Course

❖ Political and constitutional development in Pakistan-II

❖ Important Notes

What was the main cause of the fall of East Pakistan in 1971?

Ans

The fall of East Pakistan in 1971 was a complex event with multiple causes. The main cause was the
political and economic marginalization of East Pakistan by West Pakistan, which led to widespread
discontent and demands for greater autonomy. Here are some key factors that contributed to the
fall of East Pakistan:

➢ Political Grievances: East Pakistan, which later became Bangladesh, felt politically
marginalized by West Pakistan. Power was concentrated in the hands of the ruling elite
from West Pakistan, which led to a sense of discrimination and neglect among the people of
East Pakistan.

➢ Language Issue: Language played a crucial role in the events leading to the fall of East
Pakistan. In 1948, the government of Pakistan declared Urdu as the sole national language,
disregarding the fact that Bengali was the mother tongue of the majority in East Pakistan.
This sparked protests and demands for recognition of Bengali as an official language,
leading to a language movement in 1952.

➢ Economic Disparities: East Pakistan contributed significantly to Pakistan’s economy through

its jute and agricultural production. However, a significant portion of the country’s
resources was allocated to West Pakistan, while East Pakistan suffered from economic
disparities, underdevelopment, and limited access to resources and infrastructure.

➢ Military Crackdown: In response to growing demands for autonomy and greater political
rights, the Pakistani military launched Operation Searchlight on March 25, 1971. This
military crackdown aimed to suppress the independence movement in East Pakistan and
led to widespread human rights abuses, including mass killings, rape, and displacement of
 people. The brutal actions of the military further fueled the discontent and resistance in East
Pakistan.

➢ Political Leadership: The political leadership in Pakistan failed to address the grievances of
the people of East Pakistan adequately. The ruling government at the time, led by President
Yahya Khan and the military establishment, showed little willingness to engage in
meaningful dialogue and negotiations with East Pakistani political leaders, further escalating
tensions.

These factors, among others, culminated in a full-scale armed conflict between East Pakistan and
West Pakistan, with India providing support to the Bengali independence movement. The nine-
month-long conflict eventually led to the formation of an independent Bangladesh in December
1971.

Write a note on 1973 constitution of Pakistan

Ans

The 1973 Constitution of Pakistan is the supreme law of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. It was
adopted on April 12, 1973, and is the country’s third constitution since its independence in 1947.
The constitution provides a framework for the governance of Pakistan, enshrining the rights and
responsibilities of its citizens, and delineating the powers of the government institutions.

Key Features and Provisions:

➢ Islamic Republic: The 1973 Constitution established Pakistan as an Islamic Republic,

affirming Islam as the state religion while safeguarding the rights of religious minorities.

➢ Parliamentary System: It introduced a parliamentary form of government, with a bicameral

legislature consisting of the National Assembly and the Senate. The Prime Minister is the
head of government, while the President holds a largely ceremonial role.

➢ Fundamental Rights: The constitution guarantees various fundamental rights to the citizens
of Pakistan, including the right to equality, freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and
protection of life and property. It prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, caste, sex,
or place of birth.
 ➢ Federal Structure: Pakistan’s federal structure is outlined in the constitution, dividing
powers between the federal government and the provinces. It outlines the concurrent and
exclusive legislative powers of the federal and provincial governments, ensuring a balance
between centralized authority and regional autonomy.

➢ Council of Common Interests (CCI): The CCI is established as a constitutional body to

address and resolve the issues between the federal government and the provinces, ensuring
cooperation and harmony among the federating units.

➢ Islamic Provisions: The constitution incorporates Islamic principles into the legal system of
Pakistan, such as the establishment of Islamic courts to deal with matters related to
personal law, marriage, divorce, and inheritance for Muslims.

➢ Protection of Democracy: The constitution includes provisions to safeguard democracy,

including the independence of the judiciary and the separation of powers among the
executive, legislative, and judicial branches.

➢ Amendments: The constitution allows for amendments through a parliamentary process.

Over the years, various amendments have been made to the constitution to address
emerging needs and challenges.

