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General Elections 2018: How to Register for Vote in Pakistan

By
Rabail Mansoor
-

For those who still haven’t registered their votes for the next general elections need to do so soon as the last day to register your vote in the electoral list has been extended till April 30.

In order to get their votes registered or get their details corrected, the Election Commission of Pakistan has asked the citizens to visit the District Election Commission or nearby display centres.

Apart from that, people also have the added facility of downloading the forms from the ECP website or through the display centres as well as the District Election Commission offices.

For those unaware, on May 31st, the current Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz government will step down. Once that happens, a caretaker setup will be seen taking over until the general elections take place at the end of July.

How to Check Voter Registration in Pakistan

Citizens can check their voter registration two ways according to the ECP.

how to check voter registration status by SMS

In collaboration with NADRA, the ECP has provided an SMS service where eligible voters can check their registration status. A text message with their CNIC number to 8300 can be sent by eligible voters. They will then receive an automated response with the name of the electoral area, serial number, and block code.

Visiting District Election Commissioner’s office

The final electoral roll is available at the respective District Election Commissioner’s office of registered voters. Following are the address or contact information for these offices across the four provinces.

Telephone numbers of RECs/DECs in KP province 

Telephone numbers of RECs/DECs in Punjab province 

Telephone numbers of RECs/DECs in Sindh province 

Telephone numbers of RECs/DECs in Balochistan province 

How to Register for Vote in Pakistan

If you are 18 years of age or older who can register by following the steps listed below.

  • An application along with a copy of CNIC needs to be submitted to the District Election Commissioner/Registration Office/Assistant Registration Office of the district where you want to get your name enrolled.
  • The form is available online at the ECP website or can be obtained free of cost from the office of the District Election Commissioner / Registration Officer OR Assistant Registration Officer/Display Centre In charge.

Here is the List of display centres 

The polling process will start at 8am on July 25 and end at 6pm on the same day.

Eligibility 

A person shall be entitled to be enrolled as a voter in an electoral area if he/she

(a) is a citizen of Pakistan;

(b) is not less than eighteen years of age;

(c) possesses a National Identity Card issued by the National Database and Registration Authority at any time till the last day fixed for inviting claims, objections and applications for preparation, revision or correction of electoral rolls;

(d) is not declared by a competent court to be of unsound mind; and

(e) is or is deemed under section 27 to be resident in the electoral area.

Have you registered yet?

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

Fakhar Zaman Creates History for Fatest 1,000 Career Runs in ODI Cicket

By
AFP
-

Captain Sarfraz Ahmed hailed “a great team effort” as Pakistan completed a series whitewash over Zimbabwe with a 131-run win in the fifth and final match on Sunday.

On another record-setting day in Bulawayo for the visitors, Fakhar Zaman became the fastest player in history to reach 1,000 career runs in one-day international cricket as Pakistan amassed 364 for 4.

“It was a great team effort to win 5-0 against Zimbabwe,” said Ahmed. “Everyone wanted to bat…but at the same time it’s really good to see young players performing like this, like Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq have been doing, which is good for the team.”

Ahmed looked ahead to the six-team Asia Cup in Abu Dhabi and Dubai in September.

“We learned lots of things here, and hopefully we’ll take that to the Asia Cup,” he said. “We definitely need some rest now, so we’ll go home for a bit before returning to training to prepare for the Asia Cup.”

Zaman and opening partner ul-Haq were in the runs once again, the pair adding their fourth-century stand of the series.

They had reached 168 in the 25th over when Zaman was caught behind for 85.

While he missed out on what would have been his third hundred of the series, he set a string of records.

Zaman passed 1,000 ODI runs in just his 18th innings, breaking the record of 21 innings held by five players, including Viv Richards and team-mate Babar Azam.

He claimed the record for most runs by a Pakistan batsman in a five-match bilateral series with 515, passing Salman Butt’s total against Bangladesh in 2008. Only Virat Kohli, who hit 558 for India in South Africa last winter, has scored more.

Zaman also broke the record for most runs between dismissals in ODIs, with 455, passing the 405 set by another Pakistani, Mohammad Yousuf, also against Zimbabwe, in 2002-3.

“I really enjoyed my time in Zimbabwe,” said Zaman, who was named Player of the Series.

“In 2016 I was here with Pakistan A, and now I’m back with the full Pakistan team and really enjoying my time here. I’m taking my time at the start and just punishing the bad deliveries. That was the main thing for me. I’ll work hard and hopefully, you’ll see me scoring more runs for my country.”

On a morning for batsmen, ul-Haq went on to reach his third century of the series, and though Shoaib Malik and Asif Ali fell cheaply, the carnage continued with Azam then racing to a century from 72 deliveries, his second fifty having taken just 17 balls.

— Stickability —

In response, Zimbabwe showed much more stackability with the bat than in the first four games of the series.

Hamilton Masakadza and Tinashe Kamunhukamwe shared a 66-run opening stand, Zimbabwe’s best of the series.

Though Zimbabwe never looked like threatening Pakistan’s total, the middle order did at least hold firm. Prince Masvaure made 39 and Ryan Murray contributed 47 – personal bests for both players in their short careers. Peter Moor finished off 44 not out in a 67-run stand with Elton Chigumbura, allowing Zimbabwe to reach 233 for 4.

“We were slightly better today, we weren’t 3 down for 30 for a change,” said Zimbabwe captain Masakadza. “A few of the guys have been introduced to international cricket. We’ve been shown just how big the gap is, and how much work there is to be done before our next series.”

Pepsi Battle of the Bands 3: Final List of Top 8 Bands is Out!

