Afghan refugees waiting to “resettle†in third countries to be deported I Crime rates highest in Punjab, reports The News
In Focus
Attack on Pakistan Air Force Masroor Airbase foiled
On 11 April, The News International reported that “one of the leading intelligence agencies” was able to prevent a terrorist attack planned by the Fitna al-Khawarij (FAK), also known as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), on the “strategically vital” Pakistan Air Force Masroor Airbase in Karachi. As per The News, nine militants belonging to the terror group had recently entered Pakistan by trespassing the Pak-Afghan border. In the attack, they had planned to take “control” of the airbase and cause damage to “aircraft and infrastructure.” Further, The News reported that the militants had planned to indulge in a gun battle and were prepared to die. Reportedly, the attack was planned by the top commander of FAK (who heads the group’s suicide squad) who allegedly has safe haven in Afghanistan. The “planning” and preparation for the terrorist attack took close to 13 months. The Intelligence agency kept a close eye on the whereabouts of the terrorists. The intelligence agency came into action when the terrorists decided to launch their “final phase” of the attack. The intelligence agency has detained all the terror “suspects.” As per initial inquiries, intelligence agencies of enemy countries took care of the financial requirements of the terrorists. (Ansar Abbasi, “PAF Masroor Airbase attack thwarted,” The News International, 11 April 2025)
Afghan refugees waiting to “resettle” in third countries to be deported from Pakistan after 30 April
On 10 April, the federal government conveyed that those Afghan refugees currently residing in Pakistan and waiting to “resettle” in “Western countries” would be “deported” after 30 April. Talal Chaudhry who is the state minister for Interior has dismissed any possibility of stretching the 31 March “deadline” for refugees who possess Afghan Citizen Card (ACC). The federal government had earlier given the 31 March deadline for the refugees to go back to Afghanistan after which the state would forcefully deport them. Chaudhry claimed that more than 850,000 “undocumented foreign nationals” have been deported from Pakistan. He stated that the deportation of refugees is necessary for the maintenance of security. He pointed out how the Afghans have indulged in “narcotics trade and terrorism.” He also stated about the state “arrangements” to ensure that the dignity of the refugees who are being deported remains unharmed. According to him, the state has ensured that “food, medical care, transport facilities” are available for the refugees who are being housed at the “transit points.” (Iftikhar A. Khan, “Afghan citizens not resettled by April-end set to be deported,” Dawn, 11 April 2025)
Crimes rates highest in Punjab, reports The News
On 11 April, The News International highlighted crime statistics from official reports. About 11,074 murder cases, 2,142 cases of gang rape, 34,688 abductions/ kidnaps, and 4,472 cases of Zina were recorded across Pakistan in 2024. Punjab, among the four provinces, recorded the highest number of gang rapes, murder attempts, Zinas, abductions/kidnappings, injuries, and murders. Punjab witnessed a total of 4,908 murders, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) with 3,444 murders. In terms of gang rape cases, Punjab reported 2,046 cases, while 71 were reported in Sindh and 22 in Islamabad. On the other hand, 402 cases of Zina were recorded in KP, 125 in the federal capital, 43 in Balochistan, and 33 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. In terms of kidnappings and abductions, 28,702 were reported from Punjab, followed by 4,331 from Sindh, 533 from KP, and 406 from Balochistan, among others. However, Punjab witnessed only two riots, the lowest cases while Sindh took the lead of 3,472. (Kasim Abbasi, “Islamabad reported more gang rape cases than KP, Balochistan, AJK, GB,” The News International, 11 April 2025)
In Brief
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
PTI members banned from meeting Imran Khan despite IHC order
On 10 April, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf’s (PTI) leadership was banned from meeting their incarcerated leader Imran Khan at the Adiala jail despite the high court order. The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has allowed them to meet him twice a week. The decision by the jail authorities came after minor clashes erupted outside the jail when Khan’s family was restricted from meeting him. Moreover, PTI’s Omar Ayub Khan has also written to the jail’s superintendent, urging him to implement the capital high court’s decision. In a media statement, he described the actions of jail authorities as contempt of court. (Ikram Junaidi, “Jail officials keep Imran just out of PTI’s reach,” Dawn, 11 April 2025)
On Nawaz Sharif’s recent meeting with Balochistan chief minister Dr Abdul Malik Baloch:
“It is important for politicians to assert themselves and speak up at this critical time in favor of a political solution,” says an editorial in Dawn
On 11 April, an editorial in Dawn titled “Balochistan outreach,” discussed how the involvement of Nawaz Sharif could help in diffusing tensions in Balochistan. The editorial mentioned that PML-N stalwart Nawaz Sharif discussed with erstwhile Chief Minister of Balochistan Abdul Malik Baloch. The editorial noted that the political parties do not have much control when it comes to decision-making in matters related to Balochistan. The editorial, however, argued that politicians must push towards a “political solution” for the problems that have engulfed the province. The editorial suggested that the political parties must take the establishment on board to solve the crisis in Balochistan. As per the editorial, only then will the cycle of violence in the province come to an end. The editorial also noted the importance of Nawaz Sharif’s involvement in the issue. The editorial highlighted how Nawaz Sharif has maintained cordial ties with Sardar Ataullah Mengal. Ataullah Mengal’s son Akhtar Mengal is currently at the forefront of the protest taking place in Balochistan. The editorial suggested that the state could initiate a gesture of goodwill by freeing the detained politicians.