Impact and Significance:

The 1973 Constitution of Pakistan has played a crucial role in shaping the governance and legal
framework of the country. It has provided stability and continuity in the democratic process,
despite periods of military rule. The constitution has helped protect fundamental rights, promote
inclusivity, and ensure a system of checks and balances.

Conclusion:
The 1973 Constitution of Pakistan stands as a symbol of the country’s commitment to democracy,
fundamental rights, and the Islamic identity of the state. Despite undergoing amendments, it
remains the guiding framework for the governance of Pakistan, promoting the principles of justice,
equality, and democratic governance.
Amendments made in 1973 constitution of Pakistan

Ans

The Constitution of Pakistan was adopted on April 12, 1973, and it has been amended several times
since then. However, as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the Constitution of Pakistan
had not been amended in 1973. The most significant amendments to the Constitution of Pakistan
occurred in the years following its adoption. These amendments include:

➢ Eighth Amendment (1985): This amendment granted extensive powers to the President of
Pakistan, including the power to dissolve the National Assembly. It also introduced the
concept of a “Majlis-e-Shoora” (Parliamentary Committee) to act as a check on the
President’s powers.

➢ Thirteenth Amendment (1997): This amendment revoked the President’s power to dissolve
the National Assembly and restored it to its original position. It also introduced a vote of no
confidence against the Prime Minister.

➢ Seventeenth Amendment (2003): This amendment brought significant changes to the

Constitution, mainly aimed at strengthening the role of the President. It allowed the
President to hold political office while in power, gave the President the authority to appoint
the three service chiefs, and increased the President’s role in judicial appointments.

➢ Eighteenth Amendment (2010): This amendment aimed to reverse some of the changes
made by the Seventeenth Amendment. It shifted power from the President to the Prime
Minister, restored parliamentary oversight over the judiciary, and repealed the power of the
President to dissolve the Parliament.

It's Important to note that there may have been amendments made to the Constitution of Pakistan
after my knowledge cutoff in September 2021. It is always advisable to refer to the latest official
sources or consult legal experts for the most up-to-date information on constitutional amendments
in Pakistan.

Write about general election in 1970 and 1977

Ans
The general elections in Pakistan in 1970 and 1977 were significant milestones in the country’s
political history, marking moments of great political change and turmoil. These elections played a
crucial role in shaping the political landscape of Pakistan and had far-reaching consequences for the
nation’s future.

The general election In 1970 was the first-ever nationwide democratic election held in Pakistan
after the independence in 1947. It was conducted under the military rule of General Yahya Khan,
who had assumed power following the resignation of President Ayub Khan. The election was
intended to pave the way for the transfer of power to civilian rule and to address the grievances of
the people of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) who felt marginalized in the political process.

The 1970 general election was a highly contested and polarized affair. The main political parties at
the time were the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), led by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, and the Awami League,
led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The Awami League, predominantly representing the interests of
East Pakistan, won a landslide victory by securing the majority of seats in the National Assembly.
However, the outcome of the election triggered a political crisis as the ruling establishment, mainly
based in West Pakistan, refused to transfer power to the Awami League, leading to widespread
protests and unrest.

The failure to resolve the political deadlock eventually led to the Bangladesh Liberation War in
1971, resulting in the secession of East Pakistan and the birth of Bangladesh as an independent
country. The events surrounding the 1970 general election and its aftermath significantly impacted
the trajectory of Pakistani politics, leading to a prolonged period of military rule and political
instability.

The general election In 1977 was held amidst growing dissatisfaction with the ruling Pakistan
People’s Party (PPP) government, led by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. The election was marked by
allegations of electoral fraud and rigging, which fueled widespread protests and civil unrest across
the country. The opposition parties, united under the banner of the Pakistan National Alliance
(PNA), demanded the resignation of Bhutto and called for fresh elections.

