Monday saw a flurry of activity on social media as reports surfaced regarding the alleged demise of Afghan singer Hasiba Noori in Pakistan under mysterious circumstances. Noori had sought refuge in Pakistan following the Taliban's takeover in Afghanistan. Conflicting information circulated on social media, with some accounts claiming her passing occurred in Peshawar, while others suggested she had been killed in Quetta. Though, by the end of the day, it became clear that news about her passing was false.
A video has surfaced on Facebook in which Noori is seen denying the news of her demise as fake.
Journalist Iftikhar Firdous also confirmed speaking to the singer over a phone call and even posted a screen grab of a video call with the singer to prove that she was alive.
Regarding the viral image depicting the supposed body of Noori lying on a hospital bed, Firdous disclosed that the photograph was captured following a surgery that took place in Karachi, as clarified by the singer herself.
Media reports on Monday had suggested that Hasiba Noori, a renowned female singer from Afghanistan who had sought refuge in Pakistan after Taliban takeover, was killed by unidentified gunmen in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa of Pakistan.
Hasiba Noori's Popularity
Hasiba Noori iss a well-known Pashto singer with a substantial fan following. She gained popularity through her performances on Afghan TV channels like Ariana Television and AMC TV, mesmerising audiences with songs like "Mina," "Sabza Janam," and "Ala Yaram."
Escape from Afghanistan
In the wake of the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, Hasiba Noori, like many other artists and celebrities, chose to flee her homeland, seeking safety and opportunities in Pakistan as a refugee. The Taliban's restrictive policies on women's rights and cultural activities prompted numerous creative individuals to leave, fearing for their lives and careers under the oppressive regime.
Pakistan's Encouragement to Return
The Pakistani government has repeatedly urged Afghan refugees to return to their home country, citing security and economic concerns. However, the ongoing violence and instability in Afghanistan have left many refugees hesitant to go back.
UNHCR's Call for Respect and Safety
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has called on Pakistani authorities to ensure the safety and dignity of Afghan refugees, stressing the need to adhere to international obligations in protecting those seeking asylum on Pakistani soil.
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