By
Ghazala Sulaiman
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Pepsi Battle of the Bands season 3 kicked off with a bang last week and the outstanding performances by the bands have created a splash on social media!

From Tamasha to Dhool, Aag to Sarmasta, Khamaaj to Ahl-e-Rock, the unveiling of the rising bands left us spellbound with their diverse musical skills.

The episode 2 is now out and we finally have our top 8 that will compete for a cash award of 50 lakhs, an album contract, concerts across Pakistan and Lifetime royalties of the songs recorded at Pepsi Battle of the Band.

The first band to perform was Kaghaz who sang a cover of ‘Tara Jala’ by Ali Azmat!

The female lead and vocalist clearly stood out and fresh vocals floored the judges! But it was her determination that awed the trio. Apparently, she just got married and flew to the audition set to rock the round!

Standing true to its name was Déjà vu, who performed the evergreen ‘Bolo Bolo’ by Sajjad Ali.

Their rendition had a touch of blues music and earned them a ticket to the next round.

Yet another of our favorite bands from season 2 made a comeback!

Stronger and even more powerful, OB Positive blew the judges away with ‘Ankhon ko Ankhon Ne by JJ’

Giving us a dose of ‘ambient rock’ was Aarish.

They received massive acclaim from the judges for their original received ‘Aasaman’

We got some major ‘Mehdi Hasan’ feels with Ranjish Hi Sahi performed by Easy Games!

The band went through some strong critique from the mentors but made it to the shortlist.

Bayaan brought their own flavor to the floor and sang an original ‘Farda’

The maturity of their sound surely impressed the critics who gave them a thumbs up for their show.

The youngsters on the show ’21 The Band’ clearly stole the spotlight with their high on energy performance.

Presenting the punk rock genre to the season, the young squad had set the stage on fire.

The judges finally announced the top 8 and the lucky ones that made it to the next round are…

*Drum roll*

  1. Tamasha
  2. Bayaan
  3. Xarb
  4. Kaghaz,
  5. Sarmasta
  6. 21 the band
  7. Khamaj
  8. Dejavu.

The battle has just begun and is bound to get more intense! But what we are more excited about is the arrival of Strings in the upcoming episodes.

Can’t wait to see the ultimate boss band on Pepsi Battle of the Bands!

 

 

Famous Karachi Chaat & Juice Center Faces Backlash for Unhygienic Storage!

By
Rabail Mansoor
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Karachi’s love for food knows no bounds. From juice centers and street food to fine dining and fast food; we, Karachiites love to eat!

But of late, local restaurants and cafe’s have come under the scanner for not following health standards set by the food authorities. Recently, much loved, Butlers Chocolate Cafe faced backlash for drying their serving trays in the washroom.

Butlers Chocolate Cafe Sealed by PFA!

And now, one of the most famous chaat and juice house in Karachi, Flamingo, is under scrutiny as well!

Iqra Aziz Had a Twitter Debate With Iqra ul Hassan & Guess Who Won?

Loved for their juices and spicy chaats, Flamingo (in Clifton) has always been a favorite among the locals. So imagine their shock when a post shared by a fellow Karachiite on Facebook brought out the ugly reality behind this local chaat house.

Here’s what it read:

For all those who visit Flamingo restaurant for thr Chaats, juices and burgers, this is just for them.
They carry the chutneys in filthy drums and all the stuff related to the chaats in a plastic bag and bring them here in a van which is by no means clean.
The yellow drums are used to carry water, im sure for the juices. Not that theyd use mineral water for it.
Just an eye opener for everyone who visit there often.

After reading such a post, you can just imagine the shock and dismay of fans of the eatery, who were not expecting such unsanitary practices carried out by their favorite eatery!

However, one person had another entirely different tale to tell! This “investigator” shared that he went to the owner of Flamingo and asked about the pictures, only to be told that it is a misunderstanding!

Here’s what the owner had to say according to a Facebook user:

Well, we are still not sure about who to believe, but I guess at the end of the day, as the saying goes “a picture is worth a thousand words”!

Have you ever visited Flamingo? Tell us in the comments.

Iqra Aziz Had a Twitter Debate With Iqra ul Hassan & Guess Who Won?

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

‘Teefa In Trouble’ Review: 5 Reasons Why the Movie is a Must Watch!

By
Omair Alavi
-

Teefa In Trouble is no more in trouble as the film released to packed houses all over Pakistan today. Ali Zafar’s first Pakistani film has him don several hats and he doesn’t disappoint with one.

The film may seem a typical boy-girl-l-love-story but there’s more than meets the eye for those who plan to go and watch the film. There is a party of protesters that want people to boycott films but I urge the audience to think rationally and watch the film because it will prove to be a game changer for Pakistani cinema.

The film has gone to a level where hardly any Pakistani film has gone before and if the buzz is to be believed, it is going to be a smash hit in coming weeks.

1. Ali Zafar – The Rock Star

Where will you be watching #TeefaInTrouble?

A post shared by Ali Zafar (@ali_zafar) on


We all know that Ali Zafar is the biggest Rock Star we have in the country; however, we didn’t know that he could write a film, compose its songs, pen the lyrics, sing them beautifully and produce the film at the same time as acting in it.

The film revolves around his character and he proves that if given the chance, he can carry the whole movie on his shoulders. He looks Teefa than Ali Zafar and that’s one of the reasons why his fans will watch the film again and again!

2. Maya Ali – The Innocent ‘Victim’

 She can act, she can dance and she can definitely look drop dead gorgeous without trying hard. Yes in some scenes Maya could have done a better job but hey, it’s her first film in which she plays the bone of contention between 2 friends.

