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Express Tribune
23-06-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
CM pays tribute to national unity, praises chairman Bilawal's diplomatic role during India conflict
Listen to article Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, concluding debate on the budget 2025-26, delivered a comprehensive address in the Sindh Assembly, lauding Pakistan's unified national response during the recent conflict with India and highlighting the crucial diplomatic and political role played by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. He began by congratulating the service chiefs, armed forces, President, Prime Minister, provincial governments, media, and political workers for their collective and coordinated effort. 'Our national unity led us to success,' he said. CM paid special tribute to Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, describing him as 'a true national leader who effectively represented Pakistan on international platforms.' He said that from the Pahalgam incident until May 10, Bilawal acted as the face of Pakistan. 'The federal government assigned him a vital diplomatic role-and he fulfilled it remarkably, particularly by engaging with the international media and visiting the United States and Europe,' he added. Refuting criticism that his government was uninformed, Murad Ali Shah clarified that a committee led by the Chief Secretary had been established from the very beginning and was operating in line with the national War Book. He also spoke of Sindh's local responses to incidents during the conflict, including timely administrative actions after attacks in Ghotki, Sukkur, and Bolhari. Transitioning to broader geopolitical issues, the Chief Minister condemned ongoing Israeli atrocities in Palestine. 'The terrorist state of Israel has committed grave oppression against Palestinians,' he said. The CM added, 'Just recently, Israel launched an attack on Iran. I condemn this on behalf of the entire Assembly.' The CM criticised the double standards of global powers, stating, 'Even the United States has jumped into this war while claiming neutrality.' Murad Ali Shah said Pakistan had rightly condemned the attack, and Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari had also termed the American action a clear violation of international law. He noted Bilawal's unambiguous stance on India's water aggression, quoting him as having told India: 'Either honour the Indus Waters Treaty—or be ready for war.' Paying homage to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, Murad Ali Shah said, 'she knew how to defend her country. She was such a tough prime minister that within months, she was removed.' His remarks drew parallels between her bold leadership and the current diplomatic firmness shown by Chairman Bilawal. CM defended the integrity of the provincial budget proceedings in the Sindh Assembly and criticised the opposition's conduct during protests, calling it 'disorderly and disrespectful.' 'The Constitution gives the opposition the right to protest when a budget is presented,' the CM said, adding, 'It also grants three kinds of freedoms—freedom of expression, movement, and association within the limits of the law.' He emphasised that the Rules of Procedure of the Provincial Assembly clearly define the boundaries of protest. 'The rules clearly state that the House's environment should not be disturbed and the Speaker's directions must be followed,' he said. 'Unfortunately, those rules were not respected during my budget speech.' Murad Ali Shah said that although his party had the absolute majority to pass the budget independently, they had chosen to work inclusively. 'We could have bulldozed all rules if we wanted to, but that is not our way. We want to move forward together.' He pointed out that the ongoing budget discussion had seen extensive participation. 'I am the 135th member to speak on the budget - this kind of debate has never taken place before,' he noted. 'Last year, 132 members participated in the debate, and this year, more than 42 hours of discussion have already taken place.' CM also responded to criticism, suggesting that Sindh lacks democratic practice. 'Let me present the facts,' he said. 'In the Sindh Assembly, 100 per cent of opposition members have spoken. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, only 53 out of 145 members have spoken, and their debate has already concluded.' 'In the National Assembly, 204 out of 336 members have spoken about 60 per cent. In Punjab, with 371 members, only 46 have spoken so far, which is just 12.5pc. Even if four times that number speaks, it still won't reach 50pc,' he explained. 'In Balochistan, 12 out of 53 members have spoken, and they still have three or four days left.' 'Despite these facts, people say democracy doesn't exist in Sindh,' the CM said. 