PAKISTAN STUDIES NOTES-GRADE 10TH

Chapter # 8 – Political Development in Pakistan 1947-2002

8.5.2 Discuss the Reforms Introduced by General Zia-ul-Haq (Privatization, Islamization) and their Impact on Pakistan.

Zia-ul-Haq implemented significant reforms during his tenure from 1977 to 1988, notably focusing on privatization and Islamization.  These reforms were actually a reversal of the policies of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto.

1. Privatization of Institutions:

Background: Prior to Zia-ul-Haq’s regime, Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s socialist policies led to the nationalization of major institutions in Pakistan, including industries, insurance companies, banks, and schools. This move aimed to centralize control and redistribute wealth.

Reversal: Zia-ul-Haq reversed Bhutto’s nationalization policies, considering them contrary to Islamic principles. He returned the nationalized institutions to their former owners and facilitated the sale of many nationalized companies to new investors, both local and foreign.

Impact:

• Economic Revival: The reversal of nationalization policies under Zia-ul-Haq’s regime attracted investment, both domestic and international, by creating a conducive environment for business. This influx of investment stimulated economic growth, contributing to overall stability and development.
• Quality of Life: The economic revitalization resulting from privatization had a positive impact on the quality of life for the people of Pakistan. Increased job opportunities, improved infrastructure, and enhanced access to goods and services improved living standards across the country.

2. Islamization:

Zia-ul-Haq sought to Islamize Pakistan’s legal and social framework to align it more closely with Islamic principles. This initiative aimed to create a society governed by Islamic values and laws.

Key Measures:

• Federal Shariat Court: Established in 1980, the Federal Shariat Court was tasked with ensuring that existing laws conformed to Islamic principles. It had the authority to strike down laws deemed inconsistent with Islamic teachings.
• Hudood Ordinances: Introduced in 1979 and 1980, the Hudood Ordinances addressed criminal offenses such as theft, adultery, and alcohol consumption under Islamic law. These ordinances imposed strict punishments, including amputation and stoning, for certain crimes.
• Appointment of Ulema: Zia-ul-Haq appointed religious scholars (Ulema) to key judicial positions, including the Federal Shariat Court and the Shariat Appellate Bench of the Supreme Court. This move aimed to ensure that legal interpretations were consistent with Islamic jurisprudence.

Impact:

• International Image: Zia-ul-Haq’s emphasis on Islamization had mixed reactions internationally. While some countries appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to uphold Islamic values, others raised concerns about human rights violations and the imposition of religious laws.
• Status of Women: The implementation of Hudood Ordinances had a significant impact on women in Pakistan. These laws disproportionately affected women, leading to controversies and challenges, including instances of injustice and discrimination against women.
• Lifestyle Changes: Zia-ul-Haq’s push for an Islamic way of life influenced various aspects of Pakistani society, including education, culture, and personal conduct. This emphasis on Islamic values brought about changes in societal norms and behaviors, shaping the lifestyle choices of the Pakistani populace.