ISLAMABAD: Former chief justice Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry on Tuesday said establishing military courts in the country to try terror suspects is unconstitutional.

The former chief justice was speaking to media representatives in the federal capital.

“Military courts are illegal and unconstitutional. The basic structure of the Constitution guarantees an independent judiciary, and military courts courts cannot be established in the presence of an independent judiciary,” Chaudhry said.

The former chief justice also said that no amendment or law can be made which challenges the fundamental basis of the Constitution.

Examine: Several amendments needed for setting up military courts

In the wake of Peshawar school tragedy all parliamentary parties had decided on Dec 24 to set up special courts to be presided over by army officers for trying suspected terrorists.

Moreover, as the Supreme Court had declared in 1999 the setting up of military courts as unconstitutional and illegal, therefore, the political leadership decided to amend the Constitution to provide constitutional cover to the proposed special courts.

Read: Misuse of military courts will not be allowed, vows Zardari

ISLAMABAD: The man who alleged that his daughter is being held in Jamia Hafsa, the women’s seminary in Lal Masjid, filed an appeal with the Human Rights Cell of the Supreme Court on Monday in hopes of having his daughter recovered.

Abdul Qayyum’s lawyer Muhammad Haider Imtiaz told Dawn that Mr Qayyum has requested the Supreme Court to take suo motu notice of his plight and ensure the recovery of his daughter. Court officials have accepted his request and promised to respond to the request in a few days.

He said Lal Masjid cleric Maulana Abdul Aziz has been using his influence to prevent him from getting his daughter out of the seminary. He expressed his faith in the Supreme Court and said he hoped that his daughter will soon be recovered.

Know more: Distraught man claims daughter being ‘held’ in Jamia Hafsa

In his application to the court, Mr Qayyum stated that his 26-year-old daughter Uzma was a final year student of a religious course in Jamia Binaat-i-Ayesha madressah in Muslim Town, Rawalpindi, when on June 16, 2014 she did not return home from the seminary in the evening.

Supreme Court has promised to respond in the coming days

Mr Qayyum said he approached the administration of Jamia Binaat-i-Ayesha and they informed him that she had left for home after class and they were unaware of her whereabouts. The girl’s friends told him that she had left for Jamia Hafsa in Islamabad.

“I was further informed that she was accompanied by a woman named Umme Hassan, wife of Maulana Abdul Aziz. Umme Hassan had been visiting Jamia Binaat-i-Ayesha regularly and been in touch with my daughter since 2013. She had been patronising her and urging her to enroll at Jamia Hafsa,” he said.

Mr Qayyum said that the next morning i.e June 17, 2014 he along with his wife and son, visited Jamia Hafsa where they met Uzma in the presence of Umme Hassan and two other women staff members of the seminary. Upon seeing her family, Uzma started crying but did not say anything.

Mr Qayyum said he told Umme Hassan that they wanted to take their daughter home but she refused and said she had dedicated her life to the ‘cause of Islam’.

“We were surprised to hear this as Uzma had never disclosed any such intentions to us before,” he said.

“We insisted that she be allowed to return home, but Umme Hassan refused and told us to come again the next day and meet her husband, Maulana Abdul Aziz,” Mr Qayyum said in the application.

When he, along with his wife and son, again visited Jamia Hafsa and met Maulana Abdul Aziz, he said: “The Maulana told us that Uzma did not wish to return home, that she was in safe hands and that there was no need for us to visit her anymore.

“This statement came as an absolute shock to us. I told the Maulana that being Uzma’s father, I could not leave her in the presence of ‘na-mehrams’ (unrelated persons) but all in vain,” he said.

Afterwards, he said he repeatedly attempted to get his daughter back but Jamia Hafsa management did not allow her to leave. Mr Qayyum said he also tried to wed his daughter to her fiancé Muhammad Imran but again he was not allowed to do so.

Mr Qayyum said in his application that on July 3, 2014, he approached the Commissioner of Islamabad and the police and was told to appear in court before Magistrate First Class Kamran Cheema.

The next day the court ordered that Uzma be sent to Dar-ul-Aman, a government refuge for distressed women, in Rawalpindi’s Shamsabad locality, for three days and directed the police to bring her before the court again.

But on the appointed date of July 7, the magistrate was on leave. He heard the case on his return on July 9 in his chamber, said Mr Qayyum.

While the parents sat in the courtroom, the magistrate ordered that Uzma be sent to Jamia Hafsa.

Extremely perturbed by the course of events, the father said: “We approached various Ulema, including Mufti Taqi Usmani, and requested them to intervene in the matter. Those who responded to our requests displayed their inability to persuade Maulana Abdul Aziz and Umme Hassan in this regard.”

“We also learnt from various sources that the administration of Jamia Hafsa brainwashes young, impressionable girls studying in various seminaries with the aim to convincing them to join Jamia Hafsa so that they can be used for the purposes of furthering the extremist agendas of Maulana Abdul Aziz and Umme Hassan, and their organisation - the Shuhada Foundation,” he said.

Rejecting the allegations at the time they were first made, Umme Hassan had hinted to Dawn that it was a case of Uzma running away from a forced marriage. She had also said that in the statement Uzma gave to the magistrate she had said that she did not want to return to her family.

Published in Dawn, December 30th, 2014

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said Tuesday that the government will soon initiate work on the Karachi-Lahore motorway project, said a report published on Radio Pakistan.

Nawaz was addressing the annual awards ceremony of National Highways and Motorways Police in the federal capital.

The premier said the experience of constructing a motorway was successful, adding that more motorways projects will be started in the country.

Praising the services of Motorways and Highways police, Nawaz said many programmes were being implemented from the grass-root level in order to make highways safe.

The report further said that the premier directed the concerned authorities for enhancing efficiency of the Motorways Police and the recruitment of staff in a transparent manner.

The PM expressed hope that the Motorways Police would provide assistance to at least five thousand travellers on a daily basis, and vowed to implement a policy of zero tolerance with regards to corruption and misbehaviour with the travellers.

Nawaz expressed his determination to make the Motorways Police the best police force in the world.

While concluding the ceremony, the premier distributed awards to Motorways Police personnel who showed exemplary performance in discharging their professional duties.

ISLAMABAD: Barely hours after the Islamabad High Court ordered his conditional release, another case has been registered against Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi — the alleged mastermind of the Mumbai attacks case — at the Golra Police Station in Islamabad.

According to the First Information Report (FIR), Lakhvi was said to be involved in the abduction of a man named Anwar six and a half years ago.

Following the registration of the case last night, Lakhvi was arrested by police and taken into protective custody at the Shalimar police station as there was no suitable place to accommodate him at the Golra police station.

Lakhvi remanded in police custody for two days

He was produced in a local court in Islamabad today amid tight security.

Inspector Mohammad Arshad told the court Lakhvi was accused of kidnapping a man six and a half years ago.

During the hearing, police requested the court for a two-day physical remand of Lakhvi, which was granted.

Earlier on Monday, the IHC had ordered the conditional release of Lakhvi.

The court suspended his detention orders, which were issued by the Islamabad district administration soon after an anti-terrorism court granted him bail on Dec 18.

Take a look: IHC orders conditional release of Mumbai attacks mastermind

The decision drew a sharp reaction from India and it summoned Pakistan’s High Com­missioner to lodge protest. An Indian foreign ministry official said Delhi wanted “to register our protest over the court order”.

