The 1973 Constitution of Pakistan is the supreme law governing the country, establishing a framework for democracy, federalism, and adherence to Islamic principles, with amendments enhancing its foundational features. Key features include a federal structure that devolves powers to provinces, guarantees fundamental rights, a parliamentary system, and Islamic provisions, all of which have been modified over time through various amendments for greater autonomy and inclusivity. The document emphasizes the dynamic nature of Pakistan's political and legal system, ensuring it adapts to evolving challenges.

1. The 1973 Constitution of
Pakistan
Salient Features and Related
Amendments

2. Introduction
• The 1973 Constitution of Pakistan is the
supreme law of the country. It establishes the
framework for governance and ensures
democracy, federalism, and adherence to
Islamic principles. Over time, amendments
have strengthened or modified its
foundational features.

3. Feature: Federal Structure
• The Constitution defines Pakistan as a federal
state, dividing powers between the central
government and the provinces to ensure a
balance of authority.

4. Amendments: Federal Structure
• - **18th Amendment (2010):** Enhanced
provincial autonomy by devolving powers to
provinces.
• - **7th NFC Award (2009):** Increased
provincial share in financial resources.
• - Strengthened federalism by empowering
provinces to legislate on several subjects.

5. Feature: Fundamental Rights
• The Constitution guarantees fundamental
rights, including equality before the law,
freedom of speech, protection of property,
and the right to life and liberty.

6. Amendments: Fundamental Rights
• - **8th Amendment (1985):** Introduced
protections for minorities and religious
freedoms.
• - **19th Amendment (2010):** Strengthened
judicial independence as part of citizens'
rights.
• - Amendments expanded protections for
women and children, ensuring greater
inclusivity.

7. Feature: Parliamentary System
• The Constitution establishes a parliamentary
system where the Prime Minister is the head
of government, and the President holds a
ceremonial role.

8. Amendments: Parliamentary
System
• - **13th Amendment (1997):** Removed the
President's power to dissolve the National
Assembly.
• - **18th Amendment (2010):** Restored
parliamentary supremacy by limiting
presidential powers.
• - These amendments reinforced the
democratic nature of the parliamentary
system.

9. Feature: Islamic Provisions
• The Constitution declares Pakistan an Islamic
Republic, ensuring all laws conform to the
principles of Islam as outlined in the Quran
and Sunnah.

10. Amendments: Islamic Provisions
• - **8th Amendment (1985):** Strengthened
Islamic provisions, including the establishment
of Shariat courts.
• - **Objectives Resolution (1985):** Became a
substantive part of the Constitution.
• - These amendments reinforced the Islamic
character of the state.

11. Conclusion
• The 1973 Constitution of Pakistan provides a
robust framework for governance. Its salient
features establish the foundation of the state,
while amendments ensure adaptability to
evolving challenges. Together, they reflect the
dynamic nature of Pakistan's political and legal
system.