THE
CONSTITUTION
OF THEISLAMIC REPUBLICOFPAKISTAN[As modified upto the 31st May, 2018]

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF PAKISTANPREFACE
The National Assembly of Pakistan passed the Constitution on
10th April, 1973, the President of the Assembly authenticated it on 12th
April, 1973 and the Assembly published the Constitution of the Islamic
Republic of Pakistan. Since then, a number of amendments have been
made therein and it has become necessary and expedient that an up-to-date
and authentic version of the Constitution be published by the Assembly.

This Eighth Edition, which is intended to provide an updated
version of the Constitution, incorporates all amendments made in it till
date.

TAHIR HUSSAIN
Secretary,
National Assembly of Pakistan.

ISLAMABAD :The 31st May, 2018

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANTHE CONSTITUTION OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN__________CONTENTS__________
ArticlesPage

Preamble ........................................................................................................................... 1
PART I ....................................................................................................................3
Introductory ..................................................................................................................... 3
1.
The Republic and its territories .................................................................... 3
2.
Islam to be State religion ............................................................................... 3
2A.
The Objectives Resolution to form part of substantive provisions ............ 3
3.
Elimination of exploitation ............................................................................ 4
4.
Right of individuals to be dealt with in accordance with law, etc. ............. 4
5.
Loyalty to State and obedience to Constitution and law ............................. 4
6.
High treason .................................................................................................... 4
Fundamental Rights and Principles of Policy ................................................................ 6
7.
Definition of the State..................................................................................... 6
CHAPTER 1. – FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS .................................................................... 6
8.
Laws inconsistent with or in derogation of Fundamental Rights to be void.......................................................................................................................... 6
9.
Security of person ........................................................................................... 7
10.
Safeguards as to arrest and detention........................................................... 7
10A. Right to fair trial ............................................................................................ 9
11.
Slavery, forced labour, etc., prohibited ........................................................ 9
12.
Protection against retrospective punishment ............................................. 10
13.
Protection against double punishment and self incrimination ................. 10
14.
Inviolability of dignity of man, etc. ............................................................. 10
15.
Freedom of movement, etc. .......................................................................... 11
16.
Freedom of assembly .................................................................................... 11
17.
Freedom of association ................................................................................. 11
18.
Freedom of trade, business or profession ................................................... 11
19.
Freedom of speech, etc. ................................................................................ 12
19A. Right to information. .................................................................................... 12
20.
Freedom to profess religion and to manage religious institutions ............ 12
21.
Safeguard against taxation for purposes of any particular religion ........ 12
22.
Safeguards as to educational institutions in respect of religion, etc. ........ 13
23.
Provision as to property ............................................................................... 13
24.
Protection of property rights ....................................................................... 13
25A. Equality of citizens ....................................................................................... 15
25.
Right to education ........................................................................................ 15
26.
Non-discrimination in respect of access to public places .......................... 15
27.
Safeguard against discrimination in services ............................................. 15
28.
Preservation of language, script and culture ............................................. 16
CHAPTER 2. – PRINCIPLES OF POLICY .................................................................... 16
29.
Principles of Policy ....................................................................................... 1630.
Responsibility with respect to Principles of Policy .................................... 17
31.
Islamic way of life ......................................................................................... 17
32.
Promotion of local Government institutions .............................................. 17i

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.

Parochial and other similar prejudices to be discouraged ........................ 18
Full participation of women in national life ............................................... 18
Protection of family, etc. .............................................................................. 18
Protection of minorities ................................................................................ 18
Promotion of social justice and eradication of social evils ........................ 18
Promotion of social and economic well being of the people ...................... 19
Participation of people in Armed Forces .................................................... 20
Strengthening bonds with Muslim world and promoting international
peace .............................................................................................................. 20

PART III ............................................................................................................... 21
The Federation of Pakistan ........................................................................................... 21
CHAPTER 1.—THE PRESIDENT ................................................................................. 21
41.
The President ................................................................................................ 21
42.
Oath of President .......................................................................................... 22
43.
Conditions of President’s office ................................................................... 22
44.
Term of office of President .......................................................................... 22
45.
President’s power to grant pardon, etc. ..................................................... 22
46.
President to be kept informed ..................................................................... 23
47.
Removal [or impeachment] of President .................................................... 23
48.
President to act on advice, etc. .................................................................... 24
49.
Chairman or Speaker to act as, or perform functions of, President ........ 25
CHAPTER 2. – THE [MAJLIS-E-SHOORA (PARLIAMENT)] .................................... 25
Composition, Duration and Meetings of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]................ 25
50.
Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) ...................................................................... 25
51.
National Assembly ........................................................................................ 25
52.
Duration of National Assembly ................................................................... 27
53.
Speaker and Deputy Speaker of National Assembly ................................. 27
54.
Summoning and prorogation of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) ............... 28
55.
Voting in Assembly and quorum................................................................. 29
56.
Address by President.................................................................................... 29
57.
Right to speak in [Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] ..................................... 30
58.
Dissolution of National Assembly................................................................ 30
59.
The Senate ..................................................................................................... 31
60.
Chairman and Deputy Chairman ............................................................... 32
61.
Other provisions relating to Senate ............................................................ 33
provisions as to Members of [Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] ......................................... 33
62.
Qualifications for membership of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) ............ 33
63.
Disqualifications for membership of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) ........ 34
63A. Disqualification on grounds of defection, etc. ............................................ 37
64.
Vacation of seats ........................................................................................... 39
65.
Oath of Members .......................................................................................... 39
66.
Privileges of members, etc. .......................................................................... 39
Procedure Generally ........................................................................................................ 40
67.
Rules of procedure, etc. ................................................................................ 40
68.
Restriction on discussion in Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) ...................... 41
69.
Courts not to inquire into proceedings of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) 41
Legislative Procedure ...................................................................................................... 41ii

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

70.
71.
72.
73.
74.
75.
76.
77.

Introduction and passing of Bills ................................................................ 41
Mediation Committee................................................................................... 42
Procedure at joint sittings ............................................................................ 42
Procedure with respect to Money Bills ....................................................... 42
Federal Government’s consent required for financial measures ............. 44
President’s assent to Bills............................................................................. 44
Bill not to lapse on prorogation, etc. ........................................................... 45
Tax to be levied by law only ........................................................................ 45

Financial Procedure ........................................................................................................ 45
78.
Federal Consolidated Fund and Public Account ....................................... 45
79.
Custody, etc., of Federal Consolidated Fund and Public Account ........... 46
80.
Annual Budget Statement ............................................................................ 46
81.
Expenditure charged upon Federal Consolidated Fund ........................... 46
82.
Procedure relating to Annual Budget Statement ....................................... 47
83.
Authentication of schedule of authorized expenditure .............................. 48
84.
Supplementary and excess grants ............................................................... 48
85.
Votes on account ........................................................................................... 49
86.
Power to authorize expenditure when Assembly stands dissolved ........... 49
87.
Secretariats of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) ............................................ 49
88.
Finance Committees ..................................................................................... 50
Ordinances ....................................................................................................................... 50
89.
Power of President to promulgate Ordinances .......................................... 50
CHAPTER 3. – THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT ........................................................ 52
90.
Exercise of executive authority of the Federation ..................................... 52
91.
The Cabinet ................................................................................................... 52
92.
Federal Ministers and Ministers of State ................................................... 53
93.
Advisers ......................................................................................................... 54
94.
Prime Minister continuing in office ............................................................ 54
95.
Vote of no-confidence against Prime Minister ........................................... 54
96.
[Omitted] ........................................................................................................ 55
97.
Extent of executive authority of Federation ............................................... 55
98.
Conferring of functions on subordinate authorities .................................. 55
99.
Conduct of business of Federal Government ............................................. 55
100.
Attorney-General for Pakistan .................................................................... 56
PART IV .............................................................................................................. 57
Provinces ......................................................................................................................... 57
CHAPTER 1. – THE GOVERNORS............................................................................... 57
101.
Appointment of Governor ........................................................................... 57
102.
Oath of Office ............................................................................................... 57
103.
Conditions of Governor’s office .................................................................. 58
104.
Speaker Provincial Assembly to act as, or perform functions of Governor
in his absence ................................................................................................ 58
105.
Governor to act on advice, etc. .................................................................... 58
CHAPTER 2. – PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLIES .............................................................. 59
106.
Constitution of Provincial Assemblies ........................................................ 59
107.
Duration of Provincial Assembly ................................................................ 60
108.
Speaker and Deputy Speaker ...................................................................... 60
109.
Summoning and prorogation of Provincial Assembly .............................. 61iii

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

110.
111.
112.
113.
114.
115.
116.
117.

Right of Governor to address Provincial Assembly .................................. 61
Right to speak in Provincial Assembly ....................................................... 61
Dissolution of Provincial Assembly ............................................................. 61
Qualifications and disqualifications for membership of Provincial
Assembly ....................................................................................................... 62
Restriction on discussion in Provincial Assembly...................................... 62
Provincial Government’s consent required for financial measures ......... 62
Governor’s assent to Bills ............................................................................ 63
Bill not to lapse on prorogation, etc. ........................................................... 64

Financial Procedure ........................................................................................................ 64
118.
Provincial Consolidated Fund and Public Account ................................... 64
119.
Custody, etc., of Provincial Consolidated Fund and Public Account ...... 65
120.
Annual Budget Statement ............................................................................ 65
121.
Expenditure charged upon Provincial Consolidated Fund....................... 65
122.
Procedure relating to Annual Budget Statement ....................................... 66
123.
Authentication of schedule of authorized expenditure .............................. 66
124.
Supplementary and excess grant ................................................................. 67
125.
Votes on account ........................................................................................... 67
126.
Power to authorize expenditure when Assembly stands dissolved ........... 67
127.
Provisions relating to National Assembly, etc., to apply to Provincial
Assembly, etc................................................................................................. 68
Ordinances ....................................................................................................................... 69
128.
Power of Governor to promulgate Ordinances ......................................... 69
CHAPTER 3. – THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENTS ................................................ 69
129.
Exercise of executive authority of the Province ......................................... 69
130.
The Cabinet ................................................................................................... 70
131.
Governor to be kept informed ..................................................................... 71
132.
Provincial Ministers ..................................................................................... 71
133.
Chief Minister continuing in office ............................................................. 72
134.
[Omitted] ........................................................................................................ 72
135.
[Omitted] ........................................................................................................ 72
136.
Vote of no-confidence against Chief Minister ............................................ 72
137.
Extent of executive authority of Province .................................................. 72
138.
Conferring of functions on subordinate authorities .................................. 73
139.
Conduct of business of Provincial Government ......................................... 73
140.
Advocate General for a Province ................................................................ 73
140A. Local Government ........................................................................................ 73
PART V ............................................................................................................... 75
Relations Between Federation and Provinces .............................................................. 75
CHAPTER 1. – DISTRIBUTION OF LEGISLATIVE POWERS .................................. 75
141.
Extent of Federal and Provincial laws ........................................................ 75
142.
Subject-matter of Federal and Provincial laws ......................................... 75
143.
Inconsistency between Federal and Provincial law ................................... 75
144.
Power of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) to legislate for [One] or more
Provinces by consent .................................................................................... 76
CHAPTER 2. – ADMINISTRATIVE RELATIONS BETWEEN FEDERATION AND
PROVINCES ................................................................................................................... 76
145.
Power of President to direct Governor to discharge certain functions asiv

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

146.
147.
148.
149.
150.
151.
152.

his Agent ........................................................................................................ 76
Power of Federation to confer powers, etc., on Provinces, in certain cases........................................................................................................................ 76
Power of the Provinces to entrust functions to the Federation ................. 77
Obligation of Provinces and Federation ..................................................... 77
Directions to Provinces in certain cases ...................................................... 77
Full faith and credit for public acts, etc...................................................... 78
Inter-Provincial trade .................................................................................. 78
Acquisition of land for Federal purposes ................................................... 79

CHAPTER 3. – SPECIAL PROVISIONS ....................................................................... 79
152A. [Omitted] ........................................................................................................ 79
153.
Council of Common Interests ...................................................................... 79
154.
Functions and rules of procedure ............................................................... 80
155.
Complaints as to interference with water supplies .................................... 80
156.
National Economic Council ......................................................................... 81
157.
Electricity ...................................................................................................... 82
158.
Priority of requirements of natural gas ...................................................... 83
159.
Broadcasting and telecasting ....................................................................... 83
PART VI .............................................................................................................. 85
Finance, Property, Contracts and Suits ....................................................................... 85
CHAPTER 1. – FINANCE .............................................................................................. 85
Distribution of Revenues between the Federation and the Provinces .............................. 85
160.
National Finance Commission ..................................................................... 85
161.
Natural gas and hydro-electric power ........................................................ 87
162.
Prior sanction of President required to Bills affecting taxation in which
Provinces are interested ............................................................................... 87
163.
Provincial taxes in respect of professions, etc. ........................................... 88
Miscellaneous Financial Provisions ................................................................................ 88
164.
Grants out of Consolidated Fund ................................................................ 88
165.
Exemption of certain public property from taxation ................................ 88
165A Power of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) to impose tax on the income ofcertain corporations, etc. ............................................................................. 88
CHAPTER 2. – BORROWING AND AUDIT ................................................................ 89
166.
Borrowing by Federal Government ............................................................ 89
167.
Borrowing by Provincial Government ....................................................... 89
Audit and Accounts .......................................................................................................... 90
168.
Auditor-General of Pakistan ....................................................................... 90
169.
Functions and powers of Auditor-General ................................................. 91
170.
Power of Auditor-General to give directions as to accounts ..................... 91
171.
Reports of Auditor-General ........................................................................ 91
CHAPTER 3. – PROPERTY, CONTRACTS, LIABILITIES AND SUITS ................... 92
172.
Ownerless property ...................................................................................... 92173.
Power to acquire property and to make contracts, etc. ............................ 92
174.
Suits and proceedings ................................................................................... 93v

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANPART VII ............................................................................................................. 94
The Judicature ................................................................................................................ 94
CHAPTER 1. – THE COURTS ....................................................................................... 94
175.
Establishment and jurisdiction of courts.................................................... 94
175A. Appointment of Judges to the Supreme Court, High Courts and theFederal Shariat Court .................................................................................. 94
CHAPTER 2. – THE SUPREME COURT OF PAKISTAN ........................................... 98
176.
Constitution of Supreme Court ................................................................... 98
177.
Appointment of Supreme Court Judges ..................................................... 98
178.
Oath of Office ............................................................................................... 98
179.
Retiring age ................................................................................................... 99
180.
Acting Chief Justice ..................................................................................... 99
181.
Acting Judges ................................................................................................ 99
182.
Appointment of ad-hoc Judges .................................................................... 99
183.
Seat of the Supreme Court ........................................................................ 100
184.
Original Jurisdiction of Supreme Court .................................................. 100
185.
Appellate jurisdiction of Supreme Court ................................................. 101
186.
Advisory Jurisdiction ................................................................................. 102
186A. Power of Supreme Court to transfer cases ............................................... 102
187.
Issue and execution of processes of Supreme Court ................................ 102
188.
Review of judgments of orders by the Supreme Court ........................... 102
189.
Decisions of Supreme Court binding on other Courts ............................ 103
190.
Action in aid of Supreme Court ................................................................ 103
191.
Rules of procedure ..................................................................................... 103
CHAPTER 3. – THE HIGH COURTS .......................................................................... 103
192.
Constitution of High Court ........................................................................ 103
193.
Appointment of High Court Judges .......................................................... 104
194.
Oath of Office ............................................................................................. 104
195.
Retiring age ................................................................................................. 105
196.
Acting Chief Justice ................................................................................... 105
197.
Additional Judges ....................................................................................... 105
198.
Seat of the High Court ............................................................................... 106
199.
Jurisdiction of High Court......................................................................... 107
200.
Transfer of High Court Judges ................................................................. 109
201.
Decision of High Court binding on subordinate Courts ......................... 110
202.
Rules of procedure ..................................................................................... 110
203.
High Court to superintend subordinate Courts ....................................... 110
203A. Provisions of Chapter to override other provisions of Constitution ...... 110
203B. Definitions ................................................................................................... 111
203C. The Federal Shariat Court ........................................................................ 111
203CC. [Omitted] ...................................................................................................... 113
203D. Powers, jurisdiction and functions of the Court ...................................... 113
203DD. Revisional and other jurisdiction of the Court ........................................ 114
203E. Powers and procedure of the Court .......................................................... 115
203F. Appeal to Supreme Court .......................................................................... 116
203G. Bar of jurisdiction ...................................................................................... 117
203GG.Decision of Court binding on High Court and courts subordinate to it 117
203H. Pending proceedings to continue, etc. ....................................................... 117
203J. Power to make rules ................................................................................... 118
CHAPTER 4. – GENERAL PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE JUDICATURE ..... 119
204.
Contempt of Court ..................................................................................... 119

vi

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

205.
206.
207.
208.
209.
210.
211.
212.
212A.
212B.

Remuneration etc., of judges ..................................................................... 119
Resignation .................................................................................................. 120
Judge not to hold office of profit, etc. ....................................................... 120
Officers and servants of Courts................................................................. 121
Supreme Judicial Council .......................................................................... 121
Power of Council to enforce attendance of persons, etc. ......................... 122
Bar of jurisdiction ...................................................................................... 123
Administrative Courts and Tribunals ...................................................... 123[Omitted] ...................................................................................................... 124[Omitted] ...................................................................................................... 124

PART VIII .......................................................................................................... 125
Elections ........................................................................................................................ 125
CHAPTER 1. – CHIEF ELECTION COMMISSIONER AND ELECTION[COMMISSION]............................................................................................................ 125
213.
Chief Election Commissioner .................................................................... 125
214.
Oath of Office ............................................................................................. 126
215.
Term of office of Commissioner [and members] ..................................... 126
216.
Commissioner [and members] not to hold office of profit ...................... 127
217.
Acting Commissioner ................................................................................. 128
218.
Election Commission .................................................................................. 128
219.
Duties of Commission ................................................................................. 129
220.
Executive authorities to assist Commission, etc. ...................................... 129
221.
Officers and staff ........................................................................................ 129
CHAPTER 2. – ELECTORAL LAWS AND CONDUCT OF ELECTIONS ................ 130
222.
Electoral laws .............................................................................................. 130
223.
Bar against double membership................................................................ 130
224.
Time of Election and bye-election ............................................................. 131
224A. 2[Resolution by Committee or Election Commission............................... 133
225.
Election dispute .......................................................................................... 134
226.
Elections by secret ballot ........................................................................... 134
PART IX ............................................................................................................ 135
Islamic Provisions......................................................................................................... 135
227.
Provisions relating to the Holy Quran and Sunnah ................................ 135
228.
Composition, etc., of Islamic Council ....................................................... 135
229.
Reference by [Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], etc., to Islamic Council . 136
230.
Functions of the Islamic Council ............................................................... 136
231.
Rules of procedure ..................................................................................... 137
PART X ............................................................................................................. 138
Emergency Provisions .................................................................................................. 138
232.
Proclamation of emergency on account of war, internal disturbance,
etc. ................................................................................................................ 138
233.
Power to suspend Fundamental Rights, etc., during emergency period 140
234.
Power to issue Proclamation in case of failure of Constitutional
machinery in a Province ............................................................................ 141
235.
Proclamation in case of financial emergency ........................................... 143
236.
Revocation of Proclamation, etc. ............................................................... 144

vii

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

237.

[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may make laws of indemnity, etc. ........ 144

PART XI ............................................................................................................ 145
Amendment of Constitution ........................................................................................ 145
238.
Amendment of Constitution ...................................................................... 145
239.
Constitution, amendment Bill.................................................................... 145
PART XII ........................................................................................................... 146
Miscellaneous ................................................................................................................ 146
CHAPTER 1. – SERVICES ........................................................................................... 146
240.
Appointments to service of Pakistan and conditions of service .............. 146
241.
Existing rules, etc., to continue .................................................................. 146
242.
Public Service Commission ........................................................................ 146
CHAPTER 2. – ARMED FORCES ............................................................................... 147
243.
Command of Armed Forces ...................................................................... 147
244.
Oath of Armed Forces ................................................................................ 147
245.
Functions of Armed Forces ....................................................................... 148
CHAPTER 3. – TRIBAL AREAS ................................................................................. 148
246.
Tribal Areas ................................................................................................ 148
247.
[* * * * * * ] ................................................................................................. 150
CHAPTER 4. – GENERAL ........................................................................................... 150
248.
Protection to President, Governor, Minister, etc. .................................... 150
249.
Legal proceedings ....................................................................................... 151
250.
Salaries, allowances, etc., of the President, etc. ........................................ 151
251.
National language ....................................................................................... 152
252.
Special provisions in relation to major ports and aerodromes ............... 153
253.
Maximum limits as to property, etc. ......................................................... 153
254.
Failure to comply with requirement as to time does not render an act
invalid .......................................................................................................... 153
255.
Oath of Office ............................................................................................. 154
256.
Private armies forbidden ........................................................................... 154
257.
Provision relating to the State of Jammu and Kashmir .......................... 154
258.
Government of territories outside Provinces ........................................... 154
259.
Awards ........................................................................................................ 154
CHAPTER 5. – INTERPRETATION ............................................................................ 155
260.
Definitions ................................................................................................... 155
261.
Person acting in office not to be regarded as successor to previous
occupant of office, etc. ................................................................................ 159
262.
Gregorian calendar to be used .................................................................. 159
263.
Gender and number ................................................................................... 159
264.
Effect of repeal of laws ............................................................................... 159
CHAPTER 6. – TITLE, COMMENCEMENT AND REPEAL ..................................... 160
265.
Title of Constitution and commencement ................................................ 160
266.
Repeal .......................................................................................................... 161
CHAPTER 7. – TRANSITIONAL ................................................................................ 161

viii

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

267.
Power of President to remove difficulties ................................................. 161
267A. Power to remove difficulties ...................................................................... 161
267B. Removal of doubt ....................................................................................... 162
268.
Continuance in force, and adaptation of certain laws ............................. 162
269.
Validation of law, acts, etc. ........................................................................ 163
270.
Temporary validation of certain laws, etc. ............................................... 163
270A. Affirmation of President’s Orders, etc. .................................................... 164
270AA. Declaration and continuance of laws etc. ................................................. 166
270B. Elections to be deemed to be held under Constitution ............................ 168
270BB. General Elections 2008 ............................................................................... 168
271.
First National Assembly ............................................................................. 169
272.
First [constitution of] Senate ..................................................................... 170
273.
First Provincial Assembly .......................................................................... 171
274.
Vesting of property, assets, rights, liabilities and obligations ................. 172
275.
Continuance in office of persons in service of Pakistan, etc. .................. 173
276.
Oath of first President ................................................................................ 175
277.
Transitional financial, provisions.............................................................. 175
278.
Accounts not audited before commencing day ........................................ 175
279.
Continuance of taxes .................................................................................. 175
280.
Continuance of Proclamation of Emergency ........................................... 176[ANNEX ............................................................................................................. 177[FIRST SCHEDULE .......................................................................................... 179
Laws exempted from the operation of Article 8 (1) and (2) ...................................... 179[SECOND SCHEDULE ..................................................................................... 184
Election of President .................................................................................................... 184
THIRD SCHEDULE ........................................................................................... 188
Oaths of Office .............................................................................................................. 188
FOURTH SCHEDULE ....................................................................................... 204
LEGISLATIVE LISTS ................................................................................................ 204
PART I ............................................................................................................... 204
FIFTH SCHEDULE............................................................................................ 211
Remuneration and Terms and Conditions of ............................................................ 211

ix

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent,the most Merciful.)
THE CONSTITUTION OF THE ISLAMICREPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN[12TH APRIL, 1973]
Preamble
Whereas sovereignty over the entire Universe belongs to Almighty
Allah alone, and the authority to be exercised by the people of Pakistan
within the limits prescribed by Him is a sacred trust;
And whereas it is the will of the people of Pakistan to establish anorder;
Wherein the State shall exercise its powers and authority throughthe chosen representatives of the people;
Wherein the principles of democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance
and social justice, as enunciated by Islam, shall be fully observed;
Wherein the Muslims shall be enabled to order their lives in theindividual and collective spheres in accordance with the teachings andrequirements of Islam as set out in the Holy Quran and Sunnah;
Wherein adequate provision shall be made for the minorities freely
to profess and practise their religions and develop their cultures;
Wherein the territories now included in or in accession withPakistan and such other territories as may hereafter be included in or
accede to Pakistan shall form a Federation wherein the units will beautonomous with such boundaries and limitations on their powers andauthority as may be prescribed;
Wherein shall be guaranteed fundamental rights, including equalityof status, of opportunity and before law, social, economic and politicaljustice, and freedom of thought, expression, belief, faith, worship andassociation, subject to law and public morality;
Wherein adequate provision shall be made to safeguard thelegitimate interests of minorities and backward and depressed classes;
Wherein the independence of the judiciary shall be fully secured;

1

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

Wherein the integrity of the territories of the Federation, its
independence and all its rights, including its sovereign rights on land, sea
and air, shall be safeguarded;
So that the people of Pakistan may prosper and attain their rightful
and honoured place amongst the nations of the World and make their fullcontribution towards international peace and progress and happiness ofhumanity;
Now, therefore, we, the people of Pakistan;
Conscious of our responsibility before Almighty Allah and men;
Cognisant of the sacrifices made by the people in the cause of
Pakistan;
Faithful to the declaration made by the Founder of Pakistan,
Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, that Pakistan would be a
democratic State based on Islamic principles of social justice;
Dedicated to the preservation of democracy achieved by theunremitting struggle of the people against oppression and tyranny;
Inspired by the resolve to protect our national and political unityand solidarity by creating an egalitarian society through a new order;
Do hereby, through our representatives in the National Assembly,
adopt, enact and give to ourselves, this Constitution.

______________

2

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANPART I
Introductory
1.

The Republic and its territories

1

1.
(1)
Pakistan shall be Federal Republic to be known as theIslamic Republic of Pakistan, hereinafter referred to as Pakistan.
2[(2)

The territories of Pakistan shall comprise—(a) the Provinces of 3[Balochistan], thePakhtunkhwa], the Punjab and 5[Sindh];4[Khyber(b) the Islamabad Capital Territory, hereinafter referred
to as the Federal Capital; 6[and]6[(c) *
*
*
*
*
*]
6

[(c)] such States and territories as are or may be included
in Pakistan, whether by accession or otherwise.

7(3)[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may by law admit into theFederation new States or areas on such terms and conditions as it thinks
fit.]

2.

Islam to be State religion

2.

Islam shall be the State religion of Pakistan.

2A.

The Objectives Resolution to form part of substantive
provisions

8[2A. The principles and provisions set out in the Objectives Resolution
reproduced in the Annex are hereby made substantive part of theConstitution and shall have effect accordingly].
1

2

3
4
5
6
7

8

The provisions of the Constitution except those of Articles 6, 8 to 28, (both inclusive), clauses 2 and (2a) of
Article 101, Articles 199, 213 to 216 (both inclusive) and 270-A, brought into force with effect from 10th
March, 1985, ride S.R.O. No. 212(I)/85. dated 10th March, 1985, Gazette of Pakistan, Extraordinary, Part-II,
page 279 and the aforesaid Articles brought into force with effect from 30th December, 1985, vide S.R.O.
No. 1273(I)/85 dated 29th December. 1985, Gazette of Pakistan, Extraordinary, Part-I1, page 3185.
Subs. by the Constitution (First Amdt.) Act, 1974 (33 of 1974), s. 2, for "clauses (2), (3) and (4)" (w.e.f; the
4th May, 1974).
Subs. By the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 3 for “Balochistan.”
Subs. ibid., for “North-West-Frontier”.
Subs. ibid., for “Sindh”.
Amended by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amdt.) Act, 2018 (37 of 2018), s. 2. w.e.f. 31-05-2018.
Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985),
Art. 2 and Sch., for "Parliament".
New Article 2A Ins. Ibid.

3

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

3.

Elimination of exploitation

3.
The State shall ensure the elimination of all forms of exploitationand the gradual fulfillment of the fundamental principle, from eachaccording to his ability to each according to his work.
4.

Right of individuals to be dealt with in accordance with law,etc.

4.
(1) To enjoy the protection of law and to be treated in accordancewith law is the inalienable right of every citizen. Wherever he may be, andof every other person for the time being within Pakistan.
(2)

In particular—(a) no action detrimental to the life, liberty, body,
reputation or property of any person shall be taken
except in accordance with law;(b) no person shall be prevented from or be hindered indoing that which is not prohibited by law; and(c) no person shall be compelled to do that which the law
does not required him to do.

5.

Loyalty to State and obedience to Constitution and law

5.

(1)

Loyalty to the State is the basic duty of every citizen.

(2)
Obedience to the Constitution and law is the 1[inviolable]
obligation of every citizen wherever he may be and of every other person
for the time being within Pakistan.
6.

High treason26.
[(1) Any person who abrogates or subverts or suspends or holds
in abeyance, or attempts or conspires to abrogate or subvert or suspend or
hold in abeyance, the Constitution by use of force or show of force or by
any other unconstitutional means shall be guilty of high treason.](2)
Any person aiding or abetting 3[or collaborating] the acts
mentioned in clause (1) shall likewise be guilty of high treason.
1
2
3

Subs. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for "basic".
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act. 2010 (10 of 2010), s.4 for “clause (1)”.
Ins. Ibid.

4

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1[(2A) An act of high treason mentioned in clause (1) or clause (2)shall not be validated by any court including the Supreme Court
and a High Court.]
2(3)[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] shall by law provide forthe punishment of persons found guilty of high treason.

_________

1
2

New clause (2A) ins. ibid.
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

5

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANPART II
Fundamental Rights and Principles of Policy
7.

Definition of the State

7.
In this Part, unless the context otherwise requires, "the State"means the Federal Government, 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], a
Provincial Government, a Provincial Assembly, and such local or otherauthorities in Pakistan as are by law empowered to impose any tax or cess.

CHAPTER 1. – FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS

8.

Laws inconsistent with or in derogation of Fundamental Rights
to be void8.
(1)
Any law, or any custom or usage having the force of law, inso far as it is inconsistent with the rights conferred by this Chapter, shall,to the extent of such inconsistency, be void.
(2)
The State shall not make any law which takes away or
abridges the rights so conferred and any law made in contravention of thisclause shall, to the extent of such contravention, be void.
(3)

The Provisions of this Article shall not apply to—(a) any law relating to members of the Armed Forces, or of
the police or of such other forces as are charged with themaintenance of public order, for the purpose of ensuring
the proper discharge of their duties or the maintenance ofdiscipline among them; or2[(b) any of the —(i) laws specified in the First Schedule as in force
immediately before the commencing day or as
amended by any of the laws specified in that
Schedule;1
2

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra
Subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amdt.) Act, 1975 (71 of 1975), s. 2, for "paragraph (b)", (w.e.f the 21st
November, 1985), which was previously amended by Act 33 of 1974, s. 3, (w.e.f 4th May, 1974).

6

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(ii) other laws specified in Part I of the First Schedule;]
and no such law nor any provision thereof shall be void on the ground thatsuch law or provision is inconsistent with, or repugnant to, any provisionof this Chapter.
(4)
Notwithstanding anything contained in paragraph (b) ofclause (3), within a period of two years from the commencing day, theappropriate Legislature shall bring the laws specified in 1[Part II of theFirst Schedule] into conformity with the rights conferred by this Chapter :Provided that the appropriate Legislature may by resolution extend
the said period of two years by a period not exceeding six months.
Explanation.– If in respect of any law 2[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)] is the appropriate Legislature, such resolution shall be a
resolution of the National Assembly.
(5)
The rights conferred by this Chapter shall not be suspended
except as expressly provided by the Constitution.
9.

Security of person

9.
No person shall be deprived of life or liberty save in accordancewith law.
10.

Safeguards as to arrest and detention

10.
(1)
No person who is arrested shall be detained in custody
without being informed, as soon as may be, of the grounds for such arrest,
nor shall he be denied the right to consult and be defended by a legal
practitioner of his choice.
(2)
Every person who is arrested and detained in custody shallbe produced before a magistrate within a period of twenty-four hours ofsuch arrest, excluding the time necessary for the journey from the place ofarrest to the court of the nearest magistrate, and no such person shall be
detained in custody beyond the said period with out the authority of amagistrate.
(3)
Nothing in clauses (1) and (2) shall apply to any person
who is arrested or detained under any law providing for preventive
detention.
1

2

Subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amdt.) Act, 1975 (71 of I975), s. 2, for "the First Schedule, not being a law
which relates to, or is connected with, economic reforms."
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra

7

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(4) No law providing for preventive detention shall be made except
to deal with persons acting in a manner prejudicial to the integrity,
security or defence of Pakistan or any part thereof, or external affairs ofPakistan, or public order, or the maintenance of supplies or services, andno such law shall authorise the detention of a person for a period
exceeding 1[three months] unless the appropriate Review Board has, after
affording him an opportunity of being heard in person, reviewed his caseand reported, before the expiration of the said period, that there is, in its
opinion, sufficient cause for such detention, and, if the detention iscontinued after the said period of '[three months], unless the appropriate
Review Board has reviewed his case and reported, before the expiration ofeach period of three months, that there is, in its opinion, sufficient cause
for such detention.
Explanation I.— In this Article, "the appropriate Review Board"means,(i) in the case of a person detained under a Federal law, a Board
appointed by the Chief Justice of Pakistan and consisting of a
Chairman and two other persons, each of whom is or has beena Judge of the Supreme Court or a High Court; and(ii) in the case of a person detained under a Provincial law, a Board
appointed by the Chief Justice of the High Court concerned andconsisting of a Chairman and two other persons, each of whom
is or has been a Judge of a High Court.
Explanation II.—The opinion of a Review Board shall be
expressed in terms of the views of the majority of its members.
(5)
When any person is detained in pursuance of an order madeunder any law providing for preventive detention, the authority making theorder shall, 2[within fifteen days] from such detention, communicate tosuch person the grounds on which the order has been made, and shallafford him the earliest opportunity of making a representation against theorder :
Provided that the authority making any such order may refuse todisclose facts which such authority considers it to be against the public
interest to disclose.
(6)
The authority making the order shall furnish to theappropriate Review Board all documents relevant to the case unless a
1

2

Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amdt.) Act, 1975 (22 of 1975), s. 2, for "one month" (w.e.,f. the 13th
February. 1975).
Subs. ibid., for "as soon as may be, but not later than one week" (w.e.f. the 13th February, 1975).

8

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

certificate, signed by a Secretary to the Government concerned, to theeffect that it is not in the public interest to furnish any documents, isproduced.
(7)
Within a period of twenty-four months commencing on the
day of his first detention in pursuance of an order made under a law
providing for preventive detention, no person shall be detained inpursuance of any such order for more than a total period of eight months
in the case of a person detained for acting in a manner prejudicial to publicorder and twelve months in any other case :Provided that this clause shall not apply to any person who is
employed by, or works for, or acts on instructions received from, theenemy 1[, or who is acting or attempting to act in a manner prejudicial tothe integrity, security or defence of Pakistan or any part thereof or who
commits or attempts to commit any act which amounts to an anti-national
activity as defined in a Federal law or is a member of any association
which has for its objects, or which indulges in, any such anti national
activity].
(8)
The appropriate Review Board shall determine the place ofdetention of the person detained and fix a reasonable subsistence
allowance for his family.
(9)
Nothing in this Article shall apply to any person who forthe time being is an enemy alien.
10A.

Right to fair trial
2[10A. For the determination of his civil rights and obligations orin any criminal charge against him a person shall be entitled to a fair trial
and due process.]
11.

Slavery, forced labour, etc., prohibited

11.
(1)
Slavery is non-existent and forbidden and no law shallpermit or facilitate its introduction into Pakistan in any form.
(2)
prohibited.

All forms of forced labour and traffic in human beings are(3)
No child below the age of fourteen years shall be engaged inany factory or mine or any other hazardous employment.
1
2

Added by the Constitution (Third Amdt.) Act, 1975 (22 of 1975), s. 2.
New Article 10 A ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 5.

9

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(4)

Nothing in this Article shall be deemed to affect compulsory

service(a)by any person undergoing punishment for an
offence against any law; or(b)required by any law for public purpose:

Provided that no compulsory service shall be of a cruel nature or
incompatible with human dignity.
12.

Protection against retrospective punishment

12.

(1)

No law shall authorize the punishment of a person—(a)for an act or omission that was not punishable bylaw at the time of the act or omission; or(b)for an offence by a penalty greater than, or of a kinddifferent from, the penalty prescribed by law for that
offence at the time the offence was committed.

(2)Nothing in clause (1) or in Article 270 shall apply to any
law making acts of abrogation or subversion of a Constitution in force inPakistan at any time since the twenty-third day of March, one thousand
nine hundred and fifty-six, an offence.
13.

Protection against double punishment and self incrimination

13.

No person—

14.

(a)

shall be prosecuted or punished for the sameoffence more than once; or(b)shall, when accused of an offence, be compelled to
be a witness against himself.

Inviolability of dignity of man, etc.

14.
(1)
The dignity of man and, subject to law, the privacy ofhome, shall be inviolable.
(2)
No person shall be subjected to torture for the purpose of
extracting evidence.

10

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

15.

Freedom of movement, etc.

15.
Every citizen shall have the right to remain in, and, subject to any
reasonable restriction imposed by law in the public interest, enter andmove freely throughout Pakistan and to reside and settle in any part
thereof.
16.

Freedom of assembly

16.
Every citizen shall have the right to assemble peacefully andwithout arms, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in theinterest of public order.
17.

Freedom of association

1[17. (1)Every citizen shall have the right to form associations orunions, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in theinterest of sovereignty or integrity of Pakistan, public order or morality.
(2) Every citizen, not being in the service of Pakistan, shall havethe right to form or be a member of a political party, subject to any
reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of the sovereignty
or integrity of Pakistan and such law shall provide that where the Federal
Government declares that any political party has been formed or isoperating in a manner prejudicial to the sovereignty or integrity ofPakistan, the Federal Government shall, within fifteen days of suchdeclaration, refer the matter to the Supreme Court whose decision on suchreference shall be final.
(3)
Every political party shall account for the source of its
funds in accordance with law.]18.

Freedom of trade, business or profession

18.
Subject to such qualifications, if any, as may be prescribed bylaw, every citizen shall have the right to enter upon any lawful profession
or occupation, and to conduct any lawful trade or business:
Provided that nothing in this Article shall prevent—1(a)the regulation of any trade or profession by a licensing
system; or(b)

the regulation of trade, commerce or industry
in the interest of free competition therein; orSubs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 6.for “Article 17”.

11

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

(c)

19.

the carrying on, by the Federal Government
or a Provincial Government, or by acorporation controlled by any such
Government, of any trade, business, industry
or service, to the exclusion, complete orpartial, of other persons.

Freedom of speech, etc.

19.
Every citizen shall have the right to freedom of speech andexpression, and there shall be freedom of the press, subject to any
reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of the glory ofIslam or the integrity, security or defence of Pakistan or any part thereof,
friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or morality,
or in relation to contempt of court, 1[commission of] or incitement to an
offence.
19A.

Right to information.

2[19A. Every citizen shall have the right to have access to information in
all matters of public importance subject to regulation and reasonable
restrictions imposed by law].
20.
Freedom to profess religion and to manage religious
institutions
20.

Subject to law, public order and morality,—(a)every citizen shall have the right to profess, practice andpropagate his religion; and(b)every religious denomination and every sect thereof shallhave the right to establish, maintain and manage its
religious institutions.

