NIAS Area Studies
PAKISTAN READER
Photo : The News International
In Focus
ATC Faisalabad verdict in 9 May Case: Around 100 PTI workers and leaders sentenced
On 31 July, an anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Faisalabad announced its verdict in the 9 May riots case. It sentenced around 100 PTI leaders and workers up to ten years in prison. The verdict was delivered by ATC Judge Javed Iqbal Sheikh in three cases registered at two separate police stations in Faisalabad, namely Ghulam Muhammadabad and Civil Lines police station. The judge also directed the police to arrest those accused who were convicted and present them in court subsequently.
9 May Riots Case
The cases pertain to events that took place on 9 May 2023 in the aftermath of the arrest of PTI Founder Imran Khan. PTI supporters and workers had carried out violent protests throughout the country and attacked military installations and government buildings, including an attack on the Lahore corps commander’s residence. This had triggered mass arrests of PTI leaders and supporters. Subsequently, cases were registered against the accused and trials have been ongoing ever since with an August 2025 deadline set by the Supreme Court for the disposal of cases by the ATCs.
Convicted and Acquitted
Among those convicted are several key opposition leaders belonging to the PTI, including Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Omar Ayub Khan, Opposition Leader in the Senate Shibli Faraz, MNA Zartaj Gul, Sahibzada Hamid Raza, Sheikh Rashid Shafique (nephew of former interior minister Sheikh Rashid), Kanwal Shauzab, Farah Agha, Rai Haider Kharal and Muhammad Ahmad Chattha. The verdict was delivered under under Section 109 (punishment for abetment) and Section 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) in FIR No. 835/2023. Other key figures convicted include Ashraf Sohna, Rai Hassan Nawaz, Rai Murtaza, Chaudhry Iqbal Ijaz, MPA Junaid Afzal Sahi, Chaudhry Asif Ali and Shakeel Ahmad Khan Niazi. Some leaders have also been acquitted namely, former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry, MNA Zain Qureshi (son of PTI Vice Chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi), MPA Khayal Ahmad Kastro and Faizullah Kamuka.
Other 9 May Cases
It is to be noted that this is not the first verdict delivered in the 9 May riots case. Previously, ATCs in Lahore and Sargodha had also sentenced several PTI leaders and workers, including Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Malik Ahmad Bachar, former Punjab governor Omar Sarfraz Cheema, Senator Ejaz Chaudhry and former provincial ministers Dr Yasmin Rashid and Mian Mehmoodur Rashid to upto ten years in prison. In December 2024, a military court had convicted and sentenced around 50 PTI leaders and activists, including Imran Khan’s nephew Hassaan Niazi to upto ten years in prison.
Response from print media
On 1 August, an editorial in The News International titled “Mass verdicts,” reviewed the recent mass verdict delivered by the ATC Faisalabad in the 9 May riots cases. The editorial lamented that though the nature of the verdicts were “expected,” it was hardly “palatable” given the questions of “proportionality of the process” that they have raised. In this regard, the editorial argued that though the events of 9 May were “unprecedented,” holding those accountable should be in tandem “with preserving the principles of due process and judicial independence.”
According to the editorial, the latest verdicts have generated some “critical questions,” such as why were some opposition leaders convicted while others acquitted and was there consistency in the manner in which evidence was presented and trials conducted. It highlighted that given
Pakistan’s political history,answers to these questions underpin the credibility of the judicial process where the process of the trial is equally important as verdict delivery. The editorial noted that there is some credibility to PTI’s accusations that the verdicts are “politically motivated” given that there is “broader perception that accountability is being applied selectively.” The editorial thus cautioned that legal verdicts should not turn into “tools” to achieve “political outcomes” otherwise the very institutions that are viewed as bastions of justice will be undermined and public trust in them will be lost.
References:
Wajih Ahmad Sheikh, “PTI opposition leaders, over 100 others sentenced for May 9 riots,” Dawn, 1 August 2025 “Mass verdicts,” The News International, 1 August 2025
Trade deal marks turning point for Pakistan-US ties
On 1 August, Dawn reported that in a significant shift in US-Pakistan economic relations, the two countries have signed a trade agreement establishing a uniform tariff framework and enhancing strategic economic cooperation. The deal follows the signing of a separate agreement to jointly explore Pakistan’s massive oil reserves and is being viewed as part of broader efforts to recalibrate a traditionally security-centric relationship. According to Pakistan’s Ministry of Finance, the agreement signals a new era of collaboration, covering energy, IT, minerals, and cryptocurrency. While specific tariff rates remain undisclosed by the US, a reduction from 29 per cent to between 15–20 per cent is expected. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb described the deal as a “win-win,” emphasizing that investment and trade must be integrated. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hailed the deal as a “landmark” and thanked President Donald Trump for his “leadership role.” While President Trump confirmed the oil exploration partnership via Truth Social, he has not issued an official statement on the trade agreement. Despite the absence of formal US confirmation, Pakistan anticipates enhanced market access, increased foreign investment, and expanded bilateral trade, which is currently valued at USD 7.3 billion, but is expected to reach USD 10 billion after this agreement. Pakistan will offer tariff incentives on cotton, soybean, and Petroleum, Oil, and Lubricants (POL) imports from the US. However, importing POL from the US may raise local fuel prices by PKR1.50/litre. Pakistan has also waived a 5 per cent tax on digitally ordered goods from the US and China. However, there are concerns that by waiving the tax on foreign tech firms and online platforms, the country risks significant revenue losses. This move may raise issues with the IMF, as the organisation has previously objected to tax waivers.