Seven Pakistani suspects have been charged with planning and financing the attacks but the failure to advance their trial has been a major obstacle to better ties between the two countries.

PESHAWAR: Senior Pakistani batsman Younis Khan Tuesday delivered players' kits and a financial donation from the New Zealand cricket team to the child survivors of Pakistan's worst ever terror attack.

Khan visited the army school in Peshawar where Taliban gunmen slaughtered 150 people on December 16, the vast majority of them children, where he met officials and some of the students.

He also visited some of children injured in the massacre as they continued their recovery in a local hospital.

“All the players from Pakistan and New Zealand were shocked and hurt by the incident,” said Khan of the Taliban attack.

“Only those who suffered the losses can understand the impact of this tragedy,” he said during the visit.

The attack this month shocked the world, and prompted Pakistan's political and military leaders to vow decisive action to stamp out militancy.

Also read: Amir visits Peshawar school massacre site

Younis Khan said New Zealand captain Kane Williamson and team manager Mike Sandle met him after the fourth one-day international between the two teams in Abu Dhabi to hand over the kits and the financial donation.

“Since the amount is a donation I can't disclose it, but it shows their grief and sentiments towards the schoolchildren,” he said. Sandle in a letter also expressed sentiments of his players.

“We extend our deepest grief and hope that the cricket kits and a small amount will help in a small way towards rebuilding your school and community,” the letter said.

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif chaired a high-level meeting Tuesday to review progress on the implementation of the National Action Plan for countering terrorism in the country.

Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Information Minister Pervaiz Rasheed, Army Chief Gen Raheel Sharif, Director General Inter Services Intelligence Gen Rizwan Akhter and Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) Major Gen Amir Riaz and Federal Law Secretary Barrister Zafarullah also attended the meeting.

During the meeting, PM Nawaz expressed confidence over various measures adopted for countering terrorism, and hoped that terrorism would be eliminated from Pakistan through the collective resolve of the government and citizens.

The premier said the government will refer cases of hardcore terrorists, who are responsible for mass murders of innocent civilians, kids and young soldiers, to special military courts.

"Special courts are part of the national action plan and are meant to provide an extraordinary solution for an extraordinary problem. All institutions would have to carefully scrutinise cases to be sent for prosecution in the special military tribunals," said the PM.

He said the formation of a unified action plan was a manifestation of national consensus on the issue of terrorism, adding that the government would ensure its swift implementation.

Take a look: Nawaz constitutes special committee to implement National Action Plan

2014 Drama Poll results: 'Pyaray Afzal' dominates Pakistani television

By Sadaf Haider& Sadaf Siddique

2014 gave us some blockbusters, but for the most part it was dominated by Television Rating Point (TRP) 'bubblegummers' that stretched and skewed stories and characters to suit the flavour of the month.

We were force fed second wives and evil mothers-in-law ad nauseum. It seemed as if TV channels were stuck in the rinse and repeat cycle of a washing machine driven by cliches.

The few dramas that stood out managed to showcase old stories with nuanced treatment and made us think beyond the binaries of black and white.

As always, there were some great performances and some genuine surprises. Though the mazloom aurat remains a staple of our drama industry, some male dominated stories like Laa, Pyaray Afzal and Bashar Momin managed to find a foothold amid the rivers of tears.

Read more: Thunderous Bashar Momin ends with a change of heart

The more popular channels themselves suffered a special malaise in 2014 — with Hum TV producing one lackluster serial after another; Geo and its potboilers disappearing mid-season and ARY deciding to stretch perfectly constructed serials to breaking point.

In all this, a new channel emerged as a favourite— A-Plus. Fresh off its success with the fabulous Aunn Zara, the channel invested in interesting stories, excellent writing and good production value, allowing it to punch well above its weight and proving that quality will always rise to the top.

Another new channel which made an impact on the drama industry as a whole is the new Zee Zindagi channel from across the border. Introducing popular, high quality Pakistani dramas to the Indian masses, Zee Zindagi gave a new lease of life to many older serials like Humsafar, Durre Shehwar and Aunn Zara winning our artists, writers and directors millions of new fans.

Thankfully, gone are the days when the industry was reeling from the blow dealt by cheaply dubbed Turkish serials which now seem like nothing more than a storm in a teacup.

Historically speaking, Pakistani dramas are at another cusp, the interest in them reaching historical and international heights. Let us hope the industry has the vision and strength not to limit themselves, but to move forward and make 2015 even better and brighter.

Here are the winners of the Dawn 2014 Drama Poll, which ran from December 2 to December 5. Based on a total of 13,711 responses, the results show that Pyaray Afzal dominated Pakistani television this year.

Note: you can view the detailed survey results here

Best drama serial

People’s choice: 'Pyaray Afzal'

Pyaray Afzal became the overall favourite drama for its naik, love struck hero, filmy sensibilities, finely etched characters and a gripping storyline.

The drama, penned by Khalil ur Rehman Qamar who initially had a different ending planned, caught the imagination of a lot of people and fascinated the nation like no other serial this year.

Critics' choice: 'Marasim', 'Pyaray Afzal'

Zanjabeel Asim Shah wrote an exceptional script for Marasim. Well-defined characters; strong, moving dialogues and a precisely plotted main narrative allowed for just the right amount of dramatic tension.

Despite the all-too-familiar elements of a controlling mother coming between her son and his true love, this serial rose well above average by seamlessly weaving each protagonist's perspective into one enthralling story.

Equal credit goes to director Owais Khan and the Marasim cast and crew for their flawless execution of this project.

Pyaray Afzal— for all the reasons listed above and for being a serial with heart and soul.

For its eponymous hero Afzal who was not afraid to challenge anyone, for showing us women like Yasmin and Farah, who were never victims or the bholi larki so beloved of our drama makers, for showing us a positive religious figure, for giving us reason to hope and daring us to believe in something better even when all looks hopeless.

Best writer

People’s choice: Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar (Pyaray Afzal)

Taking in two in a row, Pyaray Afzal wins again with Khalil ur Rehman Qamar as the people’s choice for best writer.

He wins for penning stirring dialogues that reflected his inspirations in love and life with a distinctly filmy touch and the 1970s sensibilities.

Critics' choice: Bee Gul (Pehchan), Zanjabeel Asim (Bashar Momin)

There were a lot of good scripts this year; in fact 2014 seems to be the year of the writer. All these three writers gave us stories rich in subtext and sensitive characters.

Bee Gul deserves recognition for deft handling of sensitive subjects and hypocrisies without ever becoming preachy. Her effortless characterisation and seamless handling of the timeline are commendable.

Faisal Qureshi in Bashar Momin

Zanjabeel Asim Shah has to be credited for giving us intriguing stories such as Bashar Momin and Marasim that were based on the deepest human emotions of betrayal, loss and ultimate redemption and compassion.

Best director

People’s choice: Nadeem Baig (Pyaray Afzal)

Hamza Ali Abbasi and Ayeza Khan in Pyaray Afzal

Hat trick! Pyaray Afzal went strong as fans chose Nadeem Baig as the best director for giving us an excellent execution of a story, keeping all the threads defined, but well integrated, great visuals, acting and production in check.

Most of all here we see the director and the writer exactly on the same page.

Critics' choice: Khalid Ahmed (Pehchan), Owais Khan (Marasim)

Ahsan Khan and Soniya Hussain in Marasim

Both these directors deserve a mention for making us watch conventional stories through an atypical lens.