21.
Safeguard against taxation for purposes of any particularreligion21.
No person shall be compelled to pay any special tax the proceedsof which are to be spent on the propagation or maintenance of any religion
other than his own.
1

2

Subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amdt.) Act, 1975 (71 of 1975), s. 4, for "defamation" (w.e.f the 21st
November, 1975).
New Article 19A ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 7.

12

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

22.
etc.

Safeguards as to educational institutions in respect of religion,

22.
(1)
No person attending any educational institution shall be
required to receive religious instruction, or take part in any religious
ceremony, or attend religious worship, if such instruction, ceremony or
worship relates to a religion other than his own.
(2)
In respect of any religious institution, there
shall be no discrimination against any community in the
granting of exemption or concession in relation to taxation.
(3)

Subject to law,(a)no religious community or denomination shall be
prevented from providing religious instruction for
pupils of that community or denomination in any
educational institution maintained wholly by that
community or denomination; and(b)no citizen shall be denied admission to any educational institution receiving aid from public revenues
on the ground only of race, religion, caste or placeof birth.

(4)
Nothing in this Article shall prevent any public authority
from making provision for the advancement of any socially or
educationally backward class of citizens.
23.

Provision as to property

23.
Every citizen shall have the right to acquire, hold and dispose ofproperty in any part of Pakistan, subject to the Constitution and any
reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the public interest.
24.

Protection of property rights

24.
(1)
No person shall be deprived of his property save inaccordance with law.
(2)
No property shall be compulsorily acquired or taken
possession of save for a public purpose, and save by the authority of law
which provides for compensation therefor and either fixes the amount ofcompensation or specifies the principles on and the manner in which
compensation is to be determined and given.

13

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(3)

Nothing in this Article shall affect the validity of—(a) any law permitting the compulsory acquisition or taking
possession of any property for preventing danger to life,
property or public health; or(b) any law permitting the taking over of any property
which has been acquired by, or come into thepossession of, any person by any unfair means, or inany manner, contrary to law; or(c) any law relating to the acquisition, administration or
disposal of any property which is or is deemed to beenemy property or evacuee property under any law (notbeing property which has ceased to be evacuee property
under any law); or(d) any law providing for the taking over of the
management of any property by the State for a limited
period, either in the public interest or in order to secure
the proper management of the property, or for the
benefit of its owner; or(e) any law providing for the acquisition of any class ofproperty for the purpose of—(i) providing education and medical aid to all or any
specified class of citizens; or(ii) providing housing and public facilities and services
such as roads, water supply, sewerage, gas andelectric power to all or any specified class of
citizens; or(iii)providing maintenance to those who, on account of
unemployment, sickness, infirmity or old age, areunable to maintain themselves; or(f) any existing law or any law made in pursuance ofArticle 253.

(4)
The adequacy or otherwise of any compensation provided
for by any such law as is referred to in this Article, or determined inpursuance thereof, shall not be called in question in any court.

14

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

25A.

Equality of citizens

25.
(1)
All citizens are equal before law and are entitled to equal
protection of law.
(2)

There shall be no discrimination on the basis of sex 1*.

(3)
Nothing in this Article shall prevent the State from making
any special provision for the protection of women and children.
25.

Right to education

2[25A. The State shall provide free and compulsory education to all
children of the age of five to sixteen years in such manner as may be
determined by law.]26.

Non-discrimination in respect of access to public places

26.
(1)
In respect of access to places of public entertainment orresort, not intended for religious purposes only, there shall be nodiscrimination against any citizen on the ground only of race, religion,
caste, sex, residence or place of birth.
(2)
Nothing in clause (1) shall prevent the State from making
any special provision for women and children.
27.

Safeguard against discrimination in services

27.
(1)
No citizen otherwise qualified for appointment in theservice of Pakistan shall be discriminated against in respect of any suchappointment on the ground only of race, religion, caste, sex, residence orplace of birth:
Provided that, for a period not exceeding 3[forty] years from thecommencing day, posts may be reserved for persons belonging to anyclass or area to secure their adequate representation in the service ofPakistan:
Provided further that, in the interest of the said service, specified
posts or services may be reserved for members of either sex if such posts
or services entail the performance of duties and functions which cannot beadequately performed by members of the other sex 4[:]
1
2
3

4

The word “alone” omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 8.
New Article 25A ins. ibid., s. 9.
Subs. and shall be deemed always to have been so subs. by the Constitution (Sixteenth Amendment) Act,
1999 (7 of 1999), s. 2, for "twenty", which was previously subs. by P.O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for"ten".
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 10 for the full-stop.

15

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1[Provided also that under-representation of any class or area in theservice of Pakistan may be redressed in such manner as may be
determined by an Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)].
(2)
Nothing in clause (1) shall prevent any Provincial
Government, or any local or other authority in a Province, fromprescribing, in relation to any post or class of service under that
Government or authority, conditions as to residence in the Province, for aperiod not exceeding three years, prior to appointment under that
Government or authority.
28.

Preservation of language, script and culture

28.
Subject to Article 251 any section of citizens having a distinct
language, script or culture shall have the right to preserve and promote thesame and subject to law, establish institutions for that purpose.
CHAPTER 2. – PRINCIPLES OF POLICY
29.

Principles of Policy

29.
(1)
The Principles set out in this Chapter shall be known as the
Principles of Policy, and it is the responsibility of each organ and authorityof the State, and of each person performing functions on behalf of anorgan or authority of the State, to act in accordance with those Principles
in so far as they relate to the functions of the organ or authority.
(2)
In so far as the observance of any particular Principle of
Policy may be dependent upon resources being available for the purpose,
the Principle shall be regarded as being subject to the availability ofresources.
(3)
In respect of each year, the President in relation to theaffairs of the Federation, and the Governor of each Province in relation to
the affairs of his Province, shall cause to be prepared and laid before
2[each House of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or, as the case may be, theProvincial Assembly, a report on the observance and implementation of
the Principles of Policy, and provision shall be made in the rules ofprocedure of the National Assembly 3[and the Senate] or, as the case may
be, the Provincial Assembly, for discussion on such report.

1
2
3

New proviso ins. ibid.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 11, for “the National Assembly”.
Ins. ibid.

16

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

30.

Responsibility with respect to Principles of Policy

30.
(1)
The responsibility of deciding whether any action of anorgan or authority of the State, or of a person performing functions onbehalf of an organ or authority of the State, is in accordance with the
Principles of Policy is that of the organ or authority of the State, or of theperson, concerned.
(2)
The validity of an action or of a law shall not be called inquestion on the ground that it is not in accordance with the Principles of
Policy, and no action shall lie against the State, any organ or authority of
the State or any person on such ground.

31.

Islamic way of life

31.
(1)
Steps shall be taken to enable the Muslims of Pakistan,
individually and collectively, to order their lives in accordance with thefundamental principles and basic concepts of Islam and to provide
facilities whereby they may be enabled to understand the meaning of life
according to the Holy Quran and Sunnah.

(2)Pakistan,—

The State shall endeavour, as respects the Muslims of(a) to make the teaching of the Holy Quran and Islamiat
compulsory, to encourage and facilitate the learning ofArabic language and to secure correct and exact
printing and publishing of the Holy Quran;(b) to promote unity and the observance of the Islamic
moral standards; and(c) to secure the proper organisation of zakat 1[ushr,] auqaf
and mosques.

32.

Promotion of local Government institutions

32.
The State shall encourage local Government institutions composedof elected representatives of the areas concerned and in such institutions
special representation will be given to peasants, workers and women.

1

Ins.by P.O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,

17

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

33.

Parochial and other similar prejudices to be discouraged

33.
The State shall discourage parochial, racial, tribal sectarian andprovincial prejudices among the citizens.
34.

Full participation of women in national life

34.
Steps shall be taken to ensure full participation of women in all
spheres of national life.
35.

Protection of family, etc.

35.
The State shall protect the marriage, the family, the mother and thechild.
36.

Protection of minorities

36.
The State shall safeguard the legitimate rights and interests ofminorities, including their due representation in the Federal and Provincial
services.
37.

Promotion of social justice and eradication of social evils

37.

The State shall—(a)promote, with special care, the educational and economic
interests of backward classes or areas;(b)

remove illiteracy and provide free and compulsory secondary
education within minimum possible period;(c)make technical and professional education generally
available and higher education equally accessible to all on
the basis of merit;(d)ensure inexpensive and expeditious justice;(e)make provision for securing just and humane conditions ofwork, ensuring that children and women are not employed in
vocations unsuited to their age or sex, and for maternity
benefits for women in employment;(f)enable the people of different areas, through education,
training, agricultural and industrial development and othermethods, to participate fully in all forms of national
activities, including employment in the service of Pakistan;18

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(g)prevent prostitution, gambling and taking of injurious drugs,
printing, publication, circulation and display of obscene
literature and advertisements;(h)prevent the consumption of alcoholic liquor otherwise thanfor medicinal and, in the case of non-Muslims, religious
purposes; and(i)decentralise the Government administration so as to facilitate
expeditious disposal of its business to meet the convenienceand requirements of the public.

38.

Promotion of social and economic well being of the people

38.

The State shall—

1
2

(a)

secure the well-being of the people, irrespective of sex, caste,
creed or race, by raising their standard of living, by
preventing the concentration of wealth and means of
production and distribution in the hands of a few to thedetriment of general interest and by ensuring equitableadjustment of rights between employers and employees, andlandlords and tenants;(b)provide for all citizens, within the available resources of thecountry, facilities for work and adequate livelihood withreasonable rest and leisure;(c)

provide for all persons employed in the service of Pakistan orotherwise, social security by compulsory social insurance orother means;(d)provide basic necessities of life, such as food, clothing,
housing, education and medical relief, for all such citizens,irrespective of sex, caste, creed or race, as are permanently or
temporarily unable to earn their livelihood on account of
infirmity, sickness or unemployment;(e)reduce disparity in the income and earnings of individuals,
including persons in the various classes of the service ofPakistan; 1*(f)eliminate riba as early as possible 2[; and]The word “and” omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 12.
Subs. ibid; for the full-stop.

19

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

139.

[(g) ensure that the shares of the Provinces in all Federal services,
including autonomous bodies and corporations establishedby, or under the control of, the Federal Government, shall be
secured and any omission in the allocation of the shares of
the Provinces in the past shall be rectified.]

Participation of people in Armed Forces

39.
The State shall enable people from all parts of Pakistan toparticipate in the Armed Forces of Pakistan.
40.
Strengthening bonds with Muslim world and promotinginternational peace
40.
The State shall endeavour to preserve and strengthen fraternal
relations among Muslim countries based on Islamic unity, support thecommon interests of the peoples of Asia, Africa and Latin America,
promote international peace and security, foster goodwill and friendly
relations among all nations and encourage the settlement of international
disputes by peaceful means.

____________

1

New paragraph (g) added ibid.

20

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANPART IIIThe Federation of Pakistan
CHAPTER 1.—THE PRESIDENT
41.

The President

41.
(1)
There shall be a President of Pakistan who shall be theHead of State and shall represent the unity of the Republic.
(2)
A person shall not be qualified for election as President
unless he is a Muslim of not less than forty-five years of age and isqualified to be elected as member of the National Assembly.
1[(3) The President 2* * * shall be elected in accordance with theprovisions of the Second Schedule by the members of an electoral college
consisting of—(a)the members of both Houses; and(b)the members of the Provincial Assemblies.](4)
Election to the office of President shall be held not earlier
than sixty days and not later than thirty days before the expiration of theterm of the President in office:Provided that, if the election cannot be held within the period
aforesaid because the National Assembly is dissolved, it shall be held
within thirty days of the general election to the Assembly.
(5)
An election to fill a vacancy in the office of President shallbe held not later than thirty days from the occurrence of the vacancy:
Provided that, if the election cannot be held within the period
aforesaid because the National Assembly is dissolved, it shall be held
within thirty days of the general election to the Assembly.
(6)
The validity of the election of the President shall not becalled in question by or before any court or other authority.
3

1
2
3

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

Subs. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.. for "clause (3)".
Certain words omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 13.
Clauses (7) to (9) Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 13.

21

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

42.

Oath of President

42.
Before entering upon office, the President shall make before theChief Justice of Pakistan oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule.

43.

Conditions of President’s office

43.
(1)
The President shall not hold any office of profit in theservice of Pakistan or occupy any other position carrying the right toremuneration for the rendering of services.
(2)
The President shall not be a candidate for election as amember of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or a Provincial Assembly; and, if a member of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or a Provincial Assemblyis elected as President, his seat in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or, as
the case may be, the Provincial Assembly shall become vacant on the day
he enters upon his office.

44.

Term of office of President

44.
(1)
Subject to the Constitution, the President shall hold office
for a term of five years from the day he enters upon his office :Provided that the President shall, notwithstanding the expiration of
his terms, continue to hold office until his successor enters upon his office.
(2)
Subject to the Constitution, a person holding office as
President shall be eligible for re-election to that office, but no person shallhold that office for more than two consecutive terms.
(3)
The President may, by writing under his hand addressed to
the Speaker of the National Assembly, resign his office.
45.

President’s power to grant pardon, etc.

45.
The President shall have power to grant pardon, reprieve andrespite, and to remit, suspend or commute any sentence passed by any
court, tribunal or other authority.

1

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

22

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

46.

President to be kept informed

1[46. The Prime Minister shall keep the President informed on all
matters of internal and foreign policy and on all legislative proposals theFederal Government intends to bring before Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament).]
47.

Removal 2[or impeachment] of President

347.
[(l) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, thePresident may, in accordance with the provisions of this Article, beremoved from office on the ground of physical or mental incapacity or
impeached on a charge of violating the Constitution or gross misconduct.

(2)
Not less than one-half of the total membership of either
House may give to the Speaker of the National Assembly or, as the casemay be, the Chairman written notice of its intention to move a resolution
for the removal of, or, as the case may be, to impeach, the President; andsuch notice shall set out the particulars of his incapacity or of the charge
against him.](3)
If a notice under clause (2) is received by the Chairman, heshall transmit it forthwith to the Speaker.
(4)
The Speaker shall, within three days of the receipt of anotice under clause (2) or clause (3), cause a copy of the notice to betransmitted to the President.
(5)
The Speaker shall summon the two Houses to meet in ajoint sitting not earlier than seven days and not later than fourteen days
after the receipt of the notice by him.
(6)
The joint sitting may investigate or cause to be investigated
the ground or the charge upon which the notice is founded.
(7)
The President shall have the right to appear and be
represented during the investigation, if any, and before the joint sitting.
(8)
If, after consideration of the result of the investigation, if
any, a resolution is passed at the joint sitting by the votes of not less than
two-thirds of the total membership of 4[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]
declaring that the President is unfit to hold the office due to incapacity or
is guilty of violating the Constitution or of gross misconduct, the President
shall cease to hold office immediately on the passing of the resolution.
1
2
3
4

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 14, for “Article 46”.
Ins. by the P.O. 14 of 1985, Art 2 and Sch.
Subs. ibid., for "clauses (1) and (2)".
See footnote 6 on page 3 supra.

23

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

48.

President to act on advice, etc.

1[48. (1)In the exercise of his functions, the President shall act 2[onand] in accordance with the advice of the Cabinet 3[or the Prime Minister]:
4[Provided that 2[within fifteen days] the President may require theCabinet or, as the case may be, the Prime Minister to reconsider suchadvice, either generally or otherwise, and the President shall 2[, within ten
days,] act in accordance with the advice tendered after suchreconsideration.](2)
Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (1), thePresident shall act in his discretion in respect of any matter in respect ofwhich he is empowered by the Constitution to do so 5[and the validity ofanything done by the President in his discretion shall not be called inquestion on any ground whatsoever].
6

*
*
*
*
*
*
*
(4)
The question whether any, and if so what, advice wastendered to the President by the Cabinet, the Prime Minister, a Minister or
Minister of State shall not be inquired into in, or by, any court, tribunal orother authority.
7[(5) Where the President dissolves the National Assembly,
notwithstanding anything contained in clause (1), he shall,—(a)appoint a date, not later than ninety days from thedate of the dissolution, for the holding of a generalelection to the Assembly ; and(b)appoint a care-taker Cabinet8[in accordance with theprovisions of Article 224 or, as the case may be,
Article 224A]]

7[(6) If at any time the Prime Minister considers it necessary to
hold a referendum on any matter of national importance, he may refer thematter to a joint sitting of the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) and if it isapproved in a joint sitting, the Prime Minister may cause such matter tobe referred to a referendum in the form of a question that is capable ofbeing answered by either “Yes” or “No”.]
1

Subs. by P.O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for "Article 48".
Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 15.
3
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amdt.) Act, 1985 (18 of 1985), s. 2, for ",the Prime Minister, or aappropriate Minister".
4
Subs. ibid., for "the original proviso".
5
Added ibid.,
6
Clause (3) omitted, ibid.,
7
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 15, for “clauses (5) and (6)”.
8Added by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (V of 2012), s.2.
2

24

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(7)An Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) may lay down theprocedure for the holding of a referendum and the compiling andconsolidation of the result of a referendum.]
49.
Chairman or Speaker to act as, or perform functions of,President
49.
(1)
If the office of President becomes vacant by reason ofdeath, resignation or removal of the President, the Chairman or, if he isunable to perform the functions of the office of President, the Speaker of
the National Assembly shall act as President until a President is elected inaccordance with clause (3) of Article 41.
(2)
When the President, by reason of absence from Pakistan or
any other cause, is unable to perform his functions, the Chairman or, if he
too is absent or unable to perform the functions of the office of President,
the Speaker of the National Assembly shall perform the functions ofPresident until the President returns to Pakistan or, as the case may be,
resumes his functions.
CHAPTER 2. – THE 1[MAJLIS-E-SHOORA (PARLIAMENT)]
Composition, Duration and Meetings of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)]
50.

Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)

2[50. There shall be a Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) of Pakistan
consisting of the President and two Houses to be known respectively as
the National Assembly and the Senate.]
51.

National Assembly

3[51. (1)There shall be 4[three hundred and thirty-six] seats formembers in the National Assembly, including seats reserved for womenand non-Muslims.
(2)
A person shall be entitled to vote if—(a) he is a citizen of Pakistan;(b) he is not less than eighteen years of age;(c) his name appears on the electoral roll; and(d) he is not declared by a competent court to be unsound mind.
1
2
3

4

See footnote 6 on page 3 supra.
Subs. by P.O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for "Article 50".
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 16 for “Article 51” and shall bedeemed always to have been so subs. with effect from the 21 st day of August, 2002.
Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amdt.) Act, 2018 (37 of 2018), s. 3 for “three hundred and fortytwo” w.e.f. 31-05-2018.

25

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1[(3) The seats in the National Assembly referred to in clause(1), except the seats mentioned in clause (4), shall be allocated to each
Province and the Federal Capital as under:—General Seats Women Seats Total Seats

Balochistan
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

16
45

4
10

20
55

PunjabSindh
Federal Capital
Total

141
61
3
266

32
14
60

173
75
3
326]

2

[(3A) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (3) or any
other law for the time being in force, the members of the National
Assembly from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas to be elected in
the general elections, 2018 shall continue till dissolution of the National
Assembly and therefore this clause shall stand omitted.](4)
In addition to the number of seats referred to in clause (3),there shall be, in the National Assembly, ten seats reserved for nonMuslims.
1[(5) 3[**] The seats in the National Assembly shall be allocated toeach province and the Federal Capital on the basis of population inaccordance with the last preceding census officially published:
Provided that for purposes of the next general elections to be heldin 2018 and bye-elections related thereto, the allocation shall be made on
the basis of provisional results of the 2017 census which shall be
published by the Federal Government.](6)
For the purpose of election to the National Assembly,—(a) the constituencies for the general seats shall be single
member territorial constituencies and the members to fillsuch seats shall be elected by direct and free vote inaccordance with law;(b) each Province shall be a single constituency for all seats
reserved for women which are allocated to the respective
Provinces under clause (3);(c) the constituency for all seats reserved for non-Muslims shallbe the whole country;

1

Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amdt.) Act, 2018 (37 of 2018) s. 3. w.e.f. 31-05-2018.
Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amdt.) Act, 2018 (37 of 2018) s. 3. w.e.f. 31-05-2018.
3
Omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amdt.) Act, 2018 (37 of 2018) s. 3. w.e.f. 31-05-2018.
2

26

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(d) members to the seats reserved for women which areallocated to a Province under clause (3) shall be elected inaccordance with law through proportional representation
system of political parties’ lists of candidates on the basisof total number of general seats secured by each politicalparty from the Province concerned in the National
Assembly:
Provided that for the purpose of this paragraph thetotal number of general seats won by a political party shall
include the independent returned candidate or candidates
who may duly join such political party within three days ofthe publication in the official Gazette of the names of the
returned candidates; and(e) members to the seats reserved for non-Muslims shall beelected in accordance with law through proportional
representation system of political parties’ lists of candidates
on the basis of total number of general seats won by eachpolitical party in the National Assembly:
Provided that for the purpose of this paragraph thetotal number of general seats won by a political party shall
include the independent returned candidate or candidates
who may duly join such political party within three days ofthe publication in the official Gazette of the names of the
returned candidates.]
52.

Duration of National Assembly

52.
The National Assembly shall, unless sooner dissolved, continue fora term of five years from the day of its first meeting and shall standdissolved at the expiration of its term.
53.

Speaker and Deputy Speaker of National Assembly53.
(1)
After a general election, the National Assembly shall, at its
first meeting and to the exclusion of any other business, elect fromamongst its members a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker and, so often as theoffice of Speaker or Deputy Speaker becomes vacant, the Assembly shallelect another member as Speaker or, as the case may be, Deputy Speaker.
(2)
Before entering upon office, a member elected as Speakeror Deputy Speaker shall make before the National Assembly oath in theform set out in the Third Schedule.

27

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(3)When the office of Speaker is vacant, or the Speaker isabsent or is unable to perform his functions due to any cause, the Deputy
Speaker shall act as speaker, and if, at that time, the Deputy Speaker isalso absent or is unable to act as Speaker due to any cause, such member
as may be determined by the rules of procedure of the Assembly shallpreside at the meeting of the Assembly.
(4)
The Speaker or the Deputy Speaker shall not preside at a
meeting of the Assembly when a resolution for his removal from office isbeing considered.
(5)
The Speaker may, by writing under his hand addressed to
the President, resign his office.
(6)
The Deputy Speaker may, by writing under his handaddressed to the Speaker, resign his office.
(7)
vacant if—

The office of Speaker or Deputy Speaker shall become(a)he resigns his office;(b)

he ceases to be a member of the Assembly; or(c)he is removed from office by a resolution of the Assembly,of which not less than seven days' notice has been given
and which is passed by the votes of the majority of the total
membership of the Assembly.

(8)
When the National Assembly is dissolved, the Speaker
shall continue in his office till the person elected to fill the office by thenext Assembly enters upon his office.
54.

Summoning and prorogation of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)

1

54. (1)The President may, from time to time, summon either
House or both Houses or 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in joint sitting tomeet at such time and place as he thinks fit and may also prorogue the
same.
(2)
1

2
3

There shall be at least 3[three] sessions of the National

Article 54, had, until the 31st day of December, 1973, effect as if the proviso to clause (2) thereof wereomitted, see the Removal of Difficulties (Sittings of National Assembly) Order 1973 (P.O. No. 23 of 1973),
Art. 2.
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Subs. by P.O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.. for "two".

28

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

Assembly every year, and not more than one hundred and twenty days
shall intervene between the last sitting of the Assembly in one session andthe date appointed for its first sitting in the next session:
Provided that the National Assembly shall meet for not less than
one hundred and 1[thirty] working days in each year.
2[Explanation.– In this clause, "working days" includes any day on
which there is a joint sitting and any period, not exceeding two days, forwhich the National Assembly is adjourned].
(3)
On a requisition signed by not less than one-fourth of thetotal membership of the National Assembly, the Speaker shall summon the
National Assembly to meet, at such time and place as he thinks fit, within
fourteen days of the receipt of the requisition; and when the Speaker hassummoned the Assembly only he may prorogue it.
55.

Voting in Assembly and quorum

55.
(1)
Subject to the Constitution, all decisions of the National
Assembly shall be taken by majority of the members present and voting,but the person presiding shall not vote except in the case of equality of
votes.
(2)
If at any time during a sitting of the National Assembly theattention of the person presiding is drawn to the fact that less than onefourth of the total membership of the Assembly is present, he shall either
adjourn the Assembly or suspend the meeting until at least one-fourth ofsuch membership is present.
56.

Address by President

356.
[(1)] The President may address either House or both Houses
assembled together and may for that purpose require the attendance of themembers.
4[(2) The President may send messages to either House, whether
with respect to a Bill then pending in the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) orotherwise, and a House to which any message is so sent shall with all
convenient despatch consider any matter required by the message to betaken into consideration.

1

2

3

Subs. by the Constitution (Tenth Amdt.) Act, 1987 (1 of 1987). s. 2. for "sixty" which was previously
amended by P.O. No.14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.
Explanation added by the Constitution (Fourth Amdt.) Act, 1975 (71 of 1975), s. 6 (w.e.f. the 21st
November, 1975).
Re-numbered and added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,

29

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1[(3) At the commencement of the first session after eachgeneral election to the National Assembly and at the commencement of
the first session of each year the President shall address both Houses
assembled together and inform the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) of thecauses of its summons.](4)
Provision shall be made in the rules for regulating theprocedure of a House and the conduct of its business for the allotment oftime for discussion of the matters referred to in the address of the
President.]
57.

Right to speak in 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]

57.
The Prime Minister, a Federal Minister, a Minister of State and theAttorney General shall have the right to speak and otherwise take part in
the proceedings of either House, or a joint sitting or any committee
thereof, of which he may be named a member, but shall not by virtue of
this Article be entitled to vote.
58.

Dissolution of National Assembly

3[58. (1)The President shall dissolve the National Assembly if so
advised by the Prime Minister; and the National Assembly shall, unlesssooner dissolved, stand dissolved at the expiration of forty-eight hours
after the Prime Minister has so advised.
Explanation.– Reference in this Article to "Prime Minister" shallnot be construed to include reference to a Prime Minister against whom a
notice of a resolution for a vote of no-confidence has been given in the
National Assembly but has not been voted upon or against whom such aresolution has been passed or who is continuing in office after his
resignation or after the dissolution of the National Assembly.
(2)
Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (2) ofArticle 48, the President may also dissolve the National Assembly in his
discretion where, a vote of no-confidence having been passed against thePrime Minister, no other member of the National Assembly command theconfidence of the majority of the members of the National Assembly inaccordance with the provisions of the Constitution, as ascertained in asession of the National Assembly summoned for the purpose.]12
3

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amdt.) Act, 1985, (18 of 1985), s. 4, for "clause (3)."See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 17, for “Article 58”.

30

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN59.

The Senate

1[59. (1)whom,—The Senate shall consist of 2[ninety-six] members, of(a)fourteen shall be elected by the members of each Provincial
Assembly;

(b)

3

(c)

two on general seats, and one woman and one technocrat
including aalim shall be elected from the Federal Capital insuch manner as the President may, by Order, prescribe;(d)four women shall be elected by the members of each
Provincial Assembly;(e)four technocrats including ulema shall be elected by themembers of each Provincial Assembly; and(f)four non-Muslims, one from each Province, shall be electedby the members of each Provincial Assembly:

[*

*

*

*

*

*

]

Provided that paragraph (f) shall be effective fromthe next Senate election after the commencement of theConstitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010.
(2)
Election to fill seats in the Senate allocated to each
Province shall be held in accordance with the system of proportional
representation by means of the single transferable vote.
(3)
The Senate shall not be subject to dissolution but the termof its members, who shall retire as follows, shall be six years:-

1
2
3
4

(a)

of the members referred to in paragraph (a) of clause (1),seven shall retire after the expiration of the first three years
and seven shall retire after the expiration of the next three
years;

(b)

4

(c)

of the members referred to in paragraph (c) of the aforesaid
clause,—

[*

*

*

*

*

*

*]

Subs. ibid., s. 18, for “Article 59”.
Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amdt.) Act, 2018 (37 of 2018) s. 4. w.e.f. 31-05-2018.
Omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amdt.) Act, 2018 (37 of 2018) s. 4. w.e.f. 31-05-2018.
Omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amdt.) Act, 2018 (37 of 2018) s. 3. w.e.f. 31-05-2018.

31

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(i)one elected on general seat shall retire after the
expiration of the first three years and the other one
shall retire after the expiration of the next three
years; and(ii)

one elected on the seat reserved for technocrat shallretire after first three years and the one elected on
the seat reserved for woman shall retire after the
expiration of the next three years;(d)of the members referred to in paragraph (d) of the aforesaid
clause, two shall retire after the expiration of the first three
years and two shall retire after the expiration of the next
three years;(e)of the members referred to in paragraph (e) of the aforesaid
clause, two shall retire after the expiration of the first three
years and two shall retire after the expiration of the next
three years; and(f)of the members referred to in paragraph (f) of the aforesaid
clause, two shall retire after the expiration of first three
years and two shall retire after the expiration of next three
years:
Provided that the Election Commission for the firstterm of seats for non-Muslims shall draw a lot as to which
two members shall retire after the first three years.

1[(3A) Notwithstanding the omission of paragraph (b) of clause (1)and the omission of paragraph (b) of clause (3), the existing members of
the Senate from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas shall continue till
expiry of their respective terms of office and on the expiry of the aforesaid
terms this clause shall stand omitted.](4)
The term of office of a person elected to fill a casualvacancy shall be the unexpired term of the member whose vacancy he has
filled.]60.

Chairman and Deputy Chairman

60.
(1)
After the Senate has been duly constituted, it shall, at its
first meeting and to the exclusion of any other business. elect fromamongst its members a Chairman and a Deputy Chairman and, so often as
1

Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amdt.) Act, 2018 (37 of 2018) s. 4. w.e.f. 31-05-2018.

32

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

the Office of Chairman or Deputy Chairman becomes vacant, the Senate
shall elect another member as Chairman or, as the case may be, Deputy
Chairman.
(2)
The term of office of the Chairman or Deputy Chairman
shall be' 1[three] years from the day on which he enters upon his office.
61.

Other provisions relating to Senate

61.
The provisions of clauses (2) to (7) of Article 53, clauses (2) and(3) of Article 54 and Article 55 shall apply to the Senate as they apply to
the National Assembly and, in their application to the Senate, shall haveeffect as if references therein to the National Assembly, Speaker and
Deputy Speaker were references, respectively, to the Senate Chairman and
Deputy Chairman 2[and as if, in the proviso to the said clause (2) ofArticle 54, for the words 3[one hundred and thirty] the words 4[onehundred and ten] were substituted].
provisions as to Members of 5[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]
62.
Qualifications(Parliament)

formembershipof

Majlis-e-Shoora

6[62. (1)A person shall not be qualified to be elected or chosen as amember of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) unless—(a)he is a citizen of Pakistan;(b)

he is, in the case of the National Assembly, not less thantwenty-five years of age and is enrolled as a voter in any
electoral roll in—(i) any part of Pakistan, for election to a general seat or aseat reserved for non-Muslims; and(ii) any area in a Province from which she seeks
membership for election to a seat reserved for women.

(c)

1
2
3

4
5
6

he is, in the case of the Senate, not less than thirty years ofage and is enrolled as a voter in any area in a Province or,

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amdt.) Act, 1985 (18 of 1985), s. 7, for “two”.
Added by the Constitution (First Amdt.) Act, 1974 (33 of 1974), s. 5 (w.e.f. the 14th May, 1974).
Subs. by the Constitution (Tenth Amdt.) Act, 1987 (1 of 1987), s. 3, which was previously amended by P. O.
No. 24 of 1985. Art. 2.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 19, for “ninety”.
See footnote 6 on page 3 supra.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 20, for “Article 62”.

33

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

as the case may be, the Federal Capital 1[**], from where
he seeks membership;(d)

he is of good character and is not commonly known as one
who violates Islamic Injunctions;(e)he has adequate knowledge of Islamic teachings andpractices obligatory duties prescribed by Islam as well as
abstains from major sins;(f)

he is sagacious, righteous, non-profligate, honest andameen, there being no declaration to the contrary by a courtof law; and(g)he has not, after the establishment of Pakistan, worked
against the integrity of the country or opposed the ideology
of Pakistan.

(2)
The disqualifications specified in paragraphs (d) and (e)shall not apply to a person who is a non-Muslim, but such a person shallhave good moral reputation.]63.
Disqualifications(Parliament)

formembershipof

Majlis-e-Shoora

2[63. (1)A person shall be disqualified from being elected or chosenas, and from being, a member of the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), if—

1
2

(a)

he is of unsound mind and has been so declared by acompetent court; or(b)

he is an undischarged insolvent; or(c)he ceases to be a citizen of Pakistan, or acquires thecitizenship of a foreign State; or(d)he holds an office of profit in the service of Pakistan otherthan an office declared by law not to disqualify its holder;or(e)

he is in the service of any statutory body or any body which
is owned or controlled by the Government or in which theGovernment has a controlling share or interest; orOmitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amdt.) Act, 2018 (37 of 2018) s. 5. w.e.f. 31-05-2018.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 21, for “Article 63”.

34

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(f)being a citizen of Pakistan by virtue of section 14B of the
Pakistan Citizenship Act, 1951 (II of 1951), he is for thetime being disqualified under any law in force in Azad
Jammu and Kashmir from being elected as a member of theLegislative Assembly of Azad Jammu and Kashmir; or(g)he has been convicted by a court of competent jurisdiction
for propagating any opinion, or acting in any manner,
prejudicial to the ideology of Pakistan, or the sovereignty,
integrity or security of Pakistan, or the integrity, or
independence of the judiciary of Pakistan, or which
defames or brings into ridicule the judiciary or the Armed
Forces of Pakistan, unless a period of five years has lapsed
since his release; or(h)he has been, on conviction for any offence involving moral
turpitude, sentenced to imprisonment for a term of not lessthan two years, unless a period of five years has elapsed
since his release; or(i)he has been dismissed from the service of Pakistan orservice of a corporation or office set up or, controlled by
the Federal Government, Provincial Government or a Local
Government on the grounds of misconduct, unless a periodof five years has elapsed since his dismissal; or(j)he has been removed or compulsorily retired from theservice of Pakistan or service of a corporation or office set
up or controlled by the Federal Government, Provincial
Government or a Local Government on the ground of
misconduct, unless a period of three years has elapsed
since his removal or compulsory retirement; or(k)he has been in the service of Pakistan or of any statutory
body or any body which is owned or controlled by theGovernment or in which the Government has a controllingshare or interest, unless a period of two years has elapsed
since he ceased to be in such service; or(l)he, whether by himself or by any person or body of persons
in trust for him or for his benefit or on his account or as amember of a Hindu undivided family, has any share orinterest in a contract, not being a contract between acooperative society and Government, for the supply of
goods to, or for the execution of any contract or for the

35

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

performance of any service undertaken by, Government:
Provided that the disqualification under thisparagraph shall not apply to a person—(i)where the share or interest in the contract devolves
on him by inheritance or succession or as a legatee,
executor or administrator, until the expiration of six
months after it has so devolved on him;(ii)

where the contract has been entered into by or on
behalf of a public company as defined in the
Companies Ordinance, 1984 (XLVII of 1984), of
which he is a shareholder but is not a director
holding an office of profit under the company; or(iii)

where he is a member of a Hindu undivided family
and the contract has been entered into by any othermember of that family in the course of carrying on a
separate business in which he has no share orinterest;
Explanation.—In this Article “goods” does
not include agricultural produce or commodity
grown or produced by him or such goods as he is,under any directive of Government or any law for
the time being in force, under a duty or obligation to
supply; or

(m)

(n)

he holds any office of profit in the service of Pakistan otherthan the following offices, namely :—(i)an office which is not whole time officeremunerated either by salary or by fee;(ii)

the office of Lumbardar, whether called by this or
any other title;(iii)

the Qaumi Razakars;(iv)

any office the holder whereof, by virtue of suchoffice, is liable to be called up for military trainingor military service under any law providing for theconstitution or raising of a Force; orhe has obtained a loan for an amount of two million rupees
or more, from any bank, financial institution, cooperative
society or cooperative body in his own name or in the name36

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

of his spouse or any of his dependents, which remains
unpaid for more than one year from the due date, or has got
such loan written off; or(o)he or his spouse or any of his dependents has defaulted in
payment of government dues and utility expenses,
including telephone, electricity, gas and water charges inexcess of ten thousand rupees, for over six months, at thetime of filing his nomination papers; or(p)he is for the time being disqualified from being elected orchosen as a member of the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) orof a Provincial Assembly under any law for the time being
in force.
Explanation.— For the purposes of this paragraph“law” shall not include an Ordinance promulgated under
Article 89 or Article 128.

(2)
If any question arises whether a member of the Majlis-eShoora (Parliament) has become disqualified from being a member, theSpeaker or, as the case may be, the Chairman shall, unless he decides thatno such question has arisen, refer the question to the Election Commission
within thirty days and if he fails to do so within the aforesaid period it
shall be deemed to have been referred to the Election Commission.
(3)
The Election Commission shall decide the question within
ninety days from its receipt or deemed to have been received and if it is of
the opinion that the member has become disqualified, he shall cease to bea member and his seat shall become vacant.]
63A.

Disqualification on grounds of defection, etc.

1[63A. (1)
If a member of a Parliamentary Party composed of a single
political party in a House—(a)resigns from membership of his political party or joins
another Parliamentary party; or(b)votes or abstains from voting in the House contrary to any
direction issued by the Parliamentary Party to which hebelongs, in relation to—(i) election of the Prime Minister or the Chief Minister; or

1

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s.22, for “Article 63A”.

37

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(ii) a vote of confidence or a vote of no-confidence; or(iii) a Money Bill or a Constitution (Amendment) Bill;he may be declared in writing by the Party Head to have defected from thepolitical party, and the Party Head may forward a copy of the declaration
to the Presiding Officer and the Chief Election Commissioner and shall
similarly forward a copy thereof to the member concerned :Provided that before making the declaration, the Party Head shallprovide such member with an opportunity to show cause as to why suchdeclaration may not be made against him.
Explanation.— “Party Head” means any person, by whatever namecalled, declared as such by the Party.
(2)
A member of a House shall be deemed to be a member of aParliamentary Party if he, having been elected as a candidate or nomineeof a political party which constitutes the Parliamentary Party in the Houseor, having been elected otherwise than as a candidate or nominee of apolitical party, has become a member of such Parliamentary Party after
such election by means of a declaration in writing.
(3)
Upon receipt of the declaration under clause (1), thePresiding Officer of the House shall within two days refer, and in case hefails to do so it shall be deemed that he has referred, the declaration to theChief Election Commissioner who shall lay the declaration before theElection Commission for its decision thereon confirming the declarationor otherwise within thirty days of its receipt by the Chief Election
Commissioner.
(4)
Where the Election Commission confirms the declaration,
the member referred to in clause (1) shall cease to be a member of theHouse and his seat shall become vacant.
(5)
Any party aggrieved by the decision of the Election
Commission may, within thirty days, prefer an appeal to the Supreme
Court which shall decide the matter within ninety days from the date of
the filing of the appeal.
(6)Nothing contained in this Article shall apply to the
Chairman or Speaker of a House.
(7)

For the purpose of this Article,—

38

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(a)"House" means the National Assembly or the Senate, in
relation to the Federation; and a Provincial Assembly in
relation to the Province, as the case may be;(b)"Presiding Officer" means the Speaker of the National
Assembly, the Chairman of the Senate or the Speaker of theProvincial Assembly, as the case may be.

(8)
Article 63A substituted as aforesaid shall comes into effectfrom the next general elections to be held after the commencementof the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010:
Provided that till Article 63A substituted as aforesaid
comes into effect the provisions of existing Article 63A shallremain operative].
1

64.

