The article recounts the history of The Friday Times, an independent and liberal newspaper in Pakistan, founded by Najam Sethi and Jugnu Mohsin. It details the challenges faced under General Zia ul Haq's regime, including censorship and political oppression. The narrative highlights the couple's determination to establish a platform for truth and press freedom, despite bureaucratic hurdles and personal risks. Key figures such as Nawaz Sharif and various organizations like Amnesty International and the BBC are mentioned in the context of their roles in the journey of The Friday Times.

The 2020 Tokyo Olympics, with an estimated cost of at least $5 billion, is heavily invested in lucrative construction contracts. A single photograph poses a significant threat to a powerful crime syndicate, potentially disrupting their influence and operations.

The article provides an in-depth look at the situation in Waziristan, where the Tehrik-e-Taliban (TTP) and other international fighters, including Uyghurs from China and militants from Turkey and Uzbekistan, have taken refuge. The author, who grew up in South Waziristan, shares personal experiences and interactions with these militants, highlighting their backgrounds, motivations, and the complexities of their presence in the region. The article also touches on the challenges faced by journalists in Pakistan, the local tribal economy's adaptation to hosting foreign fighters, and the impact of these militants on the local community. The Pakistani government's ongoing negotiations with the TTP and the uncertain future of foreign jihadis in the region are also discussed.

The article discusses the challenges faced by the residents of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) in Pakistan, following multiple military operations against militants by the Pakistan Army. The operations have led to mass displacement and destruction of property. The government's financial assistance for rebuilding homes is deemed insufficient by the locals due to the high costs of construction in the mountainous terrain, transportation of materials, and the shortage of skilled labor. The area is also plagued by landmines, a lack of basic utilities, and damaged infrastructure. The author emphasizes the need for a comprehensive government strategy for rebuilding FATA beyond just financial handouts. The article also mentions the issue of corruption and mismanagement in the recovery efforts.

The article highlights the struggle of Dr. Rajesh in seeking justice for his sister, Jaimala Maheshwari, who was allegedly murdered by her in-laws in Pakistan. It criticizes the inefficacy and politicization of the Pakistani police and judiciary, emphasizing the delays and obstacles faced in the legal process. The National Commission on Human Rights has taken notice of the case, but the local police have not responded adequately. The article underscores the broader dissatisfaction with the legal justice system in Pakistan, citing a large number of pending cases and the public's perception of the judiciary's focus on high-profile cases.

The article recounts the journalist's visit to a Taliban camp in North Waziristan, initially intended to report on bomb-making but shifting focus to a story about a tribal elder who found a fallen American drone. The journalist describes the local hostility towards drones and the complex feelings when one crashed in the area. The elder's family took possession of the drone, and despite pressure from the Taliban and al Qaeda, and interest from various governments, they eventually sold it to the Pakistani government. The article also touches on the broader context of drone warfare in the region, including the Pakistani military's Operation Zarb-e-Azb against militant groups and the resumption of US drone strikes after a six-month hiatus.

A tribal elder in North Waziristan discovered a crashed American drone in 2007. Despite pressure from the Taliban, Al Qaeda, and various governments, he managed to sell it to the Pakistani government for 10 million rupees. The elder and his family faced significant risks, including threats from militant groups. The incident highlighted the complex dynamics in the region, including the ongoing conflict and the impact of drone warfare.