On 1 August, an editorial in Dawn titled “New Pak-US era?” opined that overall, the agreement marks a strategic turning point, signaling renewed confidence in Pakistan’s economic landscape and encouraging American investors previously deterred by strained bilateral ties. The editorial also noted that while Pakistan successfully concluded a trade and energy deal with the United States, India is facing considerable challenges in securing similar cooperation. The editorial proposes India’s failure to secure a deal boils down to changes in the US’s strategic posture, with Trump openly criticizing India’s high tariffs and ties with Russia. His recent remarks labeling India a “dead economy” and imposing 25 per cent tariffs reflect growing tensions.
On 1 August, an editorial titled “Trade Deal” in The News International attributed the success of the trade deal to Pakistan’s pragmatic approach, which has allowed it to recalibrate its ties with Washington amid shifting geopolitical realities. The editorial argued that India’s pursuit of strategic autonomy clashes with the transactional mindset dominating U.S. foreign policy. The editorial also highlighted Pakistan's geographical positioning near Iran and Afghanistan as a factor for its renewed importance in US calculations. The editorial pointed out that Pakistan is “successfully positioned itself as a more pragmatic and willing partner” in contrast to India’s “belligerent diplomatic behaviour” which stalled negotiations with the US. The editorial warned against letting “triumph cloud our prudence,” expressing concerns over possible external disruptions to Pakistan’s economic progress, emphasizing the need for vigilance, internal stability, and long-term strategic foresight.
( Anwar Iqbal, “ Pakistan secures ‘landmark’ tariff deal as US attitude shifts,” Dawn, 1 August 2025; Mehtab Haider, “ Trump blasts India, Russia as ‘dead economies’: Pakistan eyes 15-19pc tariff as it clinches trade deal with US,” The News International, 1 August 2025; “ New-Pak US Era?,” Dawn, 1 August 2025; Trade deal,” The News International, 1 August 2025; Trade deal with US,” The Express Tribune, 1 August 2025)
In Brief
ECONOMY
Fuel Price adjustments announced: petrol down by PKR 7.54, diesel up by PKR 1.48
On 1 August, Dawn reported that the Ministry of Finance stated that fuel prices have been revised for the next two weeks, with a decrease in petrol rates by PKR7.54 per litre and an increase in the cost of high-speed diesel (HSD) by PKR1.48 per litre, effective until 15 August. The adjusted petrol price now stands at PKR 264.61, down from PKR 272.98, while HSD now costs PKR 285.83. These changes were made following recommendations from the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority and related ministries, after reviewing global market fluctuations. Officials noted a minor decline in international petrol prices and a sharp drop in the import premium from USD 9.7 to USD 6.75 per barrel. However, over the last two months, petrol and diesel prices have risen by PKR 20 and PKR 28, respectively. Currently, the government collects about PKR 100 per litre in taxes on both fuels, which includes PKR 80 as the petroleum development levy, PKR 2.50 as the climate support levy, and PKR 20 in customs duty. There is no General Sales Tax on petroleum products. (Khaleeq Kiani, “ Govt cuts petrol price by Rs 7.54, hikes diesel by Rs 1.48,” Dawn, 1 August 2025)
Science &Technology
Pakistan successfully launches PRSS-1 satellite from China
On 1 August, The News International and Dawn reported that Pakistan has successfully launched its advanced remote sensing satellite, the Pakistan Remote Sensing Satellite-1 (PRSS-1), from China’s Xichang Satellite Launch Center aboard a Kuaizhou-1A rocket. The satellite has been developed through collaboration between Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), China Electronics Technology Group Corporation, and MICROSAT China; it has entered its preset orbit and marks a key moment in Pakistan’s space journey. The satellite is expected to strengthen urban planning, disaster management, food security, and environmental protection. According to SUPARCO, it will aid in monitoring climate change, glacier melt, water resources, agricultural mapping, and support infrastructure development and regional planning, especially for projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Federal Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal was present at the launch during his official visit to China. He commended the achievement and thanked China for its continued support. On X, he stated, “This achievement not only strengthens our space capabilities but also takes the Pakistan-China iron brotherhood beyond the skies.”Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated SUPARCO and its scientists, calling the launch “a landmark achievement and a testament to Pak-China space collaboration,” further adding “This achievement reflects the growing heights of Pakistan-China cooperation, reaching beyond borders into outer space to harness technology for the benefit of humanity.” (Jamila Achakzai & Ag App, “ Pakistan successfully launches remote sensing satellite,” The News International, 1 August 2025), (Jamal Shahid, “ Pakistan satellite reaches orbit after launch from China,” Dawn, 1 August 2025
Editorials/Opinions from Pakistan
On verdicts against the PTI leaders
Editorial, "Mass verdicts," The News, 1 August 2025