On the same day, an editorial in The News International titled “Nawaz’s Balochistan outreach,” reminded how Nawaz Sharif and Malik Baloch in 2013 had addressed the problem of Balochistan. The editorial highlighted that cooperation between Malik Baloch who was the CM of Balochistan and Nawaz Sharif who was then PM was instrumental in assuring the Baloch people that they would not be left behind. The editorial noted how small measures which have been put forward by Maik Baloch like the freeing of arrested politicians and giving control of mineral wealth to the Baloch people could help disrupt the cycle of violence in the province. The editorial acknowledged the need to adopt a heavy-handed approach to combating terrorism perpetrated by groups like the Balochistan Liberation Army, however, it also argued that reasonable grievances must not be labeled as “anti-state.” The editorial highlighted how the involvement of Nawaz Sharif would signify to the Baloch people that the government is serious about the province’s grievances. (“Balochistan outreach,” Dawn, 11 April 2025; “Nawaz’s Balochistan outreach,” The News International, 11 April 2025)
JUDICIARY
Constitutional bench judge highlights ‘discrepancy’ in military trials
On 10 April, Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan pointed out a discrepancy in the Official Secrets Act where civilians could face a potential court martial for forcibly entering the cantonment area to access a residency, food court, shopping mall, or a commercial event. His observations come as the constitutional bench took up 38 intra-court appeals filed by the government and many more against the 23 October 2023 Supreme Court’s decision that nullified the military trial of the 9 May accused. He raised concern over the trial of civilians under the Pakistan Army Act (PAA) 1952 if a “nexus” is established between their conduct and “the discipline of the armed forces.” He feared it to be dangerous. He alluded to how the nexus between civilians and the state’s defense has an eclectic range of connotations. Institutions like the legislature, SC, railways, and airports may also fall under the purview of prohibited zones. However, the defense ministry’s representative, Khwaja Haris argued that prohibited areas are always stipulated by the government. They include sensitive matters like work of defense, wireless or signal stations, and many more and are not general areas. (Nasir Iqbal, “Supreme Court’s CB judge points out ‘discrepancy in civilians’ court martial,” Dawn, 11 April 2025)
ECONOMY
IMF team to visit Pakistan to discuss taxes for 2025-2026 budget
On 11 April, The News International reported that a technical team from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is set to visit Pakistan on 14 April to hold discussions with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) regarding tax proposals for the 2025-2026 budget. The Board has prepared to suggest the broadening of the tax base to include retailers and other untaxed sectors into the taxation net while intending to cut taxes levied on the salaried class. Besides, the IMF and FBR will discuss how the highest category of pension earners can also be included in the tax net. (Mehtab Haider, “IMF team due next week to discuss taxation proposals for next budget,” The News International, 11 April 2025)
Government makes fresh effort for PIA’s bidding
On 10 April, government adviser on privatization, Muhammad Ali announced plans to identify new expressions of interest for the Pakistan International Airlines’s privatization process. This comes as the air carrier recorded its first annual profits after two decades. He added that all issues linked to taxation and the airline’s balance sheet, that impeded the privatization process have been resolved. Therefore the expressions of interest will be published by April end as the government aims to complete privatization by the year-end. At a macro-level, the objective behind the government’s attempt at privatizing the PIA is to disinvest its 51 to 100 per cent stake in the airline under the International Monetary Fund’s USD 7 billion Extended Facility Fund programme. (“PIA privatization effort to restart with fresh bids,” The Express Tribune, 10 April 2025)
NEPRA approves PKR 1.71 electricity price cut
On 10 April, according to officials, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority approved the government’s proposal of a PKR 1.71 per unit cut in electricity tariffs across Pakistan including Karachi. Consequently, this relief will be applied for the April to June 2025 period. The costs arising from the relief will be offset by the increase in levy on petroleum and high-speed diesel by PKR 10 per unit. (“NEPRA approves govt proposal to reduce power tariffs by PKR 1.71 per unit,” The Express Tribune, 10 April 2025)
PM Sharif calls for focus on local industries