Like a Runway bride, she runs away from her own home so that she could elope with her gora boyfriend but her views on love change when she falls in love with the kidnapper. She displays the kind of innocence which we usually don’t see in our film heroines and if she tries on different roles, she might even have a big career ahead of her.

3. Ahsan Rahim – The Showman

He has been around for over 20 years but Ahsan Rahim didn’t venture into films despite being an ace ad maker and a brilliant sitcom director, not to mention his acting stints in the mid-90s.

He must have been looking for an actor who could act as if his life depended on the role; a writer who could pen super dialogues; a team of music composers, lyricist and singer who could match the scale of his production and a producer who could understand his love for films.

In Ali Zafar, he found the perfect partner and went onto pen a story with him, then direct the flick to perfection and edit it like a pro, making it look shorter than the original 2 hours and 35-minute duration.

Not once do you realize that you are watching a Pakistani film and not many films have managed to give you that impression in a long long time.

4. Zain Haleem – The Ace Cinematographer

He has been around for quite some time but Zain Haleem announced his arrival as a world-class cinematographer with Teefa In Trouble.

Only a person with command over his work would go for the different angles that Zain did – the scene where Ali Zafar is talking to his conscious, where he is recovering after a fight, where he goes underwater, every scene is fabulously done.

He enjoys a good rapport with his director as well since they were part of the team that produced possibly the best TV commercials in the last 10 years.

5. Shani Arshad – The Background King


Veteran film director late Javed Fazil used to say that there is no background score in Pakistan but foreground score and he was dead right because background score wasn’t given much importance, until now.

Shani Arshad the music composer who has been a big part of the film revival gave a background for Teefa In Trouble that is of international standard. You don’t feel the music taking over dialogues throughout the film as it complements the scenes in the best possible manner.

Be it the score when everything is dull or when action is taking place, it is near-perfect and one of the reasons why you would love the film even more.

Iqra Aziz Had a Twitter Debate With Iqrar ul Hassan & Guess Who Won?

By
Rabail Mansoor
-

‘Suno Chanda’ actress, Iqra Aziz is definitely an empowered woman with a voice and some pretty strong opinions!

The pretty starlet has never shied away from speaking her mind and voicing her thoughts on social media.

And this time too, she spoke up about a serious matter.

✋ #nofilter #2k18

A post shared by Iqra Aziz✨ (@iiqraaziz) on

Reham Khan Accuses Imran Khan Of Practicing Black Magic!

However, she wasn’t expecting the response she would receive on her tweet later on!

Over the last couple of months, women empowerment has been a topic of avid discussion. This was mainly due to the shocking allegations of sexual harassment that singer cum actress Meesha Shafi made against Ali Zafar, sparking an outrage in the nation.

And of course, our pretty actress had her opinion on the matter as well!

Sharing her own two-cents on the matter, she reminded her followers that it’s not just men who should respect women but women too must do that!

It’s not only the men who need to respect women, women too need to respect other women.

As expected, her tweet instantly went viral and received a mixed response with some agreeing with Iqra while others couldn’t get over her statement.

One such person in particular person being the ARY anchor, Iqrar Ul Hassan!

 

The popular television anchor responded to Iqra’s tweet and asked the actress about respecting men.

And there’s no one to respect men ??

However, the ‘Khamoshi’ star didn’t lose her cool and calmy counteracted:

I’m not even talking about men here, i’m only talking about women. We always say, “MEN SHOULD RESPECT WOMEN.” Lekin agar ek aurat dusri aurat ki izzat aur morals ko nahi samjhti, then how do you expect the world to stand for you.

And it seems that her point won the famous anchor over! Replying to her tweet, he stated:

Agreed !! Infact everyone should respect everyone. Respect for you.

A positive message for all – it’s nice to see some of the biggest influencers from our society stepping up to promote such a wonderful thought!

What did you think of Iqra’s tweet? Tell us in the comments.

Imran Ashraf’s Wedding Was a Star-Studded Affair!

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

Feroze Khan Loses His Cool at Protesters at Teefa in Trouble Premiere

By
Rabail Mansoor
-

Ali Zafar is perhaps one of the biggest celebrities we have today in Pakistan’s entertainment industry.

The star has always been in the spotlight for his various acting and singing trysts. His fans clearly cannot get enough of him.

However, over the last few months, the much-talked-about Meesha Shafi and Ali Zafar’s sexual harassment case has led to Teefa being in the media for all the wrong reasons.

Imran Ashraf’s Wedding Was a Star-Studded Affair!

Facing extreme backlash, the ‘Mere Brother Ki Dulhan’ star has remained mum about the scandal and has channeled his energy towards promoting his movie instead.

However, at the premiere of “Teefa in Trouble” last night, protestors lined up outside the cinemas around town with banners to boycott Ali Zafar!

Apparently, the crowd was in no mood to tolerate the screening of the movie after hearing the allegations made against him by Meesha Shafi.

Coming to Ali’s aid was Feroze Khan who defended the singer against the protestors outside Nueplex Cinemas (Defence branch).

Arriving at the premiere, Feroze was seen trying to cool down the lot. However, he finally lost the battle and also, his temper!

After reasoning with the crowd proved to be futile, Feroze was also spotted silencing the mob with unexpected gestures.

Well! That was certainly a shocking behavior from the much loved ‘Khaani’ actor.

And apparently, the internet agrees! People were seen bashing the actor on Twitter for his behavior and for standing up for Ali!

Have you seen ‘Teefa in Trouble’ yet? Tell us in the comments.

Reham Khan Accuses Imran Khan Of Practicing Black Magic!

