Opinion
The Situation Before And After All Parties Conference (APC)
Ever since the PML (N) Led Coalition Government of Veteran Senior Leader and Two times Premier Mian Mohammad Shareef came to Power after May 11 Elections in which they got heavy mandate from the Punjab Province where as PPPP was limited to Sindh after losing the grip over Punjab Provincial as well as Federal Seats during much echoed Elections 2013 which brought about many upsets and people started to wonder that How the heavy weights were defeated by youth Leaders of PTI in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa where PTI enjoys simple Majority and running the government in coalition with the Moderate Religious Party Jamaat –e-Islami .
Whereas Baluchistan saw a mix response since no party has been able to get any clear majority and the same Coalition government is to decide the conflict ridden Baluchistan and face the challenging situation of law and order .As for as the State of Baluchistan Assembly is concerned ,after assumption of the Office of Chief Minister of Dr Abdul Malik , A Nationalist Leader , the situation is very ambiguous as the cabinet is yet to be inducted. So far , he has been sole Leader to lead the Conflict ridden and now the Quake Ridden Baluchistan government where separatists have crippled the very roots of the peace and people have been living a appalling life. Even the Passengers moving in and from the parts of the country are assailed on the National Highways as well as inter Provincial Routes. As many as 300 innocent passengers have lost their life on ethnic backgrounds during their traveling to Quetta and other Balouch dominated routes. Most of the Killings are claimed balouch separatist Groups. This is a dreadful security and Law and Order situation in Baluchistan But the irony is that still the Malik’s Government going without the cabinet.
Sindh is the same as it was five years ago in PPP led Coalition government since the same old faces except some new faces made their way to the Assemblies . The PPP’s long time Coalition party MQM , has been keeping itself away from the state of Government affairs due to their inclination towards PML (N) They have also made their participation in the Government on conditional basis and their under trial Boss Altaf Hussain went further and held Referendum on the basis that whether they should join the Government or not in coalition with PPP. Despite being offered to Join the Sindh Government on Multiple Occasion by PPP representation ,MQM is deliberately keep itself away from the state of Affairs of PPP but their Governor is holding the key Position and many analysts are of the view that they will retain the position till the end of PML (N) government tenure .
ors ,rushing to Dubai ,meeting Party chief at London , PML (N) Government has not replaced Governor but rather retained the Governor of Sindh Dr Isharatul Ibad . Even he has been tasked to monitor the Targeted Operation led by CM Sindh Syed Qaim Ali Shah and initiated on the Federal Government directives after they held the Cabinet meeting at Governor House of Sindh at after the strong demand of Traders and Karachi citizens .
It was decided that the targeted Operation will be initiated and turned down the demand of MQM to Deploy Army for Operation in Karachi as law and order Situation was Abysmal and alarming. after considering the Loc tension and massive deployment of Army in Pak-Afghan border to control the infiltration, It was decided unanimously that the Operation will be carried out by Rangers supported by Police on the lines of impartiality as no Office of any Political party will be assailed on the grounds of partiality . So far , MQM has been frequently complaining against victimization of the MQM and arrests of its workers through Press Conferences but on the other hand the rangers and Police spokes persons reject such claims and add that the action is being taken on the strong intelligence reports and criminal records .
Coming to KPK , we have experienced the worst state of law and order situation since the provincial capital Peshawar has become the prime target for militant activities and series of Bomb Blasts herald the clear messages that the terrorists are running amok and the Federal Interior Minister has been doing the job of just a viewer to watch what is happening in KPK and they do not seem to be serious regarding security matters concerning the safety of precious lives of their fellow Pakistanis .
Some analysts also disclose that this may be a conspiracy to fail the PTI Government in KPK since it is very first time that PTI which is very new in comparison to the Professional Political players such as Jamiat Ulama –e Islam , PML N ,PPP , ANP and PKMAP in respect of holding the important Government of KPK may collapse due to challenging law and order situation and prevent them from establishing government in the centre due to long standing problems of Talibanization and Suicide Bombings specially tribal belts.
The massive casualties have already crossed thousands and PTI led government is between the devil and deep see in controlling heightened law and order situation which shows no improvement ever since the honeymoon period is over as in Pakistan it is rare to enjoy the honeymoons .
If you enjoy the honeymoons, you will be assailed by the powerful goons. The Most disturbing is the Drones issue since drone strikes are counterproductive and inflict multiple implications on the country’s sovereignty , Economy , law and Order situation and ignite a wave of hatred among the tribal people specially north Wazirstan . Pakistan has protested in United Nations against the drone strikes since they are considered an attack on the sovereignty of the Nations but the Pakistani pleas have not been given due weightage by Obama Administration so far.
