Fundamental Rights of Pakistani Citizens under Constitution of Pakistan 1973
The Fundamental Rights of each Pakistani citizen are covered under Chapter II, Articles 8 to 28 of the Constitution of Pakistan. According to Article 8, laws which contradict or infringe upon the Rights granted in this Chapter are void.
**Equality and Non-Discrimination**
The Chapter further states that all citizens are equal under the law and bars discrimination on the basis of sex. There is an added element of non-discrimination in public places on the basis of race, religion, caste, sex, residence or place of birth with an added clause specifying special provisions for women and children. There is also a prohibition on any special tax of any particular religion other than an individual’s own religion and an added safeguard for educational institutions which states any person attending an educational institution will not be required to attend or participate in religious ceremonies or instruction which is not in accordance with his/her own religion. It also highlights the preservation and promotion of language, script and culture of any citizens to which such distinctive categories apply.
**Safeguards Pertaining to Arrest and Detention**
Chapter II also provides safeguards pertaining to arrest and detention, and prohibits slavery, including human trafficking and forced labour, along with a provision to protect individuals against retrospective punishment and protection from double punishment and self-incrimination. The privacy of home and dignity of man has also been enshrined and interlinked with the prohibition of torture for the purpose of extracting evidence.
**Conclusion**
The Fundamental Rights enshrined in Chapter II of the Constitution of Pakistan are an important safeguard for the citizens of Pakistan. These rights protect individuals from discrimination, arbitrary arrest and detention, and torture. They also guarantee the privacy of the home and the dignity of man. These rights are essential for the protection of human rights in Pakistan.