Photo : Dawn
Photo : Dawn
In Focus
Violence and chaos grip Punjab Assembly amid opposition leader’s arrest
On 29 July, Dawn reported that proceedings in the Punjab Provincial Assembly were disrupted after the arrest of opposition leader Ahmad Khan Bhachar, who was convicted in connection with the 9 May violence. Tensions flared when Khalid Nisar Dogar, a Member of the Provincial Assembly (MPA) from the opposition, slapped ruling party MPA Ehsaan Riaz during a heated exchange, forcing the session to be temporarily suspended. Several opposition walkouts followed, with lawmakers chanting slogans against the government and calling for Bhachar’s release. The situation further escalated when opposition MPA Rana Shahbaz raised a copy of the Holy Quran while addressing the assembly, sparking immense backlash. Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman justified the arrest, stating it was carried out per the court’s orders. Opposition legislators, however, denounced the verdict as politically motivated. On the same day, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) disqualified and de-notified three lawmakers from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), including Bhachar, under Article 63(1)(h) of the Constitution of Pakistan, following their convictions in the 9 May cases. (Amjad Mahmood, “Chaos in Punjab PA as lawmakers come to blows”, Dawn, 29 July 2025)
Protests in Gilgit-Baltistan intensify as traders stage sit-in at Sost Dry Port
On 29 July, Dawn reported that, in a latest development on widespread protests on the Karakoram highway, which began last week, traders in Gilgit-Baltistan shut down the Sost dry port, effectively suspending all trade and travel between Pakistan and China. The protest erupted over federal inaction on tax grievances and the prolonged hold-up of shipping containers. The agitation is being led by the Pak-China Tajir Etihad Action Committee, an alliance that comprises importers, exporters, customs agents, and various chambers of commerce from across Gilgit-Baltistan. Central to the agitation are 280 shipping consignments from China that have remained stuck at the Sost Dry Port for the past 10 months. The protesting traders demand that containers be cleared based solely on customs duties, without additional federal taxes. They argue that, given Gilgit-Baltistan’s disputed constitutional status and lack of representation in Pakistan’s parliament, imposing such taxes violates the principle of no taxation without representation. They blame the Federal Board of Revenue’s new trade policies for disrupting livelihoods and triggering an economic crisis. Lacking a significant industrial base, Gilgit-Baltistan relies significantly on trade with China to keep thousands of livelihoods afloat. (Jamil Nagri, “Khunjerab route shut down due to Sost Protests”, Dawn, 29 July 2025)
Floods ravage Punjab as Indus and Chenab overflow
On 29 July, Dawn reported that floods in the Indus and Chenab rivers had swept through over a dozen villages in Punjab, displacing thousands and prompting mass evacuations to safer locations. In response, the government instructed rescue agencies to brace for both urban and riverine floods, along with potential landslides. In southern Punjab, the Indus River destroyed homes and crops in Rajanpur, Taunsa, and D.G. Khan. A breach in a protective embankment near the Layyah-Taunsa bridge submerged villages in Taunsa. In Jhang, the Chenab River overflowed into more than 10 villages, causing damage to agricultural land, houses, and key infrastructure. In Hafizabad, the river led to severe soil erosion, while stagnant rainwater remained un-drained for over ten days. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecast low to medium-level flows in the Jhelum and Chenab rivers, an abrupt flood surge in Kabul’s tributaries, and medium-level flooding at Taunsa and Guddu. Punjab Disaster Management Authority stated that 152 people have lost their lives and 539 were injured in monsoon-related incidents, 210 homes and 121 livestock have also been impacted. (Imran Gabol, “Villages submerged as Punjab braces for more downpour”, Dawn, 29 July 2025)
In Brief
ECONOMY
Pakistan projects low inflation amid economic recovery, warns of weather-related Risks
On July 29, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan’s Finance Ministry has projected July inflation to remain between 3.5 to 4.5 per cent owing to price stability and enhanced supply conditions. June’s inflation stood at 3.2 per cent, with average inflation in the financial year dropping to a nine-year low of 4.49 per cent. The ministry anticipates sustained economic growth in the next financial year, mainly driven by strengthened macroeconomic indicators and a boost in investor sentiment and large-scale manufacturing, The Ministry also stated that rising domestic demand, a steady exchange rate, and stable global commodity prices are expected to support growth in exports, remittances, and imports in July, which will contribute to external sector stability. However, it warned that recent heavy rains and floods, which led to a loss of at least 280 lives and damaged over 1,500 homes, might disrupt agriculture and supply chains, affecting future inflation trends. (“Inflation to remain at 3.5–4.5% for July”, The Express Tribune, 29 July 2025)
Private sector key to Gwadar’s Smart Port City Vision: GDA Chief
On 29 July, Dawn reported that Gwadar Development Authority (GDA) Director General Moin-ur-Rehman Khan stated in a meeting that the Gwadar Smart Port City Master Plan aims to transform Gwadar into a major economic hub. Khan also said the city is being developed to international standards, with vast investment opportunities in trade, tourism, and real estate. He emphasized that private sector participation is crucial for the timely and sustainable implementation of the plan. Khan affirmed GDA’s commitment to ensuring a secure and investor-friendly environment. GDA’s town planning director, Shahid Ali, also briefed the meeting on land use and private development schemes. (Behram Baloch, “Master Plan to transform Gwadar into an economic hub”, Dawn, 29 July 2025)
ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT
Monsoon floods led to 279 deaths and 676 injuries in 2025
On 29 July, The Express Tribune reported that between the period of 26 June and 25 July 2025, monsoon floods across Pakistan led to 279 deaths and 676 injuries. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) stated that the floods were triggered by seasonal rains. Flooding has also destroyed 1,553 houses and led to the death of 374 livestock. Punjab was the most affected, with 151 fatalities and 535 injuries, followed by Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) and Sindh. Gilgit-Baltistan recorded the highest number of damaged homes, with 533 people impacted. A total of 148 rescue operations have been carried out, 128 of which took place in Punjab. In contrast, no operations were reported from Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK). The NDMA has issued fresh flood alerts for parts of Gilgit-Baltistan and POK. Areas like Gilgit, Skardu, Muzaffarabad, and Neelum Valley face increased risks of inundation and landslides. Authorities have been directed to stay alert, ensure rescue teams are fully prepared, and implement timely preventive actions. (“Pakistan floods death toll nears 280” The Express Tribune, 29 July 2025)
SOCIETY
Human Rights Commission of Pakistan documents 405 cases of honour killings in 2024
On 29 July, The Express Tribune reported that no fewer than 405 cases of honour killings were reported across Pakistan in the year 2024. The societal issue of honour killing has come increasingly into focus after a video of the “honour killing” of a man and a woman from Balochistan went viral recently. The footage sparked immediate government response and widespread condemnation from politicians, rights groups, and religious leaders. However, civil rights lawyer Jibran Nasir dismissed the government's reaction as performative justice, stating, “The crime occurred months ago, not in secrecy but near a provincial capital, yet no one acted until 240 million witnessed the killing on camera.” Most victims of “honour killing” are women, with the perpetrators often being family members claiming to defend the honour of the family. Honour killings were criminalized in Pakistan following the murder of social media star Qandeel Baloch in 2016 by closing a legal loophole that let offenders escape punishment through family pardons. However, rights groups argue that enforcement remains inadequate, particularly in rural regions governed by tribal councils. (“405 honour killings recorded across Pakistan in 2024: HRCP, The Express Tribune, 29 July 2025)
EXTERNAL
Pakistan and the US discuss enhancement of trade ties and other key matters
On 29 July, The Express Tribune reported that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a telephonic conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, continuing discussions from their recent meeting in Washington, D.C. The conversation centered around key bilateral issues, particularly trade tariffs, with both sides aiming to deepen economic ties. They also addressed regional and global issues of mutual concern. During their earlier in-person meeting at the State Department attended by senior officials from both countries, Dar emphasized Pakistan’s desire for an expanded and stable relationship with the United States. The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, technology, and minerals. Dar pitched Pakistan as a promising destination for US investors, and he also praised US President Donald Trump’s role in promoting global peace. Secretary Rubio recognized Pakistan’s efforts in combating terrorism and commended its positive contribution to regional stability. (“Dar, Rubio discuss trade tariffs in phone call, The Express Tribune, 29 July 2025)
Aurangzeb highlights economic reforms, US support in key bilateral meeting
On 29 July, The Express Tribune reported that Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb met United States Chargé d'Affaires Elizabeth Horst in Islamabad. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss economic collaboration and reaffirm the growing momentum of bilateral relations. Aurangzeb expressed gratitude towards the United States for its sustained support of Pakistan’s economic growth, especially acknowledging its assistance in promoting macroeconomic stability in Pakistan over the past 18 months. Aurangzeb informed Horst about Pakistan’s improving macroeconomic indicators, such as recent upgrades in sovereign credit ratings and a renewal in investor confidence. He also highlighted ongoing reforms in taxation and the energy sector to achieve sustained economic growth. The minister also provided updates on Pakistan’s successful engagement with Middle Eastern capital markets and shared plans to launch the country’s first Panda bond, along with future initiatives in the Euro and US dollar markets. (Pakistan, US explore new trade avenues amid warming ties, The Express Tribune, 29 July 2025)
Editorials/Opinions from Pakistan
AGRICULTURE
Editorial, "Farmers’ distress," Dawn, 29 July 2025
THE Pakistan Kissan Ittehad has painted an alarming picture of Pakistan’s agricultural sector, highlighting neglect, rising production costs and poor policy implementation. A combination of these factors, the PKI leaders said at a press conference, had caused unprecedented financial distress to farmers besides leading to a big decline in rice, corn and mango exports and, consequently, in foreign exchange earnings.