Amidst the political turmoil, General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, the Chief of Army Staff, staged a
military coup on July 5, 1977, suspending the constitution and imposing martial law. The coup led
to the ousting of Bhutto and the installation of a military-backed regime. The 1977 general election
was never completed, and the political landscape drastically changed with the military assuming
direct control of the country.
The aftermath of the 1977 election and the military coup led to a period of martial law and political
repression under General Zia-ul-Haq. Bhutto was later arrested, tried, and controversially executed
in 1979. The political parties, including the PPP, faced severe restrictions, and elections were
postponed until 1985 when a controlled electoral process was introduced under the military regime.

In summary, the general elections in Pakistan in 1970 and 1977 were significant turning points in
the country’s political history. The 1970 election led to the secession of East Pakistan and the birth
of Bangladesh, while the 1977 election resulted in a military coup and the imposition of martial law.
These events had far-reaching consequences for Pakistan, shaping its political trajectory and
leaving a lasting impact on the nation’s democratic journey.

Write about Bhutto’s era (1971-1977)

Ans

The era of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, spanning from 1971 to 1977, was a significant period in the history of
Pakistan. Bhutto, a charismatic and influential leader, served as the country’s fourth President
(1971-1973) and later became its ninth Prime Minister (1973-1977). His tenure witnessed major
political, social, and economic changes, as well as events that shaped Pakistan’s future trajectory.

Bhutto assumed power during a tumultuous time for Pakistan. The nation had just experienced the
devastating Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, resulting in the secession of East Pakistan and the
emergence of an independent Bangladesh. The war had caused significant loss of life and had
severe repercussions on Pakistan’s self-image and regional standing.

One of Bhutto’s foremost priorities as President was to address the challenges posed by the
disintegration of Pakistan and to heal the wounds of a fractured nation. He undertook significant
efforts to restructure and rebuild the country. Bhutto initiated constitutional reforms and abolished
the “One Unit” policy, which had merged the four provinces of West Pakistan into a single
administrative unit. This move restored provincial autonomy and strengthened the federation,
fostering a sense of unity and decentralization.

In 1973, Bhutto introduced a new constitution, transforming Pakistan from a presidential system to
a parliamentary democracy. This marked a turning point in the country’s political landscape, as it
allowed for greater representation and participation. The constitution included provisions for
fundamental rights, freedom of expression, and an independent judiciary. Bhutto’s government also
adopted a socialist-oriented economic policy, emphasizing nationalization of industries, land
reforms, and wealth redistribution.

Bhutto’s tenure witnessed significant strides in foreign policy as well. He actively sought to establish
Pakistan as a leader in the Islamic world and played a key role in the formation of the Organization
of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Bhutto also pursued a policy of non-alignment in the global arena,
seeking friendly relations with both the United States and the Soviet Union.

However, Bhutto’s rule was not without controversy and challenges. His nationalization policies
faced opposition from the business community, leading to economic difficulties and a decline in
productivity. The government’s handling of the separatist movement in Balochistan also drew
criticism, with accusations of human rights abuses and political repression.

In 1977, allegations of widespread electoral fraud during the general elections sparked protests and
unrest across the country. The military, under General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, seized power in a
bloodless coup, effectively ending Bhutto’s era. Bhutto was subsequently arrested, and in a
controversial trial, he was convicted of authorizing the murder of a political opponent. Despite
international appeals for clemency, Bhutto was executed in 1979, leaving a lasting impact on
Pakistani politics.

The Bhutto era remains a significant chapter in Pakistan’s history. Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s charismatic
leadership, bold policy initiatives, and efforts to redefine Pakistan’s role in the world left a profound
imprint on the country’s political, social, and economic landscape. While his legacy continues to be
a subject of debate, Bhutto’s impact on Pakistan’s political consciousness and his commitment to
empowering the common people through populist policies remain enduring aspects of his tenure.

Write about Zia’s politics of Islamization in Pakistan

Ans

Zia-ul-Haq, the sixth President of Pakistan, is often associated with the politics of Islamization
during his military regime from 1977 to 1988. Zia’s policies aimed to Islamize various aspects of
Pakistani society, including its legal system, education, and social norms. This period had a
significant impact on the country, shaping its trajectory and creating a lasting influence on its
political landscape.
Zia-ul-Haq’s rise to power came through a military coup in 1977, overthrowing the democratically
elected government of Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. As a devout Muslim, Zia sought to
establish an Islamic state in Pakistan based on his interpretation of Islam. He believed that
incorporating Islamic principles into the country’s governance and societal structure was crucial for
creating a truly Islamic nation.

