India playing 'inherently valuable' role in Southeast Asia: Report

IANS | June 5, 2026 9:51 PM

New Delhi, June 5 (IANS) India’s presence is making the dilemma of choosing between the United States and China more manageable for ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) member countries by expanding the range of available options, a report has detailed.

Pakistan: Mahrang Baloch rejects allegations against BYC, calls them ‘baseless’

IANS | June 5, 2026 9:37 PM

Quetta, June 5 (IANS) Human rights activist and chief organiser of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), Mahrang Baloch, has dismissed the recent allegations levelled against her, her colleagues, and the organisation by the Pakistani authorities as "baseless." She said that such a move forms part of a clear and organised effort to discredit the peaceful political struggle in Balochistan.

International community must move beyond rhetoric on Pakistan's persecution of minorities: Report

IANS | June 5, 2026 7:25 PM

Islamabad, June 5 (IANS) The United Nations (UN) has repeatedly expressed concern over the persecution of religious minorities in Pakistan. However, meaningful change in Pakistan remains elusive despite years of warnings, recommendations, and expressions of concern. The international organisations must move beyond cautious rhetoric as turning a blind eye to the suffering of religious minorities in Pakistan does not serve justice or the values that the international community claims to hold, a report has stated.