*

Vacation of seats64.
(1)
A member of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may, by
writing under his hand addressed to the Speaker or, as the case may be,
the Chairman resign his seat, and thereupon his seat shall become vacant.
(2)
A House may declare the seat of a member vacant if,
without leave of the House, he remains absent for forty consecutive daysof its sittings.
65.

Oath of Members

65.
A person elected to a House shall not sit or vote until he has madebefore the House oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule.
66.

Privileges of members, etc.

66.
(1)
Subject to the Constitution and to the rules of procedure of2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], there shall be freedom of speech in2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] and no member shall be liable to any
proceedings in any court in respect of anything said or any vote given by
him in 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], and no person shall be so liable inrespect of the publication by or under the authority of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)] of any report, paper, votes or proceedings.

1
2

For existing Article 63A see Addendum at p. 220.
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

39

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(2)
In other respects, the powers, immunities and privileges of[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], and the immunities and privileges of themembers of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], shall be such as may fromtime to time be defined by law and, until so defined, shall be such as were,immediately before the commencing day, enjoyed by the National
Assembly of Pakistan and the committees thereof and its members.
2(3)
Provision may be made by law for the punishment, by a
House, of persons who refuse to give evidence or produce documents
before a committee of the House when duly required by the chairman of
the committee so to do :Provided that any such law—(a) may empower a court to punish a person who refuses to give
evidence or produce documents; and(b) shall have effect subject to such Order for safeguarding
confidential matters from disclosure as may be made by the
President.
(4)
The provisions of this Article shall apply to persons who
have the right to speak in, and otherwise to take part in the proceedings of,1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] as they apply to members.
(5)
In this Article. 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] means
either House or a joint sitting, or a committee thereof.
Procedure Generally
67.

Rules of procedure, etc.

67.
(1)
Subject to the Constitution, a House may make 2rules forregulating its procedure and the conduct of its business, and shall havepower to act notwithstanding any vacancy in the membership thereof, andany proceedings in the House shall not be invalid on the ground that somepersons who were not entitled to do so sat, voted or otherwise took part in
the proceedings.
(2)
Until rules are made under clause (1), the procedure andconduct of business in a House shall be regulated by the rules of procedure1
2

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
For the rules of Procedure and Conduct of business in the Senate. see Gaz. of Pak. 1973. Ext., Pt. II. pp.
1543-1620.
For the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the National Assembly. 1973. see Gaz. of Pak., 1973,
Ext., Pt. II, pp. 1897-1957.

40

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

made by the President.

68.

Restriction on discussion in Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)

68.
No discussion shall take place in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]
with respect to the conduct of any Judge of the Supreme Court or of aHigh Court in the discharge of his duties.
69.
Courts not to inquire into proceedings of Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)
69.
(1)
The validity of any proceedings in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)] shall not be called in question on the ground of any
irregularity of procedure.
(2)
No officer or member of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora Parliament)] in
whom powers are vested by or under the Constitution for regulatingprocedure or the conduct of business, or for maintaining order in 1[Majlise-Shoora (Parliament)], shall be subject to the jurisdiction of any court inrespect of the exercise by him of those powers.
(3)
In this Article, 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] has thesame meaning as in Article 66.
Legislative Procedure70.

Introduction and passing of Bills

2[70. (1)A Bill with respect to any matter in the Federal Legislative
List may originate in either House and shall, if it is passed by the House inwhich it originated, be transmitted to the other House; and, if the Bill ispassed without amendment by the other House also, it shall be presented
to the President for assent.
(2)
If a Bill transmitted to a House under clause (1) is passedwith amendments it shall be sent back to the House in which it originatedand if that House passes the Bill with those amendments it shall bepresented to the President for assent.
(3)
If a Bill transmitted to a House under clause (1) is rejected
or is not passed within ninety days of its laying in the House or a Bill sent
to a House under clause (2) with amendments is not passed by that House1
2

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 23, for “Article 70”.

41

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

with such amendments, the Bill, at the request of the House in which it
originated, shall be considered in a joint sitting and if passed by the votesof the majority of the members present and voting in the joint sitting it
shall be presented to the President for assent.
(4)
In this Article and the succeeding provisions of theConstitution, "Federal Legislative List" means the Federal Legislative Listin the Fourth Schedule.]
71.

Mediation Committee

71.
[Mediation Committee] omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth
Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 24 as amended by various enactments.
72.

Procedure at joint sittings

72.
(1)
The President, after consultation with the Speaker of the
National Assembly and the Chairman, may make 1rules as to theprocedure with respect to the joint sittings of, and communications
between, the two Houses.
(2)
At a joint sitting, the Speaker of the National Assembly or,in his absence, such person as may be determined by the rules made underclause (1), shall preside.
(3)
The rules made under clause (1) shall be laid before a joint
sitting and may be added to, varied, amended or replaced at a joint sitting.
(4)
Subject to the Constitution, all decisions at a joint sitting
shall be taken by the votes of the majority of the members present andvoting.
73.

Procedure with respect to Money Bills273.
[(1) Notwithstanding anything contained in Article 70, a Money
Bill shall originate in the National Assembly:

Provided that simultaneously when a Money Bill, including the
Finance Bill containing the Annual Budget Statement, is presented in the
National Assembly, a copy thereof shall be transmitted to the Senate
which may, within fourteen days, make recommendations thereon to the
National Assembly.]3[(1A) The
National
Assembly
shall,
considertherecommendations of the Senate and after the Bill has been passed by the1
2
3

For the Parliament (Joint Sitting), Rules 1973, see Gaz. of Pak. 1973, Ext. Pt. 11, pp. 1657-1672.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 25, for “clause (1)”.
New clause (1) ins., ibid.

42

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

Assembly with or without incorporating the recommendations of the
Senate, it shall he presented to the President for assent.]
1

*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
(2)
For the purposes of this Chapter, a Bill or amendment shallbe deemed to be a Money Bill if it contains provisions dealing with all or
any of the following matters, namely: —(a)the imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulationof any tax;(b)

the borrowing of money, or the giving of any guarantee, by
the Federal Government, or the amendment of the law
relating to the financial obligations of that Government;(c)the custody of the Federal Consolidated Fund, the paymentof moneys into, or the issue of moneys from, that Fund;(d)the imposition of a charge upon the Federal Consolidated
Fund, or the abolition or alteration of any such charge;(e)

the receipt of moneys on account of the Public Account of
the Federation, the custody or issue of such moneys;(f)the audit of the accounts of the Federal Government or a
Provincial Government; and(g)any matter incidental to any of the matters specified in thepreceding paragraphs.

(3)
A Bill shall not be deemed to be a Money Bill by reason
only that it provides—(a)for the imposition or alteration of any fine or otherpecuniary penalty, or for the demand or payment of alicence fee or a fee or charge for any service rendered; or(b)for the imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or
regulation of any tax by any local authority or body for
local purposes.

(4)
If any question arises whether a Bill is a Money Bill or not,the decision of the Speaker of the National Assembly thereon shall befinal.
1

Existing clause (1A) stands omitted as consequence of the (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), seesection 2.

43

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(5)Every Money Bill presented to the President for assent
shall bear a certificate under the hand of the Speaker of the National
Assembly that it is a Money Bill, and such certificate shall be conclusive
for all purposes and shall not be called in question.
74.

Federal Government’s consent required for financial measures

74.
A Money Bill, or a Bill or amendment which if enacted andbrought into operation would involve expenditure from the Federal
Consolidated Fund or withdrawal from the Public Account of theFederation or affect the coinage or currency of Pakistan or the constitution
or functions of the State Bank of Pakistan shall not be introduced or
moved in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] except by or with the consent of
the Federal Government.
75.

President’s assent to Bills

2[75. (1)When a Bill is presented to the President for assent, thePresident shall, within 3[ten] days,—(a)assent to the Bill; or(b)in the case of a Bill other than a Money Bill, return the Billto the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) with a message
requesting that the Bill or any specified provision thereof,
be reconsidered and that any amendment specified in themessage be considered.

4[(2) When the President has returned a Bill to the Majlis-eShoora (Parliament), it shall be reconsidered by the Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament) in joint sitting and, if it is again passed, with or without
amendment, by the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), by the votes of the
majority of the members of both Houses present and voting, it shall bedeemed for the purposes of the Constitution to have been passed by bothHouses and shall be presented to the President, and the President shallgive his assent within ten days, failing which such assent shall be deemed
to have been given.](3)
When the President has assented 5[or is deemed to haveassented] to a Bill, it shall become law and be called an Act of Majlis-eShoora (Parliament).
1
2
3
4
5

See footnote 6 on page 3. supra.
Subs. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for "Article 75".
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 26, for "thirty".
Subs. ibid., for clause (2).
Ins. ibid.

44

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(4)No Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), and no provisionin any such Act, shall be invalid by reason only that somerecommendation, previous sanction or consent required by theConstitution was not given if that Act was assented to in accordance with
the Constitution.]
76.

Bill not to lapse on prorogation, etc.

76.
(1)
A Bill pending in either House shall not lapse by reason of
the prorogation of the House.
(2)
A Bill pending in the Senate which has not been passed by
the National Assembly shall not lapse on the dissolution of the National
Assembly.
(3)
A Bill pending in the National Assembly, or a Bill whichhaving been passed by the National Assembly is pending in the Senate,shall lapse on the dissolution of the National Assembly.
77.

Tax to be levied by law only77.
No tax shall be levied for the purposes of the Federation except byor under the authority of Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)].
Financial Procedure
78.

Federal Consolidated Fund and Public Account78.
(1)
All revenues received by the Federal Government, all loansraised by that Government, and all moneys received by it in repayment of
any loan, shall form part of a consolidated fund, to be known as theFederal Consolidated Fund.
(2)

All other moneys—(a) received by or on behalf of the Federal Government; or(b) received by or deposited with the Supreme Court or any
other court established under the authority of theFederation;

shall be credited to the Public Account of the Federation.

1

See footnote 6 on page 3. supra.

45

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

79.
Custody, etc., of Federal Consolidated Fund and Public
Account
79.
The custody of the Federal Consolidated Fund, the payment ofmoneys into that Fund, the withdrawal of moneys therefrom, the custodyof other moneys received by or on behalf of the Federal Government, their
payment into, and withdrawal from, the Public Account of the Federation,
and all matters connected with or ancillary to the matters aforesaid shall be
regulated by Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or, until provision inthat behalf is so made, by rules made by the President.
80.

Annual Budget Statement80.
(1)
The Federal Government shall, in respect of every financial
year, cause to be laid before the National Assembly a statement of theestimated receipt and expenditure of the Federal Government for that year,
in this Part, referred to as the Annual Budget Statement.
(2)

The Annual Budget Statement shall show separately—(a)the sums required to meet expenditure described by theConstitution as expenditure charged upon the Federal
Consolidated Fund; and(b)the sums required to meet other expenditure proposed to bemade from the Federal Consolidated Fund;and shall distinguish expenditure on revenue account from otherexpenditure.
81.

Expenditure charged upon Federal Consolidated Fund81.
The following expenditure shall be expenditure charged upon theFederal Consolidated Fund: —
(a)

1
2

the remuneration payable to the President and otherexpenditure relating to his office, and the remuneration
payable to(i)the Judges of the Supreme Court
Islamabad High Court];(ii)

the Chief Election Commissioner;2[and theSee footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Added by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (1 of 2011) s. 2.

46

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1

82.

(iii)

the Chairman and the Deputy Chairman;(iv)

the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker of the National
Assembly;(v)

the Auditor-General;[(b)the administrative expenses, including the remuneration
payable to officers and 2[staff], of the Supreme Court, theIslamabad High Court, the department of the AuditorGeneral, the Office of the Chief Election Commissioner
and of the Election Commission and the Secretariats of the
Senate and the National Assembly;](c)

all debt charges for which the Federal Government is liable,
including interest, sinking fund charges, the repayment or
amortisation of capital, and other expenditure in connection
with the raising of loans, and the service and redemption ofdebt on the security of the Federal Consolidated Fund;(d)

any sums required to satisfy any judgement, decree oraward against Pakistan by any court or tribunal; and(e)any other sums declared by the Constitution or by Act of3[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] to be so charged.

Procedure relating to Annual Budget Statement

82.
(1)
So much of the Annual Budget Statement as relates to
expenditure charged upon the Federal Consolidated Fund may be
discussed in, but shall not be submitted to the vote of, the National
Assembly.
(2)
So much of the Annual Budget Statement as relates to otherexpenditure shall be submitted to the National Assembly in the form of
demands for grants, and the Assembly shall have power to assent to, or torefuse to assent to, any demand, or to assent to any demand subject to a
reduction of the amount specified therein:
Provided that, for a period of ten years from the commencing day
or the holding of the second general election to the National Assembly,
1
2
3

Substituted by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (1 of 2011), s. 2.
Substituted by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (XXV of 2016), s 2.
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

47

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

whichever occurs later, a demand shall be deemed to have been assented
to without any reduction of the amount specified therein, unless, by thevotes of a majority of the total membership of the Assembly, it is refusedor assented to subject to a reduction of the amount specified therein.
(3)
No demand for a grant shall be made except on therecommendation of the Federal Government.
83.
Authentication of schedule of authorized expenditure
83.
(1)
The Prime Minister shall authenticate by his signature aschedule specifying—(a)the grants made or deemed to have been made by the
National Assembly under Article 82, and(b)

the several sums required to meet the expenditure charged
upon the Federal Consolidated Fund but not exceeding, inthe case of any sum, the sum shown in the statement
previously laid before the National Assembly.

(2)
The schedule so authenticated shall be laid before the
National Assembly, but shall not be open to discussion or vote thereon.
(3)
Subject to the Constitution, no expenditure from theFederal Consolidated Fund shall be deemed to be duly authorised unless it
is specified in the schedule so authenticated and such schedule is laid
before the National Assembly as required by clause (2).
84.

Supplementary and excess grants

84.

If in respect of any financial year it is found—(a)that the amount authorized to be expended for a particularservice for the current financial year is insufficient, or thata need has arisen for expenditure upon some new service
not included in the Annual Budget Statement for that year;or(b)that any money has been spent on any service during afinancial year in excess of the amount granted for that
service for that year;

the Federal Government shall have power to authorize expenditure fromthe Federal Consolidated Fund, whether the expenditure is charged by theConstitution upon that Fund or not, and shall cause to be laid before the
National Assembly Supplementary Budget Statement or, as the case may
be, an Excess Budget Statement, setting out the amount of that48

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

expenditure, and the provisions of Articles 80 to 83 shall apply to thosestatements as they apply to the Annual Budget Statement.
85.

Votes on account85.
Notwithstanding anything contained in the foregoing provisions
relating to financial matters, the National Assembly shall have power tomake any grant in advance in respect of the estimated expenditure for apart of any financial year, not exceeding four months, pending completionof the procedure prescribed in Article 82 for the voting of such grant andthe authentication of the schedule of authorized expenditure in accordancewith the provisions of Article 83 in relation to the expenditure.
86.
Power to authorize expenditure when Assembly stands
dissolved
86.
Notwithstanding anything contained in the foregoing provisions
relating to financial matters, at any time when the National Assembly
stands dissolved, the Federal Government may authorize expenditure fromthe Federal Consolidated Fund in respect of the estimated expenditure fora period not exceeding four months in any financial year, pending
completion of the procedure prescribed in Article 82 for the voting of
grants and the authentication of the schedule of authorized expenditure inaccordance with the provisions of Article 83 in relation to the expenditure.
87.

Secretariats of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)

87.

(1)

Each House shall have a separate Secretariat:

Provided that nothing in this clause shall be construed as
preventing the creation of posts common to both Houses.
1(2)[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may by law regulate therecruitment and the conditions of service of persons appointed to thesecretarial staff of either House.

(3)
Until provision is made by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]
under clause (2), the Speaker or, as the case may be, the Chairman may,with the approval of the President, make rules2 regulating the recruitment,
and the conditions of service, of persons appointed to the secretarial staffof the National Assembly or the Senate.

1
2

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
For the National Assembly Secretariat (Recruitment) Rules, 1973, see Gaz. of Pak.. 1973, Ext., Part-II. pp.
2279-2286.
For the Senate Secretariat (Recruitment) Rules. 1973, see ibid.. pp. 2301-2307.

49

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

88.

Finance Committees

88.
(1)
The expenditure of the National Assembly and the Senate
within authorised appropriations shall be controlled by the National
Assembly or, as the case may be, the Senate acting on the advice of its
Finance Committee.
(2)
The Finance Committee shall consist of the Speaker or, as
the case may be, the Chairman, the Minister of Finance and such othermembers as may be elected thereto by the National Assembly or, as thecase may be, the Senate.
(3)
procedure.

The Finance Committee may make rules1 for regulating its
Ordinances

89.

Power of President to promulgate Ordinances

89.
(1)
The President may, except when the 2[Senate or] National
Assembly is in session, if satisfied that circumstances exist which render it
necessary to take immediate action, make and promulgate an Ordinance as
the circumstances may require.
(2)
An Ordinance promulgated under this Article shall have thesame force and effect as an Act of 3[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] andshall be subject to like restrictions as the power of 3[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)] to make law, but every such Ordinance—(a)shall be laid—
(i)

1

2
3
4
5
6

before the National Assembly if it 4[contains
provisions dealing with all or any of the mattersspecified in clause (2) of Article 73], and shall standrepealed at the expiration of 5[one hundred andtwenty days] from its promulgation or, if before theexpiration of that period a resolution disapproving it
is passed by the Assembly, upon the passing of that
resolution 6[:]

For the National Assembly (Finance Committee) Rules, 1973, see Gaz. of Pak., 1973. Ext., Part II, pp. 24512454.
For the Senate (Finance Committee) Rules, 1973, see ibid., pp. 2479-2482.
Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 27.
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amdt.) Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 20 of 1985), Art. 2, for certain words.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 27, for “four months”.
Subs. ibid, for the semi-colon.

50

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1[Provided that the National Assembly may
by a resolution extend the Ordinance for a further
period of one hundred and twenty days and it shallstand repealed at the expiration of the extended
period, or if before the expiration of that period aresolution disapproving it is passed by the
Assembly, upon the passing of that resolution:
Provided further that extension for further
period may be made only once.](ii)

before both Houses if it 2[does not containprovisions dealing with any of the matters referred
to in sub-paragraph (i)], and shall stand repealed at
the expiration of 3[one hundred and twenty days]
from its promulgation or, if before the expiration ofthat period a resolution disapproving it is passed byeither House, upon the passing of that resolution 4[:]
5

[Provided that either House may by aresolution extend it for a further period of one
hundred and twenty days and it shall stand repealed
at the expiration of the extended period, or if before
the expiration of that period a resolution
disapproving it is passed by a House, upon thepassing of that resolution:
Provided further that extension for a further
period may be made only once; and]

1
2
3
4
5
6

(b)

may be withdrawn at any time by the President.

6

[(3)

without prejudice to the provisions of clause (2),—(a)

an Ordinance laid before the National Assembly under subparagraph (i) of paragraph (a) of clause (2) shall be deemed
to be a Bill introduced in the National Assembly; and(b)an Ordinance laid before both Houses under sub-paragraph(ii) of paragraph (a) of clause (2) shall be deemed to be aBill introduced in the House where it was first laid.]

New Provisos ins. ibid.
Subs. by P.O. 20 of 1985 Art. 3 for certain words.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 27, for “four months”.
Subs. by Act 10 of 2010, s. 27, for “;and”.
New Provisos ins. ibid.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 27, for “clause (93)”.

51

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANCHAPTER 3. – THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT
90.

Exercise of executive authority of the Federation[ [90. —(1) Subject to the Constitution, the executive authority of theFederation shall be exercised in the name of the President by the Federal
Government, consisting of the Prime Minister and the Federal Ministers,
which shall act through the Prime Minister, who shall be the chief
executive of the Federation.
1 2(2)
In the performance of his functions under the Constitution,
the Prime Minister may act either directly or through the Federal
Minister.]91.

The Cabinet

3[91. (1)There shall be a Cabinet of Ministers, with the Prime
Minister at its head, to aid and advise the President in the exercise of his
functions.
(2)
The National Assembly shall meet on the twenty-first day
following the day on which a general election to the Assembly is held,
unless sooner summoned by the President.
(3)
After the election of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker,
the National Assembly shall, to the exclusion of any other business,proceed to elect without debate one of its Muslim members to be thePrime Minister.
(4)
The Prime Minister shall be elected by the votes of the
majority of the total membership of the National Assembly:
Provided that, if no member secures such majority in the first poll,a second poll shall be held between the members who secure the twohighest numbers of votes in the first poll and the member who secures amajority of votes of the members present and voting shall be declared tohave been elected as Prime Minister:
Provided further that, if the number of votes secured by two or
more members securing the highest number of votes is equal, further pollshall be held between them until one of them secures a majority of votes
1
2
3

Subs. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for Articles "90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95 and 96."Subs. ibid., s. 29, for “Article 91”.
Subs. ibid., s. 29, for “Article 91”.

52

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANof the members present and voting.
(5)
The member elected under clause (4) shall be called uponby the President to assume the office of Prime Minister and he shall,
before entering upon the office, make before the President oath in the form
set out in the Third Schedule:
Provided that there shall be no restriction on the number of terms
for the office of the Prime Minister.
(6)
The Cabinet, together with the Ministers of State, shall becollectively responsible to the Senate and the National Assembly.
(7)
The Prime Minister shall hold office during the pleasure of
the President, but the President shall not exercise his powers under thisclause unless he is satisfied that the Prime Minister does not command theconfidence of the majority of the members of the National Assembly, inwhich case he shall summon the National Assembly and require the Prime
Minister to obtain a vote of confidence from the Assembly.
(8)
The Prime Minister may, by writing under his handaddressed to the President, resign his office.
(9)
A Minister who for any period of six consecutive months is
not a member of the National Assembly shall, at the expiration of that
period, cease to be a Minister and shall not before the dissolution of that
Assembly be again appointed a Minister unless he is elected a member ofthat Assembly :Provided that nothing contained in this clause shall apply to a
Minister who is member of the Senate.
(10) Nothing contained in this Article shall be construed as
disqualifying the Prime Minister or any other Minister or a Minister ofState for continuing in office during any period during which the National
Assembly stands dissolved, or as preventing the appointment of any
person as Prime Minister or other Minister or a Minister of State during
any such period.]
92.

Federal Ministers and Ministers of State

92.
(1)
Subject to clauses 1[(9) and (10) of Article 91, the President
shall appoint Federal Ministers and Ministers of State from amongst themembers of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) on the advice of the Prime
Minister :1

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 30, for “(7) and (8)”.

53

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

Provided that the number of Federal Ministers and Ministers ofState who are members of the Senate shall not at any time exceed onefourth of the number of Federal Ministers 1[:]
2

[Provided further that the total strength of the Cabinet, including
Ministers of State, shall not exceed eleven percent of the total membershipof Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament):
Provided also that the aforesaid amendment shall be effective fromthe next general election held after the commencement of the Constitution
Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010.](2)
Before entering upon office, a Federal Minister or Ministerof State shall make before the President oath in the form set out in the
Third Schedule.
(3)
A Federal Minister or Minister of State may, by writing
under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office or may beremoved from office by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister.
93.

Advisers

93.
(1)
The President may, on the advice of the Prime Minister,
appoint not more than five Advisers, on such terms and conditions as hemay determine.
(2)
94.

The provisions of Article 57 shall also apply to an Adviser.

Prime Minister continuing in office

94.
The President may ask the Prime Minister to continue to holdoffice until his successor enters upon the office of Prime Minister.
95.

Vote of no-confidence against Prime Minister95.
(1)
A resolution for a vote of no-confidence moved by not lessthan twenty per centum of the total membership of the National Assembly
may be passed against the Prime Minister by the National Assembly.
(2)
A resolution referred to in clause (1) shall not be voted
upon before the expiration of three days, or later than seven days, from theday on which such resolution is moved in the National Assembly.
1
2

Subs. ibid., for the full-stop.
Provisos ins. ibid.

54

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(3)
A resolution referred to in clause (1) shall not be moved in
the National Assembly while the National Assembly is considering
demands for grants submitted to it in the Annual Budget Statement.
(4)
If the resolution referred to in clause (1) is passed by amajority of the total membership of the National Assembly, the Prime
Minister shall cease to hold office.]
96.

[Omitted]

96.
[Vote of no confidence against Prime Minister.] Omitted bysubstitution through renumbering vide P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and
Sch.
97.

Extent of executive authority of Federation

97.
Subject to the Constitution, the executive authority of thefederation shall extend to the matters with respect to which 1[Majlis-eShoora (Parliament)] has power to make laws, including exercise of rights,
authority and jurisdiction in and in relation to areas outside Pakistan :Provided that the said authority shall not, save as expressly
provided in the Constitution or in any law made by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)], extend in any Province to a matter with respect to which theProvincial Assembly has also power to make laws.
98.

Conferring of functions on subordinate authorities

98.
On the recommendation of the Federal Government, 1[Majlis-eShoora (Parliament)] may by law confer functions upon officers or
authorities subordinate to the Federal Government.
99.

Conduct of business of Federal Government

2[99. (1)All executive actions of the Federal Government shall be
expressed to be taken in the name of the President.
(2)
The 3[Federal Government] shall by rules specify themanner in which orders and other instruments made and executed 4[in his
name of the President] shall be authenticated, and the validity of any order
or instrument so authenticated shall not be questioned in any court on the
1
2
3
4

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Subs. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for "Art. 99."
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010) s. 31, for “President”.
Subs. ibid., for “in his name”

55

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

ground that it was not made or executed by the President.
1[(3) The Federal Government shall also make rules for the
allocation and transaction of its business.]]
100.

Attorney-General for Pakistan

100. (1)The President shall appoint a person, being a person
qualified to be appointed a Judge of the Supreme Court, to be theAttorney-General for Pakistan.
(2)
The Attorney-General shall hold office during the pleasureof the President 2[and shall not engage in private practice so long as heholds the office of the Attorney-General].
(3)
It shall be the duty of the Attorney-General to give advice
to the Federal Government upon such legal matters, and to perform suchother duties of a legal character, as may be referred or assigned to him by
the Federal Government, and in the performance of his duties he shallhave the right of audience in all courts and tribunals in Pakistan.
(4)
The Attorney-General may, by writing under his handaddressed to the President, resign his office.

___________

1
2

Subs. ibid., s. 31, for “clause (3)”.
Added ibid., s. 32.

56

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANPART IV
Provinces
CHAPTER 1. – THE GOVERNORS
101.

Appointment of Governor

101. 1[(1) There shall be a Governor for each Province, who shall be
appointed by the President on the advise of the Prime Minister].
(2)
A person shall not be appointed a Governor unless he isqualified to be elected as a member of the National Assembly and is notless than thirty-five years of age 2[and is a registered voter and resident of
the Province concerned.] 3[:]
4

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

4

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

(3)
The Governor shall hold office during the pleasure of the5
President [and shall be entitled to such salary, allowances and privileges
as the President may determine].
(4)
The Governor may, by writing under his hand addressed to
the President, resign his office.
6[(5) The President may make such provision as he thinks fit forthe discharge of the functions of a Governor 7[in any contingency notprovided for in this Part.]

102.

Oath of Office

102. Before entering upon office, the Governor shall make before theChief Justice of the High Court oath in the form set out in the Third
Schedule.

1
2
3

4

5
6
7

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 33, for “clause (1)”.
Added ibid.
Subs. by the Constitution (Fifth Amdt.) Act. 1976 (62 of 1976), s. 2, for the full-stop (w.e.f. the 13th
September, 1976).
Proviso and clause (2A) omitted by the Constitution (Eighth Amdt.) Act, 1985 (18 of 1985), s. 11 which waspreviously amended by Act 62 of 1976, s.2.
Added by the Constitution (First Amdt.) Act, 1974 (33 of 1974), s. 6, (w.e.f. the 4th May, 1974).
Added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,
Added by Act 18 of 1985, s. 11.

57

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

103.

Conditions of Governor’s office103. (1)
The Governor shall not hold any office of profit in theservice of Pakistan or occupy any other position carrying the right toremuneration for the rendering of services.
(2)
The Governor shall not be a candidate for election as a1member of [Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or a Provincial Assembly and,if a member of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or a Provincial Assembly
is appointed as Governor, his seat in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or, as
the case may be, the Provincial Assembly shall become vacant on the day
he enters upon his office.
104. Speaker Provincial Assembly to act as, or perform functions ofGovernor in his absence2[104. When the Governor, by reason of absence from Pakistan or for any
other cause, is unable to perform his functions, the Speaker of theProvincial Assembly and in his absence any other person as the President
may nominate shall perform the functions of Governor until the Governor
returns to Pakistan or, as the case may be, resumes his functions.]
105.

Governor to act on advice, etc.

3[105. (1)Subject to Constitution, in the performance of his functions,
the Governor shall act 4[on and] in accordance with the advice of the
Cabinet 3[or the Chief Minister] :5[Provided that 4[within fifteen days] the Governor may require theCabinet or, as the case may be, the Chief Minister to reconsider suchadvice, whether generally or otherwise, and the Governor shall 4[, withinten days,] act in accordance with the advice tendered after suchreconsideration.]
6

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

(2)
The question whether any, and if so what, advice wastendered to the Governor by the Chief Minister 7[or the Cabinet] shall not
be inquired into in, or by, any court, tribunal or other authority.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 34, for “Article 104”.
Subs. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for "Article 105".
Ins. by Act No. 10 of 2010, s. 35.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amdt.) Act. 1985 (18 of 1985), s. 12, for “proviso,”
Proviso omitted ibid.
Subs. ibid., for "the Cabinet or a Minister".

58

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1[(3) Where the Governor dissolves the Provincial Assembly,
notwithstanding anything contained in clause (1), he shall,—(a)appoint a date, not later than ninety days from the date ofdissolution, for the holding of a general election to the
Assembly; and(b)appoint a care-taker Cabinet.]

2

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

(5)
The provisions of clause 3[(2) of Article 48 shall haveeffect in relation to a Governor as if reference therein to "President" werereference to "Governor".]
CHAPTER 2. – PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLIES
106.

Constitution of Provincial Assemblies

4[106. (1)Each Provincial Assembly shall consist of general seats andseats reserved for women and non-Muslims as specified herein below:-

General seats

Women

Non-Muslims

Total

Balochistan
5[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

51
115

11
26

3
4

65
145]

The Punjab

297

66

8

371

Sindh

130

29

9

168

6

[(1A) The seats for the Province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,
referred to in clause (1), include sixteen general seats, four seats for
women and one seat for non-Muslims in respect of the Federally
Administered Tribal Areas:
Provided that elections to the aforesaid seats shall be held within
one year after the general elections, 2018.
(1B) After elections to seats referred to in clause (1A), bothclause (1A) and this clause shall stand omitted.]
1
2
3
4

5
6

Subs. by Act No. 10 of 2010, s. 35, for “clause (3)”.
Clause (4) omitted, ibid.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amdt.) Act. 1985 (18 of 1985) s. 12 for "(3)".
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 36, for “Article 106” and shall bedeemed always to have been so, subs. with effect from 21 st day of August, 2002.
Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amdt.) Act, 2018 (37 of 2018) s. 6. w.e.f. 31-05-2018.
Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amdt.) Act, 2018 (37 of 2018) s. 6. w.e.f. 31-05-2018.

59

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(2)A person shall be entitled to vote if—(a)

he is a citizen of Pakistan;(b)

he is not less than eighteen years of age;(c)his name appears on the electoral roll for any area in theProvince; and(d)he is not declared by a competent court to be of unsound
mind.

(3)

For the purpose of election to a Provincial Assembly,—(a)the constituencies for the general seats shall be single
member territorial constituencies and the members to fillsuch seats shall be elected by direct and free vote;(b)each Province shall be a single constituency for all seats
reserved for women and non-Muslims allocated to therespective Provinces under clause (1);(c)

the members to fill seats reserved for women and nonMuslims allocated to a Province under clause (1) shall beelected in accordance with law through proportional
representation system of political parties’ lists of candidates
on the basis of the total number of general seats secured byeach political party in the Provincial Assembly:

Provided that for the purpose of this sub-clause, the total numberof general seats won by a political party shall include the independent
returned candidate or candidates who may duly join such political party
within three days of the publication in the official Gazette of the names of
the returned candidates.]
107.

Duration of Provincial Assembly

107. A Provincial Assembly shall, unless sooner dissolved, continue fora term of five years from the day of its first meeting and shall standdissolved at the expiration of its term.
108.

Speaker and Deputy Speaker

108. After a general election, a Provincial Assembly shall, at its firstmeeting and to the exclusion of any other business, elect from amongst its
members a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker and, so often as the office of
Speaker or Deputy Speaker becomes vacant, the Assembly shall electanother member as Speaker or, as the case may be, Deputy Speaker.

60

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

109.

Summoning and prorogation of Provincial Assembly

109.

The Governor may from time to time—(a) summon the Provincial Assembly to meet at such timeand place as he thinks fit; and(b) prorogue the Provincial Assembly.

110.

Right of Governor to address Provincial Assembly

110. The Governor may address the Provincial Assembly and may forthat purpose require the attendance of the members.
111.

Right to speak in Provincial Assembly

111. The Advocate-General shall have the right to speak and otherwise
take part in the proceedings of the Provincial Assembly or any committee
thereof of which he may be named a member, but shall not by virtue of
this Article be entitled to vote.
112.

Dissolution of Provincial Assembly

1[112. (1)
The Governor shall dissolve the Provincial Assembly if so
advised by the Chief Minister; and the Provincial Assembly shall, unlesssooner dissolved, stand dissolved at the expiration of forty-eight hours
after the Chief Minister has so advised.
Explanation.– Reference in this Article to ‘Chief Minister’ shallnot be construed to include reference to a Chief Minister against whom a
notice of a resolution for a vote of no-confidence has been given in theProvincial Assembly but has not been voted upon or against whom aresolution for a vote of no-confidence has been passed.
(2)
The Governor may also dissolve the Provincial Assemblyin his discretion, but subject to the previous approval of the President,
where a vote of no-confidence having been passed against the Chief
Minister, no other member of the Provincial Assembly commands theconfidence of the majority of the members of the Provincial Assembly inaccordance with the provisions of the Constitution, as ascertained in asession of the Provincial Assembly summoned for the purpose.]

1

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 37, for “Article 112”.

61

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

113. Qualifications and disqualifications for membership ofProvincial Assembly
1[113. The qualifications and disqualifications for membership of the
National Assembly set out in Articles 62 and 63 shall also apply formembership of a Provincial Assembly as if reference therein to "National
Assembly" were a reference to "Provincial Assembly".]
114.

Restriction on discussion in Provincial Assembly

114. No discussion shall take place in a Provincial Assembly withrespect to the conduct of any Judge of the Supreme Court or of a High
Court in the discharge of his duties.
115. Provincial Government’s consent required for financial
measures115. (1)A Money Bill, or a Bill or amendment which if enacted andbrought into operation would involve expenditure from the Provincial
Consolidated Fund or withdrawal from the Public Account of the Province
shall not be introduced or moved in the Provincial Assembly except by orwith the consent of the Provincial Government.
(2)
For the purposes of this Article, a Bill or amendment shallbe deemed to be a Money Bill if it contains provisions dealing with all or
any of the following matters, namely:1(a)the imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulationof any tax;(b)

the borrowing of money, or the giving of any guarantee, by
the Provincial Government or the amendment of the law
relating to the financial obligations of that Government;(c)the custody of the Provincial Consolidated Fund, thepayment of moneys into, or issue of moneys from, that
fund;

(d)

the imposition of a charge upon the Provincial
Consolidated Fund, or the abolition or alteration of any
such charge;(e)

the receipt of moneys on account of the Public Account of
the Province, the custody or issue of such moneys; andSubs. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for "Art. 113".

62

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(f)

any matter incidental to any of the matters specified in thepreceding paragraphs.

(3)
A Bill shall not be deemed to be a Money Bill by reason
only that it provides—
(a)

(b)

for the imposition or alteration of any fine or otherpecuniary penalty or for the demand or payment of alicence fee or a fee or charge for any service rendered; orfor the imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or
regulation of any tax by any local authority or body for
local purposes.

(4)
If any question arises whether a Bill is a Money Bill or not,the decision of the Speaker of the Provincial Assembly thereon shall befinal.
(5)
Every Money Bill presented to the Governor for assent
shall bear a certificate under the hand of the Speaker of the Provincial
Assembly that it is a Money Bill and such certificate shall be conclusive
for all purposes and shall not be called in question.
116.

Governor’s assent to Bills

1[116. (1)When a Bill has been passed by the Provincial Assembly, it
shall be presented to the Governor for assent.
(2)
When a Bill is presented to the Governor for assent, theGovernor shall, within 2[ten] days,—(a)assent to the Bill; or(b)in the case of a Bill other than a Money Bill, return the Billto the Provincial Assembly with a message requesting thatthe Bill, or any specified provision thereof, be reconsidered
and that any amendment specified in the message be
considered.

3[(3) When the Governor has returned a Bill to the Provincial
Assembly, it shall be reconsidered by the Provincial Assembly and, if it isagain passed, with or without amendment, by the Provincial Assembly, by
1
2
3

Subs. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for "Art. 116"
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 38, for “thirty”.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amdt.) Act, 1985 (18 of 1985), s. 15, for "clause (3)".

63

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

the votes of the majority of the members of the Provincial Assemblypresent and voting, it shall be again presented to the Governor and theGovernor shall 1[give his assent within ten days, failing which such assent
shall be deemed to have been given].
(4)
When the Governor has assented 2[or is deemed to haveassented] to a Bill, it shall become law and be called an Act of Provincial
Assembly.
(5)
No Act of a Provincial Assembly, and no provision in any
such Act, shall be invalid by reason only that some recommendation,
previous sanction or consent required by the Constitution was not given ifthat Act was assented to in accordance with the Constitution.]
117.

Bill not to lapse on prorogation, etc.

117. (1)A Bill pending in a Provincial Assembly shall not lapse byreason of the prorogation of the Assembly.
(2)
A Bill pending in a Provincial Assembly shall lapse on the
dissolution of the Assembly.
Financial Procedure
118.

Provincial Consolidated Fund and Public Account118. (1)
All revenues received by the Provincial Government, allloans raised by that Government, and all moneys received by it in
repayment of any loan, shall form part of a consolidated fund, to be known
as the Provincial Consolidated Fund.
(2)

All other moneys—(a)received by or on behalf of the Provincial Government; or(b)received by or deposited with the High Court or any othercourt established under the authority of the Province;shall be credited to the Public Account of the Province.

1

2

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 38, for “not withhold his assent
thereform”.
Ins. ibid.

64

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

119. Custody, etc., of Provincial Consolidated Fund and Public
Account
119. The custody of the Provincial Consolidated Fund, the payment ofmoneys into that Fund, the withdrawal of moneys therefrom, the custodyof other moneys received by or on behalf of the Provincial Government,
their payment into, and withdrawal from, the Public Account of theProvince, and all matters connected with or ancillary to the matters
aforesaid, shall be regulated by Act of the Provincial Assembly or, until
provision in that behalf is so made, by rules made by the Governor.
120.

Annual Budget Statement

120. (1)The Provincial Government shall, in respect of every
financial year, cause to be laid before the Provincial Assembly statementof the estimated receipts and expenditure of the Provincial Government forthat year, in this Chapter referred to as the Annual Budget Statement.
(2)

The Annual Budget Statement shall show separately—(a)the sums required to meet expenditure described by theconstitution as expenditure charged upon the Provincial
Consolidated Fund; and(b)the sums required to meet other expenditure proposed to bemade from the Provincial Consolidated Fund;and shall distinguish expenditure on revenue account from otherexpenditure.
121.