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

Dr Who Gets a Female Touch

By
AFP
-

British actress Jodie Whittaker was unveiled Thursday as the first woman to play “Doctor Who,” telling fans of the cult BBC series she felt the weight of history — but that gender should be irrelevant these days.

The 36-year-old, who rose to fame in the award-winning British drama “Broadchurch”, takes over from Scottish actor Peter Capaldi as the 13th incarnation of the Time Lord.

“I knew, obviously, being the first female it was going to have some extra responsibility thrown in,” she told 6,500 fans at the annual Comic-Con fan convention in San Diego, which hosted the cast’s first news conference together.

“It’s incredibly inclusive, and it also feels, knowing that the fans are all over the world, like this huge Whovian family that you want to be a part of because it’s so supportive and inclusive, and fun.”

Fans were treated last year to a brief glimpse of Whittaker, walking towards the Tardis in a forest, in a clip shown after the Wimbledon tennis final on BBC television.

At Comic-Con, which attracts 130,000 movie, TV and comics fans from around the world, BBC America dropped the first full trailer which opened with Whittaker’s startled expression.

“All of this is new to me,” she says, presumably after just regenerating. “New faces, new worlds. New times. So if I asked really, really nicely, would you be my new best friends?”

There were glimpses of the Doctor with her new sonic screwdriver, some impressive-looking shots of alien worlds and the first look at the Doctor’s new companions Yasmin, Ryan and Graham.

– ‘She just nailed it’ –

The trio is played by Mandip Gill and Tosin Cole, both of whom were at the panel, and Bradley Walsh, who didn’t make it to San Diego.

The adventures of the Doctor — a time travelling, humanoid alien who traverses the universe — have maintained a fervent following since they were first aired in 1963.

The new season gets a 10-episode run and although there is no announced release date, fans are expecting it to return in October.

Whittaker will work alongside “Broadchurch” creator Chris Chibnall, who takes over from Steven Moffat as the new showrunner.

“She just walked in the room she was the Doctor. It was one of those things where you don’t know what you’re looking for until you see it, and the energy she bought was just the Doctor — but it was new, it was fresh,” said Chibnall.

“It was very funny, very emotional. It’s really exciting as a showrunner when you see them audition and you want to write instantly, and it suggests scenes. That’s what happened really — she just nailed it.”

The show is aired around the world and marked its 50th anniversary four years ago with a special episode screened simultaneously in nearly 100 countries.

“The thing about this role, which is why it’s so amazing for any actor to play, is that essentially gender is irrelevant and that’s completely liberating,” Whittaker told the audience.

“As a woman who isn’t a genre, is just a woman, I have never approached a role thinking, ‘Oh, how do women do this?’ I’ve just done it from my perspective.”

Whittaker described her first day on set, filming The Doctor regenerating from Peter Capaldi’s incarnation to hers, as “incredibly nerve-racking.”

“I was in somebody else’s costume, I was on their set, in their TARDIS. I was nervous to touch anything. I felt very much as if I was in someone else’s shoes,” she laughed.

Pakistan Tour of England 2019 Schedule Announced!

By
Anusha Sachwani
-

Pakistan cricket team will face England right before the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019! The Men in Green will take on the English men in a 5-match ODI series and T20i matches in May 2019.

The tour will give the national team a chance to formulate the perfect winning strategy against a tough team like their opponent ahead of the 2019 World Cup.

The series will be held in England and Wales.

Pakistan vs England 2019 Schedule

The following is the Pakistan tour of England schedule for 2019;

May 5 — Only T20I at Cardiff

May 8 — First ODI (D/N) at Kia Oval

May 11 — 2nd ODI at Ageas Bowl

May 14 — 3rd ODI (D/N) at Bristol

May 17 — 4th ODI (D/N) at Trent Bridge

May 19 — 5th ODI at Leeds

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

Fakhar Zaman-Inspired Pakistan Dominate Zimbabwe

PIA’s Youngest Female Senior Aircraft Technician is Winning Hearts

By
Anusha Sachwani
-

When Justin Trudeau was chosen Prime Minister of Canada, he was asked why was it important for him to choose a cabinet which is gender biased, to which he replied, “Because it’s 2015!”

Fast forward to 3 years of this celebrated statement, we have seen the women of Pakistan also take up challenging roles in society to break all norms and stereotyping!

Our unsung heroes excel in many fields in this day and age, however, often go unappreciated.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) wanted to show their appreciation for the hard working and dedication of the women behind incredible journeys.

Recently, PIA praised one such talented young lady, the youngest Senior Aircraft Technician named Eeman Faheem who was caught in a candid moment while changing the brake assembly harness of the Airbus.

14 Pakistani Female Pilots Who Dared to Conquer the Skies!

Social Media Trolls Eeman Faheen

While it has made us immensely proud to know that there are women out there who are breaking shackles to make their dreams come true, we are even more happy to know that there are many people who appreciate their hard work.

Unfortunately, there are also some who need an excuse to troll such amazing individuals because they themselves can never make it in that position themselves, a few examples of such people are as below;

It is really sad and sick to see that in 2018 this is the mentality most of the people have in a prospering Pakistan. Acceptance is key to develop a country so that it can provide for its people and cater to their needs. However, in a society which the majority of the people think that a girl belongs to the kitchen, or she cannot do a man’s job, the need to change this backwards conservative ‘soch’ is highly necessary.

Time and time again in history, whether it dates back to the Prophet’s time or even before, women have played a very important role in the development of society and in raising a brighter mindset to give back to the nation.

Previously, the national airlines covered the story of their brave Captain, Maryam Masood and First Officer, Shumaila Mazhar, for a successful flight to Gilgit from Islamabad.

PIA’s Female Pilots Ridiculously Trolled for Flying to Gilgit!

