UNIT 4: CONSTITUTIONAL AND

POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT
COURSE TITLE: IDEOLOGY AND CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN
YEAR 1 SEMESTER 1
BSCn Program
S.O.N JPMC

COURSE INCHARGE: NAJMA PARVEEN

 Need and importance of the
constitution for the state of Pakistan
 The Constitution of Pakistan is crucial for the nation's
governance, as it establishes the framework for the state,
protects fundamental rights, and promotes democracy.
 It ensures the rule of law, defines the structure of government,
and outlines the powers of the executive, legislative, and judicial
branches.
 The Constitution also safeguards the rights of citizens, including
those of minorities and ensures fair and equitable treatment.
 Need and importance of the
constitution for the state of Pakistan
 Foundational Framework:
A constitution is the "rule book" for a state, setting the stage for
how the country is governed. It defines the structure of
government, including the different branches (legislative,
executive, and judicial) and their powers.
 Limits on Power:
Constitutions establish limits on the exercise of power by
government officials, ensuring that they cannot act arbitrarily.
 Protection of Rights:
A constitution safeguards citizens' fundamental rights, such as
freedom of speech, religion, and assembly.
 Need and importance of the
constitution for the state of Pakistan
 Rule of Law:
It establishes the principle that everyone, including the
government, is subject to the law.
 Accountability:
A constitution helps ensure that the government is accountable to
the people by outlining processes for elections, checks and
balances, and judicial review.
 Stability and Democracy:
By providing a clear framework for governance and protecting
citizens' rights, a constitution helps to foster stability and promote
democratic values.
 Need and importance of the
constitution for the state of Pakistan
 National Identity:
A constitution can serve as a symbol of national identity and unity,
reminding citizens of their shared values and goals.
 Guidance for Governance:
It provides a framework for the government to make laws and
decisions, ensuring that they are consistent with the fundamental
principles of the state.
 History of the constitution making
process
 The constitution-making process in Pakistan began after the
country's independence in 1947, initially relying on the
Government of India Act of 1935 as an interim constitution.
 The first Constituent Assembly, formed in 1947, was tasked with
drafting a permanent constitution, but this process was delayed
due to various challenges.
 A key milestone was the adoption of the Objectives Resolution in
1949, outlining the principles for the future constitution.
 History of the constitution making
process
 The first formal constitution was finally adopted in 1956,
establishing a parliamentary form of government.
 However, this constitution was later abrogated, and subsequent
constitutions in 1962 and 1973 were enacted.
 The 1973 constitution, which remains in place today, was
adopted in 1973 and established a parliamentary system with
numerous amendments.
 Role of ideology in the constitution
making process
Ideology plays a crucial role in constitution-making, shaping the
underlying values, principles, and goals that guide the process. It
influences what is deemed acceptable or unacceptable in
constitutional discourse and the ultimate form of the
constitution. Specifically, ideology can influence:
 Framing the debate:
Ideologies determine the parameters of discussion and the types of
arguments that are considered valid.
 Defining key principles:
Ideologies can provide a framework for understanding concepts like
democracy, rights, or the nature of the state, which are then
incorporated into the constitution.
 Role of ideology in the constitution
making process
 Structuring the political landscape:
Ideologies can shape the way power is divided, the role of different
institutions, and the relationship between the state and its citizens.
 Justifying particular outcomes:
Ideologies can be used to justify the inclusion of specific provisions
or the exclusion of others, even if those outcomes are controversial
or not universally accepted.
 Influencing interpretation:
The underlying ideology of a constitution can influence how it is
interpreted and applied in the future.
 Ideological elements in the
constitution of Pakistan
 The Pakistani constitution incorporates strong Islamic ideological
elements, defining Pakistan as an Islamic republic and requiring
laws to align with Quran and Sunnah.
 This includes a Council of Islamic Ideology and a definition of a
Muslim, while also providing for fundamental rights and the
possibility of amending the constitution.
 The constitution aims to strengthen unity among Muslim
countries and reflects the historical ideology of Pakistan as a
distinct Muslim nation.
 Ideological elements in the
constitution of Pakistan
 Islamic State:
The constitution declares Pakistan an Islamic Republic, meaning the
government should be guided by Islamic principles.
 Laws in Accordance with Islam:
All laws must be consistent with the Quran and Sunnah (prophetic
teachings), and no law can contradict them.
 Council of Islamic Ideology:
This body advises the government on Islamic matters and helps
ensure laws align with Islamic principles.
 Ideological elements in the
constitution of Pakistan
 Definition of a Muslim:
The constitution defines a Muslim based on belief in the oneness of
God, the finality of Prophet Muhammad's prophethood, and rejection of
any prophets after him.
 Fundamental Rights:
The constitution also guarantees fundamental rights, including
religious freedom and protection against discrimination, for all
citizens.
 Strengthening Islamic Unity:
The constitution states that the state should endeavor to strengthen
bonds of unity among Muslim countries.