'In 1947, we welcomed people here-and we still do today. And if someone wants to leave, the Constitution gives them that right. But I won't say go. I believe Sindh is the best province in Pakistan.' CM Sindh highlighted that the province's development budget constitutes approximately 30 pc of the total budget, surpassing Punjab's 23 pc and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's 25.3 per cent. While he acknowledged that Balochistan has a higher development budget, he noted that it is also governed by the PPP. CM pointed out that the federal government initially promised Rs1.9 trillion for the year but subsequently revised it to Rs1.796 trillion, resulting in a shortfall of Rs100 billion. He expressed concern over the low revenue collection thus far and urged the federal government to release at least Rs237 billion. Despite the federal government collecting 13 per cent more in taxes, CM stated that Sindh's revenue growth outpaces it, with a 16 pc increase in provincial collections. He outlined the revenue targets for the upcoming budget, emphasising the need for equitable tax rates across the province, from Karachi to rural areas like Dadu. He also addressed the agricultural income tax, noting that the erroneous tax policies may lead to wheat imports this year. CM announced a target of Rs8 billion for agricultural tax next year, equating to a tax of Rs1052 per acre. He contrasted this with Punjab's target of Rs 372 per acre and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's target of only Rs 57 per acre for their cultivated land. CM Shah's remarks reflect the ongoing fiscal challenges and the need for balanced resource allocation across the provinces. Chief minister unveiled a series of significant initiatives aimed at bolstering development across various sectors in Sindh for the upcoming year. Among the highlights, the government aims to achieve 100 per cent birth registration, ensuring that every citizen is accounted for from the outset of their lives. Murad Ali Shah also noted that measures for agricultural development have already been outlined by the Minister of Agriculture, reflecting a commitment to enhance the province's agricultural output. In the education sector, the establishment of cost centres has been initiated, aimed at improving resource allocation and management within educational institutions. Furthermore, funding for the department supporting individuals with disabilities has been increased, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity. The government plans to expand autism centres and other related departments to better serve the needs of affected individuals and their families. In addition, Youth Development Centres are being established across all districts, with 19 already operational, aiming to provide young people with essential services and support. The Sindh Institute of Child Health boasts the largest child emergency network globally, and a new Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation is under construction in Larkana, emphasising the government's focus on healthcare infrastructure. He also announced the procurement of new ambulances and specific programmes designed to support fishermen in the province. Financial support for universities has been enhanced, alongside increased funding for solid waste management initiatives in Sindh. In terms of fiscal policy, salaries have been raised by 10 to 12 per cent, while pensions have seen an increase of 8 per cent. Moreover, the government has abolished professional and entertainment taxes, as well as reduced various vehicle taxes, including those applicable to larger vehicles. Finally, the provincial Annual Development Programme is set at Rs10820 billion, underscoring the government's commitment to advancing infrastructure and public services in Sindh. [The ADP for year 2025–26 has been set at Rs520 billion. In addition to the District ADP Rs55 billion, Foreign Project Assistance (FPA): Rs366.72 billion and Federal PSDP contributions: Rs76.28 billion. Murad Ali Shah asserted that he listens to 90 per cent of the speeches from assembly members. He suggested that there may have been a targeted agenda against him, stating, 'It was implied that only 11 departments belong to the CM. However, I oversee 45 departments.' Chief minister contrasted his responsibilities with those of other provincial leaders, noting that the Chief Minister of Punjab manages 14 departments and that of Balochistan oversees 20. He remarked on the historical claims to Sindh's territorial integrity, recalling that the first map of Sindh depicted regions including Makran and Rajasthan. CM discussed the historical evolution of Sindh, stating that during the Kalhora period, the capital was initially in Khudabad before being moved to Hyderabad. He mentioned that the Talpur dynasty later divided Sindh into three parts, yet maintained a unified approach to defence and diplomacy. He recounted the British conquest of Sindh, highlighting Charles Napier's desire for Sindh to remain unified, while criticising the subsequent decisions made by the new Viceroy to integrate Sindh into Bombay. He reflected on the local resistance against these decisions, asserting that Sindh's people successfully thwarted attempts to merge Sindh with Punjab. He praised early political figures from Sindh, such as Ghulam Ahmed Bhurgri and Sir Shahnawaz Bhutto, for their roles in advocating for Sindh's separation from Bombay and their contributions to the Pakistan Movement. CM noted that the All India Muslim League's Sindh chapter was instrumental in the push for a separate homeland for Muslims, culminating in the recognition of Sindh as a province in 1936. CM concluded by acknowledging the historical significance of the 1940 Pakistan Resolution, which originated from Sindh, and reaffirmed the legacy of the 24 members who supported the resolution, whose descendants remain active in Sindh's political landscape. Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah remarked that the descendants of key figures who played pivotal roles in the establishment of Pakistan are currently part of the Pakistan Peoples Party. He asserted that the Sindh Assembly was the first to declare independence, urging attendees to take pride in their heritage while also acknowledging historical facts. During his address, CM presented photographs of pre-1947 Karachi, countering claims that the city was devoid of development after independence. He stated that Karachi was on the rise in 1947, which prompted Quaid-e-Azam to designate it as the capital. In response to a suggestion from a member regarding a resolution against Israeli attacks on Iran, CM proposed a legal solution to address the matter after the budget speech. Although there was initial agreement, protests ensued. He noted that the protests appeared premeditated, with banners prepared in advance. The opposition raised concerns that their schemes were not included in the budget. CM invited the opposition to submit their proposals in writing, which they did, with 17 members providing schemes along with their costs. A decision was made to incorporate constituency-specific schemes, with an assurance that no single member's scheme would be excluded. He sought the opposition leader's assistance against federal injustices, asserting that the federal government was using the opposition as a means to further its agenda. CM mentioned that the federal government had established a federal agency for the Green Line project in Karachi, which was also supported by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party. He expressed concerns about this arrangement and highlighted a promise made by former prime minister Nawaz Sharif to discontinue such practices. In the recent budget documents, schemes for all provinces were included, except for Sindh, which only had its projects assigned to the Pakistan Industrial Development Corporation Limited (PIDC). CM called upon the opposition leader to assist in rectifying this disparity. Ultimately, the federal government has now allocated three major schemes to Sindh, indicating a shift in the political landscape and a potential path forward for collaborative governance. CM Murad Ali Shah stated that he is not alone in addressing the grievances within the assembly, as members of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) are also participating in protests. He noted that MQM members have expressed the necessity of collaboration with the Sindh government for effective governance. Shah emphasised that the mandate does not allow a federal company to operate in Sindh without the provincial government's consent. He affirmed that Rs500 million has been allocated for each constituency, with members required to propose schemes within this budget. Several proposals have already been implemented, and he highlighted that Karachi has been overlooked in budget discussions. He pointed out that out of a total of Rs1,400 billion, only Rs60 billion, representing 4.6%, has been allocated to Karachi, while a total of Rs254 billion has been earmarked for the city, with the possibility of further increases. However, projects such as Bhutto Avenue and the M-9 Link Road were not included in the budget. CM Shah addressed misconceptions circulated by the media regarding the absence of mega projects for Karachi, clarifying that Rs12 billion has been reserved for such schemes, which encompass projects across the city. He refuted claims that only schemes for Lyari and Malir were included, asserting that all proposals are available for scrutiny. He elaborated on the challenges faced by Karachi in terms of financial independence, contrasting it with other metropolitan areas that retain a significant portion of their revenue. CM mentioned that legal obstacles hinder Karachi's ability to secure necessary funding. In a notable achievement, the CM reported that plans for 20 million homes are underway, with 12 million currently under construction and 6 million completed. Furthermore, women have been granted ownership rights to these homes, ensuring empowerment alongside housing provision. CM provided updates on autism centres in Karachi and other cities, stating that three centres are nearing completion. He recounted the history of the K-4 project, which has seen escalating costs from Rs25 billion to Rs175 billion due to federal inquiries and delays. In terms of minimum wage, the current rate in Sindh stands at Rs37,000, with proposals from Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa advocating for an increase to Rs40,000. CM argued for a minimum wage of Rs 42,000 to better support workers. Assembly has allocated Rs8 billion for a special judicial allowance, with discussions on salary increases for judicial staff to be determined by the assembly. CM highlighted the disparity in salaries, noting that a judge's income exceeds Rs2.2 million after tax deductions, while the speaker of the assembly earns merely 10 per cent of that amount. Murad Ali Shah addressed the assembly regarding procedural issues and the recent budget session. He explained that a resolution was not passed in the first session but was successfully approved in a subsequent meeting, stating, 'The budget session concluded, yet disorder continued.' He highlighted the significance of the assembly's protocols, asserting that the Speaker possesses extensive powers but requires guidance akin to judicial assistance. CM noted that while the Speaker has the authority to remove members from the assembly, such actions are not taken lightly. 