Kudos to you Eeman and to all the other young gals out there working day and night to make their dreams come true!

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

Facebook Once Again Caught in Fresh Controversy

By
AFP
-

Facebook found itself embroiled anew in controversy Thursday after chief executive Mark Zuckerberg argued the leading social network should not filter out posts denying the Holocaust.

The comments by Zuckerberg drew fierce criticism and appeared to undermine Facebook’s latest effort to root out hate speech, violence and misinformation on its platform.

In an interview with tech website Recode on Wednesday, Zuckerberg said that while Facebook was dedicated to stopping the spread of fake news, it would not filter out posts just on the basis of being factually wrong — including from Holocaust deniers and the conspiracy theory website Infowars.

“I’m Jewish, and there’s a set of people who deny that the Holocaust happened,” he said in the interview.

“I find that deeply offensive. But at the end of the day, I don’t believe that our platform should take that down because I think there are things that different people get wrong. I don’t think that they’re intentionally getting it wrong.”

Critics quickly lashed out at Zuckerberg over the comments, saying these kinds of comments can incite hatred and violence.

“Holocaust denial is the quintessential ‘fake news,'” said Abraham Cooper of the Simon Wiesenthal Center, a rights group named for a famed Nazi hunter.

“The Nazi Holocaust is the most documented atrocity in history, allowing the canard of Holocaust denial to be posted on Facebook, or any other social media platform cannot be justified in the name of ‘free exchange of ideas.'”

Zeynep Tufekci, a University of North Carolina professor who follows social media said on Twitter: “Harder to find a group of people more *intentional* about “denying” an atrocity in order to pave the way for more violence than holocaust-deniers.”

Zuckerberg later emailed Recode to clarify his comments, stating that if something is spreading and rated as false by the site’s fact checkers, “it would lose the vast majority of its distribution” on user feeds and that “if a post crossed line into advocating for violence or hate against a particular group, it would be removed.”

– Distraction from new effort –

The episode was an unwelcome distraction for Facebook after it held a media briefing on the company’s new policy to remove bogus posts likely to spark violence.

The new tactic being spread through the global social network was tested in Sri Lanka, which was recently rocked by inter-religious violence over false information posted on the platform.

Jennifer Grygiel, a social media professor at Syracuse University, said that despite Facebook’s ramped up efforts it needs far more people to weed out posts that can be harmful on a platform with some two billion users worldwide.

Zuckerberg “needs to figure out content moderation and he can’t do it without more people. This has life and death implications” Grygiel told AFP.

“I don’t think he understand the decisions he makes has real-world implications for democracy.”

Facebook has been blamed for failing to curb incitations to violence against the Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar and its WhatsApp messaging service has been implicated in lynchings and mob violence in India.

The latest controversy comes with Facebook seeking to repair the damage from misinformation spread on the platform during the 2016 US election campaign and the hijacking of private data by consulting firm Cambridge Analytica as it worked on Donald Trump’s campaign.

At the same time, Facebook has been accused by some politicians in Washington of bias in filtering out conservative voices.

Some analysts said Facebook faces a difficult task in seeking to filter out misinformation and calls to violence and conform with regulations on hate speech in various countries while still remaining an open platform that allows free speech.

“Facebook is in over its head but nobody has a full answer,” said Tufekci in a tweet.

Fellow North Carolina professor Daniel Kreiss responded by saying “the issues are *really* challenging — a big problem is that FB never thought about any of the implications of its platform, data, speech policies, or misinformation before 2016, even as many of us were raising concerns.”

Fresh Warning Issued to WhatsApp Over Lynching Deaths

By
AFP
-

WhatsApp could face legal action in India if it does not take further steps to tackle the spread of false rumours, the government said Thursday, in fresh criticism of the platform over a spate of lynchings.

More than 20 people have been killed by mobs in the past two months across the country after being accused of child kidnapping and other crimes in viral messages circulated on WhatsApp.

Under pressure from authorities to end the spread of “fake news”, the hugely popular smartphone service has introduced new features to help users identify messages that have been forwarded.

But in a strongly worded statement released Thursday, India’s information technology ministry said the action taken was not enough.

“Rampant circulation of irresponsible messages in large volumes on their platform have not been addressed adequately by WhatsApp,” it said.

“When rumours and fake news get propagated by mischief-mongers, the medium used for such propagation cannot evade responsibility and accountability.

“If (WhatsApp) remain, mute spectators, they are liable to be treated as abettors and thereafter face consequent legal action.”

WhatsApp has also bought full-page adverts in Indian newspapers with tips on how to spot misinformation.

But the platform has refused to snoop on user content to help authorities crack down on the issue, citing privacy protection.

In its statement, the ministry called on WhatsApp to enable the “traceability” of provocative or inflammatory messages when an official request is made.

India’s Supreme Court earlier this week asked the government to enact a new law to stem what it called “horrendous acts” of lynching and punish offenders.

Lynchings based on misjudgement or malicious information are not a new phenomenon in India. But the spread of smartphones and internet access in the country’s poorest and most isolated areas has exacerbated the problem.

An engineer was killed in a mob attack last week in the southern state of Karnataka, while five people were lynched in neighbouring Maharashtra on July 1.

The government had taken WhatsApp to task earlier this month for the “irresponsible and explosive messages” being shared among its 200 million Indian users — the company’s largest market.

In response to that criticism, WhatsApp said it was “horrified” by the violence and announced changes that it said would reduce the spread of unwanted messages.

New Study Shows How Dehydration Impairs Cognitive Performance

By
AFP
-

A new US review has revealed how dehydration can affect cognitive function, with just a couple of hours of vigorous activity in the summer heat without drinking fluids enough to affect concentration.