On 10 April, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif instructed relevant authorities to create a level-playing field for domestic industries and incorporate proposals advanced by trade and industrial bodies in the forthcoming budget. While presiding over a review meeting on the Export Facilitation Scheme, the committee was directed to finalize interim recommendations post consultations and present a report for the same. Hence, the committee’s interim recommendations announced during the discussion include making the scheme more effective and benefitting the export industry. During the meeting, it was noted that the scheme was created to improve the competitiveness of domestic exports and reduce production costs. (“PM directs level playing field for local industries,” The News International, 11 April 2025)
On trade barriers:
“Pakistan’s response to these dual pressures will determine whether they represent insurmountable barriers or catalysts for necessary reform,” argues an opinion in Dawn
On 10 April, in an opinion titled “Navigating trade barriers,” Ali Tauqeer Sheikh reviewed how the current global economic landscape impacts Pakistan where the Trump administration has introduced a reciprocal tariff system and the European Union is pushing for the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). He highlighted how Pakistan’s structural weaknesses have come to light as it not only grapples with economic instability but also climate vulnerability. “According to the National Trade Estimate Report on Foreign Trade Barriers (NTE Report), Pakistan maintains an average Most-Favoured-Nation applied tariff rate of 10.3 per cent, with agricultural products facing even higher rates at 13 per cent.” However, the US administration’s renewed framework of reciprocity runs divergent from the protectionist framework. The NTE report states that the US and Pakistan suffer from trade issues linked to Pakistan’s continued issuance of statutory regulatory orders to protect specific sectors indicating a “resistance” to transparent trade, its inconsistent customs valuations, poor intellectual property protection framework and digital limitations among others. Moreover, the report indicated that similar challenges may be faced in compliance with the European Union’s CBAM as its customs procedures and digital infrastructure challenge Pakistan’s ability to conform with the carbon accounting standards of the CBAM. The challenges posed by the US and EU remain similar while their policy objectives differ. The “US administration’s focus on economic nationalism and reciprocity shares little philosophical ground with the EU’s climate-centered approach.” But both demand reform in Pakistan’s trade framework i.e. increased transparency, modernized digital infrastructures, and customs procedures, bolstered rule of law, among others. Hence, “Pakistan’s response to these dual pressures will determine whether they represent insurmountable barriers or catalysts for necessary reform.” Pakistan can strengthen its position in the global trade landscape and a regional competitor or continue to suffer. (“Navigating trade barriers,” Dawn, 10 April 2025)
ENERGY/MINERALS
International Finance Corporation promises USD 300 million to Reko Diq
On 9 April, the World Bank’s International Finance Corporation (IFC) announced that USD 300 million will be advanced for the copper-gold mining project, Reko Diq, in Balochistan. According to Reuters, Barrick Gold’s copper and gold project intends to secure USD 2 billion in financing from foreign lenders by early Q3. This will assist in developing the Reko Diq which is expected to bring a free cash flow of USD 70 billion and an operating cash flow of USD 90 billion. During an interview at the Mineral’s Investment Forum 2025 hosted in Pakistan, Reko Diq’s project director, Tim Cribb revealed that the project was aiming at USD 650 million in financing from the IFC and International Development Association. Additionally, there are ongoing talks with the US Export-Import Bank for USD 500 million to USD 1 billion in financing. Whereas USD 500 million is being sought from the Asian Development Bank, Export Development Canada, and Japan Bank for International Cooperation. The project is in joint ownership of Barrick Gold, the Balochistan provincial government, and the central government with production expected in 2028. (“IFC commits $300m loan to Reko Diq mining project,” The Express Tribune, 11 April 2025)
On Pakistan’s mineral resources:
“The mineral sector can be a game-changer, but only if Pakistan creates a conducive environment where business thrives, risks are manageable and benefits are widely shared,” says an opinion in The Express Tribune