Khalid Ahmed extracted compelling performances, effortlessly wove past and present storylines and visual storytelling in Pehchan with an able and controlled hand to tell a story which blurred the lines between good and bad.

Owais Khan worked some strange magic with the well written, but all too familiar story of Marasim. This drama could have easily turned into a potboiler, but in his deft hands it became fresh, compelling and unmissable.

Honourable mention: Yasir Nawaz (Shukk) for telling a taut story which created tension and a fast pace without being over-the-top, and using visual tools to keep us hooked.

Best actor (Male)

People’s choice: Hamza Ali Abbasi (Pyaray Afzal)

Hamza Ali Abbasi. – Photo credit: telejelly.com

Pyaray Afzal on a roll with Hamza Ali Abbasi for bringing the “not so angry young man” back into fashion.

Thank you, Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar and Hamza Ali Abbasi for bringing back that old fashioned masculinity that never really died—the gentleman— the man who honours what is good and protects those who need it without ever losing his humility.

Critics' choice: Ahsan Khan (Marasim), Hamza Ali Abbasi (Pyaray Afzal)

Ahsan Khan in Marasim

If only we could just vote for all of them. Pakistan has such a pool of amazing talent they should all take a bow.

However, because we must choose a few above the rest.

Ahsan Khan for Daud of Marasim, who like the rest of us weaker mortals learns humility all too late, who despite his best efforts is never able to make any of his dear ones happy.

Ahsan Khan has saved himself from becoming the generic hero by proving he is a fantastic actor once again in this literally mesmerising performance.

Hamza Ali Abbasi for all the reasons listed above, he is now and forever our iconic Afzal Bhai.

Honourable mentions: Adnan Siddiqui (Mere Humdum Mere Dost), Faisal Qureshi (Bashar Momin)

Tired of the demanding, petty men that most of our dramas present, Farhat Ishtiaq’s heroes are like a dream come true and Adnan Siddiqui played Haider Masoud in Mere Humdum Mere Dost like a well tuned instrument. Suave, handsome, kind and honourable – if only we could see more like him on screen.

Faisal Qureshi for making a dark character of Bashar Momin so sad, so desperate that even as we watch him crush and destroy one character after another, we feel his pain. This was an extremely difficult role that only few could pull off; as usual Faisal made it look easy.

Best actor (Female)

People’s choice: Ayeza Khan (Pyaray Afzal)

Ayeza Khan. – Photo credit: trendymods.com

Ayeza Khan wins for playing a heroine with pride and integrity and a complete lack of sentimentality.

Khalil ur Rehman Qamar wrote the character of Farah Ibrahim as an arrogant beauty who refused to acknowledge Afzal till the very last minute.

Ayeza played her role with an unfaltering determination that showed how good an actress she has become. Cool, controlled but still somehow vulnerable, Ayeza held her own against the stories powerful hero.

Critics' choice: Ayesha Khan (Shukk), Saba Hameed (Marasim)

Ayesha Khan (L) and Saba Hameed

This has to be one of Ayesha Khan’s most memorable roles.

She is “every woman” confronted with a situation spinning out of her control. Brilliant, restrained, moving and always unforgettable is all we can say for her fabulous performance.

Saba Hameed in Marasim made us cry for her and then cry against her. How many actresses can lay claim to such power? She is an enchantress who can captivate audiences, swaying them to like or dislike at will.

Honourable mention: Soniya Hussain (Shikwa)

Soniya Hussain is a young actress with a depth of talent that should be mined. She single handedly made Shikwa one of the more interesting dramas this year coupled with her standout work in Marasim— she is a delight to watch on screen.

Best supporting actor (Male)

People’s choice: Firdous Jamal (Pyaray Afzal)

Firdous Jamal as Molvi Subhanallah in Pyaray Afzal

While in most dramas the hero's father is a side note, here he almost overshadowed the hero with his undeniable screen presence and fabulous, heartfelt characterisation of Molvi Subhanallah.

Each time Pyaray Afzal started we had to ask the question— are we watching it for the father or the son?

While other dramas show dour, forbidding men of religion, here was a character who cared, understood and forgave while never compromising an inch on principles, and Firdous Jamal played the role flawlessly.

Critics' choice: Yasir Mazhar (Bashar Momin)

Yasir Mazhar for playing a rather weak character with such deadpan efficiency that he seemed grounded and reasonable compared to the melodrama around him.

Not just a handsome face, this hard working actor makes each of his performances significant.

Best supporting actor (Female)

People’s choice: Sana Javed (Pyaray Afzal)

Sana Javed. — Photo credit: catodato.com

Sana Javed added spunk and filmy flair to her portrayal of Lubna in Pyaray Afzal.

Always the voice of reason and even if it seemed to follow a rather tortuous logic, she had a plan for every situation. The beautiful Sana gave a wonderful performance that was the perfect foil to her rather ziddi but equally lovely sister Farah.

Critics' choice: Hareem Farooq (Mere Humdum Mere Dost), Ushna Shah (Rukhsaar)

Ushna Shah(L) and Hareem Farooq

Ushna Shah and Hareem Farooq are both talented actresses who surprisingly made their mark by playing the 'bad girl'.

Hareem Farooq’s self absorbed, almost pitiably evil Sajeela from Mere Humdum Mere Dost was annoying and fascinating in equal measure. Hareem is another new face sure to shine in the coming year.

Ushna was an effective heroine as Rudaba but as the manipulating villain of Rukhsar she made this serial much more entertaining. Ushna Shah is an actress with great potential and we cannot wait to see the star she becomes.

Best soundtrack

People’s and critic’s choice: 'Pyaray Afzal'

"Jaane woh kaise log the jinke pyar ko pyar mila.."

Waqar Ali breathed new life into Sahir Ludhianvi’s classic lyrics. Like all the very best serials the music was an integral part of its success.

Invoking the bitter-sweet ride that was Pyaray Afzal, here was all the promise, the blind resilience of youth and inexperience as it met the harshness of this world head on, encapsulated in one beautiful song.

Best camera work

People’s choice: Shehzad Kashmiri (Mere Humdum Mere Dost)

Shehzad Kashmiri is simply one of the best cinematographers in the industry.

His visual sense is unmatched, from beautiful exterior shots which integrate the subject into the scenery without overpowering the essence of the story; to interior shots which capture the characters mood in a way dialogues never can.

Mere Humdum Mere Dost is just one more in a line of beautifully crafted serials from this highly talented individual.

Critic’s choice: Naeem Mustafa (Shukk), Qasim Ali (Marasim)

Naeem Mustafa's brilliant and realistic aesthetic veers, never interfere with the narrative but add another layer to the story telling.

Great play of light and dark in keeping with the tension in Shukk, he is definitely one to watch out for especially if he shoots a noir film.

Qasim Ali created scenes that haunted our thoughts long after we would have forgotten the serial. He has that rare talent of being able to pull viewers out of their complacent, comfortable seat in front of the screen and drown them in the visual before them, enmeshing actor and audience into one single emotion.

Honourable mention: Naveed Malik (Pehchan)

Naveed Malik is able to translate written words into visual poetry in Pehchan. His shots are beautifully composed and visually astute, and he manages to create magic with his writer and director, in translating their vision. Audience would love to see his work on the big screen.

Best soap

People’s and Critic’s Choice: 'Quddusi Sahab Ki Bewah'

Quddusi Sahab Ki Bewah for its sheer brilliance. This theater of the baroque was dotted with fabulous performances from the amazing Hina Dilpazeer, Waqar Hussain and many others.

