The article discusses the concept of mahr or dower in Islamic marriage, highlighting its legal recognition and challenges under English law. It clarifies that dowry, unlike mahr, is not sanctioned by Islam and originates from Hindu traditions. The article provides guidance for legal practitioners dealing with mahr-related issues, particularly among Muslims in India and Pakistan.

This pilot study aimed to compare the dimensional stability of alginate impression material impregnated with different concentrations of lignin alkali (0.75%, 1.5%, and 3%) against unmodified alginate. Using a stainless-steel ruled test block, the study measured dimensional stability at 0-hour, 1-hour, and 24-hour intervals. Statistically significant differences in dimensional stability were found between the experimental groups and the control group at 1 hour and 24 hours, but not at 0 hour. The findings suggest that lignin alkali can improve the dimensional stability of alginate impression material, warranting further clinical research.

A four-member Pakistani delegation led by Secretary of Commerce Khurram Agha arrived in Kabul for trade talks with Afghan officials, despite ongoing tensions. The discussions, led on the Afghan side by Minister of Industry and Commerce Nooruddin Azizi, aim to address bilateral trade and transit issues. This marks the first Pakistani visit since airstrikes in March 2023. Key issues include smuggling prevention and delays in transit trade clearance at Karachi ports. Afghan officials have expressed concerns over Pakistan's recent tariffs and restrictions, which have led Afghan traders to turn to Iranian ports. Both nations recognize the importance of separating trade from political issues to foster better relations and economic stability.

A Pakistani commerce ministry delegation is set to visit Kabul to discuss trade and transit issues with Afghan officials. The talks aim to address a ban on certain transit items by Pakistan, which has led to a decrease in transit trade and a shift towards Iran. The meetings come amidst efforts to normalize relations after recent Pakistani airstrikes in Afghanistan. Both Pakistani and Afghan traders have emphasized the importance of separating trade from political issues, with the goal of increasing trade volume, which has fallen from a target of $5 billion to $1.4 billion. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has suggested that Pakistan could block trade corridors to Afghanistan if anti-Pakistan terrorist activities are not curbed.

The Afghan Taliban leader Sheikh Hibatullah Akhundzada declared that the Taliban will continue to fight against Western countries for another 20 years or more. He emphasized the Taliban's commitment to implementing Sharia law in Afghanistan, including severe punishments for women, which has drawn criticism from Western nations. The statement comes amid ongoing international condemnation of the Taliban's policies on women's rights and education. Despite the lack of international recognition, the Taliban maintain that their government is inclusive and representative of all ethnic groups in Afghanistan.

Efforts to reduce tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have intensified following Pakistani airstrikes in two Afghan provinces on March 18. Afghan and Pakistani officials have engaged in diplomatic meetings to address the situation, with positive developments such as the reopening of the Kharlachi border for trade and travel. Both nations face security challenges, with recent attacks in North Waziristan and Kandahar. The article emphasizes the need for cooperation over conflict and highlights the importance of confidence-building measures to prevent further escalation. Afghan and Pakistani authorities are urged to manage elements that could exploit the situation for their gain.

A terrorist attack on the Gwadar Port Authority complex in Pakistan resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and eight terrorists. The Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that security forces effectively thwarted the attack, recovering a large quantity of arms and explosives. The Balochistan Liberation Army's Majeed Brigade claimed responsibility for the attack. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other officials commended the security forces for their bravery and professionalism. The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in Balochistan and the broader region.

Seven soldiers, including two officers, were martyred in a terrorist attack on a security post in North Waziristan. The attack involved an explosives-laden vehicle and multiple suicide bombings. Six terrorists were neutralized in the subsequent operation. The incident has drawn condemnation from top government officials, including the Prime Minister and President, who praised the soldiers' sacrifices. The attack highlights the ongoing threat of terrorism in Pakistan, particularly in KP and Balochistan, and the military's resolve to combat it.

The Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reported that Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi invited his Pakistani counterpart Ishaq Dar to visit Afghanistan. This marks the fourth high-level contact between Afghanistan and Pakistan since the formation of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif's government in Pakistan, signaling a potential improvement in relations. Despite a recent attack in North Waziristan, efforts to enhance relations appear to be accelerating. Both foreign ministers have emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral ties, especially in light of ongoing differences on various issues. The recent telephone conversation between Muttaqi and Dar, along with other diplomatic engagements, suggests that a high-level delegation may visit Afghanistan to further dialogue. The resolution of issues between Pakistan and Afghanistan is seen as reliant on dialogue, with media blame games not offering solutions. The ease of travel for Afghans into Pakistan for trade, medical treatment, and education is highlighted as a key aspect of improving relations, despite existing visa acquisition difficulties. Trade facilitation, particularly transit trade, is also noted as an area needing improvement, with Afghan traders increasingly turning to the Iranian port of Chabahar over Karachi.

Maulana Fazlur Rehman, chief of JUI-F, confirmed meeting with Taliban supreme leader Haibatullah Akhunzada for comprehensive talks on issues affecting Afghanistan-Pakistan relations. Fazl's visit, amidst a busy election campaign, included meetings with key Taliban leaders and was described as highly successful by the JUI-F. The discussions aimed at cooperation in various fields and reducing tensions heightened by terrorist attacks, mostly claimed by the outlawed TTP. Afghan leaders expressed a desire for cordial relations and consensus on border affairs, while also raising concerns over Pakistan's treatment of Afghan refugees.