Expenditure charged upon Provincial Consolidated Fund

121. The following expenditure shall be expenditure charged upon theProvincial Consolidated Fund:(a)(b)

the remuneration payable to the Governor and otherexpenditure relating to his office, and the remuneration
payable to—(i)the Judges of the High Court; and(ii)

the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Provincial
Assembly;

the administrative expenses, including the remuneration
payable to officers and servants, of the High Court and theSecretariat of the Provincial Assembly;

65

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

122.

(c)

all debt charges for which the Provincial Government isliable, including interest, sinking fund charges, therepayment or amortisation of capital, and other expenditure
in connection with the raising of loans, and the service andredemption of debt on the security of the Provincial
Consolidated Fund;(d)

any sums required to satisfy any judgement, decree oraward against the Province by any court or tribunal; and(e)any other sums declared by the Constitution or by Act of
the Provincial Assembly to be so charged.

Procedure relating to Annual Budget Statement

122. (1)So much of the Annual Budget Statement as relates to
expenditure charged upon the Provincial Consolidated Fund may be
discussed in, but shall not be submitted to the vote of the Provincial
Assembly.
(2)
So much of the Annual Budget Statement as relates to otherexpenditure shall be submitted to the Provincial Assembly in the form of
demands for grants, and that Assembly shall have power to assent to, or torefuse to assent to, any demand, or to assent to any demand subject to a
reduction of the amount specified therein:
1

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

(3)
No demand for a grant shall be made except on therecommendation of the Provincial Government.
123.

Authentication of schedule of authorized expenditure123. (1)The Chief Minister shall authenticate by his signature aschedule specifying—

1(a)the grants made or deemed to have been made by theProvincial Assembly under Article 122, and(b)

the several sums required to meet the expenditure charged
upon the Provincial Consolidated Fund but not exceeding,in the case of any sum, the sum shown in the statement
previously laid before the Assembly.

Proviso omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s.39.

66

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(2)
The schedule so authenticated shall be laid before theProvincial Assembly, but shall not be open to discussion or vote thereon.
(3)
Subject to the Constitution, no expenditure from theProvincial Consolidated Fund shall be deemed to be duly authorized
unless it is specified in the schedule so authenticated and such schedule islaid before the Provincial Assembly as required by clause (2).
124.

Supplementary and excess grant124.

If in respect of any financial year it is found—(a)that the amount authorized to be expended for a particularservice for the current financial year is insufficient, or thata need has arisen for expenditure upon some new service
not included in the Annual Budget Statement for that year;or(b)that any money has been spent on any service during afinancial year in excess of the amount granted for that
service for that year;

the Provincial Government shall have power to authorize expenditurefrom the Provincial Consolidated Fund, whether the expenditure ischarged by the Constitution upon that Fund or not, and shall cause to belaid before the Provincial Assembly a Supplementary Budget Statement
or, as the case may be, an Excess Budget Statement, setting out theamount of that expenditure, and the provisions of Articles 120 to 123 shallapply to those statements as they apply to the Annual Budget Statement.
125.

Votes on account125. Notwithstanding anything contained in the foregoing provisions
relating to financial matters, the Provincial Assembly shall have power tomake any grant in advance in respect of the estimated expenditure for apart of any financial year, not exceeding three months, pending
completion of the procedure prescribed in Article 122 for the voting ofsuch grant and the authentication of the schedule of expenditure inaccordance with the provisions of Article 123 in relation to theexpenditure.
126. Power to authorize expenditure when Assembly stands
dissolved
126. Notwithstanding anything contained in the foregoing provisions
relating to financial matters, at any time when the Provincial Assembly67CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

stands dissolved, the Provincial Government may authorize expenditurefrom the Provincial Consolidated Fund in respect of the estimatedexpenditure for a period not exceeding four months in any financial year,
pending completion of the procedure prescribed in Article 122 for the
voting of grants and the authentication of the schedule of authorized
expenditure, in accordance with the provisions of Article 123 in relation to
the expenditure.
127.

Provisions relating to National Assembly, etc., to apply to
Provincial Assembly, etc.

127. Subject to the Constitution, the provisions of clauses (2) to (8) of
Article 53, clauses (2) and (3) of Article 54, Article 55, Articles 63 to 67,
Article 69, Article 77, Article 87 and Article 88 shall apply to and in
relation to a Provincial Assembly or a committee or members thereof or
the Provincial Government but so that—

1
2

3
4
5

(a)

any reference in those provisions to 1Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)], a House or the National Assembly shall beread as a reference to the Provincial Assembly ;(b)

any reference in those provisions to the President shall beread as a reference to the Governor of the Province;(c)

any reference in those provisions to the Federal
Government shall be read as a reference to the Provincial
Government;(d)

any reference in those provisions to the Prime Ministershall be read as a reference to the Chief Minister;(e)

any reference in those provisions to a Federal Minister shallbe read as a reference to a Provincial Minister ; 2*(f)any reference in those provisions to the National Assemblyof Pakistan shall be read as a reference to the Provincial
Assembly in existence immediately before the commencing
day 3[; and]4

the said clause (2) of Article 54 shall have effect as if, in
the proviso thereto, for the words "one hundred and thirty"
the word “5[one hundred]” were substituted.][(g)

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
The word "and" omitted by the Constitution (First Amdt.) Act. 1974 (33 of 1974), s.7 (w.e.f the 4th May.
1974).
Subs. ibid., s. 7 for full stop.
Paragraph (g) added ibid.,
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 40, for “seventy”.

68CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

Ordinances
128.

Power of Governor to promulgate Ordinances

128. (1)
The Governor may, except when the Provincial Assemblyis in session, if satisfied that circumstances exist which render it necessary
to take immediate action, make and promulgate an Ordinance as thecircumstances may require.
(2)
An Ordinance promulgated under this Article shall have thesame force and effect as an Act of the Provincial Assembly and shall be
subject to like restrictions as the power of the Provincial Assembly tomake laws, but every such Ordinance—(a)shall be laid before the Provincial Assembly and shall standrepealed at the expiration of 1[ninety days] from its
promulgation or, if before the expiration of that period aresolution disapproving it is passed by the Assembly, upon
the passing of that resolution 2[:]
3

[Provided that the Provincial Assembly may by aresolution extend the Ordinance for a further period ofninety days and it shall stand repealed at the expiration of
the extended period, or if before the expiration of that
period a resolution disapproving it is passed by the
Assembly, upon the passing of that resolution:
Provided further that extension for a further period
may be made only once.](b)

may be withdrawn at any time by the Governor.

(3)
Without prejudice to the provisions of clause (2), an
Ordinance laid before the Provincial Assembly shall be deemed to be aBill introduced in the Provincial Assembly.
CHAPTER 3. – THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENTS
129.

Exercise of executive authority of the Province

4[129. (1)Subject to the Constitution, the executive authority of theProvince shall be exercised in the name of the Governor by the Provincial
Government, consisting of the Chief Minister and Provincial Ministers,
1
2
3
4

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 41, for “three months”.
Subs. ibid., for “; and”.
Provisos Ins. ibid.
Subs. ibid., s. 42, for “Article 129”.

69

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

which shall act through the Chief Minister.
(2)
In the performance of his functions under the Constitution,
the Chief Minister may act either directly or through the Provincial
Ministers.]
130.

The Cabinet

1[130. (1)There shall be a Cabinet of Ministers, with the Chief
Minister at its head, to aid and advise the Governor in the exercise of his
functions.
(2)
The Provincial Assembly shall meet on the twenty-first day
following the day on which a general election to the Assembly is held,
unless sooner summoned by the Governor.
(3)
After the election of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker,
the Provincial Assembly shall, to the exclusion of any other business,proceed to elect without debate one of its members to be the Chief
Minister.
(4)
The Chief Minister shall be elected by the votes of the
majority of the total membership of the Provincial Assembly:
Provided that, if no member secures such majority in the first poll,a second poll shall be held between the members who secures the twohighest numbers of votes in the first poll and the member who secures amajority of votes of the members present and voting shall be declared tohave been elected as Chief Minister:
Provided further that, if the number of votes secured by two or
more members securing the highest number of votes is equal, further polls
shall be held between them until one of them secures a majority of votesof the members present and voting.
(5)
The member elected under clause (4) shall be called uponby the Governor to assume the office of Chief Minister and he shall,
before entering upon the office, make before the Governor oath in theform set out in the Third Schedule:
Provided that there shall be no restriction on the number of terms
for the office of the Chief Minister.
(6)
The Cabinet shall be collectively responsible to theProvincial Assembly and the total strength of the Cabinet shall not exceed
fifteen members or eleven percent of the total membership of a Provincial
Assembly, whichever is higher:
1

Subs. ibid., s. 43, for “Article 130”.

70

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

Provided that the aforesaid limit shall be effective from the next
general elections after the commencement of the Constitution (Eighteenth
Amendment) Act, 2010.
(7)
The Chief Minister shall hold office during the pleasure of
the Governor, but the Governor shall not exercise his powers under thisclause unless he is satisfied that the Chief Minister does not command theconfidence of the majority of the members of the Provincial Assembly, inwhich case he shall summon the Provincial Assembly and require theChief Minister to obtain a vote of confidence from the Assembly.
(8)
The Chief Minister may, by writing under his handaddressed to the Governor, resign his office.
(9)
A Minister who for any period of six consecutive months is
not a member of the Provincial Assembly shall, at the expiration of that
period, cease to be a Minister and shall not before the dissolution of that
Assembly be again appointed a Minister unless he is elected a member ofthat Assembly.
(10) Nothing contained in this Article shall be construed as
disqualifying the Chief Minister or any other Minister for continuing in
office during any period during which the Provincial Assembly stands
dissolved, or as preventing the appointment of any person as Chief
Minister or other Minister during any such period.
(11)
Advisors.]
131.

The Chief Minister shall not appoint more than five

Governor to be kept informed

1[131. The Chief Minister shall keep the Governor informed on mattersrelating to Provincial administration and on all legislative proposals theProvincial Government intends to bring before the Provincial Assembly.]
132.

Provincial Ministers

2[132. (1)Subject to clauses 3[(9) and (10)] of Article 130, theGovernor shall appoint Provincial Ministers from amongst members of theProvincial Assembly on the advice of the Chief Minister.
(2)
Before entering upon office, a Provincial Minister shallmake before the Governor oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule.
1
2
3

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 44, for “Article 131”.
Subs. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for "Articles 132 and 133".
Subs. by the Act, No. 10 of 2010, s. 45, for “(7) and (8)”.

71

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(3)A Provincial Minister may, by writing under his handaddressed to the Governor, resign his office or may be removed fromoffice by the Governor on the advice of the Chief Minister.
133.

Chief Minister continuing in office133. The Governor may ask the Chief Minister to continue to holdoffice until his successor enters upon the office of Chief Minister.]
134. [Omitted]
134. [Resignation by Chief Minister] Omitted by P.O. No. 14 of 1985,
Art. 2 and Sch.
135. [Omitted]
135. [Provincial Minister performing functions of Chief Minister.]
Omitted by P.O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.
136. Vote of no-confidence against Chief Minister
1[136. (1)A resolution for a vote of no-confidence moved by not lessthan twenty per centum of the total membership of the Provincial
Assembly may be passed against the Chief Minister by the Provincial
Assembly.
(2)
A resolution referred to in clause (1) shall not be voted
upon before the expiration of three days, or later than seven days, from theday on which such resolution is moved in the Provincial Assembly.
(3)
If the resolution referred to in clause (l) is passed by amajority of the total membership of the Provincial Assembly, the Chief
Minister shall cease to hold office.]
137.

Extent of executive authority of Province137. Subject to the Constitution, the executive authority of the Province
shall extend to the matters with respect to which the Provincial Assembly
has power to make laws :Provided that, in any matter with respect to which both 2[Majlis-eShoora (Parliament)] and the Provincial Assembly of a Province havepower to make laws, the executive authority of the Province shall be
subject to, and limited by, the executive authority expressly conferred by
the Constitution or by law made by 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] upon
the Federal Government or authorities thereof.

1
2

Subs. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.. for "Art. 136".
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

72

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

138.

Conferring of functions on subordinate authorities

138. On the recommendation of the Provincial Government, theProvincial Assembly may by law confer functions upon officers or
authorities subordinate to the Provincial Government.
139.

Conduct of business of Provincial Government

1[139. (1)All executive actions of the Provincial Government shall be
expressed to be taken in the name of the Governor.
(2)
The 2[Provincial Government] shall by rules specify themanner in which orders and other instruments made and executed 3[in thename of Governor] shall be authenticated, and the validity of any order or
instrument so authenticated shall not be questioned in any court on the
ground that it was not made or executed by the Governor.
4[(3) The Provincial Government shall also make rules for the
allocation and transaction of its business.]]
140.

Advocate General for a Province

140. (1)
The Governor of each Province shall appoint a person,
being a person qualified to be appointed a Judge of the High Court, to be
the Advocate General for the Province.
(2)
It shall be the duty of the Advocate-General to give advice
to the Provincial Government upon such legal matters, and to perform
such other duties of a legal character, as may be referred or assigned tohim by the Provincial Government.
(3)
The Advocate-General shall hold office during the pleasureof the Governor 5[and shall not engage in private practice so long as heholds the office of the Advocate-General].
(4)
The Advocate-General may, by writing under his handaddressed to the Governor, resign his office.
6

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

140A. Local Government
7

1
2
3
4
5
6

7

[140A.

(1)

Each Province shall, by law, establish a local

Subs. by P O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for "Article 139".
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 46, for “Governor”.
Subs. ibid., for “in his name”.
Subs. ibid., for “clause (3)”
Added ibid., s. 47.
Existing Article 140A stands omitted as a consequence of the (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), seesection 2.
New Article 140A ins. ibid., s. 48.

73

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

government system and devolve political, administrative and financial
responsibility and authority to the elected representatives of the local
governments.
(2)
Elections to the local governments shall be held by theElection Commission of Pakistan.]___________

74

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANPART V
Relations Between Federation and Provinces
CHAPTER 1. – DISTRIBUTION OF LEGISLATIVE POWERS
141.

Extent of Federal and Provincial laws

141. Subject to the Constitution, 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may
make laws (including laws having extra-territorial operation) for the whole
or any part of Pakistan, and a Provincial Assembly may make laws for theProvince or any part thereof.
142.

Subject-matter of Federal and Provincial laws

142.

Subject to the Constitution—

143.

(a)

1

2

[(b)

Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) and a Provincial Assembly
shall have power to make laws with respect to criminal law,criminal procedure and evidence;]

3

[(c)

Subject to paragraph (b), a Provincial Assembly shall, andMajlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) shall not, have power to makelaws with respect to any matter not enumerated in theFederal Legislative List;]

4

[(d)

Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) shall have exclusive power tomake laws with respect to all matters pertaining to suchareas in the Federation as are not included in any Province].

[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] shall have exclusive power
to make laws with respect to any matter in the Federal
Legislative List;

Inconsistency between Federal and Provincial law

5[143. If any provision of an Act of a Provincial Assembly is repugnant toany provision of an Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) which Majlis-eShoora (Parliament) is competent to enact, then the Act of Majlis-eShoora (Parliament), whether passed before or after the Act of theProvincial Assembly, shall prevail and the Act of the Provincial Assembly
shall, to the extent of the repugnancy, be void.]
1
2
3
4
5

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 49, for “Paragraph (b)”.
Subs. ibid; for “Paragraph (c)”.
Subs. ibid; for “Paragraph (d)”.
Subs. ibid; s. 50 for “Article 143”.

75

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

144.

Power of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) to legislate for 1[One]or more Provinces by consent

144. (1)If 1[one] or more Provincial Assemblies pass resolutions
to the effect that 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may by law regulate
any matter not enumerated in 3[the Federal Legislation List] in the
Fourth Schedule, it shall be lawful for 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]
to pass an Act for regulating that matter accordingly, but any act so
passed may, as respects any Province to which it applies, be amended
or repealed by Act of the Assembly of that Province.
4

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

CHAPTER 2. – ADMINISTRATIVE RELATIONS BETWEENFEDERATION AND PROVINCES
145.

Power of President to direct Governor to discharge certain
functions as his Agent

145. (1)The President may direct the Governor of any Province todischarge as his Agent, either generally or in any particular matter, suchfunctions relating to such areas in the Federation which are not included in
any Province as may be specified in the direction.
(2)
The provisions of Article 105 shall not apply to thedischarge by the Governor of his functions under clause (1).
146. Power of Federation to confer powers, etc., on Provinces, incertain cases
146. (1)Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, theFederal Government may, with the consent of the Government of aProvince, entrust either conditionally or unconditionally to that
Government, or to its officers functions in relation to any matter to which
the executive authority of the Federation extends.
(2)
An Act of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may, notwithstanding that it relates to a matter with respect to which a Provincial
Assembly has no power to make laws, confer powers and impose duties
upon a Province or officers and authorities thereof.

1
2
3
4

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 51, for “Two”.
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Subs. by Act No. 10 of 2010, s.51. for “either list”.
Clause (2) omitted by the Constitution (Eighth Amdt.) Act, 1985 (18 of 1985), s.17.

76

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(3)
Where by virtue of this Article powers and duties havebeen conferred or imposed upon a Province or officers or authorities
thereof, there shall be paid by the Federation to the Province such sum as
may be agreed or, in default of agreement, as may be determined by anarbitrator appointed by the Chief Justice of Pakistan, in respect of any
extra costs of administration incurred by the Province in connection withthe exercise of those powers or the discharge of those duties.
147.

Power of the Provinces to entrust functions to the Federation

147. Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, theGovernment of a Province may, with the consent of the Federal
Government, entrust, either conditionally or unconditionally, to theFederal Government, or to its officers, functions in relation to any matter
to which the executive authority of the Province extends 1[:]
2

[Provided that the Provincial Government shall get the functions
so entrusted ratified by the Provincial Assembly within sixty days.]
148.

Obligation of Provinces and Federation

148. (1)The executive authority of every Province shall be so
exercised as to secure compliance with Federal laws which apply in that
Province.
(2)
Without prejudice to any other provision of this Chapter, inthe exercise of the executive authority of the Federation in any Province
regard shall be had to the interests of that Province.
(3)
It shall be the duty of the Federation to protect every
Province against external aggression and internal disturbances and toensure that the Government of every Province is carried on in accordancewith the provisions of the Constitution.
149.

Directions to Provinces in certain cases

149. (1)The executive authority of every Province shall be so
exercised as not to impede or prejudice the exercise of the executive
authority of the Federation, and the executive authority of the Federation
shall extend to the giving of such directions to a Province as may appear to
the Federal Government to be necessary for that purpose.
3

1
2
3

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 52, for the full-stop.
Proviso added, ibid.
Clause (2) omitted ibid., s. 53.

77

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(3)
The executive authority of the Federation shall also extend
to the giving of directions to a Province as to the construction andmaintenance of means of communication declared in the direction to be ofnational or strategic importance.
(4)
The executive authority of the Federation shall also extend
to the giving of directions to a Province as to the manner in which theexecutive authority thereof is to be exercised for the purpose of preventing
any grave menace to the peace or tranquillity or economic life of Pakistan
or any part thereof.
150.

Full faith and credit for public acts, etc.

150. Full faith and credit shall be given throughout Pakistan to public
acts and records, and judicial proceedings of every Province.
151.

Inter-Provincial trade151. (1)Subject to clause (2), trade, commerce and intercourse
throughout Pakistan shall be free.
1(2)[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may by law impose such
restrictions on the freedom of trade, commerce or inter-course between
one Province and another or within any part of Pakistan as may berequired in the public interest.

(3)
A Provincial Assembly or a Provincial Government shallnot have power to—(a)make any law, or take any executive action, prohibiting or
restricting the entry into, or the export from, the Provinceof goods of any class or description, or(b)

impose a tax which, as between goods manufactured or
produced in the Province and similar goods not somanufactured or produced, discriminates in favour of theformer goods or which, in the case of goods manufactured
or produced outside the Province discriminates between
goods manufactured or produced in any area in Pakistan
and similar goods manufactured or produced in any otherarea in Pakistan.

(4)
An Act of a Provincial Assembly which imposes any
reasonable restriction in the interest of public health, public order or1

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

78

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

morality, or for the purpose of protecting animals or plants from disease or
preventing or alleviating any serious shortage in the Province of any
essential commodity shall not, if it was made with the consent of the
President, be invalid.
152.

Acquisition of land for Federal purposes152. The Federation may, if it deems necessary to acquire any land
situate in a Province for any purpose connected with a matter with respect
to which 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] has power to make laws, require
the Province to acquire the land on behalf, and at the expense, of theFederation or, if the land belongs to the Province, to transfer it to theFederation on such terms as may be agreed or, in default of agreement, as
may be determined by an arbitrator appointed by the Chief Justice ofPakistan.
CHAPTER 3. – SPECIAL PROVISIONS
152A. [Omitted]
152A. [National Security Council.] Omitted by the Constitution(Seventeenth Amdt.) Act 2003 (3 of 2003), s. 5, which was previously ins.
by C.E's. O. No. 24 of 2002, Art. 3 and Sch., as amended by various
enactments.
153.

Council of Common Interests

153. (1)There shall be a Council of Common Interests, in this
Chapter referred to as the Council, to be appointed by the President.
2[(2)

The Council shall consist of—(a)the Prime Minister who shall be the Chairman of theCouncil;(b)

the Chief Ministers of the Provinces; and(c)three members from the Federal Government to be
nominated by the Prime Minister from time to time.]

3

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

(4)
The Council shall be responsible to 1[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament) 4[and shall submit an Annual Report to both Houses of
Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament).]]1
2
3
4

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 54, for “clause (2)”.
Clause (3) omitted ibid.
Added by Act, No. 10 of 2010, s. 54.

79

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

154.

Functions and rules of procedure154. 1[(1) The Council shall formulate and regulate policies inrelation to matters in Part II of the Federal Legislative List and shall
exercise supervision and control over related institutions.]
2[(2) The Council shall be constituted within thirty days of thePrime Minister taking oath of office.
(3)
The Council shall have a permanent Secretariat and shallmeet at least once in ninety days:
Provided that the Prime Minister may convene a meetingon the request of a Province on an urgent matter.]3[(4)] The decisions of the Council shall be expressed in terms of
the opinion of the majority.
3[(5)] Until 4[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] makes provision by
law in this behalf, the Council may make its rules of procedure.
3[(6)] 4[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in joint sitting may fromtime to time by resolution issue directions through the Federal
Government to the Council generally or in a particular matter to takeaction as 4[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may deem just and proper andsuch directions shall be binding on the Council.
3[(7)] If the Federal Government or a Provincial Government isdissatisfied with a decision of the Council, it may refer the matter to4[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in a joint sitting whose decision in thisbehalf shall be final.
155.

Complaints as to interference with water supplies

155. (1)
If the interests of a Province, the Federal Capital 5[**] or
any of the inhabitants thereof, in water from any natural source of supply
6[or reservoir] have been or are likely to be affected prejudicially by —
(a)

1
2
3
4
5
6

any executive act or legislation taken or passed or proposed
to be taken or passed, orSubs. ibid. s. 55, for “clause (1)”.
New clauses (2) and (3) ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 55.
Clauses (2), (3), (4) and (5) renumbered ibid.
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amdt.) Act, 2018 (37 of 2018) s. 7. w.e.f. 31-05-2018.
Ins. by Act. No. 10 of 2010, s. 56.

80

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(b)the failure of any authority to exercise any of its powers
with respect to the use and distribution or control of waterfrom that source,

the Federal Government or the Provincial Government concerned may
make a complaint in writing to the Council.
(2)
Upon receiving such complaint, the Council shall, after
having considered the matter, either give its decision or request the
President to appoint a commission consisting of such persons having
special knowledge and experience in irrigation, engineering,administration, finance or law as he may think fit, hereinafter referred toas the Commission.
(3)
Until 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] makes provision by
law in this behalf, the provisions of the Pakistan Commissions of Inquiry
Act, 1956, as in force immediately before the commencing day shall apply
to the Council or the Commission as if the Council or the Commission
were a Commission appointed under that Act to which all the provisionsof section 5 thereof applied and upon which the power contemplated bysection 10A thereof had been conferred.
(4)
After considering the report and supplementary report, if
any, of the Commission, the Council shall record its decision on all
matters referred to the Commission.
(5)
Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, but subject to theprovisions of clause (5) of Article 154, it shall be the duty of the Federal
Government and the Provincial Government concerned in the matter inissue to give effect to the decision of the Council faithfully according to its
terms and tenor.
(6)
No proceeding shall lie before any court at the instance ofany party to a matter which is or has been in issue before the Council, orof any person whatsoever, in respect of a matter which is actually or has
been or might or ought to have been a proper subject of complaint to theCouncil under this Article.
156.

National Economic Council

2[156. (1)The President shall constitute a National Economic Council
which shall consist of: —1
2

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s.57, for “Article 156”.

81

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(a)the Prime Minister, who shall be the Chairman of theCouncil;(b)

the Chief Ministers and one member from each Province tobe nominated by the Chief Minister; and(c)four other members as the Prime Minister may nominate
from time to time.

(2)
The National Economic Council shall review the overall
economic condition of the country and shall, for advising the Federal
Government and the Provincial Governments, formulate plans in respectof financial, commercial, social and economic policies; and in formulatingsuch plans, it shall, amongst other factors, ensure balanced development
and regional equity and shall also be guided by the Principles of Policy
set-out in Chapter 2 of Part II.
(3)
The meetings of the Council shall be summoned by the
Chairman or on a requisition made by one-half of the members of theCouncil.
(4)
The Council shall meet at least twice in a year and thequorum for a meeting of the Council shall be one-half of its total
membership.
(5)
The Council shall be responsible to the Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament) and shall submit an Annual Report to each House of Majlise-Shoora (Parliament)].
157.

Electricity

157. (1)
The Federal Government may in any Province construct or
cause to be constructed hydro-electric or thermal power installations or
grid stations for the generation of electricity and lay or cause to be laidinter-Provincial transmission lines 1[:]
2

[Provided that the Federal Government, prior to taking a decision
to construct or cause to be constructed, hydro-electric power stations in
any Province, shall consult the Provincial Government concerned.]

1
2

(2)

The Government of a Province may —(a)to the extent electricity is supplied to that Province from thenational grid, require supply to be made in bulk fortransmission and distribution within the Province;

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s.58, for the full stop.
Proviso Ins. ibid.

82

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(b)levy tax on consumption of electricity within the Province;(c)construct power houses and grid stations and laytransmission lines for use within the Province; and(d)determine the tariff for distribution of electricity within theProvince.

1[(3) In case of any dispute between the Federal Government anda Provincial Government in respect of any matter under this Article, anyof the said Governments may move the Council of Common Interests forresolution of the dispute.]
158.

Priority of requirements of natural gas

158. The Province in which a well-head of natural gas is situated shallhave precedence over other parts of Pakistan in meeting the requirementsfrom that well-head, subject to the commitments and obligations as on thecommencing day.

159.

Broadcasting and telecasting

159. (1)
The Federal Government shall not unreasonably refuse to
entrust to a Provincial Government such functions with respect tobroadcasting and telecasting as may be necessary to enable that
Government—(a)to construct and use transmitters in the Province; and(b)to regulate, and impose fees in respect of, the construction
and use of transmitters and the use of receiving apparatus in
the Province:

Provided that nothing in this clause shall be construed as requiring
the Federal Government to entrust to any Provincial Government any
control over the use of transmitters constructed or maintained by theFederal Government or by persons authorised by the Federal Government,or over the use of receiving apparatus by person so authorised.
(2)
Any functions so entrusted to a Provincial Government
shall be exercised subject to such conditions as may be imposed by theFederal Government, including, notwithstanding anything contained in theConstitution, any conditions with respect to finance, but it shall not be
1

New clause (3) added ibid.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

lawful for the Federal Government so to impose any conditions regulating
the matter broadcast or telecast by, or by authority of, the Provincial
Government.
(3)
Any Federal law with respect to broadcasting and telecasting shall be such as to secure that effect can be given to the foregoingprovisions of this Article.
(4)
If any question arises whether any conditions imposed on
any Provincial Government are lawfully imposed, or whether any refusal
by the Federal Government to entrust functions is unreasonable, thequestion shall be determined by an arbitrator appointed by the Chief
Justice of Pakistan.
(5)
Nothing in this Article shall be construed as restricting thepowers of the Federal Government under the Constitution for theprevention of any grave menace to the peace or tranquillity of Pakistan or
any part thereof.

____________

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANPART VI
Finance, Property, Contracts and Suits
CHAPTER 1. – FINANCE
Distribution of Revenues between the Federation and the Provinces
160.

National Finance Commission

160. (1)Within six months of the commencing day and thereafter atintervals not exceeding five years, the President shall 1constitute a
National Finance Commission consisting of the Minister of Finance of theFederal Government, the Ministers of Finance of the Provincial
Governments, and such other persons as may be appointed by the
President after consultation with the Governors of the Provinces.
(2)
It shall be the duty of the National Finance Commission to
make recommendations to the President as to—(a)the distribution between the Federation and the Provincesof the net proceeds of the taxes mentioned in clause (3);(b)

the making of grants-in-aid by the Federal Government to
the Provincial Governments;(c)the exercise by the Federal Government and the Provincial
Governments of the borrowing powers conferred by theConstitution; and(d)any other matter relating to finance referred to theCommission by the President.

(3)
The taxes referred to in paragraph (a) of clause (2) are thefollowing taxes raised under the authority of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)], namely:—

1

2
3

(i)

taxes on income, including corporation tax but notincluding taxes on income consisting of remuneration paidout of the Federal Consolidated Fund ;3taxes on the sales and purchases of goods imported,
exported, produced, manufactured or consumed ;][(ii)

For the notification constituting the National Finance Commission, see Gaz. of Pak. 1974, Ext., Part II. pp.
191-192.
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Subs. by the Constitution (Fifth Arndt.) Act, 1976 (62 of 1976), s. 3, for the "original paragraph (ii)", (w.e.f.
the 13th September, 1976).

85

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(iii)

export duties on cotton, and such other export duties as
may be specified by the President;(iv)such duties of excise as may be specified by the President;
and

(v)

such other taxes as may be specified by the President.

1[(3A) The share of the Provinces, in each Award of National
Finance Commission shall not be less than the share given to theProvinces in the previous Award.
(3B) The Federal Finance Minister and Provincial Finance
Ministers shall monitor the implementation of the Award biannually andlay their reports before both Houses of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) and
the Provincial Assemblies.](4)
As soon as may be after receiving the recommendations of
the National Finance Commission, the President shall, by 2Order, specify,in accordance with the recommendations of the Commission underparagraph (a) of clause (2), the share of the net proceeds of the taxes
mentioned in clause (3) which is to be allocated to each Province, and thatshare shall be paid to the Government of the Province concerned, and,notwithstanding the provision of Article 78 shall not form part of theFederal Consolidated Fund.
(5)
The recommendations of the National FinanceCommission, together with an explanatory memorandum as to the action
taken thereon, shall be laid before both Houses and the Provincial
Assemblies.
(6)
At any time before an Order under clause (4) is made, thePresident may, by Order, make such amendments or modifications in thelaw relating to the distribution of revenues between the Federal
Government and the Provincial Governments as he may deem necessaryor expedient.
(7)
The President may, by Order, make grants-in-aid of therevenues of the Provinces in need of assistance and such grants shall becharged upon the Federal Consolidated Fund.

1
2

New Clauses (3A), (3B) Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 59.
For such Order, see the Distribution of Revenues and Grants-in-Aid Order, 1975 (P. O. No. 2 of 1975).

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

161.

Natural gas and hydro-electric power

161.

1

[(1)

Notwithstanding the provisions of Article 78(a)the net proceeds of the Federal duty of excise on natural
gas levied at well-head and collected by the Federal
Government, and of the royalty collected by the Federal
Government, shall not form part of the Federal
Consolidated Fund and shall be paid to the Province inwhich the well-head of natural gas is situated.

(b)

the net proceeds of the Federal duty of excise on oil leviedat well-head and collected by the Federal Government,
shall not form part of the Federal Consolidated Fund andshall be paid to the Province in which the well-head of oil
is situated.](2)
The net profits earned by the Federal Government, or any
undertaking established or administered by the Federal Government fromthe bulk generation of power at a hydro-electric station shall be paid to theProvince in which the hydro-electric station is situated.
Explanation.—For the purposes of this clause "net profits" shall becomputed by deducting from the revenues accruing from the bulk supplyof power from the bus-bars of a hydro-electric station at a rate to be
determined by the Council of Common Interests, the operating expensesof the station, which shall include any sums payable as taxes, duties,
interest or return on investment, and depreciations and element ofobsolescence, and over-heads, and provision for reserves.
162.

Prior sanction of President required to Bills affecting taxationin which Provinces are interested

162. No Bill or amendment which imposes or varies a tax or duty thewhole or part of the net proceeds whereof is assigned to any Province, or
which varies the meaning of the expression "agricultural income" asdefined for the purposes of the enactments relating to income-tax, as
defined for the purposes of the enactments relating to income-tax, or
which affects the principles on which under any of the foregoingprovisions of this Chapter moneys are or may be distributable toProvinces, shall be introduced or moved in the National Assembly except
with the previous sanction of the President.

1Subs. by the Act 10 of 2010, s. 60 for “clause (1)”.

87CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

163.

Provincial taxes in respect of professions, etc.

163. A Provincial Assembly may by Act impose taxes, not exceeding
such limits as may from time to time be fixed by Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)], on persons engaged in professions, trades, callings or
employments, and no such Act of the Assembly shall be regarded as
imposing a tax on income.
Miscellaneous Financial Provisions
164.

Grants out of Consolidated Fund

164. The Federation or a Province may make grants for any purpose,
notwithstanding that the purpose is not one with respect to which 1[Majlise-Shoora (Parliament)] or, as the case may be, a Provincial Assembly may
make laws.
165.

Exemption of certain public property from taxation

165. (1)
The Federal Government shall not, in respect of its property
or income, be liable to taxation under any Act of Provincial Assembly and,subject to clause (2), a Provincial Government shall not, in respect of its
property or income, be liable to taxation under Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)] or under Act of the Provincial Assembly of any other
Province.
(2)
If a trade or business of any kind is carried on by or on
behalf of the Government of a Province outside that Province, that
Government may, in respect of any property used in connection with that
trade or business or any income arising from that trade or business, betaxed under Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or under Act of theProvincial Assembly of the Province in which that trade or business iscarried on.
(3)
Nothing in this Article shall prevent the imposition of fees
for services rendered.
165A Power of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) to impose tax on theincome of certain corporations, etc.
2[165A. (1) For the removal of doubt, it is hereby declared that
[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] has, and shall be deemed always to have
had, the power to make a law to provide for the levy and recovery of a tax
1

1
2

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Added by the Constitution (Arndt.) Order. 1985 (P. O. No. 11 of 1985), Art. 2.

88

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANon the income of a corporation, company or other body or institution
established by or under a Federal law or a Provincial law or an existing
law or a corporation, company or other body or institution owned orcontrolled, either directly or indirectly, by the Federal Government or a
Provincial Government, regardless of the ultimate destination of suchincome.
(2)
All orders made, proceedings taken and acts done by any
authority or person, which were made, taken or done, or purported to havebeen made, taken or done, before the commencement of the Constitution(Amendment) Order, 1985, in exercise of the powers derived from any
law referred to in clause (1), or in execution of any orders made by any
authority in the exercise or purported exercise of powers as aforesaid,
shall, notwithstanding any judgment of any court or tribunal, including theSupreme Court and a High Court, be deemed to be and always to havebeen validly made, taken or done and shall not be called in question in any
court, including the Supreme Court and a High Court, on any groundwhatsoever.
(3)
Every judgement or order of any court or tribunal,
including the Supreme Court and a High Court, which is repugnant to theprovisions of clause (1) or clause (2) shall be, and shall be deemed always
to have been, void and of no effect whatsoever.]
CHAPTER 2. – BORROWING AND AUDIT
166.

Borrowing by Federal Government

166. The executive authority of the Federation extends to borrowing
upon the security of the Federal Consolidated Fund within such limits, ifany, as may from time to time be fixed by Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)], and to the giving of guarantees within such limits, if any, as
may be so fixed.
167.

Borrowing by Provincial Government

167. (1)Subject to the provisions of this Article, the executive
authority of a Province extends to borrowing upon the security of theProvincial Consolidated Fund within such limits, if any, as may from time
to time be fixed by Act of the Provincial Assembly, and to the giving ofguarantees within such limits, if any, as may be so fixed.
(2)
The Federal Government may, subject to such conditions, ifany, as it may think fit to impose, make loans to, or, so long as any limits
1

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

fixed under Article 166 are not exceeded give guarantees in respect ofloans raised by, any Province, and any sums required for the purpose of
making loans to a Province shall be charged upon the Federal
Consolidated Fund.
(3)
A Province may not, without the consent of the Federal
Government, raise any loan if there is still outstanding any part of a loan
made to the Province by the Federal Government, or in respect of whichguarantee has been given by the Federal Government; and consent under
this clause may be granted subject to such conditions, if any, as theFederal Government may think fit to impose.
1[(4) A Province may raise domestic or international loan, or
give guarantees on the security of the Provincial Consolidated Fund withinsuch limits and subject to such conditions as may be specified by the
National Economic Council.]
Audit and Accounts
168.

Auditor-General of Pakistan

168. (1)There shall be an Auditor-General of Pakistan, who shall be
appointed by the President.
(2)
Before entering upon office, the Auditor-General shallmake before the Chief Justice of Pakistan oath in the form set out in the
Third Schedule.
2(3) The Auditor-General shall, unless he sooner resigns or isremoved from office in accordance with clause (5), hold office for a termof four years from the date on which he assumes such office or attains theage of sixty-five years, whichever is earlier.]
3[(3A) The other terms and conditions of service of the AuditorGeneral shall be determined by Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament); and,
until so determined, by Order of the President.](4)
A person who has held office as Auditor-General shall not
be eligible for further appointment in the service of Pakistan before theexpiration of two years after he has ceased to hold that office.
(5)
The Auditor-General shall not be removed from office
except in the like manner and on the like grounds as a Judge of theSupreme Court.
(6)
At any time when the office of the Auditor-General is1
2
3

New clause (4) Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 61.
Subs. ibid., s. 62, for “clause (3)”.
New clause (3A) Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.), Act, 2010, (10 of 2010), s. 62.

90

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

vacant or the Auditor-General is absent or is unable to perform thefunctions of his office due to any cause, 1[the President may appoint themost senior officer in the Office of the Auditor-General to] at as AuditorGeneral and perform the functions of that office.
169.

Functions and powers of Auditor-General169.

The Auditor-General shall, in relation to—(a)the accounts of the Federation and of the Provinces; and(b)the accounts of any authority or body established by theFederation or a Province,

perform such functions and exercise such powers as may be deter-minedby or under Act of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] and, until sodetermined, by 3Order of the President.
170.

Power of Auditor-General to give directions as to accounts

170. 4[(1)] The accounts of the Federation and of the Provinces shallbe kept in such form and in accordance with such principles and methods
as the Auditor-General may, with the approval of the President, prescribe.
4[(2) The audit of the accounts of the Federal and of theProvincial Governments and the accounts of any authority or bodyestablished by, or under the control of, the Federal or a Provincial
Government shall be conducted by the Auditor-General, who shalldetermine the extent and nature of such audit.]
171.

Reports of Auditor-General

171. The reports of the Auditor-General relating to the accounts of theFederation shall be submitted to the President, who shall cause them to belaid before the 5[both Houses of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] and thereports of the Auditor-General relating to the accounts of a Province shallbe submitted to the Governor of the Province, who shall cause them to belaid before the Provincial Assembly.