As regards the APC , It was held on 9th September 2013 and all the main stream parties , Chief Ministers and Governors of all fours provinces , Chief Army Staff General Pervez Kayani and ISI Chief also participated in the APC . It was decided after briefing from the Members and Specially Armed forces Chief and Intelligence Agency Chief that Dialogue will be initiated with the Taliban since Pakistan is very peaceful country and It will prefer Dialogue than initiating iron hand with the support of ISI and Pakistan Army . But the APC kept the option of military action open in case the talks with Taliban Leaders fail.
All the Representatives of Main Stream parties appreciated the Efforts and sacrifices of Pakistan Army for the Sake of bringing Peace in the region as well as suppressing militancy for the defense of the country since Militancy , Terrorism , Religious Extremism and ethnic Conflicts have played havoc with the law and order situation and rocked the very roots of the country . The Rising inflation and rapid devaluation of Rupee has heralded serious repercussions for the Pakistan having already fragile Economy . The fading investments in the Country and growing security concern on internal as well as External fronts have demanded to frame Strict laws for the extermination of the anti state elements who are mercenaries and their only role is to destabilize the country by creating deteriorating law and order situation .
The Most Important point which revolves in every Pakistani’s mind that will the dialogue breed positive results and who will guarantee that TTP’s multiple factions will come to terms with the Government and accept the writ of Government since they do not accept the accept even the constitution of Pakistan . Even the Punjabi faction of Talibans enjoys their unique identity contrasting other Taliban entities.
But Before the dialogue , there should be a ceasefire and there should not be any attack on Army convoy , religious Places such as Mosques , Imam Bargahs , Temples and Churches . There should not be forced Disappearances or kidnappings by TTP Factions.
The above questions are very difficult to be answered keeping in view the post APC scenario as many as ten Attacks have made including attack on Church in which innocent Christians were killed . The Peshawar has become the centre of TTP activities and even Legislators have lost their precious lives . The most alarming message was the four bomb blasts in the Provincial headquarters of four provinces at the same day by Suicide bombers raising concerns for the success of talks with Taliban as was decided during APC .
The APC success lies on the above questions and if above questions go unanswered then such APC’s will have the same tragic end as was of earlier one’s on the same issues of terrorism and Militancy. Even some circles in Federal Government specially Interior Ministry are thinking of revisiting their Policy on Security and Dialogue .
They have also drafted the national Security Policy which is yet to get the momentum along with strategy of Developing Rapid Response Force to cope with Situation occurring time to time like the Sikandar Solo drama who made the Capital Police of Islamabad on Hold for Hours and posted the message for the Security Policy makers that he has displayed live show , watched by millions of the people around the world through live coverage of news channels that how a single armed person like Sikandar with help of Sincere wife and injured kids leaked the inefficiency of Islamabad Police that failed to put hold on single superman .
The Demoralized Police have become a laughing stalk for the public and the concerns of public have to a level that they have lost their belief on the Police completely and consider taking their own initiatives for self security . The Same is the situation in Karachi , Peshawar , Quetta , Punjab and other parts of the Country.
Finally , the Government has to rethink ,review ,revisit and redraft the policies and come up with renewed , innovative and lasting solutions specially the security to restore peace in the country since peace is the first step towards the development since peace has multi dimensional effects on the country and it makes the country a friendly place to live and let live and invest the funds and contribute in the development of their beloved country.
The PML (N) will have to take bitter decisions in national interest to bring peace in the region as Pakistan has already paid heavy price for being one of the biggest and important ally of US in war against Terrorism emerging after 9/11 Strikes on WTC . Pakistan has been facing multi faceted threats in the region including internal threats of militancy, Religious Extremism and Ethnic issues.
To cope with the long standing issues, PML (N) Government should take everyone on board, be it dialogue with TTP leaders or initiating operation against the Problem makers. The Security Personnel should be trained on modern lines and equipped with sophisticated weapons and equipments to tackle with emerging law and order situation.
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Biography
Tributes Pour In for Rob Reiner, 78, as Hollywood Mourns a Storyteller Who Shaped an Era
The death of filmmaker Rob Reiner at age 78 has prompted an outpouring of tributes across the entertainment world, as colleagues, actors, and cultural figures reflect on the legacy of a director whose work helped define modern American cinema. Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead in their Los Angeles home, according to police statements released this week.
Reiner’s passing—under circumstances now the subject of an active homicide investigation—has sent shockwaves through Hollywood and beyond. Authorities confirmed that the couple’s son, Nick Reiner, has been taken into custody and “booked for murder,” though charges have not yet been formally filed. The Los Angeles Police Department has said the case remains open as detectives continue their inquiry.