'We do not fear the Speaker's powers, though it is essential to respect them,' he added, referencing a previous instance when he was asked to leave the assembly. He addressed criticisms regarding provincial debt, affirming that Sindh is the only province with sound financial management, which attracts substantial loans from international institutions. CM clarified that the budget allocation of Rs12 billion for flood relief pertains to recovery from the 2022 floods, not for new calamities. 'India has propagated the notion that Pakistan is in ruins, and I urge our members not to echo such sentiments,' he cautioned, stressing the importance of unity against external narratives. CM Shah reported that Sindh is on track to complete 1,460 schemes this year, setting a record, and encouraged members to propose larger projects rather than smaller ones to make a more significant impact. He acknowledged that while some schemes have faced delays, efforts are underway to complete all ongoing projects. Murad Ali Shah urged assembly members to move past the incidents that occurred during the budget session, stating, 'Let us forget what transpired on budget day and focus on the future.' He expressed that if all parties can work together for the province's benefit, they should do so without hesitation. CM remarked, 'I have mentioned that I receive guidance from my party; however, I doubt Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui takes such directives in the same manner.' He noted that there are efforts to incite division among them. Chief minister emphasised the necessity of collaboration for the province's development and thanked members from both sides for their patience in listening to him. He also acknowledged the Speaker and their team for effectively managing the assembly's proceedings. The session of the Sindh Assembly has been adjourned until tomorrow.
Time of India
10-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
State following War Book for precautionary measures: CM
Pune: Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday said state govt was following the War Book to take precautionary measures amid the conflict between India and visited the holy town of Alandi in Pune district on Saturday to attend an event of the Warkari community. Speaking about the security arrangements in the state against the backdrop of the India-Pakistan conflict, he told reporters before the event, "We are following the War Book to take all the necessary precautionary measures. All the district units are working in close coordination. We are ensuring that correct information goes to all these units in time." Considering the presence of several military establishments in the state and Mumbai being the financial capital of the country, Fadnavis chaired a meeting in the state capital on Friday to review the security preparedness. A day after, he slammed Pakistan on Saturday for sponsoring terrorism. "Everybody knows Pakistan backs terrorism. This time, India will not tolerate it. Under the leadership of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi , our armed forces have given a befitting reply to our enemies," he the event of the Warkari community in Alandi, he lauded the contribution of saints of Maharashtra to shaping up the social fabric of the country. Operation Sindoor Pak drones enter Indian airspace, explosions heard just hours after truce deal Sirens, explosions in border districts after Pak breaks deal: What we know so far 'What happened to ceasefire?' J&K CM after explosions heard across Srinagar "Our saints kept on sowing the seeds of spirituality and Bhagwat dharma in society without discriminating on the basis of caste, creed, religion and gender. They made the social structure so strong that the invaders failed to finish our culture despite so many invasions," the chief minister said. Pune: Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday said state govt was following the War Book to take precautionary measures amid the conflict between India and visited the holy town of Alandi in Pune district on Saturday to attend an event of the Warkari community. Speaking about the security arrangements in the state against the backdrop of the India-Pakistan conflict, he told reporters before the event, "We are following the War Book to take all the necessary precautionary measures. All the district units are working in close coordination. We are ensuring that correct information goes to all these units in time." Considering the presence of several military establishments in the state and Mumbai being the financial capital of the country, Fadnavis chaired a meeting in the state capital on Friday to review the security preparedness. A day after, he slammed Pakistan on Saturday for sponsoring terrorism. "Everybody knows Pakistan backs terrorism. This time, India will not tolerate it. Under the leadership of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi, our armed forces have given a befitting reply to our enemies," he the event of the Warkari community in Alandi, he lauded the contribution of saints of Maharashtra to shaping up the social fabric of the country. "Our saints kept on sowing the seeds of spirituality and Bhagwat dharma in society without discriminating on the basis of caste, creed, religion and gender. They made the social structure so strong that the invaders failed to finish our culture despite so many invasions," the chief minister said.