One of the key aspects of Zia’s Islamization policy was the introduction of the Hudood Ordinances
in 1979. These ordinances criminalized offenses such as adultery, fornication, theft, and alcohol
consumption, prescribing punishments based on Islamic law (Shariah). The implementation of these
laws faced criticism for their harsh and gender-biased nature, as they disproportionately affected
women and led to injustices in many cases.

Zia also made efforts to promote Islamic education in Pakistan. He introduced religious instruction
in public schools, mandating the teaching of Islamic studies and Quranic recitation. He established
Islamic universities and research centers to promote the study of Islam and its values. While these
measures aimed to strengthen the Islamic identity of the nation, they also sparked debates about
the exclusion of other religious and cultural groups within Pakistan.

Furthermore, Zia-ul-Haq sought to exert control over the media and cultural expressions. He
imposed censorship on films, literature, and other forms of entertainment, deeming them
inconsistent with Islamic values. This restriction on freedom of expression was seen by many as an
attempt to mold society in line with his conservative Islamic worldview.

Zia’s regime also witnessed a rise in the influence of religious political parties and organizations. He
courted support from religious groups, giving them a platform and empowering them to shape
public discourse. This shift led to the politicization of religion, further polarizing the society and
deepening sectarian divisions.

While Zia-ul-Haq’s Islamization policies aimed to create a more religiously oriented society, they
also resulted in unintended consequences. The Islamization measures, coupled with the support of
the United States during the Afghan-Soviet War, contributed to the growth of religious extremism
and the spread of militant groups in Pakistan. These groups, once supported by the government for
geopolitical reasons, later became a source of instability and violence within the country.

It Is important to note that Zia’s politics of Islamization were not without controversy and
opposition. Many critics argue that his policies marginalized religious and ethnic minorities,
undermined women’s rights, and polarized society along religious lines. Moreover, some argue that
the Islamization agenda was used as a tool to consolidate Zia’s power and legitimize his military
rule.

Overall, Zia-ul-Haq’s politics of Islamization in Pakistan had a profound and lasting impact on the
country. While his policies aimed to establish an Islamic identity and governance, they also led to
unintended consequences, contributing to social divisions, extremism, and a complex religious and
political landscape that Pakistan continues to grapple with to this day.

Write about Economic Policies of Zia regime

Ans

The economic policies of the Zia regime, led by General Zia-ul-Haq, who ruled Pakistan from 1977
until his death in 1988, were characterized by a mix of liberalization, Islamization, and a focus on
self-sufficiency. These policies aimed to revive the economy, reduce poverty, and enhance national
stability, but their overall impact was mixed.

One of the key economic policies of the Zia regime was the liberalization of the economy. In an
attempt to attract foreign investment and promote economic growth, Zia implemented measures to
deregulate industries and reduce government intervention. This included the removal of price
controls, the relaxation of trade restrictions, and the encouragement of private sector participation.
These reforms created a more business-friendly environment, leading to increased investment and
economic activity in certain sectors.

Additionally, the Zia regime pursued an “Islamization” agenda, which sought to align economic
policies with Islamic principles. This involved implementing Islamic banking and finance systems,
promoting Zakat (obligatory alms-giving), and encouraging Islamic modes of investment and
entrepreneurship. While these measures were intended to create a more equitable and just
economic system, they often faced challenges in implementation and encountered resistance from
traditional financial institutions.

The Zia regime also emphasized self-sufficiency and import substitution as key economic
objectives. The government aimed to reduce reliance on imports by promoting domestic industries
and encouraging the production of goods within the country. This policy was driven by concerns
about foreign exchange reserves and the balance of payments deficit. However, the approach often
led to the protection of inefficient industries and hindered international competitiveness.
During the Zia era, there were some positive economic indicators. The Gross Domestic Product
(GDP) growth rate reached an average of around 6% per year, which was relatively high for that
period. Agriculture, industry, and services sectors witnessed growth, and foreign investment
increased in certain areas. However, these gains were often overshadowed by persistent issues
such as income inequality, corruption, and a lack of sustainable economic development.

