raids were carried out in multiple areas, including Malir, Surjani, New Karachi, and Gulshan-e-Iqbal, leading to the arrest of four accused identified as Mubeen Khan, Usama, Bilal, and Abdul Razzaq.Police said the suspects were part of an organised network involved in paper leaks and facilitating cheating during board examinations. The group allegedly charged students large sums of money in exchange for providing leaked exam papers a night before the exam.Investigators revealed that the alleged ringleader, Mubeen Khan, is a final-year cybersecurity student at Sindh Madressatul Islam University. Authorities said he used his technical expertise to establish a digital network to distribute exam papers and coordinate the operation.According to officials, the gang operated multiple online groups, with thousands of student members, and collected payments through various online banking channels. Police added that several such cheating networks are active in Karachi.A case has been registered, and further investigations are underway. Authorities have vowed to take strict action against all individuals involved in examination fraud.

KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah chaired a meeting that reviewed wheat procurement and directed concerned authorities to speed up the process to achieve set targets within time.Food Minister Makhdoom Mehboob uz Zaman in briefing to the chief minister informed that only 8,958 tons of wheat had so far been procured across Sindh. Murad Ali Shah expressed concern over the pace of procurement and instructed the food department to accelerate operations.The provincial cabinet has fixed a wheat procurement target of one million tons and set the support price at Rs3,500 per 40kg.Minister said that fixing five bags per acre for small farmers, has been the major cause of the slow procurement.Chief Minister ordered to remove the restriction to achieve the set target of wheat procurement.The minister informed the meeting that there are over 3,32,000 wheat farmers, which cultivated on 1.940 million acres of land.Chief Minister said that the small farmers could sell wheat to the government without any restriction on the quantity.The session was also informed that the payments to farmers have also been speeded up and the amounts are being paid to farmers within single day via the Sindh Bank."So far 198.3 million rupees have been distributed among the farmers," the chief minister was informed, who expressed satisfaction over the improvement in the payment system.Sindh CM also advised farmers to sell their wheat yield to the government's procurement centres. "The farmers who will sell their wheat to the government will be eligible for the future's subsidy".

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Ministry of National Health Services has rejected reports suggesting a surge in HIV/AIDS cases in Islamabad, stating that claims of a sharp increase are inaccurate and without basis.In an official statement issued on Monday, the ministry said there is no evidence to indicate an epidemic situation in Islamabad, adding that the number of HIV cases reported each month remains within the normal range.Officials asserted that fluctuations in case numbers are routine and should not be interpreted as a cause for concern. They added that growing public awareness of HIV/AIDS has led to more individuals coming forward for screening.The ministry explained that increased testing can result in a higher number of detected cases, which does not necessarily reflect a wider spread of the disease or an outbreak.Data compiled from the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Polyclinic Hospital Islamabad, and various AIDS centres shows a total of 618 registered patients, of whom 210 are residents of Islamabad. Authorities clarified that it would be incorrect to attribute all reported cases to the capital alone.The statement also noted that a significant proportion of confirmed cases is typically found among high-risk groups, including drug users and individuals engaged in unsafe practices.The further said concluded by reiterating that a rise in registered cases should not be viewed as evidence of an increase in transmission.

KARACHI: As of today, a standard bundle of 1 crore rials is now trading at up to PKR 10,000 in the open market — roughly four times higher than the pre-surge level of around PKR 2,500. This premium reflects ongoing speculative interest and practical trade needs, even as global pressures keep the rial weak internationally. The surge, which gained momentum in recent weeks amid regional developments, has not shown major reversal this week, though rates remain volatile and dealer-dependent.Why people are still buying the Iranian rial in Pakistan Demand is driven by the same two key factors as before: Speculation and investment: Many traders and individuals are betting on further gains, linked to hopes of US-Iran diplomatic progress, potential sanctions easing, or broader geopolitical shifts that could strengthen the rial long-term. It’s viewed as a short-term profit play in uncertain times. Cross-border trade and smuggling activity: Real demand comes from informal trade with Iran (fuel, petroleum products, food items, and goods via Balochistan border routes). Recent easing of transit rules has boosted this, and physical rial notes are needed for settlements. Reports even note increased smuggling attempts, underscoring the currency’s utility in these networks. Currency experts continue to caution that while the local premium offers opportunities, the rial is highly volatile globally, and retail buyers face risks like counterfeits or sudden reversals if geopolitics shift.Current Rates as of April 20, 2026 Rates fluctuate by dealer, city, and transaction size — always verify with registered exchange companies for live quotes. Open Market (Informal Cash Market in Pakistan – Premium Bundle Rate) (Approx. based on PKR 10,000 for 10 million IRR) 1 PKR buys approximately 1,000 Iranian rials 10 PKR buys approximately 10,000 Iranian rials 1,000 PKR buys approximately 1,000,000 Iranian rials (10 lakh rials) Authentic / Mid-Market Rate (International benchmark / official conversion rate – no local premium) (Approx. based on 1 IRR ≈ 0.000211 PKR or 1 PKR ≈ 4,732 IRR) 1 PKR buys approximately 4,732 Iranian rials 10 PKR buys approximately 47,320 Iranian rials 1,000 PKR buys approximately 4,732,000 Iranian rials (approx. 47.32 lakh rials) (Equivalent: 10 million IRR ≈ PKR 2,113) This Pakistan-specific open-market premium (where rials cost significantly more in PKR terms) is what’s making headlines and driving the buzz. If you’re trading, stick to licensed dealers and stay updated, as the market moves quickly!