Constitutional Development in Pakistan
CRQs
Question
What reasons were given by Ghulam Muhammad to justify the dissolution of Constituent Assembly in 1954?
Ghulam Muhammad dissolved the Constituent Assembly in 1954, claiming that the Assembly was not working effectively and was unable to create a constitution. He argued that the Assembly was not addressing important issues and was involved in unnecessary disputes.
How this step of Ghulam Muhammad delayed the process of constitution making in Pakistan?
This decision delayed the process of making a constitution because it removed the main body responsible for drafting it. Without the Assembly, Pakistan had to wait longer to establish a new constitution, causing a period of political uncertainty and instability.
Question
Why is the Objectives Resolution of 1949 considered to be the most important document in the constitutional history of Pakistan?
The Objectives Resolution of 1949 is crucial in Pakistan’s constitutional history because:
I. Foundation of Constitution: It laid the basis for Pakistan’s future constitutions with sovereignty belonging to Allah.
II. Islamic State: It declared Pakistan an Islamic state, guided by Islamic principles.
III. Fundamental Rights: It ensured equal rights and justice for all citizens, regardless of religion.
OR
The Objectives Resolution of 1949 is a key document in Pakistan’s constitutional history because it laid the foundation for the country’s future constitutions. It declared that sovereignty belongs to Allah, and that authority in Pakistan would be exercised by the people within the limits prescribed by Islam. The resolution emphasized that Pakistan would be an Islamic state, guided by Islamic principles of democracy, freedom, and justice. It also guaranteed fundamental rights for all citizens, regardless of their religion, promoting equality and justice. This resolution shaped Pakistan’s identity as an Islamic republic and remains central to its legal framework.
Question
After the Eighteenth Amendment in the Pakistan’s Constitution of 1973, the portfolio of education has been moved from federal government to provincial governments. However, higher education is still controlled by the federal government. What possible problems can arise due to the above given situation?
Answer
The division of education control after the Eighteenth Amendment can cause several issues:
I. Inconsistent Standards: Differences in curricula between provinces and federal higher education can create gaps for students.
II. Coordination Issues: Misalignment between provincial schools and federal universities may cause confusion.
III. Resource Disparities: Provinces with fewer resources may struggle, widening the educational gap.
IV. Policy Conflicts: Disagreements between provincial and federal authorities may hinder education reforms.
OR
The division of education control can lead to inconsistencies in standards, coordination issues, resource disparities between provinces, and policy conflicts, all of which may hinder effective management and reform of the education system.
Question
The 1973 Constitution of Pakistan is termed as the most Islamic Constitution amongst all three. Describe any THREE reasons behind the given statement in the light of 1973 Constitution’s features.
Answer
The 1973 Constitution of Pakistan is considered the most Islamic for these reasons:
I. Islam as State Religion: It declares Islam as the state religion and mandates that laws must align with Islamic teachings.
II. Objectives Resolution: It incorporates the Objectives Resolution, emphasizing sovereignty under Allah and Islamic principles in governance.
III. Islamic Council: It includes provisions for an Islamic Council to advise on Islamic law, ensuring governance reflects Islamic principles.
Question
The 1956 constitution came up after deliberations of nine years, yet it was abrogated in 1958. Discuss the reasons that led to its failure.
Answer
The 1956 Constitution of Pakistan was abrogated in 1958 due to several key reasons:
I. Political Instability: Frequent changes in government, along with weak political leadership, led to instability, making it difficult to implement the Constitution effectively.
II. Civil-Military Tensions: The growing influence of the military and conflicts between civilian leaders and military leaders created an environment of unrest, contributing to the breakdown of democratic processes.
III. Ethnic and Regional Divisions: The Constitution failed to adequately address the growing ethnic and regional tensions, particularly between East and West Pakistan, which weakened national unity.
IV. Lack of Public Trust: Widespread corruption and inefficiency within the government led to a loss of public trust, undermining the credibility of the Constitution.
V. Failure to Hold Elections: The Constitution promised elections, but delays in holding these elections created frustration and further weakened the political system.
Question
Pakistan Resolution has been termed as the turning point for the Muslims of the subcontinent. Analyze the above statement by highlighting the importance of Pakistan Resolution in the history of Pakistan.
Answer
The Pakistan Resolution of 1940 was a turning point for Muslims in the subcontinent because:
I. Demand for a Separate State: It formally called for an independent Muslim state, laying the foundation for Pakistan.
II. Muslim Unity: It united Muslims under a common goal, strengthening their political identity.
III. Challenge to Congress and British Rule: It asserted Muslim autonomy, challenging the Indian National Congress and British authority.
IV. Pathway to Independence: It paved the way for Pakistan’s eventual creation in 1947.