Weekly Halaat Roundup – October 13, 2024

from the x (formerly Twitter) timeline of Uroosa Salman

Controversy Surrounding Punjab College Incident: Unverified Rape Allegations and Violent Protests

On October 13, 2024, a female student at Punjab College, Lahore, allegedly accused a security guard of rape, sparking widespread student protests. Initial reports suggested serious accusations; however, investigations have found no evidence to support the rape claims. The student’s father presented medical reports indicating a fracture, unrelated to the allegations, explaining her absence from the college. Video footage showed the student collapsing during the protest, leading to hospitalization rather than assault.

The incident escalated to violent protests across campuses, resulting in the death of a guard at Punjab College, Gujrat Campus, and severe property damage. Authorities, including Punjab police, urged protesters to provide evidence to initiate formal legal proceedings but emphasized that no credible proof of sexual assault has emerged.

Further complicating matters, conflicting narratives on social media-fueled unrest. Some posts were identified as fake, leading to public confusion. The administration now aims to restore order and address student grievances transparently.

SCO Summit: Indian Delegation Arrives in Islamabad

A four-member Indian delegation arrived in Islamabad to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit. The summit focused on enhancing regional cooperation among member states. Source

Indian Drone Shot Down at LoC

Pakistan Air Force intercepted and shot down an Indian reconnaissance drone attempting to cross the Line of Control (LoC), escalating tensions along the border. Source

Trade Agreement between Pakistan and China

Pakistan and China have signed a significant trade agreement, allowing payments for Chinese imports to be made in Pakistani rupees. This deal is expected to bolster bilateral trade relations. Source

Unpleasant Odor in Karachi

Citizens in Karachi are experiencing a foul smell that has left them anxious. There are speculations about a possible gas leak from a chemical factory, although the exact cause is yet to be confirmed. Source

Rising Car Sales in Pakistan

Car sales have seen a substantial increase across Pakistan, marking an improvement in the country’s auto industry.

Failed Attack on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Checkpost

A group of militants attacked a police checkpost in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Tank district but were successfully repelled by police forces. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack yet. Source

Increase in Drug Addiction among Karachi Students

Karachi has seen a disturbing rise in drug addiction among students, with educational institutions becoming a hub for drug-related activities, as per a recent report.

Road Accident in Bahria Town, Karachi

A traffic accident in Bahria Town, Karachi, resulted in two fatalities and 18 injuries after two speeding vehicles collided. Several injured individuals, including women and children, were moved to a hospital. Source

26th Constitutional Amendment Approved: Key Changes to Pakistan’s Judicial Structure

The 26th Constitutional Amendment has officially been approved, bringing significant reforms to Pakistan’s judicial system. The amendment introduces a Federal Constitutional Court, appointed by the President, with exclusive authority over constitutional matters, including federal and provincial disputes. It revises the judge appointment process, limits the retirement age of Federal Court judges to 68, and transfers several Supreme Court powers to the newly established Federal Court.

Additionally, the amendment outlines stricter parliamentary voting requirements and mandates that military-related laws cannot be amended without a constitutional change. These reforms aim to enhance judicial efficiency and transparency, aligning the legal framework with modern governance standards.

For a detailed analysis of the amendment and its implications, refer to our full blog.

26th Amendment to Pakistan's Constitution:

Iran Warns USA Over Potential Israel Support

Iran’s Defense Minister warned that any US support to Israel in a possible attack on Iran would lead to retaliatory actions against American bases in the Middle East. Source

Hezbollah’s Attack on IDF

In a series of coordinated attacks, Hezbollah launched 230 rockets, leading to 24 strikes over 16 hours. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) were forced to run for cover amidst this onslaught. Source

Man Arrested Near Trump Rally in California

A man was arrested near a Trump rally in California for attempting to enter the venue with a loaded firearm and a fake VIP pass, posing a significant security threat.

Cockroach Removed from Intestine of a Delhi Resident

A 23-year-old man in Delhi had a 3cm live cockroach successfully removed from his small intestine. The patient had been suffering from severe stomach pain after consuming street food.

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