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A Career That Spanned Generations
Rob Reiner’s influence on American storytelling is difficult to overstate. From the comedic brilliance of This Is Spinal Tap to the emotional resonance of Stand By Me, When Harry Met Sally, and A Few Good Men, Reiner’s films became cultural touchstones—quoted, revisited, and taught in film schools for decades.
His work blended humor with humanity, often exploring the fragile, complicated bonds between people. Reiner’s films were rarely just entertainment; they were emotional experiences that lingered.
Colleagues described him as a director with an uncanny ability to draw out vulnerability from actors while maintaining a light, collaborative set. “Rob had a way of making you feel safe enough to take risks,” one longtime collaborator said in a tribute posted shortly after news of his death broke.
A Loss Felt Across Hollywood
As news spread, tributes began flooding social platforms and industry circles. Actors who grew up watching his films shared memories of the first time they encountered The Princess Bride or Misery. Directors spoke of Reiner’s craftsmanship—his ability to move seamlessly between genres without losing his signature warmth.
Industry veterans noted that Reiner’s career bridged eras: from the golden age of network television, where he first gained fame on All in the Family, to the rise of prestige filmmaking in the 1980s and 1990s, and finally to the streaming era, where his classics found new audiences.
His death, many said, marks the end of a particular Hollywood lineage—one rooted in character-driven storytelling, emotional honesty, and a belief that films could be both deeply personal and universally resonant.
A Family Tragedy Under Public Scrutiny
The circumstances surrounding Reiner’s death have added a layer of heartbreak to the tributes. Police confirmed that both Reiner and his wife were found dead in their Brentwood home, and that their son Nick was arrested shortly thereafter. The case has drawn intense media attention, with officials urging the public to allow investigators space to complete their work.
Despite the grim backdrop, those who knew Reiner have focused their public statements on his life rather than the tragedy. “Rob Reiner changed the way America tells stories,” one filmmaker wrote. “His films helped us understand ourselves.”
A Legacy That Will Endure
Reiner’s influence will continue to ripple through Hollywood for generations. His films remain staples of American culture—quoted at weddings, referenced in political debates, and rediscovered by new audiences every year.
For many, the loss feels personal. Reiner’s work was woven into the fabric of everyday life: the comfort of a familiar line, the catharsis of a well-crafted scene, the joy of a story told with sincerity.
As Hollywood mourns, one truth is clear: Rob Reiner didn’t just make movies. He made memories.
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Corruption
Transparency International Pakistan releases NCPS 2025
ISLAMABAD—Transparency International Pakistan (TIP) on Tuesday released its comprehensive National Corruption Perception Survey (NCPS) 2025, presenting a mixed picture of public sentiment on corruption, anti-graft efforts, and governance across the country.
The survey, conducted with 4,000 respondents from all four provinces, reveals that while a significant majority of citizens did not report paying a bribe in the last year, three key public sectors—the Police, Tender/Procurement, and the Judiciary—continue to be perceived as the most corruption-prone institutions.
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Police Top List Despite Perception Improvement
According to the NCPS 2025 findings, the Police remains the most corrupt sector in the eyes of the public, cited by 24% of respondents nationwide. This is followed by the Tender and Procurement process at 16%, and the Judiciary at 14%.
However, the report highlighted a subtle but “notable” positive shift in public perception regarding the Police, registering a 6% improvement in perceived behaviour and service delivery compared to the previous survey.
Low Bribery Rate vs. High Dissatisfaction
The survey’s most encouraging statistic is that a majority of citizens (66%) reported they did not feel compelled to pay a bribe for public services in the past 12 months, which TIP considers a strong indicator of perceived progress in service delivery. Provincially, Sindh reported the highest rate of citizens encountering a demand for a bribe at 46%.
Despite the low rate of personal bribery, public satisfaction with the government’s overall efforts to combat corruption remains low. A significant 77% of respondents nationwide expressed “low satisfaction” or were “not satisfied” with the government’s anti-corruption drive.
The public identified the three major causes driving corruption as a lack of accountability (15%), lack of transparency and limited access to information (15%), and delays in the disposal of corruption cases (14%).
Demand for Accountability of Anti-Graft Bodies
The survey findings reflect a strong public demand for institutional reform and accountability. An overwhelming 78% of Pakistanis believe that anti-corruption institutions like the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) should themselves be more accountable and transparent.