Express Tribune
09-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Capital activates 'War Book Rules'
Following heightened tensions between Pakistan and India, authorities in the federal capital have implemented War Book Rules by taking several measures including installation of sirens and the provision of sufficient fuel, blood and food supplies. As part of these measures, sirens have been installed on high-rise buildings, petrol pumps have been directed to stock additional fuel, and the Market Committee has finalised arrangements for the extra supply of vegetables, lentils, and other essential goods. An emergency meeting of the district administration was held on Thursday night under the chairmanship of Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon. The meeting was attended by all Additional Deputy Commissioners, Assistant Commissioners, magistrates, and other officials. During the meeting, a detailed review of the proposed measures under the War Book Rules to handle any emergency situation was conducted. Briefing the participants, officials informed that emergency sirens have been installed on all tall buildings across Islamabad. Designated shelter areas have been identified for potential evacuees in case of a crisis. A 24/7 control room has also been established at the Safe City Complex. Hospitals have completed the implementation of War Book protocols, and blood relief camps have been set up at various locations. The Market Committee has finalised preparations for maintaining sufficient stocks of vegetables, lentils, and other food essentials. A strategy has also been devised to ensure availability of extra fuel at petrol stations. Coordination has been completed for using mosques to make emergency announcements if needed. Youth volunteers are being trained to assist during emergency situations. DC Memon instructed that all officers must remain on the ground at all times due to the sensitive nature of the situation. He appealed to the public to immediately contact the control room in case of any emergency.
India Gazette
09-05-2025
- Politics
- India Gazette
Maharashtra CM Fadnavis chairs high-level security review meeting at his residence in Mumbai
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], May 9 (ANI): Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis chaired a high-level security review meeting on Friday at his official residence 'Varsha' in Mumbai in wake of the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Director General of Police (DGP), top Home Department officials and other senior officers of various agencies and departments, said the Chief Ministers Office. Speaking to the media over India-Pakistan tension, Maharashtra CM Fadnavis said, 'All the security forces, be it police, coast guard or navy, are on alert mode. Regular exercises are carried out, Standard Operating Procedure (SOPs) are set. We have done everything needed according to the War Book. We are also going to review the internal security and have also called for a meeting.' Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also spoke about the security arrangements in Maharashtra in view of India-Pakistan tension and said, 'Review meeting was chaired, a detailed discussion took place regarding security of Mumbai and Maharashtra. People don't have to panic. The government will take care of them and has made all the arrangements for their safety. We will follow the guidelines of the central govt.' Meanwhile, in light of the current security environment and the threat of hostile attacks, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has urged all states and Union Territories (UTs) to augment civil defence measures under the Civil Defence Act and Rules of 1968. Highlighting Section 11 of the Civil Defence Rules, 1968, the Ministry in a letter titled 'augmentation of civil defence measures in the states/UTs' reminded that state governments are empowered to undertake all necessary actions for the protection of people and property, and to ensure the uninterrupted functioning of vital services during a hostile attack. The call to strengthen civil defence measures follows a serious security incident along the India-Pakistan border, as Pakistan on Thursday night launched a series of coordinated drone and missile attacks along India's western border, targeting regions in Jammu and Kashmir, and Rajasthan. According to Indian defense officials, the attacks were largely intercepted by India's air defense systems, including the S-400 missile defense system, preventing significant damage. These strikes were reportedly in retaliation for India's Operation Sindoor, conducted earlier this week, which targeted terrorist camps in Pakistan following a deadly terrorist attack in Kashmir that killed 26 tourists on April 22. The escalating conflict has led to heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, with both sides accusing each other of aggression and violating airspace. The situation remains volatile, with international calls for restraint and diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation. (ANI)