1
2
3
4
5

Subs. ibid., for certain words.
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
For such Order, see the Pakistan (Audit and Accounts) Order, 1973 (P. O. No. 21 of 1973).
Re-numbered (1) and new clause (2) added by the Act 10 of 2010, s. 63.
Subs. ibid., s. 64, for “National Assembly”.

91

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANCHAPTER 3. – PROPERTY, CONTRACTS, LIABILITIES AND SUITS

172.

Ownerless property

172. (1)
Any property which has no rightful owner shall, if locatedin a Province, vest in the Government of that Province, and in every othercase, in the Federal Government.
(2)
All lands, minerals and other things of value within thecontinental shelf or underlying the ocean 1[beyond] the territorial waters ofPakistan shall vest in the Federal Government.
2[(3) Subject to the existing commitments and obligations,mineral oil and natural gas within the Province or the territorial water
adjacent thereto shall vest jointly and equally in that Province and theFederal Government.]
173.

Power to acquire property and to make contracts, etc.

173. (1)The executive authority of the Federation and of a Province
shall extend, subject to any Act of the appropriate Legislature, to the grant,sale, disposition or mortgage of any property vested in, and to thepurchase or acquisition of property on behalf of, the Federal Government
or, as the case may be, the Provincial Government, and to the making ofcontracts.
(2)
All property acquired for the purposes of the Federation orof a Province shall vest in the Federal Government or, as the case may be,in the Provincial Government.
(3)
All contracts made in the exercise of the executive
authority of the Federation or of a Province shall be expressed to be madein the name of the President or, as the case may be, the Governor of theProvince, and all such contracts and all assurances of property made in theexercise of that authority shall be executed on behalf of the President or
Governor by such persons and in such manner as he may direct orauthorize.
(4)
Neither the President, nor the Governor of a Province, shallbe personally liable in respect of any contract or assurance made or
executed in the exercise of the executive authority of the Federation or, as
1
2

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s.65, for “within”.
Ins. ibid.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

the case may be, the Province, nor shall any person making or executing
any such contract or assurance on behalf of any of them be personallyliable in respect thereof.
(5)
Transfer of land by the Federal Government or a Provincial
Government shall be regulated by law.
174.

Suits and proceedings

174. The Federation may sue or be sued by the name of Pakistan and a
Province may sue or be sued by the name of the Province.

___________

93

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANPART VII
The Judicature
CHAPTER 1. – THE COURTS
175.

Establishment and jurisdiction of courts

175. (1)There shall be a Supreme Court of Pakistan, a High Court
for each Province 1[and a High Court for the Islamabad Capital Territory]
and such other courts as may be established by law.
[Explanation.— The word “High Court” wherever occurring in
the Constitution shall include the High Court for the Islamabad Capital
Territory.]2(2)
No court shall have any jurisdiction save as is or may be
conferred on it by the Constitution or by or under any law.
(3)
The Judiciary shall be separated progressively from the
Executive within 3[fourteen] years from the commencing day 5[:]
4

[*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*]
[“Provided that the provisions of this Article shall have noapplication to the trial of persons under any of the Acts mentioned at
Serial No. 6 and 7 of sub-part III of Part I of the First Schedule, whoclaim, or are known, to belong to any terrorist group or organization
misusing the name of religion or a sect.
5

Explanation.— In this proviso the expression “sect” means a sectof religion and does not include any religious or political party regulated
under the Political Parties Order, 2002.”.]
175A. Appointment of Judges to the Supreme Court, High Courts
and the Federal Shariat Court
6[175A. (1) There shall be a Judicial Commission of Pakistan,hereinafter in this Article referred to as the Commission, for appointmentof Judges of the Supreme Court, High Courts and the Federal Shariat
Court, as hereinafter provided.

1
2
3
4

5

6

Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s.66.
Explanation added ibid.
Subs. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for "five".
Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-first Amendment) Act, 2015 (I of 2015) and shall cease to form part of theConstitution and shall stand repealed on the expiration of two years.
Subs. & Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-third Amendment) Act, 2017 (XII of 2017) and shall cease to form
part of the Constitution and shall stand repealed on the expiration of two years.
New Article 175A ins. by Act 10 of 2010, s. 67.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(2)
For appointment of Judges of the Supreme Court, theCommission shall consist of—(i)

Chief Justice of Pakistan;

Chairman(ii)

1[four] most senior Judges of the Supreme
Court;

Members(iii)

a former Chief Justice or a former Judgeof the Supreme Court of Pakistan to be
nominated by the Chief Justice ofPakistan, in consultation with the 5[four]
member Judges, for a term of two years;

Member(iv)

Federal Minister for Law and Justice;Member(v)

Attorney-General for Pakistan; andMember(vi)

a Senior Advocate of the Supreme Courtof Pakistan nominated by the Pakistan
Bar Council for a term of two years.

Member(3)
Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (1) or clause(2), the President shall appoint the most senior Judge of the Supreme
Court as the Chief Justice of Pakistan.
(4)

The Commission may make rules regulating its procedure.

(5)
For appointment of Judges of a High Court, theCommission in clause (2) shall also include the following, namely:—(i)Chief Justice of the High Court to which
the appointment is being made;Member(ii)

the most senior Judge of that High Court;

Member

(iii)

Provincial Minister for Law; andMember[(iv) an advocate having not less than fifteen
years practice in the High Court to be
nominated by the concerned Bar Council
for a term of two years:

Member2

1
2

Substituted by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (1 of 2011) s. 4 for “two”.
Substituted by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (1 of 2011) s. 4.

95

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

Provided that for appointment of the Chief Justiceof a High Court, the most senior Judge mentioned inparagraph (ii) shall not be member of the Commission:
Provided further that if for any reason the Chief
Justice of High Court is not available, he shall be
substituted by a former Chief Justice or former Judge ofthat Court, to be nominated by the Chief Justice of Pakistan
in consultation with the four member Judges of theCommission mentioned in paragraph (ii) of clause (2).](6)
For appointment of Judges of the Islamabad High Court,
the Commission in clause (2) shall also include the following, namely:—(i)Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court; Member
and

(ii)

the most senior Judge of that High Court:

Member

Provided that for initial appointment of the 1[Chief
Justice and the] Judges of the Islamabad High Court, theChief Justices of the four Provincial High Courts shall also
be members of the Commission:
Provided further that subject to the foregoingproviso, in case of appointment of Chief Justice ofIslamabad High Court, the provisos to clause (5) shall,mutatis mutandis, apply.
(7)
For appointment of Judges of the Federal Shariat Court, theCommission in clause (2) shall also include the Chief Justice of theFederal Shariat Court and the most senior Judge of that Court as its
members:
Provided that for appointment of Chief Justice of Federal Shariat
Court, the provisos, to clause (5) shall, mutatis mutandis, apply.
(8)
The Commission by majority of its total membership shallnominate to the Parliamentary Committee one person, for each vacancy ofa Judge in the Supreme Court, a High Court or the Federal Shariat Court,
as the case may be.
(9)
The Parliamentary Committee, hereinafter in this Article
referred to as the Committee, shall consist of the following eight members,
namely:—1

Substituted by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (1 of 2011) s. 4.

96

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(i)four members from the Senate; and(ii)four members from the National Assembly:
1[Provided that when the National Assembly is
dissolved, the total membership of the Parliamentary
Committee shall consist of the members from the Senate
only mentioned in paragraph (i) and the provisions of this
Article shall, mutatis mutandis, apply.](10) Out of the eight members of the Committee, four shall befrom the Treasury Benches, two from each House and four from the
Opposition Benches, two from each House. The nomination of members
from the Treasury Benches shall be made by the Leader of the House andfrom the Opposition Benches by the Leader of the Opposition.
(11)
Committee.

Secretary, Senate shall act as the Secretary of the(12) The Committee on receipt of a nomination from theCommission may confirm the nominee by majority of its total membershipwithin fourteen days, failing which the nomination shall be deemed tohave been confirmed:
1[Provided that the Committee, for reasons to be recorded, may notconfirm the nomination by three-fourth majority of its total membershipwithin the said period:]
2[Provided further that if a nomination is not confirmed by theCommittee it shall forward its decision with reasons so recorded to theCommission through the Prime Minister:
Provided further that if a nomination is not confirmed, theCommission shall send another nomination.]
1[(13) The Committee shall send the name of the nominee
confirmed by it or deemed to have been confirmed to the Prime Minister
who shall forward the same to the President for appointment.](14) No action or decision taken by the Commission or a
Committee shall be invalid or called in question only on the ground of theexistence of a vacancy therein or of the absence of any member from any
meeting thereof.

1
2

Substituted by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (1 of 2011) s. 4.
Inserted and re-numbered by Act 1 of 2011 s. 4.

97

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1[(15) The meetings of the Committee shall be held in camera andthe record of its proceedings shall be maintained.
(16) The provisions of Article 68 shall not apply to theproceedings of the Committee.]1[(17)] The Committee may make rules for regulating its
procedure.
CHAPTER 2. – THE SUPREME COURT OF PAKISTAN
176.

Constitution of Supreme Court

176. The Supreme Court shall consist of a Chief Justice to be known as
the Chief Justice of Pakistan and so many other Judges as may be
determined by Act of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or, until sodetermined, as may be fixed by the President.
177.

Appointment of Supreme Court Judges

177. 3[(1) The Chief Justice of Pakistan and each of the other Judgesof the Supreme Court shall be appointed by the President in accordancewith Article 175A.].
(2)
A person shall not be appointed a Judge of the Supreme
Court unless he is a citizen of Pakistan and—

178.

(a)

has for a period of, or for periods aggregating, not less than
five years been a judge of a High Court (including a High
Court which existed in Pakistan at any time before thecommencing day); or(b)

has for a period of, or for periods aggregating, not less thanfifteen years been an advocate of a High Court (including a
High Court which existed in Pakistan at any time before thecommencing day).

Oath of Office

178. Before entering upon office, the Chief Justice of Pakistan shallmake before the President, and any other Judge of the Supreme Court shallmake before the Chief Justice, oath in the form set out in the Third
Schedule.
1
2
3

Inserted and re-numbered by Act 1 of 2011 s. 4.
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s.68, for “clause (1)”.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

179.

Retiring age

1[179. A Judge of the Supreme Court shall hold office until he attains theage of sixty-five years, unless he sooner resigns or is removed from officein accordance with the Constitution.].
180.

Acting Chief Justice180.

At any time when—(a)the office of Chief Justice of Pakistan is vacant; or(b)

the Chief Justice of Pakistan is absent or is unable toperform the functions of his office due to any other cause,

the President shall appoint 2[the most senior of the other Judges of theSupreme Court] to act as Chief Justice of Pakistan.
181.

Acting Judges

181.

(1)

At any time when—(a)the office of a Judge of the Supreme Court is vacant ; or(b)a Judge of the Supreme Court is absent or is unable toperform the functions of his office due to any other cause,

the President may, in the manner provided in clause (1) of Article 177,
appoint a Judge of a High Court who is qualified for appointment as aJudge of the Supreme Court to act temporarily as a Judge of the Supreme
Court.
[Explanation.—In this clause, ‘Judge of a High Court’ includes aperson who has retired as a Judge of a High Court.]
3(2)
An appointment under this Article shall continue in force
until it is revoked by the President.
182.

Appointment of ad-hoc Judges

182. If at any time it is not possible for want of quorum of Judges of theSupreme Court to hold or continue any sitting of the Court, or for any
1

2
3

Article 179 subs. by the Constitution (Seventeenth Arndt.) Act, 2003 (3 of 2003), s.6. which was previously
amended by various enactments (see also Article 267B).
Subs. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985. Art. 2 and Sch., for certain words.
Explanation added by the Constitution (Amdt.) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 2 of 1982), Art. 2.

99

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

other reason it is necessary to increase temporarily the number of Judgesof the Supreme Court, the Chief Justice of Pakistan 1[, in Consultation
with the Judicial Commission as provided in clause (2) of Article 175A,]
may, in writing,—(a)with the approval of the President, request any person who
has held the office of a Judge of that Court and since whose
ceasing to hold that office three years have not elapsed ; or(b)with the approval of the President and with the consent of
the Chief Justice of a High Court, require a Judge of that
Court qualified for appointment as a judge of the Supreme
Court,

to attend sittings of the Supreme Court as an ad hoc Judge for such period
as may be necessary and while so attending an ad hoc Judge shall have thesame power and jurisdiction as a Judge of the Supreme Court.
183.

Seat of the Supreme Court

183. (1)The permanent seat of the Supreme Court shall, subject toclause (3), be at Islamabad.
(2)
The Supreme Court may from time to time sit in such otherplaces as the Chief Justice of Pakistan, with the approval of the President,
may appoint.
(3)
Until provision is made for establishing the Supreme Court
at Islamabad, the seat of the Court shall be at such place as the President
may 2appoint.
184. Original Jurisdiction of Supreme Court
184. (1)The Supreme Court shall, to the exclusion of every othercourt, have original jurisdiction in any dispute between any two or more
Governments.
Explanation.—In this clause, "Governments" means the Federal
Government and the Provincial Governments.
(2)
In the exercise of the jurisdiction conferred on it by clause(1), the Supreme Court shall pronounce declaratory judgements only.
(3)
1
2

Without prejudice to the provisions of Article 199, theInserted by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (1 of 2011) s. 5.
For appointment of Rawalpindi as the seat of the Supreme Court, see Gaz. of Pak., 1974, Pt. 11, p. 1387.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

Supreme Court shall, if it considers that a question of public importancewith reference to the enforcement of any of the Fundamental Rights
conferred by Chapter 1 of Part II is involved, have the power to make anorder of the nature mentioned in the said Article.
185.

Appellate jurisdiction of Supreme Court

185. (1)Subject to this Article, the Supreme Court shall havejurisdiction to hear and determine appeals from judgements, decrees, finalorders or sentences of a High Court.
(2)
An appeal shall lie to the Supreme Court from any
judgement, decree, final order or sentence of a High Court—

1(a)if the High Court has on appeal reversed an order ofacquittal of an accused person and sentenced him to deathor to transportation for life or imprisonment for life ; or, on
revision, has enhanced a sentence to a sentence as aforesaid
; or

(b)

if the High Court has withdrawn for trial before itself any
case from any court subordinate to it and has in such trial
convicted the accused person and sentenced him as
aforesaid ; or(c)

if the High Court has imposed any punishment on any
person for contempt of the High Court; or(d)if the amount or value of the subject-matter of the disputein the court of first instance was, and also in dispute inappeal is, not less than fifty thousand rupees or such othersum as may be specified in that behalf by Act of 1[Majlis-eShoora (Parliament)] and the judgment, decree or finalorder appealed from has varied or set aside the judgment,
decree or final order of the court immediately below ; or(e)

if the judgment, decree or final order involves directly or
indirectly some claim or question respecting property of thelike amount or value and the judgment, decree or finalorder appealed from has varied or set aside the judgment,
decree or final order of the court immediately below; or(f)

if the High Court certifies that the case involves a substantial question of law as to the interpretation of theSee footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

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Constitution.
(3)
An appeal to the Supreme Court from a judgment decree,order or sentence of a High Court in a case to which clause (2) does not
apply shall lie only if the Supreme Court grants leave to appeal.
186.

Advisory Jurisdiction

186. (1)If, at any time, the President considers that it is desirable toobtain the opinion of the Supreme Court on any question of law which heconsiders of public importance, he may refer the question to the Supreme
Court for consideration.
(2)
The Supreme Court shall consider a question so referred
and report its opinion on the question to the President.
186A. Power of Supreme Court to transfer cases
1[186A.
The Supreme Court may, if it considers it expedient to do
so in the interest of justice, transfer any case, appeal or other proceedings
pending before any High Court to any other High Court.]
187.

Issue and execution of processes of Supreme Court

2
187. (1)[Subject to clause (2) of Article 175, the] Supreme Court
shall have power to issue such directions, orders or decrees as may benecessary for doing complete justice in any case or matter pending before
it, including an order for the purpose of securing the attendance of any
person or the discovery or production of any document.

(2)
Any such direction, order or decree shall be enforceable
throughout Pakistan and shall, where it is to be executed in a Province, ora territory or an area not forming part of a Province but within thejurisdiction of the High Court of the Province, be executed as if it had
been issued by the High Court of that Province.
(3)
If a question arises as to which High Court shall give effectto a direction, order or decree of the Supreme Court, the decision of theSupreme Court on the question shall be final.
188.

1
2

Review of judgments of orders by the Supreme Court

New Art. 186A ins. by P. O. No 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,
Subs. by the Constitution (Fifth Amdt.) Act, 1976 (62 of 1976), s. 7, for "The" (w.e.f. the 13th September,1976).

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

188. The Supreme Court shall have power, subject to the provisions of
any Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] and of any rules made by theSupreme Court, to review any judgment pronounced or any order made by
it.
189.

Decisions of Supreme Court binding on other Courts

189. Any decision of the Supreme Court shall, to the extent that it
decides a question of law or is based upon or enunciates a principle of law,
be binding on all other courts in Pakistan.
190.

Action in aid of Supreme Court

190. All executive and judicial authorities throughout Pakistan shall act
in aid of the Supreme Court.
191.

Rules of procedure

191. Subject to the Constitution and law, the Supreme Court may makerules regulating the practice and procedure of the Court.
CHAPTER 3. – THE HIGH COURTS
192.

Constitution of High Court

192. (1)A High Court shall consist of a Chief Justice and so manyother Judges as may be determined by law or, until so determined, as may
be fixed by the President.
2[(2) The Sindh and Balochistan High Court shall cease tofunction as a common High Court for the Provinces of Balochistan and
Sindh.
(3)
The President shall, by 3Order, establish a High Court foreach of the Provinces of Balochistan and Sindh and may make suchprovision in the Order for the principal seats of the two High Courts,
transfer of the Judges of the common High Court, transfer of cases
pending in the common High Court immediately before the establishmentof two High Courts and, generally, for matters consequential or ancillary
to the common High Court ceasing to function and the establishment of
the two High Courts as he may deem fit.]
1
2

3

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Subs. by the Constitution (Fifth Amdt.) Act, 1976 (62 of 1976), s. 8, for the "original clauses (2) to (4)"(w.e.f. the 1st December, 1976).
For such Order, in respect of establishment of High Courts for Balochistan and Sindh, see the P O. No. 6 of
1976, dated the 29th November, 1976, see Gaz. of Pak. 1976, Ext., Pt. 1, pp.595—599.

103

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(4)
The jurisdiction of a High Court may, by Act of 1[Majlis-eShoora (Parliament)], be extended to any area in Pakistan not forming partof a Province.
193.

Appointment of High Court Judges

193. 2[(1) The Chief Justice and each of other Judges of a High Court
shall be appointed by the President in accordance with Article 175A.](2)
A person shall not be appointed a Judge of a High Court
unless he is a citizen of Pakistan, is not less than 3[forty-five] years of age,
and—
(a)

he has for a period of, or for periods aggregating, not lessthan ten years been an advocate of a High Court (includinga High Court which existed in Pakistan at any time before
the commencing day); or(b)

he is, and has for a period of not less than ten years been, amember of a civil service prescribed by law for the
purposes of this paragraph, and has, for a period of not lessthan three years, served as or exercised the functions of aDistrict Judge in Pakistan; or(c)he has, for a period of not less than ten years, held ajudicial office in Pakistan.

4[Explanation.—In computing the period during which a person
has been an advocate of a High Court or held judicial office, there shall be
included any period during which he has held judicial office after hebecame an advocate or, as the case may be, the period during which he has
been an advocate after having held judicial office.](3)
In this Article, "District Judge" means Judge of a principal
civil court of original jurisdiction.
194.

Oath of Office

194. Before entering upon office, the Chief Justice of a High Court shallmake before the Governor, and any other Judge of the Court shall make

1
2
3

4

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s.69, for “clause (1).
Subs. ibid. for “forty” and shall be deemed always to have been so, subs. with effect from 21 st day of August,
2002.
Explanation added by the Constitution (First Arndt.) Act, 1974 (33 of 1974), s. 8, (w.e.f. the 4th May, 1974).

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

before the Chief Justice, oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule 1[:]
2

[Provided that the Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court shallmake oath before the President and other Judges of that Court shall makeoath before the Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court.]
195.

Retiring age

3[195. A Judge of a High Court shall hold office until he attains the age of
sixty-two years, unless he sooner resigns or is removed from office inaccordance with the Constitution].

196.

Acting Chief Justice196.

At any time when—(a)the office of Chief Justice of a High Court is vacant, or(b)

the Chief Justice of a High Court is absent or is unable toperform the functions of his office due to any other cause,

the President shall appoint 4[one of the other Judges of the High Court, or
may request one of the Judges of the Supreme Court], to act as Chief
Justice.
197.

Additional Judges

197.

At any time when—

1
2
3

4

(a)

the office of a Judge of a High Court is vacant ; or(b)a Judge of a High Court is absent or is unable to performthe functions of his office due to any other cause ; or(c)for any reason it is necessary to increase the number ofJudges of a High Court, the President may, in the manner
provided in clause (1) of Article 193, appoint a person
qualified for appointment as a Judge of the High Court tobe Additional Judge of the Court for such period as the
President may determine, being a period not exceeding

Subs. by Act No. 10 of 2010, s. 70, for the full-stop.
New proviso added ibid.
Article 195 subs. by the Constitution (Seventeenth Amdt.) Act, 2003 (3 of 2003), s.7 which was previously
amended by various enactments (see also Article 267B).
Subs. by P.O. No. 14 of 1985 Art. 2 and Sch., for certain words.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

such period, if any, as may be prescribed by law.
198.

Seat of the High Court

198. 1[(l)] Each High Court in existence immediately before thecommencing day shall continue to have its principal seat at the place
where it had such seat before that day.
2[(1A) The High Court for Islamabad Capital Territory shall haveits principal seat at Islamabad.]3[(2) Each High Court and the Judges and divisional courts
thereof shall sit at its principal seat and the seats of its Benches and may
hold, at any place within its territorial jurisdiction, circuit courts consistingof such of the Judges as may be nominated by the Chief Justice.
(3)
The Lahore High Court shall have a Bench each at
Bahawalpur, Multan and Rawalpindi; the High Court of Sindh shall have a
Bench at Sukkur; the Peshawar High Court shall have a Bench each at
Abbottabad 4[, Mingora] and Dera Ismail Khan and the High Court of
Balochistan shall have a Bench at Sibi 5[and Turbat.](4)
Each of the High Courts may have Benches at such otherplaces as the Governor may determine on the advice of the Cabinet and in
consultation with the Chief Justice of the High Court.
(5)
A Bench referred to in clause (3), or established underclause (4), shall consist of such of the Judges of the High Court as may be
nominated by the Chief Justice from time to time for a period of not lessthan one year.
(6)
The Governor in consultation with the Chief Justice of theHigh Court shall make rules to provide the following matters, that is to
say,—

1
2
3
4
5

(a)

assigning the area in relation to which each Bench shall
exercise jurisdiction vested in the High Court; and(b)

for all incidental, supplemental or consequential matters.]

Re-numbered (1) ibid.,
New clause (1A) ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 71.
Added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.
Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 71.
Added ibid.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

199.

Jurisdiction of High Court

199. (1)Subject to the Constitution, a High Court may, if it issatisfied that no other adequate remedy is provided by law,—
(a)

(b)

(c)

on the application of any aggrieved party, make an order—(i)

directing a person performing, within the territorial
jurisdiction of the Court, functions in connection
with the affairs of the Federation, a Province or a
local authority, to refrain from doing anything he is
not permitted by law to do, or to do anything he isrequired by law to do; or(ii)declaring that any act done or proceeding taken
within the territorial jurisdiction of the Court by aperson performing functions in connection with theaffairs of the Federation, a Province or a local
authority has been done or taken without lawfulauthority and is of no legal effect; oron the application of any person, make an order—(i)

directing that a person in custody within the territorial jurisdiction of the Court be brought before itso that the Court may satisfy itself that he is not
being held in custody without lawful authority or in
an unlawful manner; or(ii)

requiring a person within the territorial jurisdictionof the Court holding or purporting to hold a public
office to show under what authority of law heclaims to hold that office ; oron the application of any aggrieved person, make an ordergiving such directions to any person or authority, including
any Government exercising any power or performing any
function in, or in relation to, any territory within thejurisdiction of that Court as may be appropriate for theenforcement of any of the Fundamental Rights conferred by
Chapter 1 of Part II.

(2)
Subject to the Constitution, the right to move a High Court
for the enforcement of any of the Fundamental Rights conferred by
Chapter 1 of Part II shall not be abridged.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1[(3) An order shall not be made under clause (1) on application
made by or in relation to a person who is a member of the Armed Forcesof Pakistan, or who is for the time being subject to any law relating to anyof those Forces, in respect of his terms and conditions of service, inrespect of any matter arising out of his service, or in respect of any action
taken in relation to him as a member of the Armed Forces of Pakistan oras a person subject to such law.]
2

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

(4)

Where—(a)an application is made to a High Court for an order underparagraph (a) or paragraph (c) of clause (1), and(b)the making of an interim order would have the effect ofprejudicing or interfering with the carrying out of a public
work or of otherwise being harmful to public interest 3[orState property] or of impeding the assessment or collectionof public revenues,

the Court shall not make an interim order unless the prescribed law officer
has been given notice of the application and he or any person authorisedby him in that behalf has had an opportunity of being heard and the Court,
for reasons to be recorded in writing, is satisfied that the interim order—(i)would not have such affect as aforesaid; or(ii)would have the effect of suspending an order orproceeding which on the face of the record iswithout jurisdiction.
4[(4A) An interim order made by a High Court on an application
made to it to question the validity or legal effect of any order made,proceeding taken or act done by any authority or person, which has been
made, taken or done or purports to have been made taken or done under
any law which is specified in Part I of the First Schedule or relates to, or isconnected with, State property or assessment or collection of public
revenues shall cease to have effect on the expiration of a period of six
months following the day on which it is made:

1

2

3
4

Subs. by the Constitution (First Amdt.) Act, 1974 (33 of 1974), s. 9, for "clause (3)", (w.e.f. the 4th May,
1974).
Clauses (3A), (3B) and (3C) omitted by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., which was previously
amended by various enactments.
Ins. ibid.,
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 72, for “clause (4A)”.

108

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

Provided that the matter shall be finally decided by the High Court
within six months from the date on which the interim order is made.]
1

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

(5)

In this Article, unless the context otherwise requires,—"person" includes any body politic or corporate, any
authority of or under the control of the Federal Governmentor of a Provincial Government, and any Court or tribunal,
other than the Supreme Court, a High Court or a Court or
tribunal established under a law relating to the Armed
Forces of Pakistan ; and"prescribed law officer" means—

200.

(a)

in relation to an application affecting the Federal
Government or an authority of or under the control of
the Federal Government, the Attorney-General, and(b)in any other case, the Advocate-General for theProvince in which the application is made.

Transfer of High Court Judges

200. (1)The President may transfer a Judge of a High Court fromone High Court to another High Court, but no Judge shall be so transferred
except with his consent and after consultation by the President with theChief Justice of Pakistan and the Chief Justices of both High Courts 2[:]
3

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

Explanation.—In this Article, "Judge" does not include a Chief
Justice 4[but includes a Judge for the time being acting as Chief Justice ofa High Court other than a Judge of the Supreme Court acting as such inpursuance of a request made under paragraph (b) of Article 196].]5[(2) Where a Judge is so transferred or is appointed to an officeother than that of Judge at a place other than the principal seat of the High
Court, he shall, during the period for which he serves as a Judge of the
1

2

3
4
5

Clause (4B) omitted by the Chief Executive’s Order, 2002 (24 of 2002), Art. 2 and Sch. which waspreviously amended by P.O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.
Subs. by the Constitution (Fifth Amdt.) Act, 1976 (62 of 1976), s. 12, for full-stop (w.e.f. the 13th
September, 1976).
Proviso omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 73.
Added by the Constitution (Third Amdt.) Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 24 of 1985), Art. 3.
Subs. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for "clause (2)".

109

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANHigh Court to which he is transferred, or holds such other office, be
entitled to such allowances and privileges, in addition to his salary, as the
President may, by Order, determine.]1[(3) If at any time it is necessary for any reason to increase
temporarily the number of Judges of a High Court, the Chief Justice ofthat Court may require a Judge of any other High Court to attend sittingsof the former High Court for such period as may be necessary and, while
so attending the sittings of the High Court, the Judge shall have the same
power and jurisdiction as a Judge of that High Court:
Provided that a Judge shall not be so required except with his
consent and the approval of the President and after consultation with theChief Justice of Pakistan and the Chief Justice of the High Court of which
he is a Judge.]
2[Explanation.— In this Article, "High Court" includes a Bench ofa High Court.]
3

201.

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

Decision of High Court binding on subordinate Courts

201. Subject to Article 189, any decision of a High Court shall, to theextent that it decides a question of law or is based upon or enunciates a
principle of law, be binding on all courts subordinate to it.
202. Rules of procedure
202. Subject to the Constitution and law, a High Court may make rules
regulating the practice and procedure of the Court or of any court
subordinate to it.
203.

High Court to superintend subordinate Courts

203.
to it.

Each High Court shall supervise and control all courts subordinate
4[CHAPTER 3A. – FEDERAL SHARIAT COURT

203A. Provisions of Chapter to override other provisions ofConstitution
12
3
4

Clause (3) added by the Constitution (First Amdt.) Act, 1974 (33 of 1974), s. 10, (w.e.f. the 4th May, 1974)
Explanation added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,
Clause (4) omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s.73.
Subs. by the Constitution (Amdt) Order, 1980 (P.O. No. 1 of 1980). Art. 3, for the "existing Chapter 3A"(w.e.f. 26th May, 1980).

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

203A. The provisions of this Chapter shall have effect notwithstanding
anything contained in the Constitution.
203B. Definitions
203B. In this Chapter, unless there is anything repugnant in the subject orcontext,—
1[(a)"Chief Justice" means Chief Justice of the Court;](b)"Court" means the Federal Shariat Court constituted inpursuance of Article 203C ;2[(bb) "Judge" means Judge of the Court;](c)"law" includes any custom or usage having the force of law
but does not include the Constitution, Muslim personal law,
any law relating to the procedure of any court or tribunal
or, until the expiration of 3[ten] years from thecommencement of this Chapter, any fiscal law or any law
relating to the levy and collection of taxes and fees orbanking or insurance practice and procedure ; and

4

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

203C. The Federal Shariat Court
203C. (1)There shall be constituted for the purposes of this Chapter a
Court to be called the Federal Shariat Court.
5[(2) The Court shall consist of not more than eight Muslim[Judges], including the 7[Chief Justice], to be appointed by the President
8[in accordance with Article 175A].
69[(3) The Chief Justice shall be a person who is, or has been, oris qualified to be, a Judge of the Supreme Court or who is or has been apermanent Judge of a High Court.
1
2
3

4
5
6
7
8
9

Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amdt.) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 2. for “paragraph (a)”.
Ins. ibid.,
Subs. by P.O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., which was previously amended by various enactments for“five”.
Paragraph (d) omitted by P. O. No. 5 of 1982, Art. 2.
Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amdt.) Order, 1981 (P. O. No. 7 of 1981), Art. 2, for "clause (2)".
Subs. by P. O. No. 5 of 1982, Art. 3, for "members".
Subs. ibid., for "Chairman".
Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 74.
Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amdt.) Order 1985 (P. O. No. 24 of 1985), Art. 4, for "clause(3)".

111

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(3A) Of the Judges, not more than four shall be persons each oneof whom is, or has been, or is qualified to be, a Judge of a High Court andnot more than three shall be Ulema 1[having at least fifteen years
experience in Islamic law, research or instruction.](4)
The 2[Chief Justice] and a 3[Judge] shall hold office for aperiod not exceeding three years, but may be appointed for such further
term or terms as the President may determine:
Provided that a Judge of a High Court shall not be appointed to bea 8[Judge] 4* * * except with his consent and 5[, except where the Judgeis himself the Chief Justice,] after consultation by the President with theChief Justice of the High Court.
6[(4A) The 7[Chief Justice], if he is not a Judge of the Supreme
Court, and a 8[Judge] who is not a Judge of a High Court, may, by writing
under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office.]
7[(4B) The Chief Justice and a Judge shall not be removed fromoffice except in the like manner and on the like grounds as a Judge of theSupreme Court.]
8

*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
(6)
The principal seat of the Court shall be at Islamabad, but
the Court may from time to time sit in such other places in Pakistan as the9[Chief Justice] may, with the approval of the President, appoint.
(7)
Before entering upon office, the 1[Chief Justice] and a
10[Judge] shall make before the President or a person nominated by him
oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule.
(8)
At any time when the 1[Chief Justice] or a 2[Judge] isabsent or is unable to perform the functions of his office, the President
shall appoint another person qualified for the purpose to act as 1[Chief
Justice] or, as the case may be, 2[Judge].

1

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 74, for certain words.
Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amdt.) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 3, for "Chairman".
Subs. ibid., for "members".
4
Certain words omitted by Act No. 10 of 2010, s. 74.
5Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amdt.) Order 1985 (P. O. No. 24 of 1985), Art. 4, for "one year".
6
Ins. by the Constitution (Second Amdt.) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 4 of 1980), Art. 2.
7
Subs. by Act No. 10 of 2010, s. 74, for clause (4B) for which was previously ins. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985,
Art. 2 and Sch.
8
Clauses (4C) and (5) omitted ibid.
9Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amdt.) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 3, for "Chairman".
10
Subs. ibid., for "members".
2
3

112

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1[(9) A Chief Justice who is not a Judge of the Supreme Court
shall be entitled to the same remuneration, allowances and privileges as
are admissible to a Judge of the Supreme Court and a Judge who is not a
Judge of a High Court shall be entitled to the same remuneration,
allowances and privileges as are admissible to a Judge of a High Court:
Provided that where a Judge is already drawing a pension for any
other post in the service of Pakistan, the amount of such pension shall be
deducted from the pension admissible under this clause.]
203CC.
[Omitted]
203CC.
[Penal of Ulema and Ulema members.] Omitted by theConstitution (Second Amdt.) Order, 1981 (P.O. No. 7 of 1981), Art. 3,
which was previously ins. by P.O. No. 5 of 1981, Art. 2.
203D. Powers, jurisdiction and functions of the Court
203D. (1)The Court may, 2[either of its own motion or] on the
petition of a citizen of Pakistan or the Federal Government or a Provincial
Government, examine and decide the question whether or not any law orprovision of law is repugnant to the Injunctions of Islam, as laid down in
the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet, hereinafter referred
to as the Injunctions of Islam.
3[(1A) Where the Court takes up the examination of any law orprovision of law under clause (1) and such law or provision of law appears
to it to be repugnant to the Injunctions of Islam, the Court shall cause to begiven to the Federal Government in the case of a law with respect to amatter in the Federal Legislative List 4* * * or to the Provincial
Government in the case of a law with respect to a matter not enumerated
5[in the Federal Legislative List], a notice specifying the particularprovisions that appear to it to be so repugnant, and afford to such
Government adequate opportunity to have its point of view placed before
the Court.](2)
If the Court decides that any law or provision of law isrepugnant to the Injunctions of Islam, it shall set out in its decision :—

1

2
3
4

5

(a)

the reasons for its holding that opinion; and(b)the extent to which such law or provision is so repugnant;Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 74, and shall be deemed always tohave been so, subs. with affect from the 21st day of August 2002 for “clause (9)”.
Ins. by the Constitution (Second Amdt.) Order, 1982 (5 of 1982), Art. 4.
Ins. by the Constitution (Amdt.) Order, 1984 (P. O. No. 1 of 1984), Art. 2.
The words “or the Concurrent Legislative List” omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010
(10 of 2010), s. 75.
Subs. ibid., for the words “in the either of those lists”.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

and specify the day on which the decision shall take effect 1[:]
2

[Provided that no such decision shall be deemed to take effectbefore the expiration of the period within which an appeal therefrom may
be preferred to the Supreme Court or, where an appeal has been so
preferred, before the disposal of such appeal.](3)
If any law or provision of law is held by the Court to be
repugnant to the Injunctions of Islam,—(a)the President in the case of a law with respect to a matter in
the Federal Legislative List 3* * * or the Governor in thecase of a law with respect to a matter not enumerated in4[said List] shall take steps to amend the law so as to bringsuch law or provision into conformity with the Injunctionsof Islam; and(b)such law or provision shall, to the extent to which it is held
to be so repugnant, cease to have effect on the day on
which the decision of the Court takes effect.

5

*

*

203DD.

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

Revisional and other jurisdiction of the Court

6[203DD. (1) The Court may call for and examine the record of any casedecided by any criminal court under any law relating to the enforcement of
Hudood for the purpose of satisfying itself as to the correctness, legality or
propriety of any finding, sentence or order recorded or passed by, and as
to the regularity of any proceedings of, such court and may, when callingfor such record, direct that the execution of any sentence be suspended
and, if the accused is in confinement, that he be released on bail or on his
own bond pending the examination of the record.
(2)
In any case the record of which has been called for by the
Court, the Court may pass such order as it may deem fit and may enhance
1

2
3

4
5
6

Subs. and shall be deemed always to have been so subs. by the Constitution (Amdt.) order, 1984 (P.O. No. 1
of 1984), Art. 2, for the full stop.
Proviso added and shall be deemed always to have been so added ibid.
The words “or the Concurrent Legislative List” stand omitted as consequence of the (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act,
2010 (10 of 2010), see section 2.
Subs. ibid., for “Either of those Lists”.
Clause (4) omitted by the Constitution (Second Amdt.) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 4 of 1980), Art. 3.
Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amdt.) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 5, for "Article 203DD",
which was previously ins. by P. O. No. 4 of 1980, Art. 3.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

the sentence:
Provided that nothing in this Article shall be deemed to authorise
the Court to convert a finding of acquittal into one of conviction and noorder under this Article shall be made to the prejudice of the accused
unless he has had an opportunity of being heard in his own defence.
(3)
The Court shall have such other jurisdiction as may be
conferred on it by or under any law.]
203E. Powers and procedure of the Court
203E. (1)For the purposes of the performance of its functions, theCourt shall have the powers of a Civil Court trying a suit under the Codeof Civil Procedure, 1908 (Act V of 1908), in respect of the following
matters, namely:—(a)summoning and enforcing the attendance of any person andexamining him on oath;(b)requiring the discovery and production of any document;(c)receiving evidence on affidavits; and(d)issuing commissions for the examination of witnesses ordocuments.

(2)
The Court shall have power to conduct its proceedings andregulate its procedure in all respects as it deems fit.
(3)
The Court shall have the power of a High Court to punish
its own contempt.
(4)
A party to any proceedings before the Court under clause(1) of Article 203D may be represented by a legal practitioner who is a
Muslim and has been enrolled as an advocate of a High Court for a periodof not less than five years or as an advocate of the Supreme Court or by ajurisconsult selected by the party from out of a panel of jurisconsults
maintained by the Court for the purpose.
(5)
For being eligible to have his name borne on the panel ofjurisconsults referred to in clause (4), a person shall be an aalim who, in
the opinion of the Court, is well-versed in Shariat.
(6)
A legal practitioner or jurisconsult representing a party
before the Court shall not plead for the party but shall state, expound and115

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

interpret the Injunctions of Islam relevant to the proceedings so far as may
be known to him and submit to the Court a written statement of his
interpretation of such Injunctions of Islam.
(7)
The Court may invite any person in Pakistan or abroadwhom the Court considers to be well-versed in Islamic law to appear
before it and render such assistance as may be required of him.
(8)
No court fee shall be payable in respect of any petition orapplication made to the Court under 1[Article 203D.]
2[(9) The Court shall have power to review any decision given ororder made by it.]
203F. Appeal to Supreme Court
203F. (1)
Any party to any proceedings before the Court under
Article 203D aggrieved by the final decision of the Court in suchproceedings may, within sixty days of such decision, prefer an appeal to
the Supreme Court [:]3
4

[Provided that an appeal on behalf of the Federation or of aProvince may be preferred within six months of such decision.](2)
The provisions of clauses (2) and (3) of Article 203D andclauses (4) to (8) of Article 203E shall apply to and in relation to theSupreme Court as if reference in those provisions to Court were areference to the Supreme Court.
5[(2A) An appeal shall lie to the Supreme Court from any
judgment, final order or sentence of the Federal Shariat Court—

1
2
3
4
5

(a)

if the Federal Shariat Court has on appeal reversed an orderof acquittal of an accused person and sentenced him todeath or imprisonment for life or imprisonment for a term
exceeding fourteen years; or, on revision, has enhanced asentence as aforesaid; or(b)

if the Federal Shariat Court has imposed any punishment
on any person for contempt of the Court.

Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amdt.) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 4 of 1980), Art.. 5, for "this Article".
New clause (9) added by the Constitution (Amdt.) Order, 1981 (P. O. No. 5 of 1981), Art. 3.
Subs. by the Constitution (Third Arndt.) Order, 1983 (P. O. No. 9 of 1983), Art. 2, for the full-stop.
Proviso added ibid.
New "clauses (2A) and (2B)" ins. by the Constitution (Second Amdt.) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982),
Art. 6.

116

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(2B) An appeal to the Supreme Court from a judgment, decision,order or sentence of the Federal Shariat Court in a case to which thepreceding clauses do not apply shall lie only if the Supreme Court grants
leave to appeal.]1[(3) For the purpose of the exercise of the jurisdiction conferredby this Article, there shall be constituted in the Supreme Court a Bench to
be called the Shariat Appellate Bench and consisting of—(a)three Muslim Judges of the Supreme Court; and(b)

not more than two Ulema to be appointed by the President
to attend sittings of the Bench as ad hoc members thereof
from amongst the Judges of the Federal Shariat Court orfrom out of a panel of Ulema to be drawn up by the
President in consultation with the Chief Justice.

(4)
A person appointed under paragraph (b) of clause (3) shallhold office for such period as the President may determine.
(5)
Reference in clauses (1) and (2) to "Supreme Court" shallbe construed as a reference to the Shariat Appellate Bench.
(6)
While attending sittings of the Shariat Appellate Bench, aperson appointed under paragraph (b) of clause (3) shall have the same
power and jurisdiction, and be entitled to the same privileges, as a Judgeof the Supreme Court and be paid such allowances as the President may
determine.]
203G. Bar of jurisdiction
203G. Save as provided in Article 203F, no court or tribunal, including
the Supreme Court and a High Court, shall entertain any proceedings or
exercise any power or jurisdiction in respect of any matter within the
power or jurisdiction of the Court.
203GG.Decision of Court binding on High Court and courts
subordinate to it
2[203GG. Subject to Articles 203D and 203F, any decision of the Courtin the exercise of its jurisdiction under this Chapter shall be binding on a
High Court and on all courts subordinate to a High Court.]
203H. Pending proceedings to continue, etc.
12

Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amdt.) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 12 of 1982), Art. 2, for "clause (3)".
New Article 203GG ins. by the Constitution (Second Amdt.) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 7.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

203H. (1)Subject to clause (2) nothing in this Chapter shall bedeemed to require any proceedings pending in any court or tribunal
immediately before the commencement of this Chapter or initiated after
such commencement, to be adjourned or stayed by reason only of apetition having been made to the Court for a decision as to whether or nota law or provision of law relevant to the decision of the point in issue insuch proceedings is repugnant to the Injunctions of Islam; and all suchproceedings shall continue, and the point in issue therein shall be decided,in accordance with the law for the time being in force.
(2)
All proceedings under clause (1) of Article 203B of theConstitution that may be pending before any High Court immediately
before the commencement of this Chapter shall stand transferred to the
Court and shall be dealt with by the Court from the stage from which they
are so transferred.
(3)
Neither the Court nor the Supreme Court shall in theexercise of its jurisdiction under this Chapter have power to grant an
injunction or make any interim order in relation to any proceedings
pending in any other court or tribunal.
203I. [Administrative arrangements, etc.,] Omitted by the Constitution(Second Amdt.) Order, 1982, (P.O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 8.
203J. Power to make rules
203J. (1)The Court may, by notification in the official Gazette,
make rules for carrying out the purposes of this Chapter.
(2)
In particular, and without prejudice to the generality of theforegoing power, such rules may make provision in respect of all or any of
the following matters, namely :—

1
2

(a)

the scale of payment of honoraria to be made tojurisconsults, experts and witnesses summoned by the
Court to defray the expenses, if any, incurred by them inattending for the purposes of the proceedings before the
Court; *1(b)the form of oath to be made by a Jurisconsult, expert orwitness appearing before the Court 2[ ; ]The word "and" omitted by the Constitution (Second Amdt.) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 4 of 1980), Art. 6.
Subs. ibid., for the full-stop.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1

[(c)

the powers and functions of the Court being exercised or
performed by Benches consisting of one or more members
constituted by the Chairman;(d)

the decision of the Court being expressed in terms of theopinion of the majority of its members or, as the case may
be, of the members constituting a Bench; and(e)the decision of cases in which the members constituting a
Bench are equally divided in their opinion.](3)
Until rules are made under clause (1), the Shariat Benchesof Superior Courts Rules, 1979, shall, with the necessary modifications
and so far as they are not inconsistent with the provisions of this Chapter,
continue in force.]
CHAPTER 4. – GENERAL PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE
JUDICATURE
204. Contempt of Court
2[204. (1)Court.
(2)

In this Article, "Court" means the Supreme Court or a HighA Court shall have power to punish any person who—(a) abuses, interferes with or obstructs the process of the
Court in any way or disobeys any order of the Court ;(b) scandalizes the Court or otherwise does anything whichtends to bring the Court or a Judge of the Court into
hatred, ridicule or contempt;(c) does anything which tends to prejudice the determination of a matter pending before the Court; or(d) does any other thing which, by law, constitutes
contempt of the Court.
(3)
The exercise of the power conferred on a Court by this
Article may be regulated by law and, subject to law, by rules made by the
Court.]
205.

Remuneration etc., of judges

205. The remuneration and other terms and conditions of service of aJudge of the Supreme Court or of a High Court shall be as provided in the
1
2

Paragraphs (c), (d) and (e) added ibid.
Subs. by P O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for "Article 204".

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

Fifth Schedule.
206.

Resignation

206. 1[(1)] A Judge of the Supreme Court or of a High Court may
Resignation. resign his office by writing under his hand addressed to the
President.
2[(2) A Judge of a High Court who does not accept appointment
as a Judge of the Supreme Court shall be deemed to have retired from his
office and, on such retirement, shall be entitled to receive a pension
calculated on the basis of the length of his service as Judge and total
service, if any, in the service of Pakistan.]
207.

Judge not to hold office of profit, etc.

207. (1)not—

A Judge of the Supreme Court or of a High Court shall(a) hold any other office of profit in the service of Pakistan
if his remuneration is thereby increased; or(b) occupy any other position carrying the right to remuneration for the rendering of services.

(2)
A person who has held office as a Judge of the Supreme
Court or of a High Court shall not hold any office of profit in the service
of Pakistan, not being a judicial or quasi-judicial office or the office ofChief Election Commissioner or of Chairman or member of a Law
Commission or of Chairman or member of the Council of Islamic
Ideology, before the expiration of two years after he has ceased to holdthat office.
(3)

A person who has held office as a permanent Judge—(a) of the Supreme Court, shall not plead or act in any courtor before any authority in Pakistan;(b) of a High Court, shall not plead or act in any court orbefore any authority within its jurisdiction; and(c) of the High Court of West Pakistan as it existed
immediately before the coming into force of theProvince of West Pakistan (Dissolution) Order, 1970,

1

2

Article 206 renumbered as clause (1) of that Article, by the Constitution (Fifth Amdt.) Act, 1976 (62 of1976), s. 14, (w.e.f. the 13th September, 1976).
New clause (2) added ibid.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

shall not plead or act in any court or before any
authority within the jurisdiction of the principal seat ofthat High Court or, as the case may be, the permanent
bench of that High Court to which he was assigned.
208.

Officers and servants of Courts

208. The Supreme Court 1[and the Federal Shariat Court], with theapproval of the President and a High Court, with the approval of theGovernor concerned, may make rules providing for the appointment by
the Court of officers and servants of the Court and for their terms andconditions of employment.
209.

Supreme Judicial Council

209. (1)There shall be a Supreme Judicial Council of Pakistan, in
this Chapter referred to as the Council.
(2)

The Council shall consist of—(a)the Chief Justice of Pakistan ;(b)the two next most senior Judges of the Supreme Court; and(c)the two most senior Chief Justices of High Courts.
Explanation.—For the purpose of this clause, the inter se seniorityof the Chief Justices of the High Courts shall be determined with reference
to their dates of appointment as Chief Justice 2[otherwise than as acting
Chief Justice], and in case the dates of such appointment are the same,with reference to their dates of appointment as Judges of any of the High
Courts.
(3)
If at any time the Council is inquiring into the capacity or
conduct of a Judge who is a member of the Council, or a member of theCouncil is absent or is unable to act due to illness or any other cause,
then—

1
2

(a)

if such member is a Judge of the Supreme Court, the Judgeof the Supreme Court who is next in seniority below theJudges referred to in paragraph (b) of clause (2), and(b)

if such member is the Chief Justice of a High Court, theChief Justice of another High Court who is next in seniority

Ins. by the Constitution (Second Amdt.) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982) Art. 9.
Ins. by the Constitution (First Amdt.) Act, 1974 (33 of 1974), s. 11, (w.e.f. the 4th May, 1974).

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

amongst the Chief Justices of the remaining High Courts,
shall act as a member of the Council in his place.
(4)
If, upon any matter inquired into by the Council, there is adifference of opinion amongst its members, the opinion of the majority
shall prevail, and the report of the Council to the President shall be
expressed in terms of the view of the majority.
1[(5) If, on information from any source, the Council or the
President is of the opinion that a Judge of the Supreme Court or of a High
Court—(a)may be incapable of properly performing the duties of his
office by reason of physical or mental incapacity; or(b)

may have been guilty of misconduct,

the President shall direct the Council to, or the Council may, on its own
motion, inquire into the matter.](6)
If, after inquiring into the matter, the Council reports to the
President that it is of the opinion—(a)that the Judge is incapable of performing the duties of his
office or has been guilty of misconduct, and(b)that he should be removed from office, the President may
remove the Judge from office.

(7)
A Judge of the Supreme Court or of a High Court shall not
be removed from office except as provided by this Article.
(8)
The Council shall issue a code of conduct to be observedby Judges of the Supreme Court and of the High Courts.

210.

Power of Council to enforce attendance of persons, etc.

210. (1)For the purpose of inquiring into any matter, the Council
shall have the same power as the Supreme Court has to issue directions ororders for securing the attendance of any person or the discovery or
production of any document; and any such direction or order shall be
enforceable as if it had been issued by the Supreme Court.
1

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 76, for “clause (5)”.

122

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(2)
The provisions of Article 204 shall apply to the Council as
they apply to the Supreme Court and a High Court.
211.

Bar of jurisdiction

211. The proceedings before the Council, its report to the President andthe removal of a Judge under clause (6) of Article 209 shall not be called
in question in any court.
212.

Administrative Courts and Tribunals

212. (1)Notwithstanding anything hereinbefore contained theappropriate Legislature may by Act 1[provide for the establishment of] one
or more Administrative Courts or Tribunals to exercise exclusive
jurisdiction in respect of—(a)matters relating to the terms and conditions of persons
2[who are or have been] in the service of Pakistan,
including disciplinary matters ;(b)matters relating to claims arising from tortious acts ofGovernment, or any person in the service of Pakistan, or of
any local or other authority empowered by law to levy any
tax or cess and any servant of such authority acting in the
discharge of his duties as such servant; or(c)matters relating to the acquisition, administration anddisposal of any property which is deemed to be enemy
property under any law.

(2)
Notwithstanding anything hereinbefore contained where
any Administrative Court or Tribunal is established under clause (1), noother court shall grant an injunction, make any order or entertain any
proceedings in respect of any matter to which the jurisdiction of such
Administrative Court or Tribunal extends 3[and all proceedings in respectof any such matter which may be pending before such other court
immediately before the establishment of the Administrative Court or
Tribunal 4[ ; other than an appeal pending before the Supreme Court,] shallabate on such establishment] :
1

2
3

4

Subs. and shall be deemed always to have been so subs. by the Constitution (First Amdt.) Act, 1974 (33 of
1974), s. 12, for "establish".
Ins. and shall be deemed always to have been so ins. ibid.
Ins. and shall be deemed always to have been so ins. by the Constitution (First Amdt.) Act, 1974 (33 of
1974) s. 12.
Ins. and shall be deemed always to have been so ins. by the Constitution (Fifth Amdt.) Act, 1976 (62 of1976) s. 15.

123

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

Provided that the provisions of this clause shall not apply to an
Administrative Court or Tribunal established under an Act of a Provincial
Assembly unless, at the request of that Assembly made in the form of aresolution, 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] by law2 extends the provisions
to such a Court or Tribunal.
(3)
An appeal to the Supreme Court from a judgment, decree,order or sentence of an Administrative Court or Tribunal shall lie only if
the Supreme Court, being satisfied that the case involves a substantial
question of law of public importance, grants leave to appeal.
212A. [Omitted]
212A. [Establishment of Military Courts or Tribunals.] Omitted by
S.R.O. No. 1278 (1) 85, dated 30-12-85, read with proclamation ofwithdrawal of Martial Law dated 30-12-85 see Gaz. of P. 1985, Ext., Pt. 1,
dated 30-12-85, pp. 431-432, which was previously added by P.O. No. 21
of 1979, Art. 2.
212B. [Omitted]
212B. [Establishment of Special Courts for trial of heinous offences.]
Repealed by the Constitution (Twelfth Amdt.) Act, 1991 (14 of1991), s. 1(3), (w.e.f. 26th July, 1994), which was previously added by Act 14 of1991 s. 2, (w.e.f. 27th July, 1991).
__________

1
2

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
For such law see the Provincial Service Tribunals (Extension of Provisions of the Constitution) Act, 1974 (32of 1974).

124

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANPART VIIIElections
CHAPTER 1. – CHIEF ELECTION COMMISSIONER AND
ELECTION 1[COMMISSION]
213.

Chief Election Commissioner

213. (1)There shall be a Chief Election Commissioner (in this Part
referred to as the Commissioner), who shall be appointed by the President2* * *.
3[(2) No person shall be appointed to be Commissioner unless hehas been a Judge of the Supreme Court or has been a senior civil servant
or is a technocrat and is not more than sixty-eight years of age.
Explanation 1.—“senior civil servant” means civil servant who has
served for at least twenty years under Federal or a Provincial Governmentand has retired in BPS-22 or above.
Explanation 2.—“technocrat” means a person who is the holder ofa degree requiring conclusion of at least sixteen years of education,
recognized by the Higher Education Commission and has at least twenty
years of experience, including a record of achievements at the national orinternational level.]
4[(2A) The Prime Minister shall in consultation with the Leader of
the Opposition in the National Assembly, forward three names forappointment of the Commissioner to a Parliamentary Committee forhearing and confirmation of any one person 5[:]
6

[Provided that in case there is no consensus between the Prime
Minister and the Leader of the Opposition, each shall forward separate
lists to the Parliamentary Committee for consideration which may confirm
any one name.](2B) The Parliamentary Committee to be constituted by the
Speaker shall comprise fifty percent members from the Treasury Benches
and fifty percent from the Opposition Parties, based on their strength in
Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), to be nominated by the respective
Parliamentary Leaders:
1
2
3
4
5
6

Substituted by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (XXV of 2016), s 3.
The words “in his discretion” omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 77.
Substituted by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (XXV of 2016), s 4.
Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 77.
Substituted by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (XXV of 2016), s 4.
Proviso Ins. Ibid, s 4.

125

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1

[***]

2

[Provided 3[**] that the total strength of the Parliamentary
Committee shall be twelve members out of which one-third shall be fromthe Senate:]
Provided 4[further] that when the National Assembly is dissolved
and a vacancy occurs in the office of the Chief Election Commissioner,5[total membership of the Parliamentary Committee shall consist of] themembers from the Senate only and the foregoing provisions of this clauseshall, mutatis mutandis, apply.](3)
The Commissioner 6[or a member] shall have such powers
and functions as are conferred on him by the Constitution and law.
214.

Oath of Office[7**]Oath of Office214. Before entering upon office, the Commissioner shall make before
the Chief Justice of Pakistan 8[and a member of the Election Commission
shall make before the Commissioner] oath in the form set-out in the Third
Schedule.
215.

Term of office of Commissioner 9[and members]

215. (1)The Commissioner 10[and a member] shall, subject to this
Article, hold office for a term of 11[five] years from the day he enters uponhis office:12[Provided that two of the members shall retire after the expirationof first two and a half years and two shall retire after the expiration of thenext two and a half years:
Provided further that the Commission shall for the first term ofoffice of members draw a lot as to which two members shall retire after
the first two a half years:
1

Omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (XXV of 2016), s 4.
Substituted by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (1 of 2011) s. 6.
3
Omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (XXV of 2016), s 4.
4
Substituted Ibid, s 4.
5
Substituted by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (1 of 2011) s. 6 for “Parliamentary
Committee shall comprise”.
6
Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (XXV of 2016), s 4
7
Omitted by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (V of 2012), s.3.
8Ins. Ibid, s 3.
9Ins. Ibid, s 4.
10
Added Ibid, s 4.
11
Subs by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s 78, for “three”.
12
Substituted by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (XXV of 2016), s 5.
2

126

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

Provided also that the term of office of a member appointed to filla casual vacancy shall be the un-expired term of the office of the member
whose vacancy he has filled.]
1

*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
2
(2)
The Commissioner [or a member] shall not be removed
from office except in the manner prescribed in Article 209 for the removalfrom office of a Judge and, in the application of the Article for the
purposes of this clause, any reference in that Article to a Judge shall be
construed as a reference to the Commissioner 1[or, as the case may be, amember].
(3)
The Commissioner 3[or a member] may, by writing under
his hand addressed to the President, resign his office.
4[(4) Vacancy in the office of the Commissioner or a member
shall be filled within forty-five days.]
216.

Commissioner 5[and members] not to hold office of profit

216.

(1)

The Commissioner 6[or a member] shall not—(a)hold any other office of profit in the service of Pakistan; or(b)occupy any other position carrying the right to remuneration for the rendering of services.

(2)
A person who has held office as Commissioner 7[or amember] shall not hold any office of profit in the service of Pakistan
before the expiration of two years after he has ceased to hold that office
8
[.]
9

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

10

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

1

Omitted, by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s 78.
Ins. by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (V of 2012), s.3.
3Ins. Ibid, s.3.
4Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (XXV of 2016), s 5
5Ins. by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (V of 2012), s.5.
6
Ins. Ibid, s.5.
7Ins. Ibid, s.5.
8
Substituted by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (XXV of 2016), s 6.
9
Omitted Proviso Ibid, s 6.
10
Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s 79.
2

127

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

217.

Acting Commissioner

217.

At any time when—(a)the office of Commissioner is vacant, or(b)

the Commissioner is absent or is unable to perform thefunctions of his office due to any other cause,1[the most senior member in age of the members of Commission] shall act
as Commissioner.
218.

Election Commission

218. 2[(1) For the purpose of election to both Houses of Majlis-eShoora (Parliament), Provincial Assemblies and for election to such otherpublic offices as may be specified by law, a permanent Election
Commission shall be constituted in accordance with this Article.]
3[(2)

The Election Commission shall consist of—(a)the Commissioner who shall be Chairman of theCommission; and3four members, one from each Province, each of whom shallbe a person who has been a judge of a High Court or has
been a senior civil servant or is a technocrat and is not morethan sixty-five years of age, to be appointed by the
President in the manner provided for appointment of theCommissioner in clauses (2A) and (2B) of Article 213.][(b)

Explanation.—“senior civil servant” and “technocrat” shallhave the same meaning as given in clause (2) of Article
213.]
(3)
It shall be the duty of the Election Commission 4[Omitted]
to organize and conduct the election and to make such arrangements as arenecessary to ensure that the election is conducted honestly, justly, fairly
and in accordance with law, and that corrupt practices are guarded against.

1
2
3
4

Substituted by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (XXV of 2016), s 7.
Subs. ibid., s. 80, for "clauses (1) and (2)".
Substituted by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (XXV of 2016), s 8.
Omitted by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (V of 2012) s.6.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

219.

Duties of Commission

219.

The 1[Commission] shall be charged with the duty of—2[(a)preparing electoral rolls for election to the National
Assembly, Provincial Assemblies and local governments,
and revising such rolls periodically to keep them up-todate;](b)organizing and conducting election to the Senate or to fillcasual vacancies in a House or a Provincial Assembly; and(c)appointing Election Tribunals 3[;]

4

[(d)

the holding of general elections to the National Assembly,
Provincial Assemblies and the local governments; and(e)such other functions as may be specified by an Act ofMajlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) 5[:] ]6[Provided that till such time as the members of theCommission are first appointed in accordance with the provisionsof paragraph (b) of clause (2) of Article 218 pursuant to theConstitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010, and enter upon
their office, the Commissioner shall remain charged with the duties
enumerated in paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) of this Article.]
220.

Executive authorities to assist Commission, etc.

220. It shall be the duty of all executive authorities in the Federationand in the Provinces to assist the Commissioner and the Election
Commission in the discharge of his or their functions.
221.

Officers and staff

Officers and 7[staff]
221. Until 8[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] by law otherwise provides,
the 9[Election Commission] may, with the approval of the President, makerules providing for the appointment by the 10[Commissioner] of officers
and 11[staff] to be employed in connection with the functions of the 12[* **] Election Commission and for their terms and conditions of
employment.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 81, for “Commissioner”.
Substituted by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (XXV of 2016), s 9.
3
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s 81, for the full stop.
4
New Paragraph (d) and (e) added ibid.
5
Subs. by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (V of 2012) s.7.
6Inserted Ibid, s.7
7
Substituted by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (XXV of 2016), s 10.
8
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
9
Subs. by Act No. 10 of 2010, s. 82, for “Commissioner”.
10
Substituted by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (XXV of 2016), s 10.
11
Substituted Ibid, s 10.
12
Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 82.
1
2

129

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN222.

CHAPTER 2. – ELECTORAL LAWS AND CONDUCT OF
ELECTIONSElectoral laws

222. Subject to the Constitution, 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may
by law provide for—(a)the allocation of seats in the National Assembly as requiredby clauses (3) and (4) of Article 51;(b)

the delimitation of constituencies by the Election
Commission 1[including delimitation of constituencies of
local governments;](c)the preparation of electoral rolls, the requirements as toresidence in a constituency, the determination of objections
pertaining to and the commencement of electoral rolls;(d)the conduct of elections and election petitions the decisionof doubts and disputes arising in connection with elections;(e)matters relating to corrupt practices and other offences inconnection with elections; and(f)all other matters necessary for the due constitution of thetwo Houses 2[, **] the Provincial Assemblies 3[and local
governments;]

but no such law shall have the effect of taking away or abridging any ofthe powers of the Commissioner or 4[the] Election Commission under this
Part.
223.

Bar against double membership

223.

(1)

No person shall, at the same time, be a member of—(a)both Houses; or(b)a House and a Provincial Assembly; or(c)the Assemblies of two or more Provinces; or(d)a House or a Provincial Assembly in respect of more than
one seat.

1234

Added by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (XXV of 2016), s 11.
Inserted & omitted Ibid, s 11.
Added Ibid, s 11.
Substituted Ibid, s 11.

130

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(2)
Nothing in clause (1) shall prevent a person from being acandidate for two or more seats at the same time, whether in the same
body or in different bodies, but if he is elected to more than one seat heshall, within a period of thirty days after the declaration of the result for
the last such seat, resign all but one of his seats, and if he does not so
resign, all the seats to which he has been elected shall become vacant at
the expiration of the said period of thirty days except the seat to which hehas been elected last or, if he has been elected to more than one seat on thesame day, the seat for election to which his nomination was filed last.
Explanation.—In this clause, "body" means either House or a
Provincial Assembly.
(3)
A person to whom clause (2) applies shall not take a seat ineither House or the Provincial Assembly to which he has been electeduntil he has resigned all but one of his seats.
(4)
Subject to clause (2) if a member of either House or of aProvincial Assembly becomes a candidate for a second seat which, in
accordance with clause (1), he may not hold concurrently with his firstseat, then his first seat shall become vacant as soon as he is elected to thesecond seat.
224.

Time of Election and bye-election

224. 1[(1) A general election to the National Assembly or a Provincial
Assembly shall be held within a period of sixty days immediately
following the day on which the term of the Assembly is due to expire,
unless the Assembly has been sooner dissolved, and the results of theelection shall be declared not later than fourteen days before that day.]2[(1A) On dissolution of the Assembly on completion of its term,or in case it is dissolved under Article 58 or Article 112, the President, or
the Governor, as the case may be, shall appoint a care-taker Cabinet:
Provided that the care-taker Prime Minister shall be 3[appointed]
by the President in consultation with the Prime Minister and the Leader of
the Opposition in the outgoing National Assembly, and a care-taker Chief
Minister shall be appointed by the Governor in consultation with the Chief
Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in the outgoing Provincial
Assembly:

1
2
3

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 83, for “clause (1)”.
New clauses (1A), (1B) and explanation ins. ibid.
Subs, inserted by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (V of 2012) s.8.

131

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

3[Provided further that if the Prime Minister or a Chief Ministerand their respective Leader of the Opposition do not agree on any person
to be appointed as a care-taker Prime Minister or the care-taker Chief
Minister, as the case may be, the provisions of Article 224A shall befollowed:]
Provided 3[also] that the Members of the Federal and Provincial
care-taker Cabinets shall be appointed on the advice of the care-takerPrime Minister or the care-taker Chief Minister, as the case may be.
(1B) Members of the care-taker Cabinets including the caretaker Prime Minister and the care-taker Chief Minister and their
immediate family members shall not be eligible to contest the immediately
following elections to such Assemblies.
Explanation.— In this clause, “immediate family members” means
spouse and children.](2)
When the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly is
dissolved, a general election to the Assembly shall be held within a periodof ninety days after the dissolution, and the results of the election shall bedeclared not later than fourteen days after the conclusion of the polls.
(3)
An election to fill the seats in the Senate which are to
become vacant on the expiration of the term of the members of the Senate
shall be held not earlier than thirty days immediately preceding the day on
which the vacancies are due to occur.
(4)
When, except by dissolution of the National Assembly or a
Provincial Assembly, a general seat in any such Assembly has become
vacant not later than one hundred and twenty days before the term of that
Assembly is due to expire, an election to fill the seat shall be held withinsixty days from the occurrence of the vacancy.
(5)
When a seat in the Senate has become vacant, an election tofill the seat shall be held within thirty days from the occurrence of thevacancy.
1[(6) When a seat reserved for women or non-Muslims in the
National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly falls vacant, on account ofdeath, resignation or disqualification of a member, it shall be filled by thenext person in order of precedence from the party list of the candidates tobe submitted to the Election Commission by the political party whose
member has vacated such seat.]1

New Clauses (6) ins. and shall be deemed always to have been so ins. with effect from the 21st day ofAugust 2002 by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 83.

132

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1[Provided that if at any time the party list is exhausted, theconcerned political party may submit a name for any vacancy which may
occur thereafter.]
2

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

224A. 2[Resolution by Committee or Election Commission
224A. (1) In case the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in
the outgoing National Assembly do not agree on any person to beappointed as the care-taker Prime Minister, within three days of the
dissolution of the National Assembly, they shall forward two nominees
each to a Committee to be immediately constituted by the Speaker of the
National Assembly, comprising eight members of the outgoing National
Assembly, or the Senate, or both, having equal representation from theTreasury and the Opposition, to be nominated by the Prime Minister andthe Leader of the Opposition respectively.
(2)
In case a Chief Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in theoutgoing Provisional Assembly do not agree on any person to beappointed as the care-taker Chief Minister, within three days of the
dissolution of that Assembly, they shall forward two nominees each to a
Committee to be immediately constituted by the Speaker of the Provincial
Assembly, comprising six members of the outgoing Provincial Assembly
having equal representation from the Treasury and the Opposition, to be
nominated by the Chief Minister and the Leader of the Opposition
respectively.
(3)
The Committee constituted under clause (1) or (2) shall finalize thename of the care-taker Prime Minister or care-taker Chief Minister, as thecase may be, within three days of the referral of the matter to it:
Provided that in case of inability of the Committee to decide thematter in the aforesaid period, the names of the nominees shall be referredto the Election Commission of Pakistan for final decision within two days.
(4)
The incumbent Prime Minister and the incumbent Chief Ministershall continue to hold office till appointment of the care-taker Prime
Minister and the care-taker Chief Minister, as the case may be.
(5)
Notwithstanding anything contained in clauses (1) and (2), if themembers of the Opposition are less than five in the Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament) and less than four in any Provincial Assembly, then all of
1
2

Added by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (V of 2012) s.8 & 9.
Clause (7) stands omitted as a consequence (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), see section 2.

133

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

them shall be members of the Committee mentioned in the aforesaid
clauses and the Committee shall be deemed to be duly constituted.]
225.

Election dispute

225. No election to a House or a Provincial Assembly shall be called inquestion except by an election petition presented to such tribunal and insuch manner as may be determined by Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament).]
226.

Elections by secret ballot

2[226. All elections under the Constitution, other than those of the Prime
Minister and the Chief Minister, shall be by secret ballot.]_____________

1
2

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Subs. by Act 10 of 2010, s. 84, for “Article 226”.

134

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANPART IX
Islamic Provisions
227.

Provisions relating to the Holy Quran and Sunnah

227. (1)All existing laws shall be brought in conformity with the
Injunctions of Islam as laid down in the Holy Quran and Sunnah, in thispart referred to as the Injunctions of Islam, and no law shall be enacted
which is repugnant to such Injunctions.
1[Explanation.—In the application of this clause to the personallaw of any Muslim sect, the expression "Quran and Sunnah" shall mean
the Quran and Sunnah as interpreted by the sect.](2)
Effect shall be given to the provisions of clause (1) only inthe manner provided in this Part.
(3)
Nothing in this Part shall affect the personal laws of nonMuslim citizens or their status as citizens.
228.

Composition, etc., of Islamic Council

228. (1)There shall be, constituted2 within a period of ninety days
from the commencing day a Council of Islamic Ideology, in this partreferred to as the Islamic Council.
(2)
The Islamic Council shall consist of such members, being
not less than eight and not more than 3[twenty] as the President may
appoint from amongst persons having knowledge of the principles andphilosophy of Islam as enunciated in the Holy Quran and Sunnah, orunderstanding of the economic, political, legal or administrative problemsof Pakistan.
(3)
While appointing members of the Islamic Council, thePresident shall ensure that—

1
2

3

(a)

so far as practicable various schools of thought are
represented in the Council;(b)

not less than two of the members are persons each of whomis, or has been a Judge of the Supreme Court or of a High
Court;

Explanation added by the Constitution (Third Amdt.) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 14 of 1980), Art. 2.
For the notification constituting the Council of Islamic Ideology, see Gaz. of Pak.. 1974, Ext., Pt. II, p. 165.
For the Council of Islamic Ideology (Terms and Conditions of Members) Rules, 1974, see Gaz. of Pak., Ext.,
Pt. II, p. 1727.
Subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amdt.) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 16 of 1980), Art. 2, for "fifteen".

135

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(c)

not less than 1[one third] of the members are persons eachof whom has been engaged, for a period of not less thanfifteen years, in Islamic research or instruction; and(d)at least one member is a woman.

2[(4) The President shall appoint one of the members of theIslamic Council to be the Chairman thereof.](5)
Subject to clause (6), a member of the Islamic Council shallhold office for a period of three years.
(6)
A member may, by writing under his hand addressed to the
President, resign his office or may be removed by the President upon thepassing of a resolution for his removal by a majority of the total
membership of the Islamic Council.
229. Reference by 3[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], etc., to Islamic
Council229. The President or the Governor of a Province may, or if two-fifths
of its total membership so requires, a House or a Provincial Assembly
shall, refer to the Islamic Council for advice any question as to whether a
proposed law is or is not repugnant to the Injunctions of Islam.
230.

Functions of the Islamic Council

230.

(1)

The functions of the Islamic Council shall be—

(a)

3
to
make recommendationsto[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)] and the Provincial Assemblies as to the ways
and means of enabling and encouraging the Muslims of
Pakistan to order their lives individually and collectively inall respects in accordance with the principles and conceptsof Islam as enunciated in the Holy Quran and Sunnah;(b)to advise a House, a Provincial Assembly, the President ora Governor on any question referred to the Council as towhether proposed law is or is not repugnant to the
Injunctions of Islam;(c)to make recommendations as to the measures for bringing
existing laws into conformity with the Injunctions of Islam1
2
3

Subs by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 85, for “four”.
Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amdt.) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 13 of 1982), Art. 2, for "clause (4)".
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

136

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

and the stages by which such measures should be brought
into effect; and(d)to compile in a suitable form, for the guidance of 1[Majlise-Shoora (Parliament)] and the Provincial Assemblies, such
Injunctions of Islam as can be given legislative effect.

(2)
When, under Article 299, a question is referred by a House,a Provincial Assembly, the President or a Governor to the Islamic Council,
the Council shall, within fifteen days thereof, inform the House, theAssembly, the President or the Governor, as the case may be, of the period
within which the Council expects to be able to furnish that advice.
(3)
Where a House, a Provincial Assembly, the President or theGovernor, as the case may be, considers that, in the public interest, themaking of the proposed law in relation to which the question arose should
not be postponed until the advice of the Islamic Council is furnished, thelaw may be made before the advice is furnished :Provided that, where a law is referred for advice to the Islamic
Council and the Council advises that the law is repugnant to the
Injunctions of Islam, the House or, as the case may be, the Provincial
Assembly, the President or the Governor shall reconsider the law so made.
(4)
The Islamic Council shall submit its final report withinseven years of its appointment, and shall submit an annual interim report.
The report, whether interim or final, shall be laid for discussion before
both Houses and each Provincial Assembly within six months of its
receipt, and 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] and the Assembly, after
considering the report, shall enact laws in respect thereof within a periodof two years of the final report.
231.

Rules of procedure

231. The proceedings of the Islamic Council shall be regulated by rulesof procedure2 to be made by the Council with approval of the President.
__________

1
2

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
For the Council of Islamic Ideology (Procedure Rules), 1974, see Gaz. of Pak., 1974. Ext., Pt. II, pp. 771773.

137

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANPART X
Emergency Provisions
232. Proclamation
disturbance, etc.

ofemergency on account of war,internal

232. (1)
If the President is satisfied that a grave emergency exists inwhich the security of Pakistan, or any part thereof, is threatened by war orexternal aggression, or by internal disturbance beyond the power of aProvincial Government to control, he may issue a Proclamation of
Emergency 1[:]
2

[Provided that for imposition of emergency due to internal
disturbances beyond the powers of a Provincial Government to control, aresolution from the Provincial Assembly of that Province shall be
required:
Provided further that if the President acts on his own, theProclamation of Emergency shall be placed before both Houses of Majlise-Shoora (Parliament) for approval by each House within ten days.](2)
Notwithstanding anything in the Constitution, while a
Proclamation of Emergency is in force—
3

1
2
3
4

5

[(a)

Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) shall have power to makelaws for a Province, or any part thereof, with respect toany matter not enumerated in the Federal Legislative
List 4* * *](b)

the executive authority of the Federation shall extend to thegiving of directions to a Province as to the manner in which
the executive authority of the Province is to be exercised;
and

(c)

the Federal Government may by Order5 assume to itself, ordirect the Governor of a Province to assume on behalf of
the Federal Government, all or any of the functions of theGovernment of the Province, and all or any of the powers

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 86, for the full stop.
New proviso ins. ibid.
Subs. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985. Art. 2 and Sch.. for paragraph (a).
The words “or the Concurrent Legislative List” stand omitted as a consequence of the (Eighteenth Amdt.)
Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), see section 2.
For such Order, in respect of N.W.F.P., see S.R.O. No. 202(I)/75, dated the 16th February, 1975, see Gaz. of
Pak 1975, Ext.. Pt. II, p. 329. since rescinded by S R.O. No. 522(I)/75, dated the 3rd May, 1975, see Gaz. ofPak., 1975, Ext., Pt. II. p. 727; andFor such Order, in respect of the Province of Balochistan, see S.R.O. No. 641(I)/76, dated the 30th June,
1976, see Gaz. of Pak., 1976, Ext., Pt. II. p. 1207 since rescinded by S. R. O. No. 1161 (I)/76, dated the 6th
December, 1976, see Gaz. of Pak., 1976, Ext., Pt. II, p. 2279.
For such proclamation issued on 28-5-1998, see Gaz. of Pak. 1998, Ext., Pt. I, p. 32.

138

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

vested in, or exercisable by, any body or authority in theProvince other than the Provincial Assembly, and makesuch incidental and consequential provisions as appear to
the Federal Government to be necessary or desirable forgiving effect to the objects of the Proclamation, including
provisions for suspending, in whole or in part, the operationof any provisions of the Constitution relating to any bodyor authority in the Province :Provided that nothing in paragraph (c) shall authorise the Federal
Government to assume to itself, or direct the Governor of the Province toassume on its behalf, any of the powers vested in or exercisable by a High
Court, or to suspend either in whole or in part the operation of any
provisions of the Constitution relating to High Courts.
(3)
The power of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] to make laws
for a Province with respect to any matter shall include power to make laws
conferring powers and imposing duties, or authorizing the conferring of
powers and the imposition of duties upon the Federation, or officers andauthorities of the Federation, as respects that matter.
(4)
Nothing in this Article shall restrict the power of aProvincial Assembly to make any law which under the Constitution it has
power to make, but if any provision of a Provincial law is repugnant toany provision of an Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] which
1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] has under this Article power to make, theAct of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], whether passed before or after theProvincial law, shall prevail and the Provincial law shall, to the extent of
the repugnancy, but so long only as the Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)] continues to have effect, be void.
(5)
A law made by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] which[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] would not but for the issue of a
Proclamation of Emergency have been competent to make, shall, to theextent of the incompetency, cease to have effect on the expiration of aperiod of six months after the Proclamation of Emergency has ceased to be
in force, except as respects things done or omitted to be done before theexpiration of the said period.
1(6)
While a Proclamation of emergency is in force, 1[Majlis-eShoora (Parliament)] may by law extend the term of the National
Assembly for a period not exceeding one year and not extending in any
case beyond a period of six months after the Proclamation has ceased to be
in force.

1

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

139

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(7)A Proclamation of Emergency shall be laid before a joint
sitting which shall be summoned by the President to meet within thirtydays of the Proclamation being issued and—(a)shall cease to be in force at the expiration of two months
unless before the expiration of that period it has been
approved by a resolution1 of the joint sitting; and2

shall, subject to the provisions of paragraph (a), cease to be
in force upon a resolution disapproving the proclamation
being passed by the votes of the majority of the total
membership of the two Houses in joint sitting.]