Citizens also proposed a blueprint for curbing corruption, prioritising:
- Enhancing accountability (26%)
- Limiting discretionary powers (23%)
- Strengthening Right to Information laws (20%)
The report also found a notable lack of awareness regarding reporting channels, with 70% of citizens being unaware of any official corruption reporting mechanism. Furthermore, 42% stated they would feel safe reporting corruption only if strong whistleblower protection laws were in place.
Economic Stability and Political Finance
On economic matters, approximately 58% of respondents indicated that the government has either fully or partially stabilised the economy, crediting the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme and the country’s exit from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List. However, 57% reported a decline in their purchasing power over the past year.
The survey also highlighted a strong public desire for clean electoral financing, with a combined 83% of respondents supporting either a complete ban or strict regulation of business funding to political parties.
In response to the report, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the survey, stating that the large number of respondents who reported not encountering corruption during his government reflects the public’s recognition of the reforms aimed at transparency and economic recovery.
For more details on the survey’s public opinion findings, watch this report: Transparency International Report on Corruption – Public Opinion – 9 Dec 2025.
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Breaking News
Japan Earthquake Today: Tsunami Warnings, Vigilance, and Resilience
As breaking news spread that a powerful 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck northeastern Japan today, triggering tsunami warnings and mass evacuations. Stay informed about the latest updates, safety measures, and historical context.
Japan earthquake today has once again reminded the world of the country’s vulnerability to seismic activity. Late on December 8, 2025, a 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck off the northeastern coast near Aomori, prompting widespread tsunami warnings and urgent evacuation orders.
Japan, located in the seismically active “Ring of Fire,” is no stranger to earthquakes and tsunamis. Yet each tremor brings renewed urgency, fear, and resilience. This article provides a step-by-step breakdown of the latest events, the science behind earthquake and tsunami warnings, and the human stories of vigilance and survival.
Table of Contents
The Earthquake in Japan Today
- Magnitude: 7.6 (USGS, JMA reports)
- Time: 11:15 p.m. local time, December 8, 2025
- Epicenter: ~80 km offshore Aomori Prefecture
- Depth: ~33–44 km below the surface
- Impact: Shaking rated “upper 6” on Japan’s 1–7 intensity scale — nearly impossible to stand without crawling.
Residents reported violent shaking, falling furniture, and broken windows. Several injuries were confirmed in Aomori, with at least 33 people hurt across northern Japan.
Tsunami Warning Japan Earthquake
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued a tsunami warning immediately after the quake. Waves between 20–70 cm were observed at ports in Aomori and Hokkaido. Authorities warned of possible waves up to 3 meters (10 feet).
Although tsunami alerts were later lifted, officials urged continued vigilance due to aftershocks and the risk of a “megaquake”.
Human Impact and Evacuations
- Evacuations: ~90,000 residents ordered to leave coastal areas.
- Infrastructure: Train services were disrupted, power outages were reported, and fires broke out in Aomori.
- Nuclear Safety: Plants in northeastern Japan conducted urgent safety checks.
Families fled to higher ground, clutching emergency kits. Elderly residents were assisted by volunteers, while schools and community centers opened as shelters.
Historical Context: Earthquakes and Tsunamis in Japan
Japan has faced devastating quakes before:
- 2011 Tōhoku Earthquake & Tsunami: Magnitude 9.0, killed nearly 20,000 people.
- 1995 Kobe Earthquake: Magnitude 6.9, killed over 6,000.
These events shaped Japan’s disaster preparedness, from strict building codes to nationwide drills.
Science Behind Tsunami Warnings
Tsunamis occur when undersea quakes displace water. Japan’s advanced monitoring systems detect seismic waves and issue alerts within minutes. The tsunami warning Japan earthquake system is among the most sophisticated globally, saving countless lives.
Vigilance and Preparedness
Authorities emphasised vigilance:
- Keep emergency kits ready.
- Know evacuation routes.
- Follow official alerts, not rumours.
Preparedness is cultural in Japan — schools, offices, and households regularly practice drills.
Global Reactions
International leaders expressed solidarity. Aid organisations offered support, while neighbouring countries monitored for possible tsunami impacts.
Conclusion
The earthquake in Japan today is a stark reminder of nature’s power and the importance of vigilance. While tsunami warnings have been lifted, aftershocks remain a risk. Japan’s resilience, preparedness, and community spirit continue to inspire the world.
FAQs (SEO Boost Section)
Q1: Was there a tsunami in Japan today? Yes, small waves were observed, but major tsunami warnings have been lifted.
Q2: How strong was the earthquake in Japan today? It was a magnitude 7.6 quake, one of the strongest in recent years.
Q3: What should people do during a tsunami warning? Evacuate to higher ground immediately, stay tuned to official alerts, and avoid coastal areas.
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