ALLAMA IQBAL OPEN UNIVERSITY, ISLAMABAD
(Department of Pakistan Studies)
Course: Pakistan Studies (Compulsory) (9374)
Semester: Spring, 2024
Q.1Why did the Congress initially welcome the Delhi Muslim Proposals 19277?
The Congress initially welcomed the Delhi Muslim Proposals of 1927 because they were
seen as a step towards Hindu-Muslim unity, which was crucial for achieving Indian
independence. The key reason was that the Muslim League, for the first time, agreed to give
up the demand for separate electorates—a major point of contention—if certain conditions
regarding Muslim representation and safeguards were met.
Q.2Explain the difference between the Cabinet Mission Plan and the 3" June Plan?
The Cabinet Mission Plan (1946) and the 3rd June Plan (1947) were both significant
proposals aimed at addressing India's independence and partition. However, they differed
in their approach, goals, and outcomes.
1. Cabinet Mission Plan (1946):
Objective: To find a solution for India's future governance while keeping the country united.
Key Provisions:
Proposed a federal structure with three tiers: the Union, Provinces, and Groups of
Provinces.
The Union would control defense, foreign affairs, and communication, while the provinces
and groups would have autonomy in other areas.
It aimed at creating a United India with no partition but gave the provinces the option to
form groups that could have a degree of autonomy.
The creation of a Constituent Assembly to draft the Constitution.
It was supported by the Congress (with reservations) but rejected by the Muslim League
later, as it did not guarantee the creation of Pakistan.
2. 3rd June Plan (1947):
Objective: To plan the transfer of power and determine the future of India, including the
partition of the country.
Key Provisions:
Proposed the partition of India into two independent dominions: India and Pakistan.
Accepted the demand of the Muslim League for a separate nation, leading to the division of
India based on religious lines.
This plan marked the final decision for partition, as it was clear that unity could not be
achieved.
The princely states were given the option to join either India or Pakistan, or to remain
independent.
Led to the Indian Independence Act of 1947, granting independence to both India and
Pakistan on 15th August 1947.
Key Differences:
The Cabinet Mission Plan focused on keeping India united through a federal structure,
while the 3rd June Plan endorsed the partition of India.
The Cabinet Mission Plan was a response to the ongoing constitutional deadlock, while the
3rd June Plan was a direct consequence of the failure to reconcile differences between the
Congress and the Muslim League.
The Cabinet Mission Plan envisaged a Constituent Assembly to draft a single constitution
for a united India, whereas the 3rd June Plan led to the drafting of separate constitutions for
India and Pakistan.
In essence, the Cabinet Mission Plan aimed for unity, while the 3rd June Plan resulted in the
division of the subcontinent.
0.3 What was the icle of the two Easic Principles Fepcit in framing the Constitution?
It seems like there are some typos in your question. Are you asking about the basic
principles reflected in the framing of the U.S. Constitution? If so, here are two essential
principles:
Separation of Powers: The Constitution divides the government into three branches
(legislative, executive, and judicial) to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.
This principle ensures a balance of power and checks and balances between the branches.
Federalism: The Constitution establishes a system of federalism, where power is divided
between the national government and state governments. This principle allows states to
maintain some degree of sovereignty while being united under a central government.
Q.4Highlight the political struggle of Zulfikar Ali Ehutto. Also discuss the reasons of the
failure of Ehutto's government?
Political Struggle of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto:
Zulfikar Ali Bhutto (1928-1979) was a central figure in Pakistan's political history, known for
his dynamic leadership and the creation of Pakistan's first major left-leaning political party,
the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). His political struggle can be summarized in the following
phases:
Early Political Career (1950s-1960s):
Bhutto began his political career in the 1950s, gaining prominence as a diplomat in various
international forums, where he advocated for Pakistan’s position, particularly during the
Cold War.
He served in the cabinet of President Ayub Khan during the 1960s as Minister of
Commerce, and later as Foreign Minister. He became known for his strong stance on
issues such as the Kashmir dispute with India and the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965.
Disillusioned with Ayub Khan’s policies, especially the Tashkent Agreement, Bhutto
resigned from the government in 1966, accusing the regime of selling out Pakistan’s
interests.
Formation of PPP (1967):
Bhutto founded the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) in 1967, advocating for "Islamic
socialism," which promised to address the issues of poverty, inequality, and social justice.
The party's slogan, "Roti, Kapra aur Makan" (Bread, Clothing, and Shelter), resonated with
the masses.
His opposition to Ayub Khan and support for democratic reform won him a strong following,
especially among students, workers, and the rural poor.
1970 General Elections:
In the first general elections of Pakistan in 1970, Bhutto’s PPP won a landslide victory in
West Pakistan, while Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's Awami League dominated East Pakistan.
However, the political deadlock between the two wings of the country led to the eventual
disintegration of Pakistan and the creation of Bangladesh in 1971.
Bhutto took charge as the civilian leader after the military debacle and the resignation of
General Yahya Khan, becoming the President and later Prime Minister of Pakistan.
Reforms as Prime Minister (1971-1977):
As Prime Minister, Bhutto introduced a series of sweeping reforms, including
nationalization of major industries, banks, and educational institutions.
He implemented land reforms aimed at redistributing wealth and empowering the rural
poor. He also worked on the 1973 Constitution of Pakistan, which established a
parliamentary system.
Bhutto emphasized Pakistan's foreign policy independence, aligning with China and the
Arab world, and laying the foundations for Pakistan's nuclear program in response to India's
nuclear ambitions.