Marriott Internatioal Joins Anti-Straw Crusade

Carried out by Georgia Institute of Technology, the new meta-analysis looked at 33 studies with 413 subjects in total and focused on the effects of acute dehydration on cognition, which anyone can experience during exertion, heat and/or not drinking.

After statistically analyzing the studies, the team found that functions including attention, coordination and complex problem solving suffered the most. The results also showed that the majority of participants increasingly made errors during attention-related tasks that were mostly repetitive and unexciting, such as punching a button.

Activities such as reacting quickly when prompted also diminished, although not as much.

“The simplest reaction time tasks were least impacted, even as dehydration got worse, but tasks that require attention were quite impacted,” said the study’s principal investigator Mindy Millard-Stafford.

“Maintaining focus in a long meeting, driving a car, a monotonous job in a hot factory that requires you to stay alert are some of them. Higher-order functions like doing math or applying logic also dropped off.”

The researchers warned that dehydration could even increase the risk of an accident, for example in situations that combine heavy sweating and dangerous machinery.

As for when dehydration can occur and cause these mental lapses, the researchers say there is no exact rule. However, from the studies included in the review, which looked at a 1 to 6 percent loss of body mass due to dehydration, it seems that more severe impairments start at 2 percent, a number also found in other related studies.

“There’s already a lot of quantitative documentation that if you lose 2 percent in water it affects physical abilities like muscle endurance or sports tasks and your ability to regulate your body temperature,” said Millard-Stafford, adding that, “If you weigh 200 pounds and you go work out for a few of hours, you drop four pounds, and that’s 2 percent body mass.”

“If you drop 4 or 5 percent, you’re going to feel really crummy,” Millard-Stafford said. “Water is the most important nutrient.”

However, she warned that you can you can have too much water. “Some people overly aggressively, out of a fear of dehydration, drink so much water that they dilute their blood and their brain swells,” which can in extreme cases even lead to death.

She also added that although too much salt is bad for sedentary people or those with high blood pressure, those who are sweating a lot need some salt in order to retain the water they drink.

The results can be found published online in the journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise.

Omega 3 Supplements Have Little or no Benefit for Heart Health

Elections 2018: Overseas Pakistanis Wont Be Able To Vote!

By
Rabail Mansoor
-

Contrary to what Pakistanis residing oversees had believed, those residing abroad will not be able to vote in the upcoming elections.

Upcoming Public Holiday on 25th July Across Pakistan!

The officials of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) on Wednesday stated that:

Overseas Pakistanis will not be able to vote in the forthcoming general election in the country.

The officials revealed that Pakistanis abroad were being misled into believing that they would be able to cast their vote in the upcoming elections due to various campaigns on social media.

They further clarified that no decision has been taken regarding the online voting facility.

Online voting for overseas Pakistanis can be experimented in by-polls.

Pakistanis abroad will have to come to the country for using their right to vote in the general election.

The Chief Justice of Pakistan, Saqib Nisar, hearing the case pertaining to dual citizenship of judges and civil servants, Justice Nisar had stated:

Overseas Pakistanis have exercised enough patience. We will provide them with the right to cast votes.

However, with questions raised against the reliability of the e-voting system, the matter still remains sub-judice with the Supreme Court of Pakistan.

Imran Ashraf’s Wedding Was a Star-Studded Affair!

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

Reham Khan Accuses Imran Khan Of Practicing Black Magic!

By
Rabail Mansoor
-

Reham Khan’s biography has been in the news for quite some time now.

From the time it was announced to when its excerpts were leaked online, it claimed to unveil several “truths” about her ex-husband, Imran Khan.

Now that it has been launched, people cannot stop talking about it!

Stating allegations about drug abuse, illegitimate children and even raising questions on his sexual orientation; Reham has left no stone unturned to defame the PTI Chief.

But what has caught our attention was the chapter in the book where she implied that Imran believed in the existence of black magic!

This is How Reham Khan Claims Imran Khan Proposed Her!

Narrating one such incident in her book, she reveals an incident where she had walked in on ‘Kaptaan’ practicing one such strange ritual.

“On a day in November, I’d walk into the bedroom to find my new husband lying naked on a white sheet, rubbing kaali daal (black lentils) all over himself…I stood there in shock. Imran explained that Ahad, his brother-in-law, had brought a man with him who had recommended the treatment, because he believed someone had done some black magic on Imran”

She revealed how upon questioning the politician for such an act, he explained that according to his Pir, the ritual will uplift the curse upon him.

What is more shocking that in a recent interview with a local news channel, Reham implied that the politician even practiced the evil craft.

https://www.facebook.com/162413744404687/videos/229265747719486/

However, this is not the first time that Reham has made such accusations against the former cricketer.

When the couple had divorced, she was seen hinting that black magic had been involved in a tweet.

Well! We are certainly appalled by such statements from Reham – what about you? Tell us in the comments.

Imran Ashraf’s Wedding Was a Star-Studded Affair!

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

New Renault Mégane R.S. Trophy boosts the Renault Sport line-up

By
AFP
-

European performance car fans can look forward to the even greater performance and plenty of dynamic design thanks to a new Renault Mégane R.S.

The trophy that’s just been launched. This exciting new model will boost the Renault Sports line-up by extending the family of Trophy versions produced since the first generation of Mégane R.S. kicked things off.

This new Mégane R.S. Trophy is more than just a tuned-up version of the regular car as under the hood there’s a brand-new version of Renault’s 1.8-liter turbo engine making its debut.

This new powerplant ups the power output of the Mégane to an impressive 300 horsepower and 420 Nm of torque, and it’s the first time an R.S model has produced that kind of power.