This soap opera ran on the best traditions of satire, which have always allowed the clown to speak truth to power in a way the strongest warrior would not dare.

Skewering our societal hypocrisies, not only challenging accepted norms but literally inverting them, acting like a mirror that laughingly showed us all our weaknesses and foibles.

Honourable mention: 'Sheher-e-Yaran'

Special mention for Sheher-e-Yaran for a thrill of a minute story that twisted and turned enough to keep even the easily bored, fascinated. For weaving so many disparate threads with an in-your-face audacity that defied logic but made it eminently watchable. Couple this with some fabulous cast chemistry and a catchy original sountrack (OST), made it a soap we waited for every day.

Critic’s take

For all the other things that we weren’t able to mention, here are some 'Award of the year' categories that stood out for being good, bad or just plain old so-bad-they-were-good.

Zalim saas

Bi-ji. – Photo courtesy: Janam Jali's Facebook page

Worst character's name:

Bunty from Bunty I Love You

Weeping wailer

For well, weeping.

Sumbal Iqbal in everything with strong competition from Mawra Hocane in again, almost everything.

Under the radar

For dramas that went undetected but deserve a mention

Ghundi: Written by Faiza iftikhar and directed by Kashif Nisar, Ghundi was outrageously funny but somehow flew under the radar.

Rung: Colour us impressed. It showcased the lives of a career oriented overachiever doctor wife (Kiran Chaudhry) and her laid back but awesomely cool husband (Imran Aslam) and dad to their wonderful kids.

The natural acting of the cast and the realistic characters and situations they were in was wonderfully directed by Ali Tahir.

Taar-e-Unkaboot: Written by Fasee Bari Khan was a fascinating drama which touched on many taboo subjects such as prostitution, black magic and sexuality. Never overtly vulgar in any way it seemed that even a discussion of such topics became offensive for some.

However, our culture needs to mature and learn to address difficult issues as long as the arguments are aesthetically presented.

TRP 'bubblegum'

For stretching a drama beyond its elasticity in aiming at TRPs:

Shukk: For starting on a strong note and then bending to the whims of the ratings game crashing and burning well-built characters and story.

'Mummy, Ye Aap Kya Keh Rahi Hain'

For the most outlandish dialogue and dialogue delivery of the year.

Romaisa from Muhabbat Subh Ka Sitara Hai for spouting dialogues such as "Kaash main machli hoti, kash main batakh hoti.”

Most annoying 'bholi larki'

Stiff competition got all these ladies in – Romaisa from Mohabbat Subh Ka Sitara Hai, Laraib from Lado Main Palli and brainless Haya from Ahista Ahista.

Memorable dialogues

From Marasim

Dil ka har faisla theekh nahin hota

Aik shareef aurat ka dil uskey ikhtiyaar mein hota hai aur aik badnaam aurat apney dil key ikhtiyaar mein hoti hai.

From Pyaray Afzal

Ek tha Afzal jaan se bhi pyaara bhai magar jaan pyare nahin thi usey

Father of the year

Three-way tie between Molvi SubhanAllah, Sheikh sahib of Pyaray Afzal and Qazi Wajid as an Army dad from Pehchan.

Drama must-haves of the year:

From Sannata to Qudrat there were peer babas and kala jadu along with dramas such as Bunty I Love you and Adhoora Milan with this season’s latest accessory butlers and uniformed help.

Disappointments of the year:

Two-way tie between Ahista Ahista and Laa.

Ahista Ahista for playing shamelessly on every cliche in the book.

Laa was a primer in how a good story can be ruined .

Cutest couple

Ahsan Khan and Sonya Hussain in 'Marasim' and Ayeza Khan and Hamza Ali Abbasi 'Pyarey Afzal'

Best eye-roll award

Simi Raheal in Laa

'Amaan-ki-Asha' award

Zee Zindagi TV for winning hearts and minds, dispelling preconceived notions and allowing all of us to learn, live, laugh and cry together — “What Fawad Khan has united, let no man pull asunder.”

Note: you can view the detailed survey results here

Sadaf Haider and Sadaf Siddique are pearls of a pod, fellow freelance writers and drama buffs. Find their musings at dramapakistani.net

Click here for Dawn.com's special coverage of the year 2014

KARACHI: A police team headed by Karachi’s Senior Superintendent Police (SSP) Investigation South Zone has been constituted with the mandate of bringing Uzair Baloch, an alleged leader of one of the gangs operating in crime-infested Lyari, back to Karachi, sources in the police department said on Tuesday.

Uzair was arrested in Dubai by the Interpol on Monday while he was crossing into the United Arab Emirates from Oman by road.

The police team will report to deputy director of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) in Muscat which will contact Interpol.

Uzair will then be handed over by Interpol to the FIA who will hand him over to the police team. The police team will bring Uzair back to Karachi for further judicial process.

The process is likely to take up to 30 days and although other members of the team haven’t yet been notified, it is likely to have two to three more members aside from SSP Investigation South.

Also read: Uzair Jan Baloch — a profile

Once known for his loyalty to the Pakistan Peoples and close contacts with the party’s leaders and senior members in the Sindh cabinet, eg former home minister Dr Zulfiqar Mirza, Uzair Baloch took over as leader of Peoples Amn Committee in Aug 2009 when the notorious Abdul Rahman Baloch alias Rahman Dakait was killed in an encounter more than a year after the PPP government came to power. Though the committee is presented as community group by its leaders, it is blamed for its criminal activities which included killings, extortion and drugs business both by police and rival parties of the PPP.

His relations with the PPP started souring after April 2012 when the police launched ‘Lyari operation’. The two-week siege came to an end without any major arrest, but left a number of people, including policemen, dead.

The very next month the Sindh government announced bounty on most wanted criminals of the troubled Lyari neighbourhood. Uzair Baloch carried a prize of Rs 2 million on his head.

Explore | Footprints: Tenous 'truce' in Lyari

The head money notification, however, was withdrawn a month before the May 2013 general elections — seen as a move by the PPP-influenced caretaker set-up to appease the Peoples Amn Committee, which enjoyed street power in Lyari, the party’s stronghold.

Differences within the Peoples Amn Committee and the widening gulf with the PPP government finally forced Uzair Baloch to leave Pakistan.

In June this year, Islamabad, on a request by the Sindh government, had asked Interpol to issue red warrants of Uzair and Noor Mohammad alias Baba Ladla. The latter was at one time Uzair’s close-aide, but later turned his rival.

ISLAMABAD: The federal government on Tuesday increased sales tax on petroleum products by five per cent, effectively depriving consumers of an estimated Rs5 billion worth of relief following the fall of crude oil prices in the international market.

The increase in GST on some petroleum products was announced through a notification issued today by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) on the advice of the Finance Ministry.

According to the notification, a copy of which is available with DawnNews, sales tax will be charged at the rate of 22 instead of 17pc on High-speed Diesel oil, Light Diesel Oil, Kerosene, and Motor spirit including HOBC.

The notification shall take effect from Jan 1, 2015.

Crude oil prices have fallen sharply in the international market since late June, losing around 30pc as supplies increase and global demand for oil grows more slowly.

The measure to increase GST on the petroleum products was taken by the government to partially offset a shortfall in revenue of the FBR after the decline of oil prices in the global market.

