Pakistan: Ideology and Constitution by Mustafa Bali, PhD, is a valuable resource for anyone wanting a deeper understanding of Pakistan’s core principles and government structure. This book effectively connects the ideological origins of the country with its constitutional development, guiding readers through the journey from the Two-Nation Theory to the significant amendments of the 1973 Constitution. Using historical background, influential figures, and key events like the Lahore Resolution, it explains how Muslim nationalism in British India led to the creation of Pakistan.
For students and educators, aligned with the Higher Education Commission’s policy on general education, the book serves as an accessible textbook. Its clear structure promotes both chronological and analytical learning, featuring critical analysis, a glossary, notes, and a bibliography for academic rigor. Academics and researchers gain from its integration of socio-political forces with legal milestones, addressing a gap in focused literature on the subject. The preface shows its uniqueness in blending ideological motivations with constitutional developments, making it a precious resource for libraries and scholars exploring South Asian politics.
General readers gain insightful perspectives on Pakistan’s challenges and prospects, fostering appreciation for the nation’s “living document” that adapts to societal needs. By addressing themes of justice, the rule of law, democracy, federal dynamics, and amendments, it encourages thoughtful discourse on governance and identity without overwhelming jargon. Ultimately, this book empowers readers to envision a better Pakistan, inspiring dreamers, policymakers, and citizens alike to engage with its ideological heritage for informed action and national progress. Whether for personal enrichment or professional study, it illuminates the path from past struggles to future aspirations, promoting unity and critical thinking in a diverse society.
Table of Contents
PART 1- Ideological Foundations of Pakistan
Chapter 1- Understanding Ideology
The chapter covers definitions, evolution, significance, sources, and characteristics of ideology, including a discussion on nationalism and the difference between ideology and philosophy.
Chapter 2- Making of a Nation: Historical Context
Discusses the historical context of the creation of Pakistan (socio-political, economic, religious, and cultural dynamics) and its founders’ (leaders, women, and students) contributions.
Chapter 3- Unravelling the Two-Nation Theory
Focuses on those political events that led to the evolution of the Two-Nation Theory and the attainment of an independent Pakistan through the partition of India.
PART 2- Constitutional Framework and Governance
Chapter 4- Constitutional Development (1947-1971)
This chapter covers i) an understanding of the constitution (definition, significance, structure, and features), ii) constitutional development in Pakistan (the interim constitution 1947, the objectives resolution 1949, the making of the constitution, the constitution of 1956, the constitution of 1962, and farewell to united Pakistan).
Chapter 5- The Structure of Government and Dynamics of Federalism
The chapter begins with the efforts of constitution-making and highlights in detail the Executive (President, Prime Minister, and the Cabinet), the Legislature (the Senate, the National Assembly, legislative process, and parliamentary committees), the Judiciary (jurisdiction, the power of judicial review, and independence), and federalism.
Chapter 6- Constitutional Covenant: Rights and Duties
Covers discussion and analysis of fundamental rights, principles of policy, and citizen duties.
Chapter 7- Evolution of Governance: Amendments to the Constitution
The chapter begins with a focus on the procedure of constitutional amendment, initial, notable, minor, and later amendments, and ends with an analysis of these amendments.
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