The starting point for Pakistan's Constitution ever since 1973 has been Islam.
Although many Muslims living in Pakistan see this positively it is problematic for two major reasons.
Firstly, many non- Muslims who live in Pakistan are excluded front this and secondly it sees Pakistan as a unified monolithic whole.
Firstly, The Chalas, Ahmedis and other tribes/sects are excluded from the constitution of Pakistan and must seek representation and protection elsewhere. They are also banned from running as Prime Minister or President? Why is this so? Are we afraid of the minorities power?
With regards to the second problem of being a monolithic whole, Pakistan is amassed with multiple ethnic and tribal groups. Although on paper, it is easier to see Pakistan through a single lens it creates problems of misrepresentation and alienation when it comes to applying the constitution on a pragmatic basis. Pakistan's constitution is largely ideology- ridden and therefore has become impractical. Till this date, it is seeped with the ideology of the time of gaining independence and fails to adapt to the current context.
Moreover, Pakistan's constituon is largely representative of the majority's view. By definition a constitution must be based on consensus. Changing the constitution faces several obstacles especially since it is seen as a sacred document. However, irrational beliefs must be put aside to guarantee every individual within the state his or her civilian rights.
Although many Muslims living in Pakistan see this positively it is problematic for two major reasons.
Firstly, many non- Muslims who live in Pakistan are excluded front this and secondly it sees Pakistan as a unified monolithic whole.
Firstly, The Chalas, Ahmedis and other tribes/sects are excluded from the constitution of Pakistan and must seek representation and protection elsewhere. They are also banned from running as Prime Minister or President? Why is this so? Are we afraid of the minorities power?
With regards to the second problem of being a monolithic whole, Pakistan is amassed with multiple ethnic and tribal groups. Although on paper, it is easier to see Pakistan through a single lens it creates problems of misrepresentation and alienation when it comes to applying the constitution on a pragmatic basis. Pakistan's constitution is largely ideology- ridden and therefore has become impractical. Till this date, it is seeped with the ideology of the time of gaining independence and fails to adapt to the current context.
Moreover, Pakistan's constituon is largely representative of the majority's view. By definition a constitution must be based on consensus. Changing the constitution faces several obstacles especially since it is seen as a sacred document. However, irrational beliefs must be put aside to guarantee every individual within the state his or her civilian rights.
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