Asian Horizon Network

Pakistan's latest decision to tighten restrictions on foreign journalists has sparked widespread criticism from international media organisations and human rights groups, with many warning that the move could further weaken press freedom and obstruct independent reporting. The new measures come at a time when global attention remains focused on protests in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), where demonstrations over governance and administrative issues have continued to gain momentum.

The controversy stems from the introduction of the Foreign Media Facilitation Guidelines 2026 by Pakistan's Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Under the new rules, foreign correspondents and Pakistani journalists working for international media organisations must obtain prior approval before carrying out reporting assignments outside Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi. The guidelines also require journalists, foreign media outlets, local fixers and contributors to register with the ministry. Additionally, foreign reporters travelling to designated sensitive areas, including Abbottabad and Murree, must secure a No Objection Certificate (NOC), even for personal visits.

The regulations have drawn sharp reactions from press freedom advocates, who argue that they significantly expand government oversight of journalism and could discourage independent reporting on politically sensitive developments. Critics believe the new framework gives authorities greater control over where and how journalists can work, making it more difficult for foreign media to report freely from different parts of the country.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) was among the first international organisations to condemn the move. In a statement issued on August 6, CPJ urged the Pakistani government to withdraw what it described as highly restrictive guidelines. Waliullah Rahmani, the organisation's representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, said the policy could severely limit international media coverage outside Pakistan's three major cities and expose journalists to administrative action if they fail to comply with the new requirements. He described the regulations as another major setback for press freedom, noting that reporters covering unrest in Pakistan-administered Kashmir were already operating under increasing pressure.

According to CPJ, the guidelines were introduced shortly after Pakistani authorities criticised international coverage of the protests in PoJK and accused Al Jazeera of biased reporting. The media watchdog also noted that access to Al Jazeera's website has since been restricted within Pakistan. It warned that the new policy allows authorities to suspend or revoke media accreditation if reporting is considered contrary to Pakistan's ideology, sovereignty, national security or public order, raising fears that the broad provisions could be used to suppress critical journalism.

The organisation also highlighted concerns over the treatment of journalists covering the unrest. It referred to reports that journalist Syed Farhad Ali Shah had begun a hunger strike after allegedly being detained for more than a month without formal charges. Two other journalists, Razi Tahir and Muhammad Saif, were also reported missing after being taken into police custody in early August. CPJ further pointed to restrictions imposed on media coverage of demonstrations demanding administrative reforms in PoJK following international reports alleging excessive use of force by police during clashes with protesters. The watchdog also cited reports that mobile and internet services were suspended in parts of the region as tensions escalated.

International news agency Reuters also criticised the restrictions, stating that journalists should be able to report freely wherever news develops. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) echoed similar concerns, arguing that the new guidelines institutionalise bureaucratic control over journalism rather than making reporting easier. In its statement, HRCP said the measures reflect a broader pattern of increasing censorship, legal obstacles and administrative restrictions on the media in Pakistan.

The rights body warned that requiring journalists to obtain official approval before reporting from large parts of the country sends a troubling message that independent reporting is increasingly unwelcome. It called on the Pakistani government to withdraw the guidelines and uphold its constitutional as well as international commitments to protect freedom of expression and ensure a free press.

The latest restrictions come as international scrutiny of developments in PoJK continues to grow. Protests over governance, administrative issues and electoral concerns have attracted significant attention from foreign media and rights organisations, particularly following allegations of police brutality and restrictions on civil liberties. Observers believe the new media regulations are likely to intensify concerns about press freedom in Pakistan and further fuel debate over the government's handling of both the protests and independent journalism.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.

The Congress party is once again battling internal unrest across multiple states, with fresh political tensions emerging in Punjab and Karnataka. While the party continues to position itself as the BJP's principal national challenger, recent developments suggest that managing internal divisions has become one of its biggest political tests.