Reasons for the Failure of Bhutto’s Government:
Despite his initial popularity and progressive reforms, several factors contributed to the
eventual downfall of Bhutto’s government:
Authoritarian Tendencies:
Bhutto became increasingly authoritarian over time, suppressing political dissent and
curbing freedom of the press. His crackdown on opposition parties and political rivals,
including the National Awami Party (NAP), alienated many segments of society.
His government’s handling of protests, particularly the violent suppression of
demonstrations by labor unions and students, tarnished his image as a champion of
democracy.
Economic Mismanagement:
While Bhutto's nationalization policies were intended to promote social justice, they often
backfired. The nationalization of industries led to inefficiency, mismanagement, and
widespread corruption, hampering economic growth and increasing unemployment.
The failure of land reforms to deliver substantial change, coupled with a declining
economy, resulted in growing dissatisfaction among both the middle class and the poor.
Islamization and Alienation of Secular Supporters:
To counter the growing opposition from Islamist factions, Bhutto introduced measures to
appease religious conservatives, including declaring Friday as a public holiday and banning
alcohol and gambling. These moves alienated many of his secular and leftist supporters,
creating further divisions within his base.
1977 General Elections and Allegations of Rigging:
In the 1977 general elections, Bhutto’s PPP won by a significant margin, but the opposition,
under the Pakistan National Alliance (PNA), accused the government of widespread
electoral rigging. This led to nationwide protests, strikes, and civil unrest.
Bhutto’s failure to resolve the political crisis through negotiation further weakened his
position.
Military Coup (1977):
Amidst the chaos and growing calls for Bhutto’s resignation, the military, led by General
Zia-ul-Haq, intervened on July 5, 1977, overthrowing Bhutto’s government in a bloodless
coup.
Bhutto was arrested and later charged with conspiracy to murder a political opponent. In
1979, after a controversial trial, he was sentenced to death and hanged, marking the end of
his political journey.
In summary, Bhutto’s political struggle was characterized by his efforts to bring socialism,
democracy, and social reform to Pakistan. However, his authoritarian tendencies,
economic mismanagement, and inability to navigate the complex political and social
forces of the time led to his government's failure and his eventual downfall.
0.5 Elaborate on the political policies under the regime of Ceneral Zia-ul Haq?
General Zia-ul-Haq's regime, which lasted from 1977 to 1988, marked a significant shift in
Pakistan’s political, social, and economic landscape. His rule, established after a military
coup that ousted Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, was characterized by several key
political policies:
1. Islamization
Zia's most notable and controversial policy was his push for Islamization of Pakistan. He
aimed to align the country’s laws and governance with Islamic principles. Key initiatives
included:
Hudood Ordinances (1979): These laws sought to impose Islamic punishments for
offenses like theft, adultery, and alcohol consumption. They were heavily criticized for their
impact on women and minorities.
Sharia Benches and Federal Shariat Court: These institutions were established to ensure
laws conformed to Islamic teachings, with the authority to strike down legislation seen as
un-Islamic.
Zakat and Ushr Ordinance (1980): This introduced a mandatory Islamic tax system on
savings and agricultural income, meant to support the poor and needy.
2. Political Repression and Martial Law
Zia imposed martial law immediately after his coup and dissolved the national and
provincial assemblies. He cracked down on political opposition and controlled dissent by:
Banning political parties and political activities until the 1985 elections.
Arresting Bhutto and executing him in 1979 after a controversial trial, which further
polarized the country.
Suppressing the media and press by introducing strict censorship laws.
Centralizing power within the military and appointing military officers to key civilian roles.
3. Non-Party Based Elections (1985)
In an effort to maintain control over the political process, Zia introduced non-party based
elections in 1985. These elections were held to legitimize his rule while keeping political
parties marginalized. It led to the establishment of a civilian government under Prime
Minister Muhammad Khan Junejo, but without the political independence usually
associated with such offices.
4. Foreign Policy: Close Ties with the U.S.
Zia's foreign policy was closely aligned with the interests of the United States, especially
during the Soviet-Afghan War (1979–1989). Pakistan, under Zia, became a crucial ally of the
U.S. in its efforts to support Afghan Mujahideen against Soviet forces, which brought
significant military and economic aid to Pakistan. However, this also led to an influx of
refugees and the rise of militant groups in the region.
5. Economic Policies
Zia's economic policies were largely shaped by his Islamization agenda, alongside some
liberalization measures:
He promoted Islamic banking, introducing interest-free banking systems based on profit-
sharing models.
Privatization of some state-owned enterprises occurred, but Zia’s era was not marked by
significant economic reform or industrialization.
His government focused on agriculture and rural development, partly through the Islamic
obligation of Ushr (tax on agricultural produce).
6. Constitutional Amendments and Concentration of Power
Zia significantly altered the Constitution of Pakistan to consolidate power in the
presidency. He introduced the 8th Amendment in 1985, which gave the president the
power to dissolve the National Assembly and dismiss the prime minister, a power he later
used to dismiss Prime Minister Junejo in 1988.
7. Religious Influence in Education and Society
Zia's policies also deeply influenced education and societal norms. He introduced Islamic
content in school curricula, encouraged the construction of mosques, and emphasized
religious education. His regime also enforced stricter Islamic dress codes and public
morality laws, impacting the role of women in society.
Conclusion
General Zia-ul-Haq's policies fundamentally altered Pakistan's political structure, aligning
it more closely with conservative Islamic principles and military dominance. While his
Islamization efforts were popular with certain sections of society, they were deeply divisive
and have had lasting social and political consequences. His death in a plane crash in 1988
ended his rule, but many of the systems he put in place remained influential in Pakistan’s
governance.
