Q.

Write a detailed note on General Zia ul Haque era and discuss his
domestic and Foreign Policy and their impact on Pakistan's Society,
economy and Foreign Relations

INTRODUCTION:

The reign of General Zia ul Haq in Pakistan, which lasted from 1977 to 1988, was a watershed moment in the
country's history. His leadership emerged amid political turmoil following the military coup that deposed Prime
Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. Zia's rule was marked by a complex interplay of domestic and foreign policies that had
long-lasting consequences for Pakistan's society, economy, and foreign relations.

BACKGROUND:

General Zia ul Haq seized power in a coup in July 1977, deposing the democratically elected government of Zulfikar
Ali Bhutto. Zia justified his takeover by citing the need for stability, upholding Islamic values, and combating
corruption. During this time, the political landscape was characterized by the suppression of democratic
institutions and the concentration of power in the military.

a. Domestic Policy:Zia's domestic policy was centered on the Islamization of Pakistani society. He put in place a
number of measures to bring the legal and political systems in line with his interpretation of Islamic principles.

The Hudood Ordinances and the establishment of Sharia courts aimed to enforce Islamic laws but raised concerns
about human rights and the status of women in society.

Support for Afghan mujahideen against the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in the 1980s had a significant impact on
the domestic landscape, contributing to the rise of religious extremism.

b. Economic Policy:

Zia's economic policies were characterized by efforts to revitalize a stagnant economy. The process of Islamization
extended to economic practices, with attempts to introduce Islamic banking principles.

During the Afghan-Soviet war, Western countries, particularly the United States and Saudi Arabia, provided
economic aid to Pakistan. However, the benefits were not distributed evenly, contributing to socioeconomic
disparities.

c. Foreign Policy:

Zia's foreign policy was heavily focused on the Afghan-Soviet conflict. Pakistan, under Zia, played a critical role in
assisting Afghan resistance fighters (mujahideen) against Soviet forces, receiving substantial aid from the US and
Saudi Arabia.

The Afghan policy had far-reaching consequences for Pakistan's relations with neighboring countries and global
powers. The influx of Afghan refugees and the militarization of the region had long-term consequences for stability
and security.

ANALYSIS:

a. Social Implications:
 Zia's Islamization policies had a significant impact on Pakistani society, influencing laws, education, and
public behavior. They did, however, increase conservatism and sectarian tensions.

The Afghan-Soviet conflict, as well as the subsequent influx of Afghan refugees, aided in the spread of radical
ideologies and the rise of militancy in the region.

Effects on the Economy:While providing temporary respite during the Afghan War, economic aid also increased
reliance on outside resources. Benefits were not dispersed equally, and economic inequality grew.

Impact on Foreign Relations:During the Afghan-Soviet war, Zia's support for the US improved Pakistan's relations
with the West. However, the Afghan conflict strained relations with India and had ramifications for regional
stability.

Conclusion: The Zia ul Haq era in Pakistan's history left a complex legacy. While his policies were intended to bring
stability and strengthen Islamic values, they also caused social divisions, economic imbalances, and long-term
consequences for regional and global relations. During this time, the interplay of domestic and foreign policies
shaped Pakistan's political landscape and challenges in the twenty-first century.