On 10 April, in an opinion titled “Pakistan bets on minerals for revival!,” in The Express Tribune, Durdana Najam acknowledged the great potential Pakistan has in the mineral sector. The government’s plan to exploit its resource wealth located in Balochistan may help attract foreign direct investment and even reduce dependency on foreign credit institutions like the International Monetary Fund. It also has the potential to create employment, drive skill development, and emerge as a “global mining powerhouse.” The country’s untapped resources have gained such traction that even Saudi’s Manara Minerals has expressed intentions to invest in the Reko Diq, copper-gold project in the Chagai district while 300 foreign delegates and 2,000 participants arrived at the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025. The author quoted Commerce Minister Jam Kamal stating that Balochistan can lead the transformation in the mineral sector only if security and regulatory issues are addressed. The author said: “His comments underscore a crucial reality: that the success of this initiative hinges as much on governance and infrastructure as it does on geology.” Besides, challenges also lie in Pakistan’s business environment as it is uncertain, bound with security risks and delayed approvals. Despite establishing platforms like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and the Special Investment Facilitation Council, the country often approaches the IMF as they have not delivered the envisioned economic transformation. If Pakistan is serious about tapping into its mineral potential, “it must go beyond forums and frameworks.” It ought to address structural issues like political inconsistency and regulatory instability across provincial units, be inclusive of local communities in mineral-rich regions, and improve transparency to attract investors and carry out equitable development. Other macroeconomic issues like high inflation, energy shortages, and currency volatility must be addressed as the mining firms will otherwise have to function in such an economic environment. (Durdana Najam, “Pakistan bets on minerals for revival!,” The Express Tribune, 11 April 2025)
PROVINCES
Balochistan: BNP-M protests continue to choke highways between Karachi and Quetta
On 11 April, The News International reported on Quetta-Karachi highways continuing to remain un-operational due to the demonstrations launched by Balochistan National Party- Mengal (BNP-M). BNP-M have choked the highways in an attempt to compel the government to free Baloch Yakjehti Committee leader Mahrang Baloch and several other arrested leaders. The highways have remained choked for the past 13 days and the concerned authorities have been unsuccessful in ensuring “road connectivity.” As the President of Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QCCI) Muhammad Ayub Maryani, this has resulted in huge monetary “losses.” He highlighted how more than 800 “LPG and petrol tankers” remain stranded at the “Pak-Iran border.” He claimed that importers are being compelled to pay USD 100 per day for each stranded container. Apart from traders, the blocking of roads is also severely affecting hundreds of travelers. Many areas of Balochistan are going through a scarcity of necessary goods due to the disruption in the “supply chain.” This has also resulted in a surge in prices of necessary goods in Balochistan. (Mohammad Zafar Baloch, “Prolonged highway blockade mars routine life, business in Balochistan,” The News International, 11 April 2025)
EXTERNAL
Pakistan to introduce “new passport regulations” for deterring illegal immigration
On 10 April, Mohsin Naqvi who is the Minister of Interior informed about the latest “passport regulations” that are being brought in to combat illegal migration and inhibit those Pakistanis from traveling who intend to beg in foreign countries. As per Naqvi, the new regulations would help in cleaning “Pakistan’s image.” The Interior Minister has directed the concerned authority to complete all formalities for the execution of the “new policy.” He said: “New requirements will act as a deterrent to those misusing the system, including beggars and illegal migrants.” He also emphasized barring people from traveling who had earlier faced deportation. Talal Chaudhry who is State Minister for Interior claimed that the new regulations would signify to the international community that Pakistan remains resolute to “responsible travel and immigration management.” (“New passport rules to curb begging, illegal immigration,” The Express Tribune, 11 April, 2025)
On US looking to withdraw funding for international students:
“It would have been better if US allowed foreign students already enrolled to complete their education without placing financial burden,” says an editorial in Dawn