In Punjab, differences between the state leadership and senior party figures have intensified ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. The Congress high command has reportedly cautioned leaders against activities that could weaken the party from within, amid growing concerns over factional politics involving camps led by Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring and former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi.

The leadership's intervention comes as public disagreements and competing political camps have increasingly dominated headlines, raising questions about the party's preparedness for the upcoming electoral battle. Political analysts believe prolonged infighting could dilute Congress' campaign strategy in a state where it hopes to regain power.

A similar challenge has surfaced in Karnataka, where the recent cabinet expansion has triggered resentment among several Congress legislators. The exclusion of some senior MLAs from the new ministry reportedly led to resignations and open expressions of dissatisfaction, exposing fault lines within the ruling party. The Congress high command deputed senior leader Randeep Singh Surjewala to Bengaluru to engage with dissatisfied legislators and restore internal cohesion. His visit is seen as an attempt to prevent the growing discontent from affecting the government's stability.

The political developments in Karnataka have continued to evolve, with Legislative Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti announcing his resignation amid political realignments, paving the way for Congress leader Saleem Ahmed to assume the post. The move is expected to strengthen the party's position in the Council even as it navigates internal disagreements over power-sharing.

Political observers note that internal disagreements are not uncommon in major parties. However, when such disputes become public, they often overshadow policy initiatives and provide political opponents with an opportunity to question the party's organizational discipline. For Congress, the challenge extends beyond resolving individual disputes. The party must balance regional leadership ambitions, accommodate competing political interests, and maintain unity across states where it is either in power or seeking electoral revival.

With key elections approaching over the next two years, the Congress leadership is expected to focus on strengthening organizational discipline and preventing factional rivalries from affecting its electoral prospects. Whether these interventions succeed in restoring unity remains to be seen, but for now, the party's internal management appears to be as significant a challenge as its political contest with the opposition.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from NDTV.

Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde received a bomb threat via her official email on Friday morning, prompting an immediate investigation by law enforcement agencies ahead of the Independence Day celebrations. According to officials, the email warned of planned explosions at several prominent locations across Mumbai before August 15. Among the sites mentioned were the Mayor's office, the Mumbai Metro, schools and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), raising concerns over public safety.

The message also reportedly advised parents against sending their children to school and urged commuters to avoid using the Metro. Authorities said the email contained pro-Khalistan slogans and referred to certain individuals, leading security agencies to treat the threat with seriousness. Following the alert, Mumbai Police registered the matter and launched an investigation. Cyber Crime officials have been brought in to trace the origin of the email by examining its IP address and other digital footprints in an effort to identify the sender.

This is not the first such incident involving Mayor Tawde. Officials noted that she had previously received two similar bomb threat emails, both of which triggered police inquiries and enhanced security measures. The latest threat comes at a time when security arrangements are already being strengthened across Mumbai and other major cities ahead of Independence Day. Police and intelligence agencies have stepped up surveillance at transportation networks, educational institutions and other crowded public places as part of routine precautionary measures.

Investigators are now examining whether the latest email is connected to the earlier threats targeting the Mayor or if it is an independent attempt to spread fear. Authorities have assured that the matter is being thoroughly investigated and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.

Footwear in India has always been more than a basic necessity. From ancient wooden sandals to handcrafted juttis, mojaris and Kolhapuri chappals, shoes and sandals have quietly recorded the country’s cultural evolution, social changes and artistic traditions. Often overlooked in discussions about heritage, footwear offers a unique glimpse into India’s history through the materials, designs and craftsmanship passed down across generations.

For centuries, Indian footwear has reflected the lifestyle and identity of different communities. The country’s diverse geography and climate played an important role in shaping footwear styles. While some regions developed lightweight sandals suitable for hot weather, others created durable designs meant for agriculture, travel and daily labour. Over time, these practical creations evolved into cultural symbols.

