The Objectives Resolution (1949)
The Objectives Resolution was the first important step toward making a constitution for
Pakistan. It acted as a foundation for all future constitutional developments. It guided
lawmakers by setting clear goals that matched the hopes of the people of Pakistan, especially
those who had suffered under Hindu-majority rule before independence.
It was presented by Liaquat Ali Khan, the first Prime Minister of Pakistan, and was passed on
March 12, 1949.
The First Constituent Assembly (1947–1954)
• The first Constituent Assembly was formed under the Indian Independence Act 1947.
• Elections were held in July 1946, and members from the areas that became Pakistan
joined the Assembly.
• Initially, there were 69 members, but the number increased to 79 after more areas
joined Pakistan.
• Two major political parties were present:
o All India Muslim League (AIML)
o Indian National Congress
• This Assembly had two main duties:
1. Running the government.
2. Making a new constitution.
Main Points of the Objectives Resolution
1. Sovereignty belongs to Allah alone.
2. The authority given to the state by Allah is a sacred trust, and it must be used
responsibly.
3. A constitution will be made for a free and independent Pakistan.
4. Power will be used by representatives elected by the people.
5. The country will follow the principles of democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance, and
social justice, as taught by Islam.
6. Muslims will be allowed to live their lives according to the Quran and Sunnah.
7. Minorities will have freedom to practice their religion and protect their culture.
8. There will be special care for minorities, poor, and backward communities.
9. Pakistan will be a federation with autonomous (independent) units, and the territory
of the country will be protected.
10. The people of Pakistan will be helped to progress and contribute to world peace and
humanity.
Explanation and Importance
• The Resolution declared that God is the real ruler, unlike Western democracy where
people have full power.
• People will use the powers given by God within His rules, making it a holy
responsibility.
• It combined Islamic teachings with democratic values like freedom and justice.
• It gave equal rights to minorities, ensuring their religion, culture, and interests were
respected.
• It promised that federating units (like provinces) would have power and independence.
Objections by Non-Muslims
Some non-Muslim members of the Assembly raised objections:
• They felt that mixing religion with politics was against democracy.
• They were worried about the phrase “Sovereignty of Allah” and the focus on Islamic
laws.
• They believed Shariah laws were not fit for modern society.
• They feared the creation of a religious (theocratic) state where minorities might suffer.
Overall Importance of the Objectives Resolution
• It is one of the most important documents in Pakistan’s constitutional history.
• It provided a clear path for making a better future for the people of Pakistan.
• It showed the central role of Islam, but also respected modern democratic values.
• The leaders of Pakistan followed a balanced path—not making Pakistan a fully religious
state, but one that follows Islamic principles and democracy.
• Because of its importance, it has remained the Preamble (opening part) of all of
Pakistan’s constitutions.
