Objective Resolution (1949) and its Impact till 1951
Introduction
The Objective Resolution was a foundational document presented by Prime Minister Liaquat
Ali Khan on March 7, 1949, in the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan. It outlined the guiding
principles for Pakistan’s future constitution, blending Islamic values with democratic
governance. The resolution aimed to establish a legal and political framework that reflected
the ideological basis of Pakistan while ensuring rights for all citizens.
Background of the Objective Resolution
After Pakistan’s creation in 1947, there was an urgent need for a constitutional framework.
The Constituent Assembly, formed in 1947, was tasked with drafting a constitution. However,
disagreements over Pakistan’s Islamic identity versus secular governance delayed progress.
To resolve this, Liaquat Ali Khan introduced the Objective Resolution, which sought
to:
- Define Pakistan’s ideological foundation.
- Balance Islamic principles with democratic governance.
- Protect minority rights while ensuring Islamic laws for Muslims.
Key Features of the Objective Resolution
The resolution contained several important principles:
1. Sovereignty of Allah
- Declared that ultimate sovereignty belongs to Allah, but authority would be exercised by
elected representatives.
- This distinguished Pakistan from purely secular democracies.
2. Democratic Governance
- Promised a representative government where laws would be made by elected leaders.
- Ensured that Muslims could live according to Islamic teachings.
3. Protection of Minority Rights
- Guaranteed freedom of religion for non-Muslims.
- Promised equal rights in social, economic, and political spheres.
4. Federal Structure
- Proposed a federation with provincial autonomy.
- Aimed to maintain unity while respecting regional diversity.
5. Islamic Principles in Legislation
- Laws were to be in accordance with the Quran and Sunnah.
- A committee of Islamic scholars would advise on legislation.
Debates and Opposition
The resolution faced strong debates in the Constituent Assembly:
Supporters’ Arguments
- Islamic Ideology: Leaders like Maulana Shabbir Ahmad Usmani argued it fulfilled
Pakistan’s purpose as an Islamic state.
- Democratic Balance: Liaquat Ali Khan emphasized that democracy and Islamic principles
could coexist.
Opponents’ Concerns
- Minority Representatives (Hindu, Christian, etc.) feared it would create a theocracy and
marginalize non-Muslims.
- Secular Leaders (like Mian Iftikharuddin) believed it would undermine democracy by mixing
religion and state.
Despite opposition, the resolution was passed on March 12, 1949, becoming the prelude to
Pakistan’s future constitutions.
Impact of the Objective Resolution (1949-1951)
After its adoption, the resolution influenced Pakistan’s political and constitutional
developments:
1. Basic Principles Committee (BPC) Report (1950)
- The BPC was formed to draft the constitution based on the Objective Resolution.
- Its interim report (1950) proposed:
- A bicameral legislature (Federal Legislature).
- Equal representation for East and West Pakistan.
- Islamic provisions in laws.
- However, the report was criticized for favoring West Pakistan and delaying
constitution-making.
2. Delays in Constitution-Making
- Disputes over Islamic vs. secular laws
slowed progress.
- East Pakistan’s leaders demanded more provincial autonomy.
3. Liaquat Ali Khan’s Assassination (1951)
- The killing of Liaquat Ali Khan (October 1951) further delayed constitutional progress.
- Political instability increased, and no constitution was finalized by 1951.
Conclusion
The Objective Resolution (1949) was a landmark document that shaped Pakistan’s
constitutional identity. It successfully merged Islamic principles with democracy, though it
faced opposition from secular and minority groups.
By 1951, the resolution had set the foundation for future constitutions, but political instability
and disagreements delayed its full implementation. Despite these challenges, the Objective
Resolution remained a cornerstone of Pakistan’s constitutional framework, influencing the
1956, 1962, and 1973 Constitutions.