The significant power boost is largely due to the use of pioneering technologies, especially for the turbocharger and an exhaust system capable of altering the engine note, which is also firsts for this new Mégane R.S. Trophy. Buyers have the opportunity to combine the new engine with their preferred choice between a six-speed manual or a six-speed EDC (Efficient dual-clutch) gearbox.

There are plenty of other performance upgrades to differentiate this Mégane R.S. Trophy from the standard Mégane R.S. The car is built on the Cup chassis, which boasts stiffer suspension and a Torsen mechanical limited slip differential.

The R.S. Trophy gets further enhanced with the inclusion of bi-material front brake discs, and a set of specific 19-inch ‘Jerez’ alloy wheels with high-performance Bridgestone tires. Performance can be improved a little further by pairing the tires with some new, exclusive lighter wheels to reduce the total unsprung weight of the car by 8kg.

As well as being designed to deliver a thrilling drive on the track, the new Mégane R.S. Trophy is also designed to be equally as adept for everyday use. This is ensured by the driver being able to select different driving modes using the Multi-Sense system and with features such as the advanced R.S. Vision lighting system and the R.S. Monitor telemetry and data acquisition system.

High praise for the new car comes from Nico Hülkenberg, the Renault Sports Formula One Team driver and Renault Sports ambassador. Nico says “I have been involved in the Mégane R.S. development process since last year and I’m very pleased to see an even sportier version added to the family!

Each of the new features on New Renault Mégane R.S.Trophy offers greater sports performance and feel. It’s obviously positive to have more power and better grip through the tires and to benefit from improved braking endurance. I also enjoyed the feeling offered by the new seats: the support they provide for sports driving is excellent.”

The Mégane R.S. Trophy will be available to order from the autumn, with deliveries starting in the winter.

Pakistani Cricketer Usman Qadir Ties the Knot with a Stage Actress

By
Anusha Sachwani
-

Former Test leg-spinner Abdul Qadir’s son, Usman Qadir, has tied the knot with ‘Chain Aye Na’ film actress Sobia Khan.

Khan confirmed the news on her social media. However, it is being reported that Abdul Qadir has broken ties with his son over this marriage as he was against the decision of marrying a stage artist.

 

Imran Ashraf’s Wedding Was a Star-Studded Affair!

Because Usman is currently busy playing cricket, the couple did not have their ‘Rusksati‘ and it will be held next year instead. The actress has added that she will not perform in theatre but will stick to TV dramas and movies.

Sobia Khan was born in Karachi where she received her early education before her family shifted to Lahore.

She stepped into the film industry by making her debut in a Pashto film ‘Kafira’. Besides acting in films, she also performs at the stage in Lahore.

Usman Qadir is a left-arm spinner, who has represented Pakistan under-19 team in the World Cup. He is the brother-in-law of Test cricketer Umer Akmal.

Abdul Qadir Khan is a former Pakistani international cricketer whose main role was as a leg spin bowler. Later he was a commentator and Chief Selector of the Pakistan Cricket Board, from which post he resigned because of differences with the top brass of Pakistan cricket. Qadir appeared in 67 Test and 104 One Day International (ODI) matches between 1977 and 1993 and captained the Pakistan cricket team in five ODIs.

Congratulations to the couple!

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

Pakistan Crush Zimbabwe, Take 3-0 Lead in ODI Series

Imran Ashraf’s Wedding Was a Star-Studded Affair!

By
Rabail Mansoor
-

Love is in the air for stars of Pakistan’s entertainment industry.

With several of the biggest celebrities getting hitched this year, including the heartthrob Feroze Khan as well as the beautiful Aisha Khan; yet another actor has tied the knot!

Momina Mustehsan Is Partying Around The World With These Bollywood Celebrities!

In a grand celebration, the ‘Ishq Nachaya’ actor Imran Ashraf got married to  Kiran Ashfaq last night and it was truly a night to remember!

Apart from close family and friends, the celebrations included some of the biggest stars of the industry, including Humayun Saeed, Muneeb Butt, Ali Safina and Asma Abbas.

Making a grand entry, Imran looked positively regal in a black ‘sherwani’.

Live: Here is #Imranashraf #imrankishaddi #irfanistanofficial #irfanistanupdates

A post shared by IRFANISTAN (@irfanistanofficial) on

Followed by his ‘gang’ who brought in the baraat, dancing their way into the hall!

Accompanied by friends and family, Kiran looks like a vision draped in a beautiful red ‘lehnga’ as she enters the venue.

And look how adorable the two look as they walk hand in hand towards the stage!

The happy couple posing for the shutterbugs…

And taking a selfie with Sana Shahnawaz and Ramsha Kohati.

A grand night with some of the biggest stars in attendance!

Including our very own ‘Jal Pari’ actress, Neelam Muneer Khan!

Latest Wedding ceremony of #imranashraf & #kiranimran

A post shared by Pakistani Celebrities (@ayshakhan_1) on

Pakistani heartthrob and ‘Jawani Phir Nahi Ani’ actor, Humayun Saeed looked dapper as he posed for pictures with his wife, Samina.

The thrilled groom was seen shaking a leg on the dance floor!

And making a surprise appearance was none other than PTI Chief, Imran Khan – Okay we are just kidding but the PTI anthem was heard playing at the event!

Such excitement and happiness in the air that even the graceful Asma Abbas couldn’t resist joining in the celebrations!

A grand night indeed, we wish the beautiful couple all the best and much happiness!

What did you think of the pictures? Tell us in the comments.

Load Wedding Trailer: Indians Give it a Thumbs Up!