One of the oldest examples of Indian footwear is the paduka, a simple wooden sandal associated with ancient spiritual traditions. Worn by sages and religious figures, the paduka represented simplicity and detachment from material comforts. Its presence in Indian literature, art and religious traditions highlights the importance footwear has held beyond everyday use.

As kingdoms flourished, footwear became a part of royal fashion and craftsmanship. Traditional designs such as mojaris and juttis gained popularity among royal families and aristocratic communities. Skilled artisans decorated these shoes with embroidery, colourful threads and detailed patterns, transforming them into pieces of wearable art. These styles later became closely associated with weddings, festivals and cultural celebrations.

The story of Indian footwear is also a story of regional diversity. The Kolhapuri chappal, known for its handmade leather work and durability, emerged from the Maharashtra-Karnataka region and became popular among rural communities because of its comfort and practicality. Over the years, it moved beyond its traditional roots and found a place in contemporary fashion, with designers incorporating its classic style into modern collections.

Handcrafted juttis from Punjab and Rajasthan continue to represent India’s artistic heritage. Their bright colours, intricate embroidery and traditional designs have made them popular not only within India but also among international audiences interested in ethnic fashion. Beyond fashion, footwear has also reflected India’s social and economic history. The making of traditional footwear created livelihoods for artisan communities that developed specialised skills over generations. From selecting materials to stitching and decorating each pair, the process represents years of knowledge and craftsmanship.

The survival of these traditions faces challenges in the modern era. Machine-made footwear, changing consumer preferences and limited opportunities for artisans have created pressure on traditional crafts. Many craftsmen are now adapting by combining traditional techniques with modern designs to reach wider markets. The renewed interest in sustainable fashion has also brought attention back to handmade Indian footwear. Consumers are increasingly looking for products that have cultural value, support local craftsmanship and offer an alternative to mass-produced goods.

Today, Indian footwear stands at the intersection of history and innovation. Traditional designs are appearing on fashion runways, online marketplaces and global platforms, proving that heritage crafts can continue to evolve without losing their identity. Every pair of traditional Indian shoes carries a story — of artisans, communities, regions and generations that shaped its journey. While footwear may seem like a small part of everyday life, in India it has become a living record of the nation’s cultural past and its changing present. From ancient pathways to modern streets, these footsteps continue to tell the story of India.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.

Every Wednesday and Friday throughout August, we’re revisiting some of the standout audio long reads from 2026, giving listeners another chance to experience stories they may have missed. Each feature is accompanied by a note from our editorial team explaining why it earned a place among this year’s highlights. This edition revisits a story first published in February, chronicling one writer’s decades-long search for answers to a mysterious illness before finally receiving a diagnosis. The piece also explores whether techniques aimed at retraining the brain could offer a path toward recovery.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian. 

Myanmar's military government has released rare images of detained leader Aung San Suu Kyi meeting a Red Cross official, marking her first known contact with the outside world since the 2021 coup. The photos were released just ahead of junta chief Min Aung Hlaing's first official visit to Thailand, prompting speculation about their political significance.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

Two years after taking office as Australia's Governor-General and representative of King Charles, Sam Mostyn has expressed concern over what she describes as a widespread lack of understanding among adults about the foundations of the country's democracy, particularly its Constitution. In an interview with Guardian Australia political editor Tom McIlroy at Admiralty House in Sydney, Mostyn said improving civic education has become one of her key priorities. She argued that strengthening public knowledge of Australia's democratic institutions is essential to tackling what she called a "growing catastrophe" that threatens informed civic participation and the health of the nation's democracy.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.

In this edition of Made in SG, Melanie Oliveiro spotlights W Optics, a Singapore-based vision care specialist and optical retail chain. W Optics CEO Jonathan Wong shares the company's journey, explaining how his father, Francis Wong, founded the business and eventually entrusted him with leading its next phase of growth. Joining the discussion is senior optometrist and manager Oh Shwu Ji, who offers insights into common eye health concerns while highlighting the latest trends in eyewear design and prescription glasses.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.