[(b)

(8)
Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (7), if the
National Assembly stands dissolved at the time when a Proclamation of
Emergency is issued, the Proclamation shall continue in force for a periodof four months but, if a general election to the Assembly is not held before
the expiration of that period; it shall cease to be in force at the expirationof that period unless it has earlier been approved by a resolution of the
Senate.

233. Power to suspend Fundamental Rights, etc., during emergency
period233. (1)Nothing contained in Articles 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, and 24
shall, while a Proclamation of Emergency is in force, restrict the power of
the State as defined in Article 7 to make any law or to take any executive
action which it would, but for the provisions in the said Articles, becompetent to make or to take, but any law so made shall, to the extent of
the incompetency, cease to have effect, and shall be deemed to have been
repealed, at the time when the Proclamation is revoked or has ceased to be
in force.

1

2

The joint sitting passed the following resolution on the 5th September, 1973 :"That the joint sitting approves under clause (7) of Art. 232 of the Constitution read with Art. 280 thereof,
the Proclamation of Emergency issued on the 23rd day of November, 1971, and the continuance in force ofthe said Proclamation for the period of six months following the expiration of the period mentioned inparagraph (a) of the said clause(7)."The joint sitting passed the following resolution on 10-6-1998.
"That the joint sitting approve under clause (7) of Article 232 of the Constitution the Proclamation of
Emergency issued by the President on the 28th May, 1998, under clause (1) of Article 232 of theConstitution." see Gaz. of Pak. 1998. Ext., Pt. III, p. 647.
Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amdt.) Act, 1975, (22 of 1975), s. 3, for original paragraph (b) (w.e.f. the13th February, 1975), which reads as follows :"(b) may by resolution of a joint sitting, be continued in force for a period not exceeding six months at atime."For resolutions under original paragraph (b) approving the continuance in force of the Proclamation of
Emergency, see Gaz. of Pak., 1974, Ext., Pt. III, p. 343, and ibid., p. 1183.

140

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(2)While a Proclamation of Emergency is in force, thePresident may, by Order,1 declare that the right to move any court for theenforcement of such of the Fundamental Rights conferred by Chapter 1 ofPart II as may be specified in the Order, and any proceeding in any court
which is for the enforcement, or involves the determination of any
question as to the infringement, of any of the Rights so specified, shallremain suspended for the period during which the Proclamation is in force,and any such Order may be made in respect of the whole or any part ofPakistan.
(3)
Every Order made under this Article shall, as soon as may
be, be laid before 2[both houses of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament),
separately] for approval3 and the provisions of clauses (7) and (8) of
Article 232 shall apply to such an Order as they apply to a Proclamation of
Emergency..
234.

Power to issue Proclamation in case of failure of Constitutional
machinery in a Province

234. (1)
If the President, on receipt of a report from the Governor of4
a Province * * is satisfied that a situation has arisen in which theGovernment of the Province cannot be carried on in accordance with theprovisions of the Constitution, the President may, or if a resolution in thisbehalf is passed 5[by each House separately] shall, by Proclamation,
(a)

1

2
3

4
5

assume to himself, or direct the Governor of the Province
to assume on behalf of the President, all or any of thefunctions of the Government of the Province, and all or anyof the powers vested in, or exercisable by, any body or
authority in the Province, other than the Provincial
Assembly ;The Order suspending the right to move any court for the enforcement of certain Fundamental Rights issued
vide see Gaz. of Pak., 1973, Ext., Pt. I. p. 602, has been rescinded by S.R.O. 1093(I)/74, dated the 14th
August. 1974., see Gaz. of Pak. 1974, Ext. Pt. II, p. 1548.
Subs. the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 87 for “a Joint Sitting”.
For the Order issued on 28-5-1998 suspending of Fundamental Rights, (See Notifications No. 7-3/98-Min. I,
dated 28-5-1998. Gaz. of Pak., 1998, Part I, Page 31).
The joint sitting passed the following resolution on the 6th September, 1973 :“That the joint sitting approves under clause (7) of Article 232 of the Constitution, read with clause (3) of
Article 233 thereof, the President's Order of the 14th August, 1973, made under clause (2) of the said Art.
233 and the continuance in force of the said Order for the period of six months following the expiration of
the period mentioned in paragraph (a) of the said clause (7) of Art. 232.”
For resolution approving the continuance in force of the President's Order of the 14th August, 1973, for afurther period of six months, .see Gaz. of Pak., 1974. Ext., Pt. III, p. 343.
The joint sitting passed the following resolution on 10-6-1998.
"That the joint sitting approves the Order made by the President on the 28th May, 1998, under clause (2) ofArticle 233 of the Constitution." see Gaz. of Pak. 1998. Part Ill, p. 647.
The words “or otherwise” omitted by Act No. 10 of 2010, s. 88.
Subs. ibid., for “at a joint sitting”.

141

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(b)declare that the powers of the Provincial Assembly shall be
exercisable by, or under the authority of, 1[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)]; and(c)make such incidental and consequential provisions as
appear to the President to be necessary or desirable forgiving effect to the objects of the Proclamation, including
provisions for suspending in whole or in part the operationof any provisions of the Constitution relating to any bodyor authority in the Province :Provided that nothing in this Article shall authorise the President toassume to himself, or direct the Governor of the Province to assume on hisbehalf, any of the powers vested in, or exercisable by, a High Court, or tosuspend either in whole or in part the operation of any provisions of theConstitution relating to High Courts.
(2)
The provisions of Article 105 shall not apply to the discharge by the Governor of his functions under clause (1).
(3)
A Proclamation issued under this Article shall be laid
before a joint sitting and shall cease to be in force at the expiration of twomonths, unless before the expiration of that period it has been approved byresolution of the joint sitting and may by like resolution be extended for afurther period not exceeding two months at a time; but no such
Proclamation shall in any case remain in force for more than six months.
(4)
Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (3), if the
National Assembly stands dissolved at the time when a Proclamation isissued under this Article, the Proclamation shall continue in force for aperiod of three months but, if a general election to the Assembly is notheld before the expiration of that period, it shall cease to be in force at the
expiration of that period unless it has earlier been approved by a resolutionof the Senate.
(5)
Where by a Proclamation issued under this Article it has
been declared that the powers of the Provincial Assembly shall be
exercisable by or under the authority of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], itshall be competent—(a)1

to 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in joint sitting to confer
on the President the power to make laws with respect toany matter within the legislative competence of theProvincial Assembly ;See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

142

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(b)

to 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in joint sitting, or the
President, when he is empowered under paragraph (a), tomake laws conferring powers and imposing duties, orauthorising the conferring of powers and the imposition ofduties, upon the Federation, or officers and authorities
thereof;(c)to the President, when 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] is
not in session, to authorise expenditure from the Provincial
Consolidated Fund, whether the expenditure is charged by
the Constitution upon that fund or not, pending the sanctionof such expenditure by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in
joint sitting ; and(d)to 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in joint sitting byresolution to sanction expenditure authorised by the
President under paragraph (c)(6)
Any law made by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or the
President which 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]or the President would
not, but for the issue of a Proclamation under this Article, have been
competent to make, shall, to the extent of the incompetency, cease to haveeffect on the expiration of a period of six months after the Proclamation
under this Article has ceased to be in force, except as to things, done oromitted to be done before the expiration of the said period.
235.

Proclamation in case of financial emergency

235. (1)
If the President is satisfied that a situation has arisen
whereby the economic life, financial stability or credit of Pakistan, or any
part thereof, is threatened, he may, after consultation with the Governorsof the Provinces or, as the case may be, the Governor of the Province
concerned, by Proclamation make a declaration to that effect, and, while
such a Proclamation is in force, the executive authority of the Federation
shall extend to the giving of directions to any Province to observe suchprinciples of financial propriety as may be specified in the directions, andto the giving of such other directions as the President may deem necessary
in the interest of the economic life, financial stability or credit of Pakistan
or any part thereof.
(2)
Notwithstanding anything in the Constitution, any suchdirections may include a provision requiring a reduction of the salary andallowances of all or any class of persons serving in connection with theaffairs of a Province.
1

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

143

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(3)
While a Proclamation issued under this Article is in force
the President may issue directions for the reduction of the salaries andallowances of all or any class of persons serving in connection with theaffairs of the Federation.
(4)
The provisions of clauses (3) and (4) Article 234 shallapply to a Proclamation issued under this Article as they apply to a
Proclamation issued under that Article.
236.

Revocation of Proclamation, etc.

236. (1)
A Proclamation issued under this Part may be varied or
revoked by a subsequent Proclamation.
(2)
The validity of any Proclamation issued or Order madeunder this part shall not be called in question in any court.
237.
etc.

1

[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may make laws of indemnity,

237. Nothing in the Constitution shall prevent 1[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)] from making any law indemnifying any person in the serviceof the Federal Government or a Provincial Government, or any otherperson, in respect of any act done in connection with the maintenance orrestoration of order in any area in Pakistan.

__________

1

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

144

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANPART XI
Amendment of Constitution
238.

Amendment of Constitution

238. Subject to this Part, the Constitution may be amended by Act of1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)].
239.

Constitution, amendment Bill2

[239. (1)A Bill to amend the Constitution may originate in either
House and, when the Bill has been passed by the votes of not less than
two-thirds of the total membership of the House, it shall be transmitted tothe other House.
(2)
If the Bill is passed without amendment by the votes of notless than two-thirds of the total membership of the House to which it istransmitted under clause (1), it shall, subject to the provisions of clause(4), be presented to the President for assent.
(3)
If the Bill is passed with amendment by the votes of notless than two-thirds of the total membership of the House to which it istransmitted under clause (1), it shall be reconsidered by the House inwhich it had originated, and if the Bill as amended by the former House ispassed by the latter by the votes of not less than two-thirds of its total
membership it shall, subject to the provisions of clause (4), be presented to
the President for assent.
(4)
A Bill to amend the Constitution which would have theeffect of altering the limits of a Province shall not be presented to the
President for assent unless it has been passed by the Provincial Assemblyof that Province by the votes of not less than two-thirds of its total
membership.
(5)
No amendment of the Constitution shall be called inquestion in any court on any ground whatsoever.
(6)
For the removal of doubt, it is hereby declared that there isno limitation whatever on the power of the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)
to amend any of the provisions of the Constitution.]___________
1
2

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amdt.) Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 20 of 1985), Art. 3, for Art. 239, which
was previously subs. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for "the original Article 239."

145

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANPART XII
Miscellaneous
CHAPTER 1. – SERVICES
240.

Appointments to service of Pakistan and conditions of service

240. Subject to the Constitution, the appointments to and the conditionsof service of persons in the service of Pakistan shall be determined—(a)in the case of the services of the Federation, posts inconnection with the affairs of the Federation and AllPakistan Services, by or under Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)]; and(b)in the case of the services of a Province and posts inconnection with the affairs of a Province, by or under Act
of the Provincial Assembly.

Explanation.–In this Article, "All-Pakistan Service" means aservice common to the Federation and the Provinces, which was inexistence immediately before the commencing day or which may becreated by Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)].
241.

Existing rules, etc., to continue

241. Until the appropriate Legislature makes a law under Article 240,
all rules and orders in force immediately before the commencing day shall,so far as consistent with the provisions of the Constitution, continue inforce and may be amended from time to time by the Federal Government
or, as the case may be the Provincial Government.
242.

Public Service Commission

1
242. (1)[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in relation to the affairs of
the Federation, and the Provincial Assembly of a Province in relation to
the affairs of the Province may, by law provide for the establishment andconstitution of a Public Service Commission.
2[(1A) The Chairman of the Public Service Commission
constituted in relation to the affairs of the Federation shall be appointed by
the President 3[on the advice of the Prime Minister.]]1
2
3

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Ins. by P.O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 89 for “in his discretion”.

146

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1[(1B) The Chairman of the Public Service Commission
constituted in relation to affairs of a Province shall be appointed by theGovernor on advice of the Chief Minister.](2)
A Public Service Commission shall perform such functions
as may be prescribed by law.
CHAPTER 2. – ARMED FORCES
243.

Command of Armed Forces

2[243. (1)
The Federal Government shall have control and commandof the Armed Forces.
(2)
Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoingprovision, the Supreme Command of the Armed Forces shall vest in the
President.
(3)

The President shall subject to law, have power—(a)to raise and maintain the Military, Naval and Air Forces ofPakistan; and the Reserves of such Forces; and(b)to grant Commissions in such Forces.

(4)
appoint—(a)

The President shall, on advice of the Prime Minister,
the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee ;(b)

the Chief of the Army Staff;(c)the Chief of the Naval Staff; and(d)the Chief of the Air Staff,

and shall also determine their salaries and allowances.]244.

Oath of Armed Forces

244. Every member of the Armed Forces shall make oath in the form set
out in the Third Schedule.

1
2

New clause (1B) ins. ibid.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s.90 for “Article 243”.

147

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

245.

Functions of Armed Forces

245. 1[(1)] The Armed Forces shall, under the directions of the Federal
Government defend Pakistan against external aggression or threat of war,and, subject to law, act in aid of civil power when called upon to do so.
2[(2) The validity of any direction issued by the Federal
Government under clause (1) shall not be called in question in any court.
(3)
A High Court shall not exercise any jurisdiction under
Article 199 in relation to any area in which the Armed Forces of Pakistanare, for the time being, acting in aid of civil power in pursuance of Article
245:
Provided that this clause shall not be deemed to affect thejurisdiction of the High Court in respect of any proceeding pending
immediately before the day on which the Armed Forces start acting in aid
of civil power.
(4)
Any proceeding in relation to an area referred to in clause(3) instituted on or after the day the Armed Forces start acting in aid ofcivil power and pending in any High Court shall remain suspended for theperiod during which the Armed Forces are so acting.]
CHAPTER 3. – TRIBAL AREAS
246.

Tribal Areas

246.

In the Constitution,—
(a)

(b)

1

2
3
4
5
6

"Tribal Areas" means the areas in Pakistan which,immediately before the commencing day, were Tribal
Areas, and includes—(i)the Tribal Areas of 3[Balochistan] and the 4[Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa] Province 5*.

(ii)

the former States of Amb, Chitral, Dir and Swat;

6

*

[

*

*

*

*

*

*]

"Provincially Administered Tribal Areas" means—(i)the districts of Chitral, Dir and Swat (which

Re-numbered as clause (1) by the Constitution (Seventh Amdt) Act, 1977 (23 of 1977), s. 4 (w.e.f. the 21st
April, 1977).
Added by the Constitution (Seventh Amdt.) Act, 1977 (23 of 1977), s. 4, (w.e.f. the 21st April, 1977).
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 91, for “Balochistan”.
Subs ibid., for “North-West-Frontier”.
The word “and” omitted ibid.
Sub paragraphs (iii) and (iv) omitted by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (1 of 2011) s.7.

148

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

includes Kalam) 1[the Tribal Area in Kohistan
district,] Malakand Protected Area, the Tribal Area
adjoining 2[Mansehra] district and the former Stateof Amb; and
(ii)

(c)

Zhob district, Loralai district (excluding Duki
Tehsil), Dalbandin Tehsil of Chagai district andMarri and Bugti Tribal territories of Sibi district;
3[**]"Federally Administered Tribal Areas" includes —(i)

Tribal Areas, adjoining Peshawar district;(ii)

Tribal Areas adjoining Kohat district;(iii)

Tribal Areas adjoining Bannu district;

4[(iiia) Tribal Areas adjoining Lakki Marwat district;](iv)

Tribal Areas adjoining Dera Ismail Khan district;3[(iva) Tribal Areas adjoining Tank district;]

5

[(v)

Bajaur Agency;(va)

Orakzai Agency;](vi)

Mohmand Agency;(vii)

Khyber Agency;(viii) Kurram Agency;(ix)

North Waziristan Agency; and(x)South Waziristan Agency 6[; and]7[(d) On the commencement of the Constitution (Twenty-fifth
Amendment) Act, 2018, the areas mentioned in—(i)paragraph (b),—
(a)

1

2
3
4
5

6
7

in sub-paragraph (i), shall stand merged in
the Province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa; andIns. and shall be deemed to have been so ins. by the Constitution (Sixth Amdt.) Act, 1976 (84 of 1976), s. 4,(w.e.f. the 1st October, 1976).
Subs. and shall be deemed to have been so subs. ibid., for "Hazara".
Omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amdt.) Act, 2018 (37 of 2018) s. 8. w.e.f. 31-05-2018.
Inserted by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (1 of 2011) s. 7.
Subs. and shall be deemed to have been so subs. by the Constitution (Sixth Amdt.) Act, 1976 (84 of 1976), s.
4, for the original sub-paragraph (v), (w.e.f. the 1st December, 1973).
Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amdt.) Act, 2018 (37 of 2018) s. 8. for (.) w.e.f. 31-05-2018.
Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amdt.) Act, 2018 (37 of 2018) s. 8. w.e.f. 31-05-2018.

149

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

(b)

247.

1[*

in sub-paragraph (ii), shall stand merged in
the Province of Balochistan; and(ii)paragraph (c), shall stand merged in the Province ofKhyber Pakhtunkhwa.]

*

*

*

*

*

]

CHAPTER 4. – GENERAL
248.

Protection to President, Governor, Minister, etc.

248. (1)The President, a Governor, the Prime Minister, a Federal
Minister, a Minister of State, the Chief Minister and a Provincial Ministershall not be answerable to any court for the exercise of powers andperformance of functions of their respective offices or for any act done or
purported to be done in the exercise of those powers and performance of
those functions:
Provided that nothing in this clause shall be construed as restricting
the right of any person to bring appropriate proceedings against theFederation or a Province.
(2)
No criminal proceedings whatsoever shall be instituted orcontinued against the President or a Governor in any court during his termof office.
(3)
No process for the arrest or imprisonment of the President
or a Governor shall issue from any court during his term of office.
(4)
No civil proceedings in which relief is claimed against the
President or a Governor shall be instituted during his term of office inrespect of any thing done or not done by him in his personal capacity
whether before or after he enters upon his office unless, at least sixty days
before the proceedings are instituted, notice in writing has been delivered
to him, or sent to him in the manner prescribed by law, stating the natureof the proceedings, the cause of action, the name, description and place ofresidence of the party by whom the proceedings are to be instituted andthe relief which the party claims.

1

Omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amdt.) Act, 2018 (37 of 2018) s. 9. w.e.f. 31-05-2018.

150

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

249.

Legal proceedings

249. (1)Any legal proceedings which, but for the Constitution,
could have been brought by or against the Federation in respect of a matter
which, immediately before the commencing day, was the responsibility of
the Federation and has, under the Constitution, become the responsibilityof a Province, shall be brought by or against the Province concerned; andif any such legal proceedings were pending in any court immediately
before the commencing day then, in those proceedings, for the Federation
the Province concerned shall, as from that day, be deemed to have been
substituted.
(2)
Any legal proceedings which, but for the Constitution,
could have been brought by or against a Province in respect of a matter
which, immediately before the commencing day, was the responsibility of
the Province and has under the Constitution become the responsibility of
the Federation, shall be brought by or against the Federation; and if any
such legal proceedings were pending in any court immediately before thecommencing day then, in those proceedings, for the Province theFederation shall, as from that day, be deemed to have been substituted.
250.

Salaries, allowances, etc., of the President, etc.

250. (1)Within two years from the commencing day, provision
shall be made by law for determining the salaries, allowances andprivileges of the President, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker and a memberof the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly, the Chairman and
Deputy Chairman and a member of the Senate, the Prime Minister, aFederal Minister, a Minister of State, 1* * a Chief Minister, a Provincial
Minister and the Chief Election Commissioner.

1(2)

Until other provision is made by law,—(a)the salaries, allowances and privileges of the President, theSpeaker or Deputy Speaker or a member of the National
Assembly or a Provincial Assembly, a Federal Minister, a
Minister of State, 1* * a Chief Minister, a Provincial
Minister and the Chief Election Commissioner shall besame as the salaries, allowances and privileges to which the
President, the Speaker or Deputy Speaker or member of the
National Assembly of Pakistan or a Provincial Assembly, aFederal Minister, a Minister of State, 1* * a Chief Minister,

The words and comma "a Governor," omitted by the Constitution (First Amdt.) Act, 1974 (33 of 1974), s. 13,(w.e.f. the 4th May, 1974).

151

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANa Provincial Minister or, as the case may be, the Chief
Election Commissioner was entitled immediately before thecommencing day; and(b)the salaries, allowances and privileges of the Chairman, theDeputy Chairman, the Prime Minister and a member of the
Senate shall be such as the President may by Order
determine.

(3)
office as—

The salary, allowances and privileges of a person holding(a)the President;(b)

the Chairman or Deputy Chairman;(c)the Speaker or Deputy Speaker of the National Assemblyor a Provincial Assembly;(d)a Governor;(e)the Chief Election Commissioner; or(f)

the Auditor-General;shall not be varied to his disadvantage during his term of office.
(4)
At any time when the Chairman or Speaker is acting as
President, he shall be entitled to the same salary, allowances andprivileges as a President but shall not exercise any of the functions of theoffice of Chairman or Speaker or a member of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)] or be entitled to salary, allowances or privileges as
Chairman, Speaker or such a member.

251.

National language

251. (1)The National language of Pakistan is Urdu, andarrangements shall be made for its being used for official and otherpurposes within fifteen years from the commencing day.
(2)
Subject to clause (1), the English language may be used for
official purposes until arrangements are made for its replacement by Urdu.

1

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

152

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(3)
Without prejudice to the status of the National language, aProvincial Assembly may by law prescribe measures for the teaching,promotion and use of a provincial language in addition to the national
language.
252.

Special provisions in relation to major ports and aerodromes

252. (1)Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution orin any law, the President may, by public notification, direct that, for aperiod not exceeding three months from a specified date, a specified law,whether a Federal law or a Provincial law, shall not apply to a specified
major port or major aerodrome, or shall apply to a specified major port or
major aerodrome subject to specified exceptions or modifications.
(2)
The giving of a direction under this Article in relation to
any law shall not affect the operation of the law prior to the date specified
in the direction.
253.

Maximum limits as to property, etc.

253.

(1)

1

(a)

prescribe the maximum limits as to property or any classthereof which may be owned, held, possessed or controlled
by any person; and(b)declare that any trade, business, industry or service
specified in such law shall be carried on or owned, to the
exclusion, complete or partial, of other persons, by theFederal Government or a Provincial Government, or by acorporation controlled by any such Government.

[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may by law—(2)
Any law which permits a person to own beneficially or
possess beneficially an area of land greater than that which, immediately
before the commencing day, he could have lawfully owned beneficially or
possessed beneficially shall be invalid.
254.

Failure to comply with requirement as to time does not renderan act invalid

254. When any act or thing is required by the Constitution to be done
within a particular period and it is not done within that period, the doing of
the act or thing shall not be invalid or other-wise ineffective by reason
only that it was not done within that period.
1

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

153

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

255.

Oath of Office

255. (1)
An oath required to be made by a person under theConstitution shall 1[preferably be made in Urdu or] a language that isunderstood by that person.
(2)
Where, under the Constitution, an oath is required to bemade before a specified person and, for any reason, it is impracticable forthe oath to be made before that person, it may be made before such otherperson as may be nominated by that person.
(3)
Where, under the Constitution, a person is required to makean oath before he enters upon an office, he shall be deemed to haveentered upon the office on the day on which he makes the oath.
256.

Private armies forbidden

256. No private organisation capable of functioning as a militaryorganisation shall be formed, and any such organisation shall be illegal.
257.

Provision relating to the State of Jammu and Kashmir

257. When the people of the State of Jammu and Kashmir decide to
accede to Pakistan, the relationship between Pakistan and that State shallbe determined in accordance with the wishes of the people of that State.
258.

Government of territories outside Provinces

258. Subject to the Constitution, until 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]by law otherwise provides, the President may, by Order, make provision
for peace and good government of any part of Pakistan not forming part ofa Province.
259.

Awards259. (1)No citizen shall accept any title, honour or decoration fromany foreign State except with the approval of the Federal Government.
(2)
No title, honour or decoration shall be conferred by theFederal Government or any Provincial Government on any citizen, but the
President may award decorations in recognition of gallantry 3[,meritorious
1
2
3

Subs. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for “be made in”.
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Ins. by the Constitution (First Amdt.) Act, 1974 (33 of 1974), s. 14, (w.e.f. the 4th May, 1974).

154

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

service in the Armed Forces] 1[,academic distinction or distinction in thefield of sports or nursing], as provided by Federal law.
(3)
All titles, honours and decorations awarded to citizens by
any authority in Pakistan before the commencing day other-wise than inrecognition of gallantry 2[,meritorious service in the Armed Forces] oracademic distinction shall stand annulled.
CHAPTER 5. – INTERPRETATION
260.

Definitions

260. (1)In the Constitution, unless the context otherwise requires,the following expressions have the meaning hereby respectively assigned
to them, that is to say,—"Act of 3[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]" means an Act passed by
1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or the National Assembly andassented to, or deemed to have been assented to, by the President;"Act of Provincial Assembly" means an Act passed by the Provincial
Assembly of a Province and assented to, or deemed to have beenassented to, by the Governor;"agricultural income" means agricultural income as defined for the
purposes of the law relating to income-tax;"Article" means Article of the Constitution;"

borrow" includes the raising of money by the grant of annuities, and"loans" shall be construed accordingly;"Chairman" means the Chairman of the Senate and, except in Article
49, includes a person acting as Chairman of the Senate;
4["Chief Justice", in relation to the Supreme Court or a High Court,
includes the Judge for the time being acting as Chief Justice of the
Court;]"citizen" means a citizen of Pakistan as defined by law;

1

2
3
4

Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amdt.) Order, 1981 (P. O. No. 12 of 1981), Art. 2, for "or academic
distinction".
Ins. and shall be deemed always to have been so ins. by Act, 33 of 1974, s. 14, (w.e.f. the 4th May, 1974).
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Ins. by the Constitution (First Amdt.) Act, 1974 (33 of 1974), s. 15.

155

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN"

clause" means clause of the Article in which it occurs;

1

* *

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

"corporation tax" means any tax on income that is payable bycompanies and in respect of which the following conditions
apply:—(a)the tax is not chargeable in respect of agricultural income;(b)no deduction in respect of the tax paid by companies is, by
any law which may apply to the tax, authorised to be madefrom dividends payable by the companies to individuals;(c)no provision exists for taking the tax so paid into account incomputing for the purposes of income-tax the total incomeof individual receiving such dividends, or in computing theincome-tax payable by, or refundable to, such individuals;"

debt" includes any liability in respect of any obligation to repay
capital sums by way of annuities and any liability under any
guarantee, and "debt charges" shall be construed accordingly;"estate duty" means a duty assessed on, or by reference to, the value of
property passing upon death;"existing law" has the same meaning as in clause (7) of Article 268;"

Federal law" means a law made by or under the authority of 2[Majlise-Shoora (Parliament)];"financial year" means a year commencing on the first day of July;"goods" includes all materials, commodities and articles;"Governor" means the Governor of a Province and includes any person
for the time being acting as the Governor of a Province;"guarantee" includes any obligation undertaken before thecommencing day to make payments in the event of the profits of anundertaking falling short of a specified amount;"House" means the Senate or the National Assembly;
1

2

The “definition of Expression consultation” omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of2010), s. 92.
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

156

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN"Joint sitting" means a joint sitting of the two Houses;"Judge" in relation to the Supreme Court or a High Court, includes theChief Justice of the Court and also includes—(a)in relation to the Supreme Court, a person who is acting as
a Judge of the Court; an(b)in relation to the High Court, a person who is an Additional
Judge of the Court;“members of the Armed Forces” does not include persons who are not,for the time being, subject to any law relating to the members of
the Armed Forces;“net proceeds” means, in relation to any tax or duty, the proceeds
thereof, reduced by the cost of collection, as ascertained andcertified by the Auditor-General;"oath" includes affirmation;"Part" means Part of the Constitution;"pension" means a pension, whether contributory or not, of any kindwhatsoever payable to, or in respect of, any person and includes
retired pay so payable, a gratuity so payable, and any sum or sums
so payable by way of the return, with or without interest thereon or
any addition thereto, of subscriptions to a provident fund;"person" includes any body politic or corporate;"President" means the President of Pakistan and includes a person for
the time being acting as, or performing the functions of, thePresident of Pakistan and, as respects anything required to be done
under the Constitution before the commencing day, the President
under the Interim Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan;"Property" includes any right, title or interest in property, movable or
immovable, and any means and instruments of production;"Provincial law" means a law made by or under the authority of theProvincial Assembly;"remuneration" includes salary and pension;"Schedule" means Schedule to the Constitution;

157

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN"security of Pakistan" includes the safety, welfare, stability andintegrity of Pakistan and of each part of Pakistan, but shall notinclude public safety as such;"service of Pakistan" means any service, post or office in connection
with the affairs of the Federation or of a Province, and includes an
All-Pakistan Service, service in the Armed Forces and any otherservice declared to be a service of Pakistan by or under Act of1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or of a Provincial Assembly, butdoes not include service as Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Chairman,
Deputy Chairman, Prime Minister, Federal Minister, Minister ofState, Chief Minister, Provincial Minister, 2[Attorney-General,
3[Advocate-General,] Parliamentary Secretary] or 4[Chairman ormember of a Law Commission, Chairman or member of theCouncil of Islamic Ideology, Special Assistant to the Prime
Minister, Adviser to the Prime Minister, Special Assistant to a
Chief Minister, Adviser to a Chief Minister] or member of a Houseor a Provincial Assembly;"Speaker" means the Speaker of the National Assembly or a Provincial
Assembly, and includes any person acting as the Speaker of theAssembly;"taxation" includes the imposition of any tax or duty, whether general,
local or special, and "tax" shall be construed accordingly;"tax on income" includes a tax in the nature of an excess profits tax or
a business profits tax.
(2)
In the Constitution "Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)]" or "Federal law" or "Act of Provincial Assembly" or"Provincial law" shall include an Ordinance promulgated by the President
or, as the case may be, a Governor.
5[(3) In the Constitution and all enactments and other legal
instruments, unless there is anything repugnant in the subject or context,—
(a)

1
2
3
4
5

"Muslim" means a person who believes in the unity andoneness of Almighty Allah, in the absolute and unqualified

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Ins. by the Constitution (First Amdt.) Act, 1974 (33 of 1974), s. 15, (w.e.f. the 4th May, 1974).
Ins. by the Constitution (Fifth Amdt.) Act, 1976 (62 of 1976), s. 16, (w.e.f. the 13th September, 1976).
Ins. by the Constitution (Sixth Amdt.) Act, 1976 (84 of 1976), s. 5, (w.e.f. the 31st December, 1976).
Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amdt.) Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 24 of 1985), Art. 6, for "clause (3)", which
was previously added by Act 49 of 1974, s. 3, (w.e.f. the 17th September, 1974).

158

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

finality of the Prophethood of Muhammad (peace be uponhim), the last of the prophets, and does not believe in, or
recognize as a prophet or religious reformer, any person
who claimed or claims to be a prophet, in any sense of theword or of any description whatsoever, after Muhammad(peace be upon him); and
(b)

261.

"non-Muslim" means a person who is not a Muslim andincludes a person belonging to the Christian, Hindu, Sikh,
Budhist or Parsi community, a person of the Quadianigroup or the Lahori group (who call themselves ‘Ahmadis’
or by any other name), or a Bahai, and a person belonging
to any of the scheduled castes.]

Person acting in office not to be regarded as successor toprevious occupant of office, etc.

261. For the purposes of the Constitution, a person who acts in an officeshall not be regarded as the successor to the person who held that office
before him or as the predecessor to the person who holds that office after
him.
262.

Gregorian calendar to be used

262. For the purposes of the Constitution, periods of time shall bereckoned according to the Gregorian calendar.
263.

Gender and number

263.

In the Constitution,—

264.

(a)

words importing the masculine gender shall be taken to
include females; and(b)words in the singular shall include the plural, and words inthe plural shall include the singular.

Effect of repeal of laws

264. Where a law is repealed, or is deemed to have been repealed, by,under, or by virtue of the Constitution, the repeal shall not, except asotherwise provided in the Constitution,—(a)revive anything not in force or existing at the time at which
the repeal takes effect;

159

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(b)affect the previous operation of the law or anything duly
done or suffered under the law;(c)affect any right, privilege, obligation or liability acquired,accrued or incurred under the law;(d)affect any penalty, forfeiture or punishment incurred in
respect of any offence committed against the law; or(e)affect any investigation, legal proceeding or remedy inrespect of any such right, privilege, obligation, liability,
penalty, forfeiture or punishment;

and any such investigation, legal proceeding or remedy may be instituted,
continued or enforced, and any such penalty, forfeiture or punishment may
be imposed, as if the law had not been repealed.
CHAPTER 6. – TITLE, COMMENCEMENT AND REPEAL

265.

Title of Constitution and commencement265. (1)This Constitution shall be known as the Constitution of theIslamic Republic of Pakistan.
(2)
Subject to clauses (3) and (4), the Constitution shall comeinto force on the fourteenth day of August, one thousand nine hundred andseventy-three or on such earlier day as the President may, by notificationin the official Gazette, appoint, in the Constitution referred to as the"commencing day".
(3)

The Constitution shall, to the extent necessary—(a)for the constitution of the first Senate;(b)

for the first meeting of a House or a joint sitting to be held;(c)for the election of the President and the Prime Minister tobe held ; and(d)to enable any other thing to be done which, for the purposesof the Constitution, it is necessary to do before thecommencing day,come into force upon the enactment of the Constitution, but the person
elected as President or Prime Minister shall not enter upon his office
before the commencing day.
160

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(4)
Where by the Constitution a power is conferred to makerules or to issue orders with respect to the enforcement of any provision
thereof, or with respect to the establishment of any court or office, or theappointment of any Judge or officer there-under, or with respect to theperson by whom, or the time when, or the place where, or the manner inwhich, anything is to be done under any such provision, then that power
may be exercised at any time between the enactment of the Constitution
and its commencement.
266. Repeal
266. The Interim Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan,
together with the Acts and President's Orders making omissions from,additions to, modifications of, or amendments in, that Constitution is
hereby repealed.
CHAPTER 7. – TRANSITIONAL
267.

Power of President to remove difficulties

267. (1)
At any time before the commencing day or before theexpiration of three months from the commencing day, the President may,for the purpose of removing any difficulties, or for bringing the provisionsof the Constitution into effective operation, by Order, direct that theprovisions of the Constitution shall, during such period as may be
specified in the Order, have effect, subject to such adaptations, whether by
way of modification, addition or omission, as he may deem to benecessary or expedient.
(2)
An Order made under clause (1) shall be laid before bothHouses without undue delay, and shall remain in force until a resolution
disapproving it is passed by each House or, in case of disagreement
between the two Houses, until such resolution is passed at a joint sitting.
267A. Power to remove difficulties
1[267A.
If any difficulty arises in giving effect to the provisions of
the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010, hereinafter in this
Article referred to as the Act, or for bringing the provisions of the Act into
effective operation, the matter shall be laid before both Houses in a joint
sitting which may by a resolution direct that the provisions of the Act
shall, during such period as may be specified in the resolution, have effect,
subject to such adaptations, whether by way of modification, addition oromission, as may be deemed necessary or expedient:
Provided that this power shall be available for a period of one year
1

New Articles 267A and 267B ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 93.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

from the commencement of the Act.
267B. Removal of doubt
267B. For removal of doubt it is hereby declared that Article 152A
omitted and Articles 179 and 195 substituted by the Constitution(Seventeenth Amendment) Act, 2003 (Act No. III of 2003),
notwithstanding its repeal, shall be deemed always to have been soomitted and substituted.]
268. Continuance in force, and adaptation of certain laws
268. (1)
Except as provided by this Article, all existing laws shall,subject to the Constitution, continue in force, so far as applicable and with
the necessary adaptations, until altered, repealed or amended by theappropriate Legislature.
1

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

(3)
For the purpose of bringing the provisions of any existinglaw into accord with the provisions of the Constitution (other than Part IIof the Constitution), the President may by Order, within a period of two
years from the commencing day, make such adaptations, whether by wayof modification, addition or omission, as he may deem to be necessary or
expedient, and any such Order may be made so as to have effect from suchday, not being a day earlier than the commencing day, as may be specified
in the Order.
(4)
The President may 2authorise the Governor of a Province toexercise, in relation to the Province, the powers conferred on the President
by clause (3) in respect of laws relating to matters with respect to which
the Provincial Assembly has power to make laws.
(5)
The powers exercisable under clauses (3) and (4) shall be
subject to the provisions of an Act of the appropriate Legislature.
(6)
Any court, tribunal or authority required or empowered to
enforce an existing law shall, notwithstanding that no adaptations havebeen made in such law by an Order made under clause (3) or clause (4),construe the law with all such adaptations as are necessary to bring it into
accord with the provisions of the Constitution.
(7)
In this Article, "existing laws" means all laws (including
Ordinances, Orders-in-Council, Orders, rules, bye-laws, regulations andLetters Patent constituting a High Court, and any notifications and other1
2

Clause (2) omitted ibid., s. 94.
For such authorization, see Gaz. of Pak., 1973, Ext., Pt. II, p. 2001.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

legal instruments having the force of law) in force in Pakistan or any part
thereof, or having extra-territorial validity, immediately before thecommencing day.
Explanation.–In this Article, "in force", in relation to any law,means having effect as law whether or not the law has been brought into
operation.
269.

Validation of law, acts, etc.

269. (1)All Proclamations, President's Orders, Martial Law
Regulations, Martial Law Orders and all other laws made between thetwentieth day of December, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-one
and the twentieth day of April, one thousand nine hundred and seventytwo (both days inclusive), are hereby declared notwithstanding any
judgment of any court, to have been validly made by competent authority
and shall not be called in question in any court on any ground whatsoever.
(2)
All orders made, proceedings taken and acts done by any
authority, or by any person, which were made, taken or done, or purported
to have been made, taken or done, between the twentieth day ofDecember, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-one, and the twentiethday of April, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-two (both days
inclusive), in exercise of the powers derived from any President's Orders,Martial Law Regulations, Martial Law Orders, enactments, notifications,rules, orders or bye-laws, or in execution of any orders made or sentences
passed by any authority in the exercise or purported exercise of powers as
aforesaid, shall, notwithstanding any judgment of any court, be deemed to
be and always to have been validly made, taken or done and shall not becalled in question in any court on any ground whatsoever.
(3)
No suit or other legal proceedings shall lie in any court
against any authority or any person for or on account of or in respect of
any order made, proceedings taken or act done whether in the exercise or
purported exercise of the powers referred to in clause (2) or in executionof or in compliance with orders made or sentences passed in exercise or
purported exercise of such powers.
270.

Temporary validation of certain laws, etc.

