While leading automakers such as Pak Suzuki and Kia have raised vehicle prices following the implementation of new taxes under the Federal Budget 2025–26, Sazgar Engineering has taken a different approach. In an official announcement, the company stated that it will absorb the cost of the newly introduced New Energy Vehicles (NEV) Adoption Levy. As a result, Haval vehicle prices will remain unchanged. This decision comes at a time when Pak Suzuki Motor Company and Kia Lucky Motors increased their prices, citing the increased sales tax rate and additional levies introduced in the new fiscal policy. Suzuki models like the Alto, Cultus, and Swift saw noticeable price hikes, while Kia increased rates across most of its popular vehicles, including Sportage and Picanto. Sazgar, on the other hand, emphasized its commitment to customer welfare by maintaining price stability. “As a responsible and customer-focused organization, Sazgar has consistently taken proactive measures to protect t...
In the realm of fashion, where creativity often meets controversy, Zara, the Spanish retail giant, finds itself under intense scrutiny for its latest campaign titled “The Jacket.” The images, part of Zara’s Atelier series, depict model Kristen McMenamy alongside a mannequin draped in white fabric, resembling the shrouded victims of conflict. Other mannequins, amidst the rubble, are portrayed with missing limbs, amplifying the backdrop’s resemblance to scenes of destruction.
Social media erupted with backlash, accusing Zara of insensitivity and using tragedy as a fashion backdrop. Notably, a piece of plasterboard in the background was pointed out for its alleged resemblance to an upside-down map of Palestine. Entrepreneur and designer Samira Atash led calls for a Zara boycott, emphasizing the need to reject the use of death and destruction in fashion.
Despite claims that the campaign is a “limited edition collection celebrating craftsmanship and artistic expression,” consumers and artists alike are questioning the ethical boundaries of such creative endeavors. Palestinian artist Hazem Harb took to Instagram, declaring, “Using death and destruction as a backdrop for fashion is beyond sinister. It’s complicity and should outrage us as consumers; boycott Zara.”
As the campaign images went viral, Zara responded by deleting the controversial picture from its social media platforms. However, the company has yet to issue a statement addressing the concerns raised by the public. This incident is not the first time Zara has faced calls for a boycott; in a previous controversy, head designer Vanessa Perilman faced backlash for making derogatory and Islamophobic comments about Palestine during a conversation exposed on social media.
The question that resonates now is whether the fashion industry, in its pursuit of artistic expression, risks crossing ethical boundaries. Does Zara’s Atelier series truly celebrate craftsmanship, or does it exploit sensitive geopolitical issues for commercial gain? As consumers grapple with these questions, the controversy raises broader discussions about the responsibility of fashion brands in navigating the fine line between creativity and ethical considerations.
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