Background:
Pakistan's constitutional history dates back to 1947 when Pakistan was declared a separate state after the partition of British India. Since then, Pakistan has seen numerous constitutions, constitutional amendments, and military interventions that have significantly impacted the country's political landscape.
Here is a brief overview of Pakistan's constitutional history:
Government of India Act 1935: Before the partition of British India, the Government of India Act 1935 provided the framework for the governance of the region. The act introduced the concept of provincial autonomy and established separate electorates for Muslims.
Pakistan Resolution 1940:
The Pakistan Resolution was passed in Lahore in 1940, demanding a separate homeland for Muslims in British India.
Independence Act 1947:
The Independence Act 1947 was passed by the British Parliament, which provided the legal framework for the partition of British India into two countries - India and Pakistan.
Objectives Resolution 1949:
The Objectives Resolution was passed in 1949, which laid down the guiding principles for the new state of Pakistan. The resolution proclaimed that Pakistan would be an Islamic state.
Constitution of 1956:
Pakistan's first constitution was adopted in 1956. The constitution established Pakistan as an Islamic republic with a parliamentary system of government. It also granted equal rights to all citizens regardless of their religion.
Constitution of 1962:
In 1962, President Ayub Khan introduced a new constitution, which established a presidential system of government. The constitution gave the president extensive powers, including the power to dissolve the National Assembly.
Constitution of 1973:
The current constitution of Pakistan was adopted in 1973, after years of political turmoil and military interventions. The constitution restored parliamentary democracy and federalism in the country. It also declared Pakistan as an Islamic republic and established Islam as the state religion.
Military Interventions:
Pakistan has witnessed several military interventions that have resulted in the suspension of the constitution and the imposition of martial law. The military rule of General Ayub Khan (1958-69), General Yahya Khan (1969-71), General Zia-ul-Haq (1977-88), and General Pervez Musharraf (1999-2008) significantly impacted the country's constitutional history.
Constitutional Amendments:
Over the years, several amendments have been made to Pakistan's constitution, which have impacted the country's political and legal landscape. Some of the significant amendments include the Eighth Amendment, which gave the president the power to dissolve the National Assembly, and the 18th Amendment, which restored parliamentary democracy and devolved more powers to the provinces.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Pakistan's constitutional history has been marked by political turmoil, military interventions, and constitutional amendments. Despite the challenges, the country has managed to maintain a democratic system of government, and the current constitution of 1973 provides the legal framework for the governance of the country.
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