The latest verdicts, similar to previous ones, raise critical concerns. Why were some opposition figures sentenced while others, charged in similar cases, were acquitted? Was there consistency in how evidence was weighed and how trials were conducted? In a democracy, especially one with Pakistan’s political history, these questions matter deeply. The credibility of justice depends not only on verdicts, but on how those verdicts are reached. The PTI has alleged that the cases are politically motivated and aimed at disrupting its upcoming August 5 mobilisation. While some of the party’s claims may be couched in political rhetoric, the broader perception that accountability is being applied selectively is not completely implausible. That perception is further compounded by the use of anti-terror laws to try civilians, a move that the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has said raises “serious due-process concerns",
https://e.thenews.com.pk/detail/?id=422000
Editorial, "Hasty disqualifications," 1 August 2025
The latest verdicts, similar to previous ones, raise critical concerns. Why were some opposition figures sentenced while others, charged in similar cases, were acquitted? Was there consistency in how evidence was weighed and how trials were conducted? In a democracy, especially one with Pakistan’s political history, these questions matter deeply. The credibility of justice depends not only on verdicts, but on how those verdicts are reached. The PTI has alleged that the cases are politically motivated and aimed at disrupting its upcoming August 5 mobilisation. While some of the party’s claims may be couched in political rhetoric, the broader perception that accountability is being applied selectively is not completely implausible. That perception is further compounded by the use of anti-terror laws to try civilians, a move that the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has said raises “serious due-process concerns".
https://e.thenews.com.pk/detail/?id=422000
On US-Pak Trade Deal
Editorial, "Trade Deal," The News, 01 August 2025
In a geopolitical climate rife with shifting alliances and global power recalibrations, the announcement by US President Donald Trump confirming the finalisation of a landmark trade agreement between Pakistan and the US represents may be an economic milestone but it also signals a strategic reset, a revival of trust, shared interests and mutually beneficial cooperation between Islamabad and Washington. And not just that: it has also served as some much-needed schadenfreude as far as domestic naysayers and our good old neighbours – the Indians – are concerned.
https://e.thenews.com.pk/detail/?id=421999
Editorial, "New Pak-US era?," Dawn, 01 August 2025
...the deal reflects a willingness on the part of the leadership of the two countries to recalibrate their transactional security-focused relationship in favour of a greater focus on strategic trade and investment ties. This surprise turn in bilateral relations should send a positive signal to foreign investors, especially American firms, which have so far been reluctant to bring their capital to Pakistan due to the chill in relations for the last several years. Whether or not Mr Trump plans to convert his energy cooperation rhetoric into action will only be known after a final tariff deal is announced
https://www.dawn.com/news/1927967/new-pak-us-era
On Poverty in Pakistan
Saeed Ahmed, "Poverty by design," Dawn, 1 August 2025
Poverty in Pakistan is not just accidental. It is a consequence of deliberate policy choices, neglect and systemic flaws. For example, our farmers incurred Rs2.2 trillion losses in wheat production alone this year, jeopardising food security and reducing rural incomes. Agriculture, which accounts for 23pc of GDP, employs 37pc of the labour force, and contributes 60pc to export earnings, has been hit hard by climate shocks, plummeting prices, policy missteps and state neglect. Crop production fell by 13.5pc in FY25: cotton by 30.7pc, maize by 14.7pc, and wheat by 8.9pc. Fertiliser shortages during sowing seasons, removal of wheat support prices under IMF pressure, and abandonment of commodity procurement left farmers exposed to market volatility and exploitation by middlemen. Instead of ensuring a smooth policy transition and putting in place an alternative market mechanism to protect farmers, the government simply backed off. This underscores the lack of planning and blind implementation of IMF advice.
https://www.dawn.com/news/1927970/poverty-by-design
On Jammu & Kashmir
Shahzad Chaudhry, "In the course of the day," The Express Tribune, 1 August 2025
I have long proposed an independent Kashmir on the lines of Switzerland as a breakout option from the logjam that has held us in an eternal face-off. What seemed right under the principles of the partition then would have surely changed as Kashmiris have fought for their independence with a cost paid in almost 100,000 lives in the last three decades. It is about time that the world noticed their fundamental right to determine their own future.
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2558938/in-the-course-of-the-day
On Indus Water Treaty and India
Syed Mohammad Ali, "Emergent Indus water sharing challenges," The Express Tribune, 1 August 2025
Pakistan is much more dependent on the Indus tributaries than India, so India's threats to divert or withhold water allocated to Pakistan is not an issue which is taken lightly. However, experts point out that India cannot immediately alter the flow of the western rivers. In the high flow season (May and September), the western rivers carry billions of cubic meters of water, and the existing upstream run-of-the-river dams on these rivers have very limited storage. But if India develops new infrastructure on the western rivers, it could gain greater control over the timing and volume of flows into Pakistan, especially during the dry season when the flows across the basin are lower.
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2558937/emergent-indus-water-sharing-challenges