S P O T L I G H T

34 Maoists killed in Nepal
Kathmandu, August 21
At least 34 Maoists were killed in encounters with Nepalese security forces in the rebel stronghold of Rolpa and other western districts, the Defence Ministry said today. Thirty rebels were killed in the Thawang area of Rolpa district yesterday as the joint teams of security forces clashed with the rebels. Those killed included an area commander and Maoist instructors. A security personnel was also killed and three others were injured. PTI

Italy may shut Karachi consulate
Islamabad, August 21 
The Italian Government has threatened to close down its consulate in Karachi, citing improper security and asking Pakistan “to do something more’’ to improve the security measures. The Italian Government had summoned the Ambassador of Pakistan in Italy to the Foreign Office and pointed out that it was not pleased with the Karachi police high-ups and the authorities concerned, The News reported today. UNI