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

Android Software puts Google at Heart of Mobile Life

By
AFP
-

The Google Android operating system, the target of a long-running EU antitrust investigation, powers the vast majority of the world’s smartphones and firmly rules the mobile world.

Android software acts as the brains for mobile devices, coordinating tasks from phone calls and map directions to games, Twitter posts, or online searches.

Google, the revenue-pumping heart of corporate parent Alphabet, makes Android available free to device makers, earning money from ads, content or subscriptions at online services crafted to work smoothly with the operating system.

According to industry tracker Gartner, Android dominated the smartphone market with a share of 85.9 percent last year, to around 14 percent for Apple’s iOS.

Some 1.3 billion Android smartphones were sold last year, compared with approximately 215 million running on iOS and 1.5 million with other operating systems, according to the research firm.

The first version of Android was released a decade ago.

In a playful way, Google has named Android iterations after tasty treats including Kit Kat, Marshmallow, and Nougat. A fresh version, Android P, is in beta testing mode and is expected to be given a yummier monicker before it is officially released.

– Free to tinker –

Android is “open source,” meaning that device makers can use it free of charge and customize it as they wish.

This led to complaints that the world of Android was “forked,” with the compatibility of applications inconsistent and device makers slow or reluctant to push updated versions or security patches to users.

Apple, in contrast, tightly controls its software and hardware, so an application that works on one device works on all. Apple also prides itself on pushing the most up-to-date version of iOS out to mobile devices.

While Android operating system software is free, EU authorities claim Google uses its leverage to get mobile device makers to install its other mobile apps like YouTube, Chrome, Gmail, Maps and Translate to cement its dominant position.

Android is used by a host of mobile device makers, including South Korea-based Samsung, which is the world’s top smartphone maker in terms of volume.

Before Google shook up the market with Android, gadget makers paid to license operating systems or relied on their own.

Microsoft took that approach with the operating system for Windows Phone, before surrendering the market in the face of runaway success by Android and Apple.

– Pixel –

Google makes its own premium Pixel smartphones, which showcase the capabilities of Android and are kept up to date with software improvements. Pixel smartphones account for only a small sliver of the market.

According to EU investigators, Google has required device makers to install its search engine and the Google Chrome browser on phones, and to set Google Search as the default, as a condition for licensing some Google apps.

The California tech giant disputes this, saying mobile device manufacturers, if they wish, can install applications that compete with those offered by Google.

For example, Samsung smartphones can come new with Chrome and another web browsing program built-in, or offer both Google Pay and Samsung Pay digital wallets for use.

Android users are free to patronize online venues other than the Google Play Store for apps, games, music or other digital content.

Google does promote its own services as being optimized for Android, and backed by “cloud” computing capabilities for backing up data and being able to shift seamlessly between devices such as smartphones and laptop computers.

Daniel Castro of the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation, a Washington think tank, said Google’s strategy tries to “limit fragmentation across Android devices” so as to attract application makers and protect the reputation of the brand.

Pakistan Crush Zimbabwe, Take 3-0 Lead in ODI Series

By
AFP
-

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed hailed “a great performance” after his team sealed a series win by strolling to a nine-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the third one-day international on Wednesday.

Seamer Faheem Ashraf was the pick of a bristling Pakistani attack, taking a career best five for 22 as the hosts were skittled for just 67.

Opener Fakhar Zaman then continued his good run of form to see Pakistan home in the 10th over with an unbeaten 43.

“First of all, a great performance,” said Ahmed. “Ashraf is getting better day by day. He’s an allrounder, and we need him.”

Once again Zimbabwe won the toss and opted to bat first, but their slide began as early as the second over.

Prince Masvaure, on his debut, was caught out by a lifter from Usman Khan and Zimbabwe were under immediate pressure at 1 for 1.

The hosts were wobbling at 26 for 3 when Ashraf came on as first change in the 10th over, and he quickly had Peter Moor brilliantly caught in the slips by Babar Azam before trapping Chamu Chibhabha leg before wicket with a skidding full delivery.

He then had Elton Chigumbura caught behind and bowled Ryan Murray as Zimbabwe slipped to a perilous 54 for 8.

– Clean bowled –

Tailenders Wellington Masakadza and Blessing Muzarabani clung on for seven overs, but leg-spinner Shadab Khan eventually removed Muzarabani with a googly and Ashraf then returned to end the innings with a pinpoint yorker.

That delivery clean bowled number 11 Richard Ngarava, giving Ashraf his maiden international five-wicket haul.

Zimbabwe’s 67 was their lowest ever total against Pakistan, and the lowest score ever recorded in 78 ODIs at Queens Sports Club.

“I try to bowl in good areas and a stump to stump line,” said Ashraf.

“Our bowling coach [Azhar Mahmood] puts in a lot of effort. He’s really helped us to get better, and a lot of credit for my first five-for in international cricket goes to him.”

In response, Pakistan lost Imam ul Haq to the first ball of the chase, gloving a quick bouncer from Muzarabani through to wicketkeeper Ryan Murray.

Zaman was also struck on the grille of his helmet by a short one from Ngarava, but he quickly recovered his composure and ended the match in a flurry of boundaries.

He struck seven fours in the space of 10 deliveries to seal the match and give Pakistan an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series.

“A bit of a disaster really,” said Zimbabwe captain Hamilton Masakadza.

“Today we’ve gone quite a long way backward, but these things happen in cricket. As a batting group, we have a lot of hard questions to ask ourselves,” he said.

“The main thing is to stay positive because once you go in that direction and get down on yourself it’s very hard to come back.”

The teams will play two further matches, on Friday and Sunday, at the same ground.

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