Islamic Provisions of 1973 Constitution

Introduction

The following are the Islamic provisions of 1973 constitution based on the principles of:
1. Holy Quran and Sunnah
2. Islamic Republic of Pakistan
3. Pakistan shall be known as “Islamic Republic of Pakistan”.
4. State Religion
5. Islam shall be the state religion of Pakistan.
6. Sovereignty belongs to Allah.

Sovereignty Belongs to Allah

Sovereignty over the entire Universe belongs to Almighty Allah and the authority bestowed by him on men is a sacred trust which the people o Pakistan will exercise with the limits prescribed by Quran and Sunnah.

Definition of a Muslim

The constitution also gives the definition of a Muslim. A person who believes in Tauheed or Oneness of Allah and in the prophet hood of Hazrat Mohammad

A Muslim to be A President and Prime Minister

The constitution lay down that only Muslims shall be elected President and Prime Minister of Pakistan. Non could not hold these offices.

Islamic Way of life

Steps shall be given to enable the Muslims of Pakistan to order their lives in accordance with the fundamental principles and basic concepts of Islam.

Promotion of Social Justice and Eradication of Social Evils

The state shall take necessary steps for prosecution of social justice and eradication of social evils and shall prevent prostitution, gambling and taking of injurious drugs, printing, publication, circulation and display of obscene literature and advertisements.

Teachings of Holy Quran

The state shall try to make the teachings of Holy Quran and Islamiat compulsory to encourage and facilitate the learning of Arabic language.

Strengthen Bond with Muslim World

The state shall endeavour to strengthen fraternal relations among Muslim countries in order to promote Islamic unity.

Council of Islamic Ideology

There is a council of Islamic ideology which shall guide the government in respect of Islamic teachings, their implementation and propagation. Its chairman and members are appointed by President. Although its advice is not blinding on the government yet it is not easy for any government to ignore or over rule its suggestion or opinion regarding any law.

Error Free Publication of Quran

The government shall endeavour to secure correct and exact printing and publishing of the Holy Quran.

Oath to Project and Promote Islamic Ideology

The Federal and Provincial Ministers, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the National and Provincial Assemblies, the Chairman of the Senate and the Governors and Chief Ministers of the Provinces also take oath to preserve and protect the Islamic Ideology.

Ahmadi’s A Non Muslim Minority

According to the second amendment of 1973 constitution, the Qadiani group or the Lahori group who call themselves “Ahmadi’s” were declared as Non-Muslim minority.

Conclusion

The 1973 constitution enlisted the main principles of State Policy Maximum efforts were made to improve the character of this constitution. Like other constitution, 1973 constitution of Pakistan also provides for the protection, propagation and enforcement of Islamic Ideology.