Click here to read more: https://www.dawn.com/news/1927311/farmers-distress
ECONOMY
Syed Asad Ali Shah, "Reform or relapse," The News, 29 July 2025
If Pakistan fails to utilise this temporary window to implement deep and broad-based reforms, it may face another economic crisis once the current 37-month IMF Extended Fund Facility expires in October 2027. The country faces substantial external repayment obligations in the coming years. Without meaningful gains in exports, investment, and savings, the question of debt sustainability will resurface. Pakistan has seen this movie before – a brief calm, followed by a crisis when the scaffolding is removed.
Click here to read more: https://e.thenews.com.pk/detail/?id=421190
Editorial, "Plugging tax leaks." The Express Tribune, 29 July 2025
That more than Rs2.25 trillion have been lost to tax evasion through 'fake' and 'flying' invoices in just two years is a staggering admission — and one that lays bare the scale of institutional failure plaguing Pakistan's revenue machinery. The figure, disclosed by the Federal Board of Revenue, represents nearly a third of the total taxes collected on the customs side, showing just how deeply entrenched the problem has become. Such large-scale evasion at a time when the country is navigating a fragile economic recovery is not only unsustainable but damaging to the government's credibility
Click here to read more: https://tribune.com.pk/story/2558142/plugging-tax-leaks
Alishba Khan, "Public debt without a plan," The News, 29 July 2025
Long-term economic growth can be supported by debt financing for high-return investments in infrastructure and human capital. Public borrowing can also serve as a policy buffer to finance public spending, social protections and essential services when nations are unable to meet their obligations. In Pakistan, however, the scope and character of public borrowing have increased both expenses and risks.
Click here to read more: https://e.thenews.com.pk/detail/?id=421191
SOCIETY
Dr Farzana Bari, "Walking to death," The News, 29 July 2025
Pakistan has become a killing field for women, where patriarchal violence is systemically normalised. At the heart of these incidents lies a deeply entrenched patriarchal mindset that views women not as autonomous individuals but as men’s property, carriers of family ‘honour’, subject to male control. Concepts like izzat (honour) and shame were constructed to legitimise gender-based violence as a means to maintain and reinforce male control over women’s bodies and lives. Therefore, these incidents of gender-based violence are not isolated or random acts but the manifestation of a deeply rooted structural system of patriarchy
Click here to read more: https://e.thenews.com.pk/detail/?id=421192
JUDICIARY
Editorial, "Judicial reforms," The News, 29 July 2025
Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi’s unveiling of a comprehensive judicial reform agenda under the National Judicial (Policy Making) Committee could potentially be the transformative moment we have been waiting for in Pakistan’s justice system. With proposals ranging from the establishment of model criminal trial courts to fixed timelines for case disposal and ethical AI guidelines, the reform plan aspires to address both systemic inefficiencies and institutional wellbeing, particularly that of the district judiciary
Click here to read more: https://e.thenews.com.pk/detail/?id=421187
POLITICS/PROVINCES
Editorial, "KP chaos," 29 July 2025
Those running KP must realise that a stable province requires a stable centre and adjust accordingly. Similarly, regardless of what missteps the KP government has made, the centre must ensure that it does not become a stone wall deaf to the concerns of the province’s people, and these concerns ought to be reflected in security policy. These changes need to be implemented as quickly as possible. Only a united front can break us out of this situation
Click here to read more: https://e.thenews.com.pk/detail/?id=421188