In a surprising admission, Pakistan's Army Chief has finally acknowledged that Pakistani soldiers were killed during the Kargil conflict, years after former Army Chief Musharraf confessed to the reality of the conflict. Amidst controversy surrounding Pakistan's observance of September 6 as Defense Day, Pakistan's Foreign Ministry has also claimed Junagadh as part of Pakistan, comparing it to the Kashmir issue. Additionally, a major update in Pakistan's political scene: prominent Baloch leader Maherang Baloch is receiving support from Imran Khan's party, a significant endorsement for the Baloch movement.
The Baluch Liberation Army group claimed responsibility for throwing hand grenades at a house and store selling Pakistani national flags in Quetta, killing three people and injuring six others. The attacks occurred days after the group warned against celebrating Pakistan's independence day and called for a ban on selling flags. Meanwhile, Pakistan's army chief gave a televised speech vowing to defeat militancy and sought cooperation from Afghanistan against the Pakistani Taliban. In a separate incident, the ED seized properties of the GBP Group, accused of scamming homebuyers and investors, in Chandigarh.
The ruling coalition in Pakistan praises the arrest of former ISI chief Lt Gen (retd.) Faiz Hameed in connection with a housing scheme scandal, while opposition parties, including former premier Imran Khan's PTI party, stay neutral. Hameed, who served as the director general of ISI during Khan's prime ministerial term, was accused of interfering in political matters. The Army has arrested him and initiated court martial proceedings for alleged misuse of authority. While the PTI party chairman calls it an "internal matter" for the disciplined institution of the Pakistani military, others, including members of the ruling PML-N and PPP, openly support the decision.
In a recent interview, actress Karisma Kapoor praised the unique qualities of the three leading Khans of Bollywood - Shah Rukh, Aamir, and Salman. She shared how each of them has their distinct personality and work style, adding that she feels fortunate to have collaborated with each of them multiple times. She also highlighted their dynamic on-screen presence, acknowledging their contributions to the entertainment industry.
In a surprising turn of events, former Prime Minister Imran Khan's party has won the most seats in Pakistan's election, though they do not have a clear majority. Mr. Khan is claiming victory, however, another ex-PM, Nawaz Sharif, is seeking to form a coalition with other parties. This comes after Pakistan's army chief urged the country to move away from divisive and chaotic politics. The final official results have yet to be announced.
The intense planning and tactical execution of Operation Meghdoot, launched on April 13, 1984, was a turning point in India's control over the treacherous Siachen Glacier. Led by then Army Chief Gen AS Vaidya and a team of strategists including the forgotten hero, Lieutenant General CN Somanna, the Indian Army took over key heights, including Indira Col, in an unprecedented move that caught Pakistan off guard. Amit K Paul's upcoming book Meghdoot: The Beginning of the Coldest War reveals the intricate details of the top brass's war game, codenamed "Walnut Cracker," that paved the way for India's triumph.