The Objective Resolution of Pakistan maintains a profound historical and constitutional stature. This is attributable to numerous elements such as its embedment into the constitution, General Zia’s instrumental role in rendering it justifiable, its recurrent presence in various constitutions, its safeguard against amendments, and its pivotal role in proclaiming Pakistan as an Islamic republic. We shall delve into these facets in depth.
- Justiciable Part of the Constitution: The Objective Resolution of Pakistan, initially presented by Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan on March 12, 1949, was a foundational document that set out the principles and objectives of the new nation. However, it was General Zia-ul-Haq who made it a justifiable part of the constitution of Pakistan. Under the 8th amendment to the 1973 constitution, General Zia incorporated the Objective Resolution into the main body of the constitution. This move gave it legal enforceability and constitutional significance.
- Implementation of Islamization: General Zia-ul-Haq’s decision to make the Objective Resolution justiciable was a key element of his broader strategy to Islamize Pakistan. Zia’s regime promoted a conservative interpretation of Islam and sought to align the legal system and governance with Islamic principles. By incorporating the Objective Resolution into the constitution, he aimed to strengthen the Islamic character of the state and its legal framework.
- Presence in Multiple Constitutions: The Objective Resolution has had a lasting impact on Pakistan’s constitutional history. It has been included in the preambles of all three constitutions Pakistan has had since its inception: the 1956, 1962, and 1973. This demonstrates its enduring significance in shaping the nation’s core values and principles.
- Immunity from Amendments: While many parts of the constitution can be amended through the proper constitutional process, the Objective Resolution of Pakistan enjoys a unique status. It is one of the few clauses that cannot be amended or removed from the constitution. This reflects the fundamental and unalterable nature of the principles outlined in the Objective Resolution.
- Islamic Republic of Pakistan: One of the most notable outcomes of the Objective Resolution was the official declaration of Pakistan as the “Islamic Republic of Pakistan.” This change in the state’s name, adopted in the 1956 constitution, signified Pakistan’s commitment to being a state guided by Islamic principles and values. It symbolizes the religious identity and character of the nation
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Basic Constitutional Framework
The Objective Resolution of Pakistan serves as a cornerstone document, a significant beacon guiding the nation’s development course. Its potency is not confined to the annals of history; instead, it has played a substantial role in moulding Pakistan’s constitutional and ideological frame. It has not only influenced the nation’s legal system but has also seeped into the societal fabric, thereby contributing to shaping its national identity.
Foundational Cornerstone
The Objective Resolution is not just another document in Pakistan’s constitutional history. It is the foundational cornerstone, the bedrock upon which the entire constitutional structure of the country is built. Its imprint has been seen in multiple renditions of the nation’s constitution, testifying its enduring relevance. Every one of Pakistan’s constitutions has found its roots in this all-important resolution. This consistent inclusion mirrors the indelible impact and the importance of the Objective Resolution in the constitutional history of Pakistan.
Legal Justification
Simultaneously, the justiciability of the Objective Resolution further underscores its gravity. It provides a measure of legal enforceability that ensures its principles are not merely words on paper but actionable guidelines that can be upheld in a court of law. The justiciability of this document implies that its principles are not hypothetical; they are concrete, enforceable, and hold legitimate consequences. They are guiding principles and constitute a decisive framework for the nation’s legal system.
Nation’s ideological stance
Moreover, the role of the Objective Resolution in declaring Pakistan as an Islamic republic deserves special attention. It embodies the nation’s ideological stance, integrating Islamic principles. It eloquently expresses Pakistan’s commitment to democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance and social justice as enunciated by Islam. The declaration of Pakistan as an Islamic republic has had far-reaching consequences, shaping the nation’s socio-political life and influencing its interaction with other countries.
Significance of Objective Resolution
The profound significance of the Objective Resolution in the nation’s history and identity cannot be overstated. It is a proud testament to the nation’s rich cultural heritage and a vivid reflection of its evolving identity. It’s a powerful remembrance of the nation’s past, a guiding light for the present, and a blueprint for the future. In conclusion, the Objective Resolution of Pakistan is more than a historical document. It’s a living testament to the nation’s journey, its hopes, aspirations, and dreams.
It’s an essential part of Pakistan’s collective memory and a key determinant of its national identity. It’s a symbol of the nation’s resilience, commitment to its founding principles, and unyielding pursuit of progress within the framework of the Islamic tenets. Hence, the Objective Resolution’s significance is deeply intertwined with Pakistan’s existence, history, and identity and will continue for years.
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