Sources said the decision was taken after Finance Minister Ishaq Dar held a series of meetings with the ministries of finance and petroleum, Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) and FBR to find ways of retaining some of the reduction in oil prices instead of passing on full benefit to consumers.

Sources say the monthly impact of reduction in oil prices was Rs1-3bn, but the real cause of concern was the government’s loss on account of windfall revenue loss on crude, which normally yielded Rs30-35bn every year as a result of higher international price.

LAHORE: A death row convict held in Lahore’s Kot Lakhpat Central Jail died of a brain hemorrhage on Tuesday.

A day earlier, the convict Umer Rasheed had been shifted to Lahore's Jinnah Hospital for medical treatment after his condition deteriorated. He died in the hospital today.

According to doctors, Rasheed had suffered a "huge shock/depression" which resulted in the brain hemorrhage – a type of stroke that is caused by an artery in the brain bursting and causing localised bleeding in the surrounding tissues.

Police took the body into custody and shifted it to a mortuary for a post-mortem examination. Following completion of the post-mortem, Rasheed's body will be handed over to his family members.

He had been sentenced to death for committing a murder in Lahore's Factory area. Under Section 302, a First Information Report (FIR) had been registered against him at Factory Area police station.

Earlier on Dec 22, a condemned prisoner at Mianwali Central Jail had died of heart failure.

Muhammad Liaquat, 55, of Bhakkar had been sentenced to death by a district and sessions judge in 2010 for murdering his wife Bashiran Bibi, a mother of nine, on suspicion. His revision plea had been lying with the apex court. According to doctors, Liaquat died of a heart attack.

Examine: Condemned prisoner dies of heart attack

On Dec 21, a condemned prisoner who was to be hanged also died of a heart attack in Central Jail Sukkur.

Take a look: Death-row prisoner dies of heart attack

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had approved the lifting of the moratorium on the death penalty after a Taliban attack in Peshawar killed 148 people, including more than 130 schoolchildren.

In the wake of the lifting of the moratorium on the death penalty, six death-row prisoners have been executed.

Explore: Four convicts in Musharraf attack case executed in Faisalabad

ISLAMABAD: A sub-committee meeting on Tuesday observed that law enforcement and security agencies lacked proper training to investigate the financing of terrorist activities.

The high-level meeting was headed by Finance Minister Ishaq Dar who asked the participants to finalise their proposals to prevent financing for terrorist organisations and also describe a mechanism for their effective implementation, said an official statement.

It was observed during the meeting that the focus of security agencies was more on nabbing terrorists rather than looking for their sponsors, which was the root cause of the problem.

There was also no system to maintain consolidated data on prosecutions carried out by law enforcement, which could be shared by the agencies to further help their investigation.

The meeting discussed terrorist funding under the garb of charities, emphasising fresh registration and fool proof monitoring of all such organisations.

Deep concern on narco-trafficking, which it thought was a potent source of funding, was also discussed. There was also an emphasis laid on coordination with international agencies to curb terror financing.

The absence of proper legislation to regulate and monitor international non-governmental organisations (INGOs) working in the country added to the problems faced by investigators, the participants noted.

It was the consensus view of the participants that under the prevalent legal system, investigators, police, FIA etc, rarely invoked specific provisions relating to funding of terrorism as contained in the Anti-Terrorism Act and anti-money laundering laws.

Ishaq Dar urged the sub-committee to finalise recommendations which were practicable and could prove decisive in rooting out terrorist funding.

“We need coordination between the federal and provincial governments and agencies to deal with the problem of terrorist financing. We also need cooperation from the general public to put an end to this problem,” the finance minister said.

He said there was also a need to promote legal channels for transfer of money within and from outside the country and added “it will help us to completely discourage hawala and hundi system”.

Dar remarked that in the current scenario National Counter Terrorism Authority (Nacta) should assume the leading role in gathering and consolidation of data for use by law enforcement agencies.

He said Nacta should be pro-active in countering terrorism and clearly state the help it requires in undertaking its official obligations.

The sub-committee, which is headed by the finance minister, was tasked to work out effective ways and means in rooting out terrorist funding.

Recommendations will be presented to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif along with proposals of other sub-committees for consideration.

The sub-committee was constituted by the PM in the wake of the Peshawar school massacre.

Read more: 15 committees tasked with execution of action plan

Top officials from the ministries of finance, foreign affairs, interior along with the Federal Board of Revenue, State Bank of Pakistan, Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, Nacta, security agencies and legal consultants also attended the meeting.

KARACHI: Sindh government, in its efforts to implement laws to protect women and children against exploitation, registered 1,261 cases of kidnapping women for forced marriages in 2014.

This figure was shared Sindh Police’s DIG Crime Aftab Pathan at a consultative workshop organised by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Sindh here on Tuesday.

“Five of the abductors were convicted while 369 have been put up for trial. Another 45 cases of abduction of children under 10 were also registered. One case of abduction where the victim was subjected to grievous hurt was also lodged,” DIG Pathan said.

Stakeholders at the workshop said a joint task force is urgently needed in Sindh to counter ‘trafficking in person’ (TIP) which is registering an increase due to poor implementation of relevant laws.

The participants, including representatives of NGOs, lawyers, Sindh Police, Child and Women Protection and Labour Welfare Departments and concerned agencies, regretted the existent state of denial in the society towards the issue of human trafficking.

Human traffickers go scot-free

FIA Sindh Deputy Director (Anti-Human Trafficking Circle) Ashfaq Alam referred to numerous cases where people being trafficked, within the country as well as those being smuggled abroad, were retrieved and culprits arrested – yet the latter got away scot-free while being tried.

He said that there were no facilities or shelter homes for the unfortunate souls could be placed for a while and provided with necessary guidance and support from not being trapped again by human traffickers.

The FIA official regretted that a similar fate awaited thousands of bonded labour freed by the agency who badly need temporary shelter and long term rehabilitation.

Provision for shelters, capacity building of judicial officers, lack of coordination between concerned departments, in particular context of FIA and Police, absence of any data base and so-forth were some of the hurdles in reducing human trafficking.

“The lack of adequate shelter and no rehabilitation strategy has compelled many trafficking victims to return to one or the other captors,” the official regretted.

Exploiting poverty

DIG South, Abdul Khaliq Shaikh, acknowledging the fact that police holds extreme relevance in handling TIP cases, said the issue was largely considered to fall into FIA's domain.

He attributed human trafficking as a consequence of poverty that was also closely linked to child labour, bonded labour, violence against marginalised sections, street children and other such socio-economic issues.

The senior police officer referred to incorporation of an updated “human rights manual" in the training curriculum for Sindh police.

Activist Akmal Wasim, running a legal support services extensively reviewed lacunae in the existent system and sought urgency to address the situation through close coordination among all stakeholders.

Seema Nazli from the Social Welfare Department (Child Protection Unit) referred to cases of adoption of local children by foreigners and regretted that despite no relevant laws, vulnerable kids were being given into the custody of foreigners by lower courts.

The provincial government official said human trafficking which also involved minors and marginalised sections of the society is a challenge that can be addressed through collective efforts.

Advocate Zia Ahmed Awan, Sarim Burney, Bushra Gohar and others present on the occasion also shared their views with the consensus that concerted and coordinated efforts are needed to help address the issue on strong lines.

KARACHI: Following a nation-wide uproar against controversial anti-Ahmadi remarks made during religious host Amir Liaquat Hussain’s morning show, Geo on Tuesday apologised for the editorial lapse. A spokesperson for the media group admitted that the network’s code of conduct was violated in the December 22 show.

