Rising crimes under Taliban rule in Afghanistan challenge claims of restored security: Report

IANS | June 20, 2026 4:51 PM

Kabul, June 20 (IANS) The rise in criminal incidents across Afghanistan is not a peripheral issue but a stark reflection of the Taliban's governance failures. Having returned to power pledging to restore order and end chaos, the Taliban has instead presided over a reality marked by diminished freedoms, weakened justice, limited accountability, and persistent insecurity, a report has highlighted.

Pakistan slashes climate spending despite rising vulnerability to extreme weather

IANS | June 20, 2026 4:36 PM

New Delhi , June 20 (IANS) Despite mounting evidence that Pakistan is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change, the federal government has sharply reduced climate-related development spending in its budget for FY2026-27, even as neighboring countries continue to increase investments in climate resilience and adaptation, a report has said.

Bangladesh: Report flags widespread class discrimination inside prisons

IANS | June 20, 2026 4:25 PM

Dhaka, June 20 (IANS) Bangladesh's prisons have increasingly deteriorated into a deeply discriminatory state mechanism. Within this system, imprisonment for those with wealth and power translates into a “life of pampered luxury" while for ordinary, poor citizens, it amounts to a "living hell".

Pakistan’s governance failures tarnishing global reputation further

IANS | June 20, 2026 4:12 PM

Male, June 20 (IANS) Pakistan's governance failures have extended beyond domestic politics and are increasingly affecting its global standing. The United States Trade Representative has concluded that Islamabad has failed to effectively enforce prohibitions against forced labour, while the European Union (EU) has pressed Pakistani authorities to deliver meaningful progress on human rights, labour protections, and governance reforms, a report has stated.

Bangladesh: Protests escalate over alleged desecration of Lord Ram’s image

IANS | June 20, 2026 1:54 PM

Dhaka, June 20 (IANS) Amid rising concerns over religious intolerance, protests have intensified across Bangladesh over the alleged desecration of an image of Lord Ram by radical Islamists during a demonstration opposing the construction of the tallest statue of the deity in the Gaibandha district, according to local media reports.

India to host BRICS National Security Advisers’ Meeting on June 22-23

IANS | June 20, 2026 1:35 PM

New Delhi, June 20 (IANS) India will host the BRICS National Security Advisers’ Meeting on June 22-23 under its chairship, bringing together top security officials from member countries to deliberate on evolving global security challenges and strengthen cooperation on key strategic issues.