PAKISTAN STUDIES NOTES-GRADE 11th & 12th

Chapter # 2 – Constitutional Development in Pakistan

2.2 Constitutional History of Pakistan

2.2.1. Discuss the Key Ideas of the Speech Delivered by Mohammad Ali Jinnah to the Constituent Assembly on 11 August 1947.

Background

Pakistan officially emerged as an independent nation on August 14, 1947, following the enactment of the Indian Independence Act 1947. This act delineated the partition of the Indian subcontinent, creating two separate entities: India and Pakistan, effective from August 15, 1947. Additionally, it stipulated that the Government of India Act 1935 would serve as a provisional constitution until the formulation of new constitutions by the two new states.

In accordance with the provisions of the act, two sovereign constituent assemblies were established for India and Pakistan by royal consent. These constituent assemblies were tasked with the dual responsibility of crafting the new constitutions and forming governments for their respective nations.

Mohammad Ali Jinnah’s speech to the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan on August 11, 1947, is widely regarded as one of his most significant addresses, outlining the vision and principles upon which the newly formed nation of Pakistan would be built.

The key ideas of Quaid-e- Azam’s speech constituent assembly of Pakistan:

1. Unity and Tolerance: Jinnah emphasized the importance of unity and tolerance among the diverse communities within Pakistan. He stressed that all citizens, regardless of their religion, caste, or creed, would be equal and enjoy equal rights and opportunities in the new nation.
2. Equal Citizenship: Jinnah reiterated the principle of equal citizenship, stating that all citizens of Pakistan would be treated equally under the law, without discrimination based on religion or any other factor. He emphasized that the state would not interfere in the personal beliefs and practices of its citizens.
3. Responsibilities of the Assembly: He outlines the dual role of the Constituent Assembly: framing the future constitution of Pakistan and functioning as a sovereign legislative body. He emphasizes the gravity of the responsibility placed on the Assembly members and urges them to make decisions carefully.
4. Rule of Law and Order: Jinnah highlights the importance of maintaining law and order to protect the life, property, and religious beliefs of the citizens. He stresses the government’s duty to ensure the safety and security of its people.
5. Freedom of Religion: Jinnah reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to freedom of religion, stating that every citizen would have the right to practice their religion freely. He emphasized that the state would not interfere in religious matters and would protect the rights of religious minorities.
6. Democratic Principles: Jinnah reiterated the commitment to democratic principles and the rule of the people. He emphasized that the government would be accountable to the people and would work for their welfare and development.
7. Combatting Corruption and Black-marketing: Jinnah identifies bribery, corruption, and black-marketing as significant challenges facing Pakistan. He calls for strict measures to tackle these issues, emphasizing the need for severe punishment for those engaging in such activities.
8. Nepotism and Jobbery: He condemns nepotism and jobbery, pledging not to tolerate any form of favoritism or influence in his administration.
9. Education and Development: Jinnah highlighted the importance of education and economic development in building a strong and prosperous nation. He emphasized the need for investment in education, science, and technology to enable Pakistan to progress and compete on the global stage.
10. International Relations: Jinnah outlined Pakistan’s desire to maintain friendly relations with other nations based on mutual respect and cooperation. He expressed Pakistan’s commitment to peace and stability in the region and the world.
11. Vision for Pakistan: Jinnah shares his vision for a prosperous and successful Pakistan, guided by principles of justice, fairness, and impartiality. He expresses confidence in the future of Pakistan as a great nation.

Conclusion

 Jinnah’s speech to the Constituent Assembly encapsulated the ideals of democracy, equality, and tolerance upon which Pakistan was founded. It set the tone for the future direction of the nation and laid out the principles that would guide its governance and development.