Gunmen in Gujranwala had shot dead a member of the Ahmadi religious minority on Saturday, five days after a cleric denounced the community on Liaquat’s show. Luqman Ahad Shehzad was shot in the back of the head near Bhiri Shah Rehman village – a small community of Ahmadis in the Gujranwala district.

There was no apparent direct link between the two incidents. However, local media and civil society assailed the TV channel and the host of the show for inciting extremism and violence against the often-targeted religious minority.

The Geo spokesperson issued a ‘clarification’ available online today saying that a comment made by a guest during the “Subh-e-Pakistan” morning show had violated the network’s code of conduct. The spokesperson added that “during live transmissions it is difficult to control crowds and guests who speak according to their mindset”.

The spokesperson further said the group apologised for any offensive content, and a committee had been formed to ensure the implementation of policy in the breach of conduct.

Syed Arif Shah Owaisi, the guest cleric had termed Ahmadis as “enemy of Pakistan” during the show.

“This enemy is a common enemy and is an enemy of all of Pakistan. And this enemy is the sect of Qadiyani,” Owaisi said, using a derogatory term for Ahmadis. “They are the ones blaspheming against the holy prophet (pbuh). All us Muslims should recognise that enemy.”

After Owaisi spoke, Liaquat responded by nodding his head in affirmation while the audience burst into applause. The guest cleric went on to use further derogatory language against the minority group for some minutes while the TV show host clapped in appreciation.

Other guests on the show agreed with Owaisi, who also claimed the Ahmadi community was connected to "yahoodis" (Jews).

Blasphemy is punishable by death in the country. Scores of people have been lynched after being accused of blasphemy.

Last week’s killing was the second time Amir Liaquat's show has hosted religious leaders denouncing Ahmadis. In 2008, he hosted scholars who called for the Ahmadis to be killed. Within a day, two prominent Ahmadis had been shot dead.

In today’s statement, the Geo spokesperson said that the network believes in tolerance and had always promoted harmony between different denominations and religions.

“Geo has always spoken out for the rights of minorities which have been provided in Islam and our constitution,” it was added.

The statement noted that Geo had itself been the victim of the misuse of religion, and several members of its team face threats.

Advocating Amir Liaquat’s case, the spokesperson said the TV celebrity had hosted programs on multi-faith dialogue and harmony, with religious communities and minorities having participated more than any other program in Pakistan's television history. It was not mentioned whether a member of the Ahmadi minority had ever appeared on Liaquat’s show.

“Dr Aamir is number one on the hit list of Taliban for his outspoken views against use of violence in Islam,” the statement added.

The spokesman said Geo’s policy is consistent with Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) laws and the code of conduct which prohibits inciting violence against any group including minorities in the name of Islam or any other cause.

The spokesperson said the network would fulfill all its legal obligations on the matter as the media regulator has already issued a notice to Geo.

ISLAMABAD: The National Counter-Terrorism Authority (Nacta) on Tuesday announced to establish a dedicated telephone line extension 1717 to report terrorism and terror-related complaints.

The Interior Ministry has appealed to all citizens to remain vigilant with regards to their surroundings and report on the given extension in case they witness any suspicious person or activity.

The 1717 emergency helpline would be working round the clock and is said to have a state-of-the-art system.

The government has been taking various initiatives to curb terrorism in the wake of the brutal attack on the Army Public School in Peshawar.

A national action plan has also been agreed upon by all the major political stakeholders in the country to devise a joint-national strategy in countering terrorism. Establishment of military courts to try terrorists has been an important initiative in this regard.

More than 140 people — mostly children — were killed when several militants stormed into the Army Public School on Dec 16. Factions of outlawed Taliban outfits had claimed responsibility for carrying out the attack.

Explore: Resurrecting Nacta

BADIN: Emir Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) and senior provincial minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sirajul Haq Tuesday said that no religious party supports terrorism and all possible assistance would be extended to the government for elimination of terrorism from the country.

Addressing “Save the Thar” rally here, Haq said that the real solution of every problem being faced by Pakistan lies within ‘true Islamic system of governance’.

While visiting the Army Public School and the hospital where children were being treated following the deadly Taliban attack earlier this month, Haq had said it was the responsibility of the federal and provincial governments to provide security to the people.

“A government, which can’t provide security to its children, has no right to rule,” he said.

The JI chief, during his trip to the famine-hit Tharparkar district today, urged the federal and provincial governments to take effective measures to prevent more deaths in Thar. Hospitals in Thar are not only lacked medicines but doctors were not performing their duties either, he observed.

ISLAMABAD: Adviser to the Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs, Sartaj Aziz on Tuesday underscored the importance of common endeavours by Pakistan and Afghanistan to address common challenges and root out the scourge of terrorism.

He was talking to the visiting Afghan Parliamentary delegation comprising members of the Meshrano Jirga (upper house) and Wolesi Jirga (lower house), which met him at the Foreign Office.

Sartaj Aziz noted that both sides had made the commitment not to allow their respective territories to be used against the other. In this context, he added that bilateral interaction between the security institutions had already intensified.

The adviser underlined the importance Pakistan attaches to a peaceful, stable, united and prosperous Afghanistan and a friendly and good-neighbourly relationship between the two countries.

He said that following the visit of President Ashraf Ghani to Pakistan, both Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and President Ghani had agreed on evolving and implementing a vision of a comprehensive and enduring partnership between Pakistan and Afghanistan, contributing to the security and prosperity of the two countries and reinforcing efforts for peace and development in the region.

The adviser added that the visit of President Ghani in November had helped commence a historic new phase in the bilateral relations with a special focus on political engagement, security and counter-terrorism cooperation, deeper trade and economic foundation, and regional cooperation.

Aziz stressed that Pakistan stands in strong solidarity with people of Afghanistan as they pass through multiple transition, and would continue to extend all possible support in Afghanistan's quest for peace, stability and progress.

The top Pakistani diplomat also highlighted the significance of parliamentary exchanges for deepening the friendship between the two nations. He stressed the need for more frequent people-to-people exchanges including youth, business persons, media, cultural and professional groups.

The Afghan delegation expressed solidarity with Pakistan over the loss of innocent lives in the deadly Taliban attack on Peshawar school and highlighted the importance of joint efforts against the common threat of terrorism.

The Afghan delegation's visit is part of the regular parliamentarians' dialogue between the two countries. The delegation is jointly led by Senator Baz Mohammad Zurmati and MP Abdul Qader Zazai. Senator Afrasiab Khattak was also present during the meeting.

ISLAMABAD: Leader of the Opposition in Senate, Chaudhry Aitzaz Ahsan Tuesday criticized the PML-N government and Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan for not taking the upper house of Parliament in confidence over counter-terror measures in the aftermath of deadly Taliban attack on Peshawar school.

He said the opposition parties were ready to cooperate with the government for exterminating the menace of terrorism, if seriousness from the rulers is witnessed.

Speaking on a point of order, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader said the interior minister should take the house into confidence on the issue of terrorism. “The house must be taken into confidence by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif himself or the interior minister,” he added.

Commenting on reports that ongoing debate on Peshawar tragedy would be wound up on Wednesday by State Minister for Interior Balighur Rehman, he said the opposition respects the state minister but the opposition demands Interior Minister Nisar to do it.