On 11 April, an editorial in Dawn titled “Student woes” discussed the challenges faced by international students in the US amid Trump’s administration threatening to make funding cuts. The editorial mentioned how in addition to suspending visas for punishing international students who support Palestine, the Trump administration is also sabotaging the “scholarship programmes” for overseas students. The editorial cited “reports” which hint towards the Trump administration looking to suspend exchange programmes for Pakistani students. Further, the editorial mentioned how the Trump administration has withheld funding for the “Fullbright Programme.” The editorial highlighted how it has added to the worries of international students who are recipients of Fulbright scholarships as they continue to wait for their monthly “stipends.” The editorial also noted how unfair it is for currently enrolled international students who continue to depend on scholarships to manage their expenses. The editorial suggested that students from Pakistan aspiring to study abroad must look for alternate destinations. (“Student woes,” Dawn, 11 April 2025)
AF-PAK
Pakistan reiterates its concerns regarding terrorism emanating from Afghanistan
On 10 April, Pakistan reiterated its concerns regarding terrorism emanating from Afghanistan. As per Islamabad, “terrorism” continues to be a “roadblock” in the path towards cordial ties between the two countries. The government is yet to shed light on dates for the “meeting of Pakistan-Afghanistan Joint Coordination Committee. (JCC)” In March, Pakistan’s special envoy to Afghanistan traveled to Kabul. Both Pakistan and Afghanistan had decided to continue bilateral “engagement” in matters related to “security, trade and refugees.” It was also agreed upon that the JCC meeting would be scheduled before 15 April and that the commerce minister in the Taliban government would travel to Islamabad after Eid. Shafqat Ali Khan, who is the Foreign Office spokesperson acknowledged that the visit of Pakistan’s special envoy to Afghanistan was productive. Previously, Pakistan’s special envoy to Afghanistan cautioned that earlier commitments would not stand if the Taliban government continues to ignore terrorism emancipating from its land.
Separately, the foreign office called the “Waqf Bill 2025” which was “passed” in the Indian Parliament as “discriminatory.” Shafqat Ali Khan claimed that the Waqf Bill would lead to Muslims losing authority over possessions meant for “religious and charitable purposes.” (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Terror main hurdle to better ties, Kabul told,” Dawn, 11 April 2025)
SPORTS
On fans losing interest in cricket:
“It is hard to ask fans to keep tuning in for a game their country is no longer very good at,” points out an editorial in The News International
On 11 April, an editorial in The News International titled “PSL X,” discussed how the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is affecting domestic cricket players. The editorial mentioned that the ninth edition of PSL would see the presence of high-profile foreign cricketers such as David Warner, Jason Holder, Rassie Van Der Dussen, and Kane Williamson. However, the editorial noted, that there has been a visible decrease in fan attendance for PSL. The editorial pointed out how the poor performance of the Pakistani cricketers has resulted in fans losing interest in cricket. The editorial cited the example of the Pakistan team losing at the hands of England and Bangladesh in 2024. In addition to that, Pakistan, despite hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, was eliminated in the group stages. The editorial also pointed out how some of the domestic players might have no motivation to represent Pakistan at the international level since they are already making huge sums of money in the PSL. The editorial highlighted the urgent need to strengthen “national cricket.” (“PSL X,” The News International, 11 April 2025)
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On April 10, 1973, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto gave Pakistan its first unanimous, democratic and Islamic constitution, and even today, the Pakistan People's Party, under the leadership of Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, continues to struggle for the upliftment of this constitution.
- PPP
Every individual who participates in Captain Imran Khan's struggle for true freedom for his nation is a hero of the nation, who is determined to put aside their personal comforts and goals and free this nation from the occupying mafia. This movement of Captain Imran Khan will definitely succeed with the participation of his loyal companions and the nation.
- PTI Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
"The Tehreek-e-Insaf is a party of youth and, God willing, it will remain so. Just as you launched a revolution in the name of Imran Khan on February 8, similarly, your large numbers today are showing that the whole of Pakistan belongs to Imran Khan."
Shafi Jan
- PTI Islamabad
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"Beyond Balochistan, the current wave of violence in KP and the increasingly brazen ecocide in the mountainous highlands of GB have a lot to do with the race for critical minerals."
- An opinion in Dawn, 'Mineral bounties.’
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