Ata Ur Rehman Saman
In August 2024, Pakistan marks its 77th anniversary of independence. Since its inception, the country has grappled with many challenges including political, economic, social, religious, and judicial crises. When British India was partitioned along religious lines, Pakistan was born into an array of daunting challenges, perhaps more severe than those faced by its neighbor, India. At its formation, Pakistan was economically fragile, overwhelmed by refugee resettlement issues, violent upheavals, and political volatility. Yet, despite these initial setbacks, Pakistan has achieved notable progress in various sectors over the decades.
The year following its creation was marked by political instability, notably exacerbated by the death of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, leaving a leadership vacuum. The nascent state’s weak political institutions spiraled into early turmoil, earning it the label of a failed state within just three years. Nonetheless, the Pakistani people have clung to the dream of democratic governance through numerous military regimes and authoritarian periods, persistently enduring hardships and striving for advancement. Since 1947, literacy rates have impressively climbed from 12% to over 77%. Major milestones include the establishment of key institutions like the National Bank of Pakistan, Pakistan International Airlines, and Pakistan Steel Mills, as well as significant infrastructural projects such as the Tarbela Dam and the nuclear program. Under the leadership of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, Pakistan also successfully negotiated the release of territories and prisoners from the 1971 war with India.
The Constitution of Pakistan, promulgated in 1973, established a parliamentary system that reinforced the principles of democracy and federalism within the country. This pivotal legal framework aimed to balance power between the central government and the provinces, setting a stage for more inclusive governance.
Decades later, the enactment of the 18th Amendment in 2010 marked a profound shift in this dynamic. It was a response to longstanding demands for greater provincial autonomy, addressing issues of centralization and the disproportionate allocation of resources. This amendment significantly transferred several powers from the federal to the provincial governments, including substantial control over economic resources and educational systems, thus promoting a more decentralized and balanced power structure. The amendment also removed the President’s authority to dissolve Parliament unilaterally, thereby fortifying the democratic structure and making the system more resilient and representative of the diverse regional interests within Pakistan.
Today, Pakistan stands at a crossroads, necessitating a reflective examination of the factors impeding its progress. Embracing the religious and cultural diversity within the nation is crucial for fostering an inclusive society. By promoting unity and understanding among its diverse populations, Pakistan can transcend historical grievances. This approach mirrors the reconciliation between Germany and France, which set aside their tumultuous past to pave the way for mutual prosperity. As Pakistan continues on its journey of development, it is essential to cultivate resilience and adaptability among its people, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future.