Aitzaz Ahsan stressed that current atmosphere of reconciliation and broad consensus must not be vitiated.

Criticising Chaudhry Nisar, he said the minister was heading 12 out of 17 committees constituted to monitor or implement the National Plan of Action (NAP).

Senator Raza Rabbani asked Chairman Senate to constitute a committee of senators for monitoring the progress in implementation on National Action Plan.

Col (retd) Tahir Mashhadi of Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) said the debate on Peshawar Tragedy is going on in the Senate for the last so many days, but not a single officer of Interior ministry was taking notes.

‘Block unregistered SIMs for terror elimination’

Meanwhile, Senator Robina Khalid demanded blocking of all unregistered subscriber identification modules (SIMs) as they were being used by terrorists.

Participating in the debate in Senate, she said the government should take action against the cellular companies, who are issuing SIMs without registration.

Khalid said also demanded prompt action against Lal Masjid’s cleric Maulana Abdul Aziz for his pro-Taliban stance.

Senator Saeed Ghani of PPP said that the whole nation was in deep shock and grief over the sad demise of 134 innocent children at Army Public School in Peshawar. He strongly condemned the incident and said it perturbed him and every citizen of the country felt sorrow over the killings of children.

Ghani said the terrorism had engulfed the whole society adding that the political parties and their leaders should strongly fight terrorism. He added that stern action should be taken against the sympathizers and apologists of Taliban. “Terrorists are killing innocent people to spread fear among the masses.”

Senator Mukhtiar Dhamra, on the occasion said that terrorism in the country was born during the past regimes of dictators. He said Pakistan Peoples Party has rendered sacrifices of their leaders for the sake of country, adding that Benizir Bhutto was also killed by the terrorists.

Dhamra said PPP could not run its election campaign effectively during the last general election due to terrorism threats.

2014: A good year for Pakistani TV and cinema

By Salima Feerasta

2014 wasn’t a bumper year for great movies, but there was still plenty of popcorn-munching fun to be had in front of the silver screen.

Lollywood

It’s great to see the Pakistani film industry finally getting its act together. The best movies now combine great acting talent, good scripts and excellent production quality.

There may still be a long way to go, but we finally have some movies worth the price of the ticket.

Three Pakistani movies stood out in 2014:

Na Maloom Afraad

A comic caper, reminiscent of Hera Pheri, Na Maloom Afraad is arguably the best Pakistani film of the year. These are Karachi’s na maloom afraads as you’ve never seen them before.

Full of thrills, spills and glorious one-liners, the film treats Karachi’s volatility with a light hand. The film is full of excellent performances, particularly those from Javed Sheikh and Mohsin Abbas Haider.

From the madcap chases to Mehwish Hayat’s item number“Billi”, the film packs in plenty of entertainment.

Although the editing could have been a tad tighter, Na Maloom Afraad is well-made, witty and impresses on many levels.

O21

The film’s trailer made it look like Pakistan’s answer to Mission Impossible but O21 was never meant to be an out-and-out action thriller. Told from four different points of view, O21 is an intelligent exploration of allegiances and motivations within espionage.

O21 is remarkable for its first-rate cinematography and outstanding action scenes, but ultimately the film was over ambitious. Its grand theme is somewhat lost in the not-so-perfect editing and an ill-defined plot. This may be due to the change in directors midway through production.

O21 is not quite the film it could have been despite stunning visuals, good performances and an exceptional score.

Dukhtar

Dukhtar is the tale of a former child bride who flees her village to avoid a similar fate for her daughter.

The harrowing subject may have put off audiences looking for escapist cinema, but Dukhtar is a pacy, well-made thriller that tackles a difficult subject well.

Samiya Mumtaz and Saleha Aref in a scene from 'Dukhtar'. – Publicity photo

Samiya Mumtaz’s performance as mother Allah Rakhi is extraordinary — nuanced and subtle.

The film benefits from an excellent soundtrack and the beautiful visuals once again show how far film production values have come in Pakistan.

Exemplary cinematography makes the most of the breathtaking scenery of northern Pakistan, which forms the backdrop for the majority of the film.

Dukhtar highlights the plight of women caught in the trap of child marriage without preachy dialogue. It is film engrossed with suspense and carries twists with a heartwarming bond between the mother and daughter at the centre of it all.

Bollywood

There were plenty of crowd-pleasing movies from Bollywood this year. Action movies ruled the box office despite their flaws. Forgettable star vehicles like Happy New Year, Jai Ho, Kick and Bang Bang pulled in some of the largest crowds.

Similarly, rom-coms like Hasee Toh Phasee, 2 States, Khoobsurat and Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania did well.

There were, however, a handful of standout films during the year.

PK

It’s impossible not to have high expectations of the film that brings Rajkumar Hirani and Aamir Khan back together. PK isn’t quite as stellar as 3 Idiots, but it is nonetheless an excellent film.

Polished, clever and laugh-out-loud funny PK pokes fun at the ritualistic trappings of religion and fraudulent gurus who make money out of people’s faith.

Anushka Sharma’s romantic storyline seems a little forced but Aamir Khan’s alien is a beautifully played rendition of comic innocence.

Whilst it’s obvious that Hirani wanted to focus on his message, the film would have been even more entertaining if it had focused more on the struggles of an alien unexpectedly stranded on earth.

Queen

The hit of the summer, Queen is the story of a 'good' Indian girl who is jilted on the eve of her wedding. Heartbroken, she blackmails her family into letting her go on her honeymoon by herself.

Her outlook changes as she ventures on this solo trip to Europe. Her preconceptions are challenged and she gradually loses her inhibitions and finds herself.

Funny, perceptive and heartwarming, Queen is one of the best coming-of-age films to come out of Bollywood in a long time.

Dedh Ishqiya

Naseeruddin Shah and Madhuri Dixit in 'Dedh Ishqiya'. – Photo courtesy: Santabanta.com

Dedh Ishqiya was remarkable for bringing Madhuri Dixit back to the big screen after a long break. It also brought Naseeruddin Shah and Arshad Warsi together again as small time crooks with big dreams.

While Dedh Ishqiya’s plot may have had a few flaws, it was an entertaining sequel to Ishqiya. With brilliant performances and dialogues, the exquisitely styled film was one of the most memorable of 2014.

Highway

2014 was also the year that Alia Bhatt became a bona fide star. She had three very good movies this year and showed that actually she can act.

She has already picked up a handful of endorsements but it’s next year’s movies that will really show whether she has staying on.

Hollywood

Most of the Hollywood films that make it to Pakistan’s cineplexes are big budget movies like The Hunger Games and The Lego Movie.

The rather sweet Hundred Foot Journey made it to our screens because of its desi characters, but generally we only get to see a small selection of western movies.

The best English movies are rarely those with the biggest budgets. If you’re interested in something a bit more cerebral than the standard blockbuster fare, do check out these two films.

Boyhood

Ellar Coltrane in 'Boyhood'. - Photo courtesy: vanishingpointchronicles.com

Shot over 12 years, Boyhood is a portrait of a young boy, Mason Jr, growing up in Texas.

This sensitive coming-of-age story is remarkable, showing glimpses of Mason’s life from first grade all the way through to graduating from high school.

With a loose, open-ended plot, the movie illustrates the fleeting, inconsequential nature of life. We see Mason's childhood pass before our eyes and the film perfectly illustrates how quickly children grow up. It is an exceptional film.