Furthermore, the Zia regime’s economic policies faced criticism for their focus on short-term gains
and their failure to address structural issues and promote long-term development. The policies did
not adequately address poverty and inequality, and the benefits of economic growth were not
evenly distributed across society. The emphasis on Islamic principles in economic policies also led
to tensions and divisions within society, particularly between conservative and progressive
elements.

In conclusion, the economic policies of the Zia regime sought to liberalize the economy, promote
self-sufficiency, and align economic practices with Islamic principles. While some positive
economic indicators were observed during this period, there were also significant challenges and
criticisms regarding inequality, corruption, and the failure to achieve sustainable development. The
long-term impact of these policies remains a subject of debate, and their effects continue to shape
Pakistan’s economic landscape to this day.

What was Mujeeb’s six point formula ?

Ans

Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s six-point demand, known as the “Six Point Movement,” was a significant
political program that he presented in 1966. The movement aimed to address the grievances of the
people of East Pakistan and secure greater autonomy for the region within a federal system. The
demands included:

➢ The constitution should establish a federation of Pakistan based on the principles of

democracy and autonomy.
➢ The federal government should only be responsible for defense and foreign affairs, while
other powers should be vested with the provinces.
➢ The federation should have two separate but freely convertible currencies.
➢ The taxation system should be decentralized, giving provinces the power to levy taxes.
➢ Each province should have the right to maintain its own militia or paramilitary forces.
➢ The central government should have no jurisdiction over provincial affairs.
These demands, while representing the aspirations of the people of East Pakistan for greater
autonomy, were not ultimately implemented. However, they played a crucial role in shaping the
political discourse and eventually led to the independence of Bangladesh in 1971.

What was Islamic socialization? To what extend zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was serious in
implementation Islamic socialization in Pakistan

Ans

Islamic socialization refers to the process through which individuals in a society are influenced and
socialized to adhere to Islamic values, norms, and practices. It involves the transmission of religious
beliefs, moral codes, and cultural practices associated with Islam. Islamic socialization can occur
through various means, including family upbringing, religious education, community interactions,
and state policies.

Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was a prominent Pakistani politician who served as the President and later as the
Prime Minister of Pakistan in the 1970s. Bhutto was known for his populist and socialist policies,
and he sought to introduce Islamic socialization as part of his political agenda. In pursuit of this
objective, he introduced several measures aimed at Islamizing various aspects of Pakistani society.

Bhutto’s government took steps to Islamicize the legal system by enacting the Hudood Ordinances
in 1979. These ordinances were meant to enforce Islamic punishments for certain offenses, such as
theft, adultery, and alcohol consumption. However, these laws faced criticism for their potential to
be misused and for their impact on women’s rights.

Bhutto also declared Ahmadis, a minority sect within Islam, as non-Muslims through a
constitutional amendment in 1974. This decision was seen as an attempt to consolidate his political
power by appeasing conservative religious groups.

Furthermore, Bhutto made efforts to introduce Islamic teachings in the education system and
promoted the use of the Arabic language. He established Islamic research centers, Islamic
universities, and institutes for the training of Islamic scholars. He also encouraged the establishment
of Islamic banks and financial institutions to conform to Islamic principles.
However, it is important to note that Bhutto’s commitment to Islamic socialization has been a
subject of debate and criticism. Some argue that his adoption of Islamic policies was primarily a
political maneuver to appease religious groups and secure their support. Others believe that Bhutto
had genuine intentions to Islamize Pakistan’s society but faced challenges in implementing his
vision effectively.

Overall, while Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto implemented certain measures aimed at Islamic socialization in
Pakistan, the extent of his sincerity and the long-term impact of his policies on the country’s social
fabric remain matters of interpretation and debate.