Objective resolution of 1949

When Pakistan became independent, the Indian act of 1935 was adopted as the temporary constitution of the country with some amendments. However, a constant struggle was needed to frame a constitution for the newly established state. After the death of Quaid-e-Azam, now this responsibility fell on the shoulders of Khan Liaqat Ali Khan. Due to his untiring efforts, Pakistan finally got its first constitutional document that would prove to be a guideline for the future constitutions of 1956, 1962 and 1973.

Some of the salient features of the objectives resolution are as below.

1) Sovereignty belongs to Allah
The objective resolution clearly stated that sovereignty belongs to one and only Allah and no law can be made against the basic tenets of Quran and Sunnah. And that the representatives of the people will exercise their duties within the limits prescribed the almighty Allah.

2) Federation
Pakistan shall be a federation comprising of several federating units. The federating units or provinces will have complete autonomy but in a certain limit.

3) Fundamental Rights
The state shall protect the freedom of speech, freedom of action, freedom of formation of political groups, freedom to pursue religion and other fundamental rights. But the citizens shall not be allowed to breach the law or to suppress the rights of others.

4) Rights of minorities
Minorities will be completely free in practicing and observing their religion and religious rituals. No one shall be allowed to suppress these rights.

5) Democratic setup
The state representatives will be elected through free and fair elections, which will not allow the state of Pakistan to be a theocratic state.

6) Independence of Judiciary
The state will make sure that judiciary remains independent in order to dispense equal justice to all the citizens of the state.

7) Defense of the country
The government will be responsible for upholding the territorial integrity of the state. No other country or non-state actor shall be allowed to occupy any part of the territory whether it was land, sea or air.

8) Development of backward areas
The state will make sure that all the areas are equally developed. Special attention shall be given to the underdeveloped areas of Pakistan.

9) Welfare state
Pakistan shall be a welfare state.

Though objective resolution provided a basis for the constitutional journey in the country yet it also produced some infractions among the citizens and especially among the seculars Muslims and minorities. Chandra Chattopadhyaya, the then opposition leader in the legislative assembly, strongly opposed it and pressed for a more secular constitution.

These sentiments were echoed by all the minority representatives in the legislative assembly. However, all the Muslim members of the parliament except Mian Iftikhar Uddin strongly supported the constitution and this resolution was made the permanent part and a precedent for the future constitutions by including Article-2A in the constitution.