The Grand Budapest Hotel

This comic caper with Ralph Fiennes as the fast-talking concierge of an old-style hotel between the two World Wars is one of the best films of the year.

It features Fiennes being framed for murder, the theft and recovery of a priceless Renaissance painting and the battle for a huge family fortune. The story has all the elements of a classic screwball comedy with hidden depth. One of this year’s must-see movies.

A foreign gem

Mun-hee Na and Eun-kyung Shim in 'Miss Granny'. - Photo courtesy: cultmontreal.com

If you’re a film buff, it’s worth looking further afield for the best movies. For example, one of the best feel-good films of the year was a Korean movie called *Miss Granny.*

The story of an under-appreciated, irascible granny who suddenly becomes young again is pure movie magic. Hilarious, poignant and entertaining, it’s everything that popular cinema should be.

Best of Pakistani television

2014 is the year that Pakistani dramas reached larger audiences than ever before. With many of the best dramas from recent years being picked up by Zee Zindagi, our dramas and actors now have huge audiences across the border.

Pakistani serials have been a breath of fresh air to Indian audiences, particularly as the limited number of episodes allows for tighter storylines than never-ending Indian dramas.

Funnily enough, more Pakistanis also discovered our own dramas through Zee Zindagi via satellite. Recent classics like Bari Apa, Zindagi Gulzar Hai and superhit Humsafar have reached new Pakistani audiences this year through Zee Zindagi.

But what of this year’s new dramas? What were the best dramas on Pakistani channels this year?

With such limited runs, each channel puts out dozens of dramas every year. Increasingly, it takes a star name or major advertising to pull in audiences. However, while some of the most anticipated dramas of the year did do well, there were several surprise hits.

Jackson Heights

Easily one of the most talked-about serials this year, Jackson Heights follows the six expat Pakistanis living in Queens, New York. Directed by Mehreen Jabbar, the drama has star power in the form of Marina Khan and Aamina Sheikh.

With a storyline that features everything from immigrant struggles to domestic abuse, the ongoing serial is engrossing and intriguing. The pace has slowed at times, but the multiple storylines have depth and nuance.

The drama is abetted by brilliant performances from a strong cast, particularly Ali Kazmi as the malevolent Sikander.

Pehchan

Writer Bee Gul and director Khalid Ahmed, who gave us Talkhiyan, produced another gem in Pehchan. Every second serial deals with infidelity and love triangles, but Pehchan stands out for its brilliant writing.

A multi-layered script follows the stories of protagonists who have many shades of grey in their characters. Iffat Umar excels as Kuku, who is failed by both her free-loading husband and her faithless lover. Alishba Yousuf is similarly excellent as Laila, the naïve wife who undergoes a journey of self-discovery through the story.

The non-linear script is beautifully handled and the excellent visuals help make Pehchan a serial that is as appealing as it is engaging.

Digest Writer

Saba Qamar and Gohar Rasheed in 'Digest Writer'. - Photo courtesy: Hum TV

Hum TVs Digest Writer is one of the most popular dramas currently running. Saba Qamar plays Farida, a talented but impoverished girl who takes up digest writing to help her family out of financial difficulties.

Dealing with the theme of a young woman forging a career for herself and trying to gain acceptance from her family and prospective suitors, Digest Writer is a story that has appealed to many. Well-written and absorbing, this atypical serial is a deserving hit.

Pyaray Afzal

Starring Hamza Ali Abbasi and Ayeza Khan, this tale of unprofessed love was far-fetched yet captivating.

Afzal, the son of a maulvi, falls for a mill owner’s daughter, Farah. Their melodramatic love story sparked a huge following with its own memes on social media.

Hamza Ali Abbasi once again proves his star quality – his Afzal and the beautifully written script kept viewers tuning in to a story that was implausible yet gripping.

Shanakht

Maya Ali in 'Shanakht'. – Photo courtesy: Hum TV

It charts her struggle for acceptance and has struck a chord with many viewers here and abroad. Despite the somewhat preachy message, a heroine who resolutely stuck to her spiritual awakening appealed to many viewers.

Despite having no known stars, it’s a play that did well, particularly abroad. Interesting for its depiction of liberals as fairly intolerant, the serial’s unusual storyline made it stand out.

Although 2014 had no super-hit drama serials, it was generally a good year for Pakistani TV – with different stories, excellent production values and strong acting. Here’s hoping 2015 will be even better.

Salima Feerasta is a freelance journalist and the creative force behind style blog karachista.com. Follow her on Twitter @karachista

Click here for Dawn.com's special coverage of the year 2014

ISLAMABAD: The government has decided that the National Counter Terrorism Authority (Nacta) would be responsible for maintaining and developing a central database of actionable intelligence and its timely relay to concerned quarters for counter terrorism.

The decision was made at a meeting of the Nacta executive committee chaired by Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan.

The meeting was attended by chief secretaries, home secretaries, chiefs of provincial Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) and concerned federal secretaries.

The National Action Plan (NAP) to counter terrorism, extremism and militancy was also discussed at length in the meeting with recommendations on every point from participants representing all four provinces, AJK and GB.

"The fight against terrorism is being undertaken for the preservation of the state and cannot be won without complete ownership and coordination between federal, provincial govts and the armed forces,” Nisar said.

The meeting was told that Nacta Helpline 1717 has already been established. Provincial govts were directed to establish a dedicated Helpline for swift response to all kinds of threats.

The respective provincial govts gave their feedback on the proposed actions being taken under the NAP and potential irritants in execution of various functions in coordination with the federal govt.

A comprehensive report on recommendations will be shared with the Prime Minister’s Office.

Last week, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif directed that Nacta be made functional with immediate effect, following which a meeting was summoned today.

Take a look: PM wants functional Nacta in anti-terror effort

The anti-terror body has largely remained dormant resulting in an absence of coordination among various intelligence and law-enforcement agencies which is critical to monitoring activities of extremist groups operating in different parts of the country.

ISLAMABAD: Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi — the alleged mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai attacks — has challenged his two-day physical remand in a kidnapping case in a district and sessions court in Islamabad.

Earlier on Tuesday, a local court in Islamabad had remanded Lakhvi in police custody for two days in a kidnapping case, a day after the Islamabad High Court court approved his release.

Take a look: Second FIR registered against Mumbai attacks mastermind

The remand came in the wake of a second First Information Report (FIR) lodged against the alleged mastermind at the Golra Police Station in Islamabad. According to the First Information Report (FIR), Lakhvi was said to be involved in the abduction of a man named Anwar six and a half years ago.

Lakhvi's counsel Advocate Rizwan Abbasi petitioned to the court today. The application presented the stance that a false FIR had been registered against his client due to pressure from India, adding that there was no basis on which the case had been lodged.

The court summoned plaintiff Daud Khan tomorrow and subsequently adjourned the matter.

A court had granted Lakhvi bail on December 18, drawing an angry response from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Explore: ATC approves bail of Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi in Mumbai attacks case

After that ruling, authorities had detained him under a public order law. But on Monday, a judge had suspended his detention and set bail terms.

Examine: IHC orders conditional release of Mumbai attacks mastermind

Govt to challenge Lakhvi's conditional bail release in SC

The federal government has decided to challenge Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi's conditional bail release — granted by the Islamabad High Court — in the Supreme Court.

The petition will be filed by the Islamabad District Administration while the plea has been prepared by Attorney General Asif. It will present the stance that the IHC did not hear the government's version while granting bail to Lakhvi in its verdict.