Time of India
09-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Indo-Pak tensions: Maharashtra to cancel leaves of key officials in health, disaster management departments
The Maharashtra government has decided to cancel the leaves of top officials in health, disaster management and many other departments in the wake of the current situation, the Chief Minister's Office said on Friday. The government will take strict action against those spreading fake news and "helping the enemy", it said. #Operation Sindoor India-Pakistan Clash Live Updates| Missiles, shelling, and attacks — here's all that's happening Pakistani Air Force jet shot down in Pathankot by Indian Air Defence: Sources India on high alert: What's shut, who's on leave, and state-wise emergency measures The decision was made at a meeting, where Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reviewed the security measures, the CMO said in a statement. State director-general of police, Mumbai police chief, top home department officials and senior officers of various agencies and departments attended the meeting. Deputy CM Eknath Shinde was also present. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Innovative Jackets for Mountain Adventures [Buy Now] Trek Kit India Learn More Undo It has been decided to cancel the leaves of senior officials holding important posts in health, disaster management and other departments, said the statement. The CM has directed that mock drills for preparedness should be conducted in each of the 36 districts of the state. A war room should be set up in each district, it said. Live Events A coordination machinery should be set up with hospitals during blackouts. Similarly, a backup power should be kept on standby during such times. Dark curtains and window panes should be used to ensure light is not visible from outside. The CM also asked the administration to raise awareness of what needs to be done during a blackout . He also instructed all civic bodies in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region to launch a similar campaign involving cooperative housing societies, it said. The Centre's 'War Book', which outlines the government's response and functions during wartime, should be studied, and key information should be shared at the ground level, he said. Fadnavis also said that the cybercrime department should keep a watch on social media handles in each district to find out who is helping Pakistan. "Strict action will be taken against those helping the enemy and spreading fake news," he said. An emergency fund will be provided to each district on Friday itself to procure items required to meet exigencies, said the statement, quoting the CM. While police have been told to increase combing operations and bandobast, the CM said cases must be registered against those who video-record Army preparations and share the visuals on social media. Fadnavis also asked authorities to rent fishing trawlers to boost coastal security. Talking to reporters after the meeting, Deputy CM Shinde said the discussions concerned securing vital installations, including electricity and water supply, keeping a check on drone movements, strengthening cyber security, besides keeping medical services active. "Strengthening the functioning of the CCTV cameras in Mumbai and ensuring collective coordination among all agencies was discussed. We also discussed ways to ensure there is no panic among people and boost coastal security," Shinde said. The deputy CM said that in the next two to three days, they will communicate with the Army, Navy and Coast Guard to explore what the state government needs to do to keep Mumbai and Maharashtra "safe at any cost". Earlier in the day, Fadnavis said the police, Coast Guard and Navy were on alert mode in Maharashtra, and all SoPs (Standard Operating Procedures) were being followed. Police, Navy and Coast Guard are on alert mode. Regular exercises are being undertaken, and whatever steps are needed to be taken as per the war book' are being taken care of. India on Thursday night neutralised Pakistan military's attempt to hit military stations in Jammu, Pathankot, Udhampur and some other locations with missiles and drones. In the early hours of Wednesday, the Indian armed forces carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Pakistan under Operation Sindoor in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives.