1270. (1)[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may by law made in themanner prescribed for legislation for a matter in Part I of the Federal
Legislative List validate all Proclamations, President's Orders, Martial
Law Regulations, Martial Law Orders and other laws made between the1

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

twenty-fifth day of March, one thousand nine hundred and sixty-nine, andthe nineteenth day of December, one thousand nine hundred and seventyone (both days inclusive).
(2)
Notwithstanding a judgment of any court, a law made by[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] under clause (1) shall not be questioned inany court on any ground, whatsoever.
1(3)
Notwithstanding the provisions of clause (1), and a
judgment of any court to the contrary, for a period of two years from thecommencing day, the validity of all such instruments as are referred to inclause (1) shall not be called in question before any court on any groundwhatsoever.
(4)
All orders, made, proceedings taken, and acts done by any
authority, or any person, which were made, taken or done, or purported tohave been made, taken or done, between the twenty-fifth day of March,
one thousand nine hundred and sixty-nine and nineteenth day ofDecember, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-one (both days
inclusive), in exercise of powers derived from any President's Orders,Martial Law Regulations, Martial Law Orders, enactments, notifications,rules, orders or bye-laws, or in execution of any order made or sentencepassed by any authority in the exercise or purported exercise of power as
aforesaid shall, notwithstanding any judgment of any court, be deemed to
be and always to have been validly made, taken or done, so however thatany such order, proceeding or act may be declared invalid by 1[Majlis-eShoora (Parliament)] at any time within a period of two years from thecommencing day by resolution of both Houses, or in case of disagreement
between the two Houses, by such resolution passed at a joint sitting andshall not be called in question before any court on any ground,whatsoever.
270A. Affirmation of President’s Orders, etc.
2 3

[ [270A.— (1) The Proclamation of the fifth day of July, 1977, all
President's Orders, Ordinances, Martial Law Regulations, Martial
Law Orders, including the Referendum Order, 1984 (P.O. No. 11 of
1984), 4* * * the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.
No. 14 of 1985), the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1985 (P.O.
No. 20 of 1985), the Constitution (Third Amendment) Order, 1985 (P.O.
No. 24 of 1985), and all other laws made between the fifth day of July,
1
2
3

4

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.
Articles 270A and 270B ins. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,
Article 270A subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amdt.) Act. 1985 (18 of 1985) s. 19, for "Art. 270A" (w.e.f.
30-12-1985) vide S.R.O. No. 1279(1)/85, dated 29-12-85 read with Proclamation of Withdrawal of Martial
Law, dated 30-12-85, see Gaz. of Pak., 1985, Ext., Pt. 1. pp. 431-432.
Certain words omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 95.

164

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1977, and the date on which this Article comes into force are hereby
affirmed, adopted and declared, notwithstanding any judgement of any
court, to have been validly made by competent authority and, notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, shall not be called inquestion in any court on any ground whatsoever :Provided that a President's Order, Martial Law Regulation orMartial Law Order made after the thirtieth day of September, 1985, shallbe confined only to making such provisions as facilitate, or are incidental
to, the revocation of the Proclamation of the fifth day of July, 1977.
(2)
All orders made, proceedings taken and acts done by any
authority or by any person, which were made, taken or done, or purported
to have been made, taken or done, between the fifth day of July, 1977, andthe date on which this Article comes into force, in exercise of the powers
derived from any Proclamation, President's Orders, Ordinances, Martial
Law Regulations, Martial Law Orders, enactments, notifications, rules,
orders or bye-laws, or in execution of or in compliance with any ordermade or sentence passed by any authority in the exercise or purported
exercise of powers as aforesaid, shall, notwithstanding any judgement of
any court, be deemed to be and always to have been validly made, taken ordone and shall not be called in question in any court on any groundwhatsoever.
(3)
All President's Orders, Ordinances, Martial Law
Regulations, Martial Law Orders, enactments, notifications, rules, orders,or bye-laws, in force immediately before the date on which this Article
comes into force shall continue in force until altered, repealed or amended
by competent authority.
Explanation.–In this clause, "competent authority" means,—(a)in respect of President's Order's, Ordinances, Martial Law
Regulations, Martial Law Orders and enactments, theappropriate Legislature; and(b)in respect of notifications, rules, orders and bye-laws, theauthority in which the power to make, alter, repeal oramend the same vests under the law.

(4)
No suit, prosecution or other legal proceedings shall lie inany court against any authority or any person, for or on account of or in
respect of any order made, proceedings taken or act done whether in theexercise or purported exercise of the powers referred to in clause (2) or in
execution of or in compliance with orders made or sentences passed in
exercise or purported exercise of such powers.

165

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(5)
For the purposes of clauses (1), (2) and (4), all orders made,proceedings taken, acts done or purporting to be made, taken or done by
any authority or person shall be deemed to have been made, taken or donein good faith and for the purpose intended to be served thereby.
1[(6) The laws referred to in clause (1) may be amended by theappropriate Legislature in the manner provided for amendment of suchlaws.]
270AA.

Declaration and continuance of laws etc.

2[270AA. (1) The Proclamation of Emergency of the fourteenth day ofOctober, 1999, the Provisional Constitution Order No. 1 of 1999, the Oathof Office (Judges) Order, 2000 (No. 1 of 2000), Chief Executive's OrderNo. 12 of 2002, Chief Executive's Order No. 19 of 2002, the amendment
made in the Constitution through the Legal Framework Order, 2002 (Chief
Executive's Order No. 24 of 2002), the Legal Framework (Amendment)
Order, 2002 (Chief Executive's Order No. 29 of 2002) and the Legal
Framework (Second Amendment) Order, 2002 (Chief Executive's OrderNo. 32 of 2002), notwithstanding any judgement of any court including
the Supreme Court or a High Court, are hereby declared as having been
made without lawful authority and of no legal effect.
(2)
Except as provided in clause (1) and subject to theprovisions of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010, alllaws including President’s Orders, Acts, Ordinances, Chief Executive’sOrders, regulations, enactments, notifications, rules, orders or bye-laws
made between the twelfth day of October, one thousand nine hundred andninety-nine and the thirty-first day of December, two thousand and three(both days inclusive) and still in force shall, continue to be in force until
altered, repealed or amended by the competent authority.
Explanation.— For the purposes of clause (2) and clause (6),“competent authority” means,—

1
2

(a)

in respect of Presidents’ Orders, Ordinances, Chief
Executive’s Orders and all other laws, the appropriate
Legislature; and(b)in respect of notification, rules, orders and bye-laws, theauthority in which the power to make, alter, repeal oramend the same vests under the law.

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010, (10 of 2010), s. 95, for “clause (6)”.
Subs. ibid. for “Article 270AA” s. 96.

166

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(3)
Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution orclause (1), or judgement of any court including the Supreme Court or High
Court,—(a)Judges of the Supreme Court, High Courts and Federal
Shariat Court who were holding the office of a Judge orwere appointed as such, and had taken oath under the Oathof Office (Judges) Order, 2000 (1 of 2000), shall bedeemed to have continued to hold the office as a Judge or
to have been appointed as such, as the case may be, under
the Constitution, and such continuance or appointment,
shall have effect accordingly.

(b)Judges of the Supreme Court, High Courts and Federal
Shariat Court who not having been given or taken oathunder the Oath of Office of (Judges) Order, 2000 (1 of2000), and ceased to hold the office of a Judge shall, for the
purposes of pensionary benefits only, be deemed to havecontinued to hold office under the Constitution till theirdate of superannuation.

(4)
All orders made, proceedings taken, appointments made,including secondments and deputations, and acts done by any authority, orby any person, which were made, taken or done, or purported to have been
made, taken or done, between the twelfth day of October, one thousand
nine hundred and ninety-nine, and the thirty first day of December, two
thousand and three (both days inclusive), in exercise of the powers derived
from any authority or laws mentioned in clause (2), or in execution of orin compliance with any orders made or sentences passed by any authority
in the exercise or purported exercise of powers as aforesaid, shall,
notwithstanding anything contained in clause (1), be deemed to be validand shall not be called in question in any court or forum on any groundwhatsoever.
(5)
No suit, prosecution or other legal proceedings including
writ petitions, shall lie in any court or forum against any authority or any
person, for or on account of or in respect of any order made, Proceedings
taken or act done whether in the exercise or purported exercise of thepowers referred to in clause (2) or clause (4) or in execution of or incompliance with orders made or sentences passed in exercise or purported
exercise of such powers.
(6)
Notwithstanding omission of the Concurrent Legislative
List by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010, all laws withrespect, to any of the matters enumerated in the said List (including
Ordinances, Orders, rules, bye-laws, regulations and notifications and167

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

other legal instruments having the force of law) in force in Pakistan or any
part thereof, or having extra-territorial operation, immediately before thecommencement of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act 2010,
shall continue to remain in force until altered, repealed or amended by thecompetent authority.
(7)
Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, alltaxes and fees levied under any law in force immediately before thecommencement of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010,
shall continue to be levied until they are varied or abolished by an Act of
the appropriate legislature.
(8)
On the omission of the Concurrent Legislative List, theprocess of devolution of the matters mentioned in the said List to theProvinces shall be completed by the thirtieth day of June, two thousand
and eleven.
(9)
For purposes of the devolution process under clause (8), theFederal Government shall constitute an Implementation Commission as it
may deem fit within fifteen days of the commencement of the Constitution(Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010.]

270B. Elections to be deemed to be held under Constitution
270B. Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, theelections held under the Houses of (Parliament) and Provincial Assemblies(Elections) Order, 1977, 1[and the Conduct of General Elections Order,
2002 (Chief Executive's Order No. 7 of 2002),] to the Houses and theProvincial Assemblies shall be deemed to have been held under theConstitution and shall have effect accordingly.

270BB.

General Elections 2008

2

[270BB.
Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, or
any other law for the time being in force, the General Elections 2008, to
the National Assembly and the Provincial Assemblies held on theeighteenth day of February, two thousand and eight shall be deemed tohave been held under the Constitution and shall have effect accordingly.].

12Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 97, and shall be deemed always tohave been so, ins. with affect from the 21st day of August 2002.
New Article 270BB Ins., ibid., s. 98.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1

271.

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

First National Assembly

2[271. (1)Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution but
3subject to [Article 63,] Article 64 and Article 223,—4[(a)

the first National Assembly shall consist of—(i)persons who have taken oath in the National
Assembly of Pakistan existing immediately before
the commencing day ; and(ii)

the persons to be elected in accordance with law by
the members of the Assembly to fill the seatsreferred to in clause (2A) of Article 51,

and, unless sooner dissolved, shall continue until the fourteenth
day of August, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-seven; andreference to ‘total membership’ of National Assembly in theConstitution shall be construed accordingly;](b)

the qualifications and disqualifications for being elected
and being a member of the first National Assembly shall,
except in case of members filling casual vacancies 2[, or tobe elected to the additional seats referred to in clause (2A)of Article 51,] after the commencing day, be the same asunder the Interim Constitution of the Islamic Republic ofPakistan:

Provided that no person holding an office of profit in theservice of Pakistan shall continue to be a member of the first
National Assembly after the expiration of three months from thecommencing day.

1

2

3
4

Article 270C stands omitted as a consequence of the (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), see section
2 and Article 270AA.
Art. 271 shall, during the period of five years from the 27th October, 1973, have effect as if,—(a) after clause (2) thereof, the following new clause was ins., namely:—"(2A) A person referred to inclause (2) shall resign one of his seats at any time on or before the 10th day of November, 1973, and, if
he does not so resign, the seat to which he was elected first shall become vacant."; and(b) in clause (3) thereof, after the words "election petition", the words "or other-wise" were inserted, see
the Removal of Difficulties (Bar against Double Membership) Order, 1973 (P. O. No. 22 of 1973).
Ins., by the Constitution (Fourth Amdt.) Act, 1975 (71 of 1975), s. 9, (w.e.f. the 21st November, 1975).
Subs. ibid.,

169

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(2)
If a person referred to in paragraph (a) of clause (1) is,
immediately before the commencing day, also a member of a Provincial
Assembly, he shall not take a seat in the National Assembly or theProvincial Assembly until he resigns one of his seats.

(3)
A casual vacancy in a seat in the first National Assembly,
including a vacancy in a seat in the National Assembly of Pakistan
existing before the commencing day which was not filled before that day,caused by reason of death or resignation of a member or consequent upon
his incurring a disqualification or ceasing to be a member as a result of the
final decision of an election petition may be filled in the same manner inwhich it would have been filled before the commencing day.
(4)
A person referred to in paragraph (a) of clause (1) shall not
sit or vote in the National Assembly until he has made the oath prescribedby Article 65 and, if, without the leave of the Speaker of the National
Assembly granted on reasonable cause shown, he fails to make the oath
within twenty one days from the day of the first meeting of the Assembly,
his seat shall become vacant at the expiration of that period.

272.

First 1[constitution of] Senate

2272. 3*Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, but
subject to 4[Article 63 and] Article 223,—
(a)

1
2

3

4

the Senate shall, until the first National Assembly underConstitution continues in existences, consist of forty-fivemembers and the provisions of Article 59 shall have effectas if, in paragraph (a) of clause (1) thereof, for the word
"fourteen" the word "ten" and in paragraph (b) of thatclause for the word "five" the word "three", were
substituted, and reference to "total membership" of the
Senate in the Constitution shall be construed accordingly;

Ins. by the Constitution (First Amdt.) Act, 1974 (33 of 1974), s. 16, (w.e.f. the 4th May, 1974).
Article 272 had, between the 9th June, 1973, and the 14th August, 1974, effect subject to the following
modifications made by the Election to the Senate Order, 1973 (P.O. No. 8 of 1973), namely:In the said Article, after clause (1), the following new clause shall be added, namely:"(2) Until Parliament by law makes provision in that behalf, the President may, for the purpose of the due
constitution of, and election to, the Senate, by Order, make provision for any of the matters referred toin—(a) Paragraphs (d) and (e) of clause (1) of Article 63;(b) Paragraphs (d), (e) and (f) of Article 222; and(c) Article 225.".
The brackets and figure "(1)" omitted by the Constitution (Fourth Amdt.) Act. ,1975 (71 of 1975), s. 10,(w.e.f. 21st November, 1975).
Ins. ibid.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

273.

(b)

the members elected or chosen as members of the Senate
shall be divided into two groups by drawing of lots, the firstgroup consisting of five members from each Province, twomembers from the Federally Administered Tribal Areasand one member from the Federal Capital and the second
group consisting of five members from each Province one
member from the said Areas and one member from theFederal Capital;(c)the term of office of members of the first group and of thesecond group shall respectively be two years and four
years;(d)the term of office of persons elected or chosen to succeed
the members of the Senate at the expiration of theirrespective terms shall be four years;(e)the term of office of a person elected or chosen to fill acasual vacancy shall be the unexpired term of the member
whose vacancy he is elected or chosen to fill;(f)

as soon as the first general election to the National
Assembly is held, there shall be elected to the Senate four
additional members from each Province and two additional
members from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas;
and

(g)

the term of office of such half of the members electedunder paragraph (f) as may be determined by drawing oflots shall be the unexpired term of office of the members of
the first group and the term of office of the other half shallbe the unexpired term of the members of the second group.

First Provincial Assembly

1273. (1)Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution,2
but subject to [Article 63,] Article 64 and Article 223,—3[(a)

the first Assembly of a Province under the Constitution
shall consist of—
(i)

1

2
3

the members of the Assembly of that Province in

Article 273 shall, during the period of five years from the 27th October, 1973, have effect as if, in clause (2)thereof, after the words "elections petitions", the words "or otherwise" were ins., see. the Removal of
Difficulties (Bar against Double Membership) Order, 1973 (P.O. No. 22 of 1973).
Ins. by the Constitution (Fourth Amdt.) Act, 1975 (71 of 1975), s. 11, (w.e.f. the 21st November, 1975).
Subs. ibid., (w.e.f. the 21st November, 1975).

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

existence immediately before the commencing day,
and
(ii)

the additional members to be elected in accordancewith law by the members of the Assembly to fill theseats referred to in clause (3) of Article 106,

and, unless sooner dissolved, shall continue until the fourteenth
day of August, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-seven ; andreference "total membership" of the Assembly of a Province in theConstitution shall be construed accordingly;](b)

the qualifications and disqualifications for member-ship ofthe first Assembly of a Province shall, except in case of
members filling casual vacancies 1[, or to be elected to theadditional seats referred to in clause (3) of Article 106,]
after the commencing day, be the same as were provided in
the Interim Constitution of the Islamic Republic ofPakistan:

Provided that no person holding an office of profit in the service ofPakistan shall continue to be a member of the Assembly after the
expiration of three months from the commencing day.
(2)
A casual vacancy in a seat in the first Assembly of aProvince, including a vacancy in a seat in the Assembly of that Province inexistence immediately before the commencing day which was not filled
before that day, caused by reason of death or resignation of a member orconsequent upon his incurring a disqualification or ceasing to be amember as a result of the final decision of an election petition may befilled in the same manner in which it would have been filled before thecommencing day.
(3)
A member referred to in paragraph (a) of clause (1) shallnot sit or vote in the Provincial Assembly until he has made the oathprescribed by Article 65 read with Article 127 and, if, without leave of the
Speaker of the Provincial Assembly granted on reasonable cause shown,
he fails to make the oath within twenty-one days from the day of the firstmeeting of the Provincial Assembly, his seat shall become vacant at the
expiration of that period.
274.

Vesting of property, assets, rights, liabilities and obligations

274.

(1)

1

All property and assets which, immediately before theIns. by the Constitution (Fourth Amdt.) Act, 1975 (71 of 1975), s. 11, (w.e.f. the 21st November, 1975).

172

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

commencing day, were vested in the President or the Federal Government
shall, as from that day, vest in the Federal Government unless they wereused for purposes which, on that day, became purposes of the Governmentof a Province, in which case they shall, as from that day, vest in the
Government of the Province.
(2)
All property and assets which, immediately before thecommencing day, were vested in the Government of a Province, shall, as
from that day, continue to be vested in the Government of that Province,
unless they were used for purposes, which on that day, became purposesof the Federal Government in which case they shall, as from that day, vestin the Federal Government.
(3)
All rights, liabilities and obligations of the Federal
Government or of the Government of a Province, whether arising out ofcontract or otherwise, shall as from the commencing day, continue to berespectively the rights, liabilities and obligations of the Federal
Government or of the Government of the Province, except that –

275.

(a)

all rights, liabilities and obligations relating to any matter
which, immediately before that day, was the responsibilityof the Federal Government, but which under theConstitution, has become the responsibility of theGovernment of a Province, shall devolve upon the
Government of that Province; and(b)

all rights, liabilities and obligations relating to any matter
which, immediately before that day, was the responsibilityof the Government of a Province, but which under theConstitution, has become the responsibility of the Federal
Government, shall devolve upon the Federal Government.

Continuance in office of persons in service of Pakistan, etc.

275. (1)Subject to the Constitution and until law is made under
Article 240 any person who, immediately before the commencing day,
was in the service of Pakistan shall, as from that day, continue in theservice of Pakistan on the same terms and conditions as were applicable tohim under the Interim Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
immediately before that day.
(2)
Clause (1) shall also apply in relation to a person holding
office immediately before the commencing day as —(a)

Chief Justice of Pakistan or other Judge of the Supreme
Court, or Chief Justice or other Judge of a High Court;

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(b)Governor of a Province;(c)

Chief Minister of a Province;(d)

Speaker or Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly or a
Provincial Assembly;(e)Chief Election Commissioner;(f)

Attorney-General for Pakistan or Advocate-General for a
Province; and(g)

Auditor-General of Pakistan.

(3)
Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, fora period of six months from the commencing day, a Federal Minister or a
Minister of State or the Chief Minister of a Province or a Provincial
Minister may be a person who is not a member of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament)] or, as the case may be, the Provincial Assembly of that
Province; and such Chief Minister and Provincial Minister shall have theright to speak and otherwise take part in the proceedings of the Provincial
Assembly or any committee thereof of which he may be named a member,but shall not by virtue of this clause be entitled to vote.
(4)
Any person who, under this Article, is continued in an
office in respect of which a form of oath is set out in the Third Scheduleshall, as soon as is practicable after the commencing day make before theappropriate person oath in that form.

1(5)

Subject to the Constitution and law—(a)

all civil, criminal and revenue courts exercising jurisdiction
and functions immediately before the commencing day
shall, as from that day, continue to exercise their respective
jurisdictions and functions; and(b)

all authorities and all offices (whether judicial, executive,
revenue or ministerial) throughout Pakistan exercising
functions immediately before the commencing day shall, as
from that day, continue to exercise their respectivefunctions.

See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

276.

Oath of first President

276. Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, the first
President may, in the absence of the Chief Justice of Pakistan, make theoath referred to in Article 42 before the Speaker of the National Assembly.
277.

Transitional financial, provisions

277. (1)The schedule or authorized expenditure authenticated by
the President for the financial year ending on the thirtieth day of June, one
thousand nine hundred and seventy-four, shall continue to remain a valid
authority for expenditure from the Federal Consolidated Fund for that
year.
(2)
The President may, in respect of expenditure of the Federal
Government for any financial year preceding the financial year
commencing on the first day of July, one thousand nine hundred andseventy-three (being expenditure in excess of the authorized expenditure
for that year), authorize the withdrawal of moneys from the Federal
Consolidated Fund.
(3)
The provisions of clauses (1) and (2) shall apply to and in
relation to a Province, and for that purpose—

278.

(a)

any reference in those provisions to the President shall beread as a reference to the Governor of the Province;(b)

any reference in those provisions to the Federal
Government shall be read as a reference to the Governmentof the Province; and(c)any reference in those provisions to the Federal
Consolidated Fund shall be read as a reference to theProvincial Consolidated Fund of the Province.

Accounts not audited before commencing day

278. The Auditor-General shall perform the same functions and exercise
the same powers in relation to accounts which have not been completed or
audited before the commencing day as. by virtue of the Constitution, he isempowered to perform or exercise in relation to other accounts, andArticle 171 shall, with the necessary modifications, apply accordingly.
279.

Continuance of taxes

279.

Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, all taxes

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

and fees levied under any law in force immediately before thecommencing day shall continue to be levied until they are varied orabolished by Act of the appropriate Legislature.

280.

Continuance of Proclamation of Emergency

280. The Proclamation of Emergency issued on the twenty-third day of
November, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-one, shall be deemed
to be a Proclamation of Emergency issued under Article 232, and for the
purposes of clause (7) and clause (8) thereof to have been issued on thecommencing day, and any law, rule or order made or purporting to havebeen made in pursuance of that Proclamation shall be deemed to havebeen validly made 1[and shall not be called in question in any Court on the
ground of inconsistency with any of the rights conferred by Chapter I ofPart II. ]____________

1

Added and shall be deemed always to have been so added by the Constitution (Fifth Amdt) Act, 1976 (62 of1976), s. 17.

176

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1[ANNEX(Article 2A)
The Objectives Resolution(In the name of Allah, the most beneficent, the most merciful.)
Whereas sovereignty over the entire universe belongs to Allah
Almighty alone and the authority which He has delegated to the State ofPakistan, through its people for being exercised within the limitsprescribed by Him is a sacred trust;This Constituent Assembly representing the people of Pakistan
resolves to frame a constitution for the sovereign independent State ofPakistan;
Wherein the State shall exercise its powers and authority throughthe chosen representatives of the people;
Wherein the principles of democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance
and social justice as enunciated by Islam shall be fully observed;
Wherein the Muslims shall be enabled to order their lives in theindividual and collective spheres in accordance with the teachings andrequirements of Islam as set-out in the Holy Quran and the Sunnah;2Wherein adequate provision shall be made for the minorities to[freely] profess and practise their religions and develop their cultures;

Wherein the territories now included in or in accession withPakistan and such other territories as may hereafter be included in or
accede to Pakistan shall form a Federation wherein the units will beautonomous with such boundaries and limitations on their powers andauthority as may be prescribed;
Wherein shall be guaranteed fundamental rights including equalityof status, of opportunity and before law, social, economic and politicaljustice, and freedom of thought, expression, belief, faith, worship andassociation, subject to law and public morality;

1
2

New Annex ins. by P.O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.
Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 99.

177

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

Wherein adequate provision shall be made to safeguard thelegitimate interests of minorities and backward and depressed classes;
Wherein the independence of the Judiciary shall be fully secured;
Wherein the integrity of the territories of the Federation, its
independence and all its rights including its sovereign rights on land, sea
and air shall be safeguarded;
So that the people of Pakistan may prosper and attain their rightful
and honoured place amongst the nations of the World and make their fullcontribution towards international peace and progress and happiness ofhumanity.]__________

178

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN1[FIRST SCHEDULE[Article 8(3) (b) and (4)]Laws exempted from the operation of Article 8 (1) and (2)PART I
I. President’s Orders
1.

The Acceding State (Property) Order, 1961 (P. O. No. 12 of 1961).

2.

The Economic Reforms Order, 1972 (P. O. No. 1 of 1972).
II. Regulations

1.

The Land Reforms Regulation, 1972.

2.
The Land Reforms (Balochistan Pat Feeder Canal) Regulation,
1972.
3.
The Economic Reforms (Protection of Industries) Regulation,
1972.
4.
The Distribution of Property (Chitral) Regulation, 1974 (II of1974).
5.
The Settlement of Disputes of Immovable Property (Chitral)
Regulation, 1974 (III of 1974).
6.
The Dir and Swat (Devolution and Distribution of Property andSettlement of Disputes of Immovable Property) (Amendment) Regulation,
1975 (II of 1975).
2[7.
The Settlement of Disputes of Immovable Property (Chitral)(Amendment) Regulation, 1976 (II of 1976)].
III. Federal Acts
1.

1

2

The Land Reforms (Amendment) Act, 1974

(XXX of 1974).

The First Schedule as amended by the Constitution (First Amdt.) Act, 1974 (33 of 1974), s. 17, (w.e.f. the 4th
May, 1974), has been subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amdt.) Act, 1975 (71 of 1975), s. 12, (w.e.f. the 21st
November, 1975).
Entry 7 added by the Constitution (Fifth Amdt.) Act, 1976 (62 of 1976), s. 18, (w.e.f. the 13th September,1976).

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

2.

The Land Reforms (Amendment) Act, 1975

1

[3.

The Flour Milling Control and Development Act, 1976 (LVII of1976).

4.

The Rice Milling Control and Development Act, 1976 (LVIII of1976).

5.

The Cotton Ginning Control and Development Act, 1976 (LIX of1976).]

2

[

*

3

[6.

The Pakistan Army Act, 1952 (XXXIX of 1952).

7.

The Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997 (XXVII of 1997), only to the extent
of sub-clause (iv) of clause (d) of sub-section (1) of section 2 of
the Pakistan Army Act, 1952 (XXXIX of 1952), added through the
Pakistan Army (Amendment) Act, 2017 (XI of 2017).]

*

*

*

*

*

(XXXIX of 1975).

*

*

*]

IV. Ordinance Promulgated by the President
The Land Reforms (Amendment) Ordinance, 1975 (XXI of 1975),
and the Federal Act enacted to replace the said Ordinance.
V. Provincial Acts
1.
The Land Reforms(Balochistan Act XI of 1974).

(Balochistan Amendment) Act, 1974

2.
The Land Reforms (Pat Feeder Canal Regulation) (Amendment)
Act, 1975 (Balochistan Act VII of 1975).
4[VI. Provincial Ordinance

The Land Reforms (Pat Feeder Canal) (Amendment) Ordinance,
1976].
__________

1

2

3

4

Entries 3 to 5 added by the Constitution (Fifth Amdt.) Act, 1976 (62 of 1976), s. 18, (w.e.f. the 13th
September, 1976).
Added by the Constitution (Twenty-first Amendment) Act, 2015 (I of 2015) and shall cease to form part of
the Constitution and shall stand repealed on the expiration of two years.
Added by the Constitution (Twenty-third Amendment) Act, 2017 (XII of 2017) and shall cease to form partof the Constitution and shall stand repealed on the expiration of two years.
Sub-heading VI and the entry added ibid.,

180

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANPART II
I. President’s Orders
1.
The Minerals (Acquisition and Transfer) Order, 1961 (P. O. No. 8
of 1961).
2.
The Companies (Managing Agency and Election of Directors)
Order, 1972 (P. O. No. 2 of 1972).
3.
The Co-operative Societies (Reforms) Order, 1972 (P. O. No. 9 of
1972).
4.
The Life Insurance (Nationalization) Order, 1972 (P. O. No. 10 of
1972).
5.
The Martial Law (Pending Proceedings) Order, 1972 (P. O. No. 14
of 1972).
6.
The Rulers of Acceding States (Abolition of Privy Purses andPrivileges) Order, 1972 (P. O. No. 15 of 1972).
7.
The Industrial Sanctions and Licences (Cancellation) Order, 1972
(P. O. No. 16 of 1972).
8.
The Criminal Law Amendment (Special Court) Order, 1972 (P. O.
No. 20 of 1972).
II. Regulations
1.

Rawalpindi (Requisition of Property) Regulation, 1959.

2.

The Pakistan Capital Regulation, 1960.

3.

The Scrutiny of Claims (Evacuee Property) Regulation, 1961.

4.
The Income Tax (Correction of Returns and False Declaration)
Regulation, 1969.
5.

The Improper Acquisition of Property Regulation, 1969.

6.

The Removal from Service (Special Provisions) Regulation, 1969.

7.
The Living Beyond Ostensible Means (Punishment) Regulation,
1969.
8.
The Government Agricultural
Possession) Regulation, 1969.

Land (Recovery of

Illegal

9.
The Enemy Property (Payment of Money Due to Enemy)
Regulation, 1970.

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

10.
The Withdrawal of Currency Notes (High Denomination)
Regulation, 1971.
11.
The Price of Evacuee Property and Public Dues (Recovery)
Regulation, 1971.
12.
The Peshawar District and Tribal Areas (Settlement of Disputes)
Regulation, 1971.
13.
The Convention Muslim League and Awami League (Scrutiny ofFunds) Regulation, 1971.
14.

The Foreign Exchange Repatriation Regulation, 1972.

15.

The Foreign Assets (Declaration) Regulation, 1972.

16.

The Removal from Service (Review Petition) Regulation, 1972.

17.
The privately Managed Schools and Colleges (Taking Over)
Regulation, 1972.
18.

The Enemy Property (Revocation of Sales) Regulation, 1972.

19.
The Dir and Swat (Devolution and Distribution of Property)
Regulation, 1972.
20.
The Dir and Swat (Settlement of Disputes of Immovable Property)
Regulation, 1972.
21.
The West Pakistan Industrial Development(Revocation of Sale or Transfer) Regulation, 1972.

Corporation

22.
The National Press Trust (Suspension of Board of Trustees andDirectors) Regulation, 1972.
23.
The Co-operative Banks (Repayment of Loans) (Punjab)
Regulation, 1972.
24.
The Co-operative Societies (Repayment of Loans) (Sindh)
Regulation, 1972.
III.
1.

Ordinances Promulgated by the President

The Control of Shipping Ordinance, 1959 (XIII of 1959).

2.
The Jammu and Kashmir (Administration of Property) Ordinance,
1961 (III of 1961).

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CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

3.

The Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, 1961 (VIII of 1961).

4.
The Security of Pakistan (Amendment) Ordinance, 1961 (XIV of1961).
5.
The Associated Press of Pakistan (Taking Over) Ordinance, 1961
(XX of 1961).
6.

The Trade Organisations Ordinance, 1961 (XLV of 1961).
IV. Federal Acts
The Censorship of Films Act, 1963 (XVIII of 1963).
V. Ordinances Promulgated by the Governor ofFormer Province of West Pakistan

1.
The West Pakistan Government Educational and Training
Institutions Ordinance, 1960 (W.P. Ordinance No. XI of 1960).
2.
The West Pakistan Wakf Properties Ordinance, 1961 (W.P.
Ordinance No. XXVIII of 1961).
3.
The Societies Registration (West Pakistan
Ordinance, 1962 (W.P. Ordinance No. IX of 1962).

Amendment)

4.
The West Pakistan Industries (Control on Establishment and
Enlargement) Ordinance, 1963 (W.P. Ordinance No. IV of 1963).
VI. Ordinances Promulgated by the Governor of theNorth-West Frontier Province
1.
The North-West Frontier Province Government Educational andTraining Institutions Ordinance, 1971 (N.W.F.P. Ordinance No. III of1971).
2.
The North-West Frontier Province Chashma Right Bank Canal
Project (Control and Prevention of Speculation in Land) Ordinance, 1971
(N.W.F.P. Ordinance No. V of 1971).
3.
The North-West Frontier Province Gomal Zam Project (Control
and Prevention of Speculation in Land) Ordinance, 1971 (N.W.F.P.
Ordinance No. VIII of 1971).]___________

183

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1[SECOND SCHEDULE[Article 41 (3)]Election of President

1.
The 2[Election Commission of Pakistan] shall hold and conduct
election to the office of President, and 2[Chief Election Commissioner]
shall be the Returning Officer for such election.
2.
The 2[Election Commission of Pakistan] shall appoint Presiding
Officers to preside at the meeting of the members of Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament) and at the meetings of the members of the Provincial
Assemblies.
3.
The Chief Election Commissioner shall by public notification fix
the time and place for depositing nomination papers, holding a scrutiny,
making withdrawals, if any, and holding the poll, if necessary.
4.
At any time before noon on the day fixed for nomination any
member of the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) or of a Provincial Assembly
may nominate for election as President a person qualified for election as
President by delivering to the Presiding Officer a nomination paper,signed by himself as proposer and by another member of the Majlis-eShoora (Parliament) or, as the case may be Assembly as seconder,
together with a statement signed by the person nominated that he concentsto the nomination:
Provided that no person shall subscribe, whether as proposer or as
seconder, more than one nomination paper at any one election.
5.
The scrutiny shall be held by the Chief Election Commissioner at
the time and place fixed by him, and if after scrutiny only one person
remains validly nominated, the Chief Election Commissioner shall declarethat person to be elected, or if more than one person remains validly
nominated, he shall announce, by public notification, the names of thepersons validly nominated, to be hereinafter called the candidates.
6.
A candidate may withdraw his candidature at any time before noonon the day fixed for this purpose by delivering a notice in writing under
his hand to the Presiding Officer with whom his nomination paper has
been deposited, and a candidate who has given a notice of withdrawal of
his candidature under this paragraph shall not be allowed to cancel that
notice.
12Subs. by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch., for "Second Schedule."
Subs. & inserted by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (V of 2012) s.10.

184

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

7.
If all but one of the candidates have withdrawn, that one shall bedeclared by the Chief Election Commissioner to be elected.
8.
If there is no withdrawal, or if, after withdrawals have taken place,
two or more candidates are left, the Chief Election Commissioner shallannounce by Public notification the names of the candidates, and their
proposers and seconders, and shall proceed to hold a poll by secret ballotin accordance with the provisions of the succeeding paragraphs.
9.
If a candidate whose nomination has been found to be in order diesafter the time fixed for nomination, and a report of his death is received by
the Presiding Officer before the commencement of the poll, the Presiding
Officer shall, upon being satisfied of the fact of the death of the candidate,countermand the poll and report the fact to the Chief Election
Commissioner, and all proceedings with reference to the election shall becommenced a new in all respects as if for a new election:
Provided that no further nomination shall be necessary in the caseof a candidate whose nomination was valid at the time of thecountermanding of the poll:
Provided further that no person who has under paragraph 6 of thisSchedule given notice of withdrawal of his candidature before thecountermanding of the poll shall be ineligible for being nominated as a
candidate for the election after such countermanding.

10.
The poll shall be taken at the meetings of Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament) and of each Provincial Assembly, and the respective
Presiding Officers shall conduct the poll with the assistance of suchofficers as they may, with the approval of the Chief Election
Commissioner, respectively appoint.
11.
A ballot paper shall be issued to every member of Majlis-e-Shoora(Parliament), and of each Provincial Assembly, who presents himself forvoting at the meeting of the members of the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)or, as the case may be of the Provincial Assembly of which he is amember (hereinafter referred to as a person voting), and he shall exercise
his vote personally by marking the paper in accordance with theprovisions of the succeeding paragraphs.
12.
The poll shall be by secret ballot by means of ballot papers
containing the names of all the candidates in alphabetical order who have
not withdrawn, and a person voting shall vote by placing a mark against
the name of the person for whom he wishes to vote.

185

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

13.
Ballot papers shall be issued from a book of ballot papers withcounterfoils, each counterfoil being numbered; and when a ballot paper isissued to a person voting his name shall be entered on the counterfoil, andthe ballot paper shall be authenticated by the initials of the Presiding
Officer.
14.
A ballot paper having been marked by the person voting shall bedeposited by that person in a ballot box to be placed in front of the
Presiding Officer.
15.
If a ballot paper is spoiled by a person voting he may return it to
the Presiding Officer, who shall issue a second ballot paper, canceling thefirst ballot paper and marking the cancellation on the appropriate
counterfoil.
16.

A ballot paper shall be invalid if—(i) there is upon it any name, word or mark, by which the person
voting may be identified; or(ii) it does not contain the initials of the Presiding Officer; or(iii)it does not contain mark; or(iv) a mark is placed against the names of two or more candidates ;or(v) there is any uncertainty as to the identity of the candidate
against whose name the mark is placed.

17.
After the close of the poll each Presiding Officer shall, in thepresence of such of the candidates or their authorized representatives as
may desire to be present, open and empty the ballot boxes and examine theballot papers therein, rejecting any which are invalid, count the number ofvotes recorded for each candidate on the valid ballot papers, andcommunicate the number of the votes so recorded to the Chief Election
Commissioner.
18.
(1) The Chief Election Commissioner shall determine the result of
the election in the following manner, namely :—(a) the number of votes cast in the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) infavour of each candidate shall be counted;

186

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(b) the number of votes cast in a Provincial Assembly in favour ofeach candidate shall be multiplied by the total number of seatsin the Provincial Assembly for the time being having thesmallest number of seats and divided by the total number ofseats in the Provincial Assembly in which the votes have been
cast; and(c) the number of votes calculated in the manner referred to inclause (b) shall be added to the number of votes counted underclause (a).
Explanation.–In this paragraph, "total number of seats" includes
seats reserved for non-Muslims and women.
(2)

A fraction shall be rounded off to the nearest whole.

19.
The candidate who has obtained the largest number of votes
compiled in the manner specified in paragraph 18 shall be declared by the
Chief Election Commissioner to be elected.
20.
Where at any poll any two or more candidates obtain an equal
number of votes, the selection of the candidate to be elected shall be bydrawing of lots.
21.
When, after any poll, the counting of the votes has been
completed, and the result of the voting determined, the Chief Election
Commissioner shall forthwith announce the result to those present, andshall report the result to the Federal Government, who shall forthwithcause the result to be declared by a public notification.
22.
The 1[Election Commission of Pakistan] may, by public
notification, with the approval of the President, make rules for carryingout the purposes of this Schedule.]___________

1

Subs. by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (V of 2012) s.10.

187

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANTHIRD SCHEDULE
Oaths of Office
PRESIDENT[Article 42](In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.)
I, ____________________________, do solemnly swear that I am a
Muslim and believe in the Unity and Oneness of Almighty Allah, theBooks of Allah, the Holy Quran being the last of them, the Prophethood of
Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the last of the Prophets and that there
can be no Prophet after him, the Day of Judgement, and all therequirements and teachings of the Holy Quran and Sunnah.
That I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:That, as President of Pakistan, I will discharge my duties, andperform my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully inaccordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan andthe law, and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity,well-being and prosperity of Pakistan;That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is thebasis for the creation of Pakistan:That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official
conduct or my official decisions :That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of theIslamic Republic of Pakistan:That, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people,
according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will :And that I will not directly or indirectly communicate or reveal toany person any matter which shall be brought under my consideration orshall become known to me as President of Pakistan, except as may berequired for the due discharge of my duties as President.
1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]___________

1

Added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,

188

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANPRIME MINISTER[Article 91 1[(5)]](In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.)
I,______________________________, do solemnly swear that I
am a Muslim and believe in the Unity and Oneness of Almighty Allah, theBooks of Allah, the Holy Quran being the last of them, the Prophethood of
Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the last of the Prophets and that there
can be no Prophet after him, the Day of Judgement, and all therequirements and teachings of the Holy Quran and Sunnah.
That I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:That, as Prime Minister of Pakistan, I will discharge my duties, andperform my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully inaccordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan andthe law, and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity,well-being and prosperity of Pakistan :That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is thebasis for the creation of Pakistan :That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official
conduct or my official decisions :That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of theIslamic Republic of Pakistan:That, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people,
according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will:
And that I will not directly or indirectly communicate or reveal toany person any matter which shall be brought under my consideration orshall become known to me as Prime Minister, except as may be required
for the due discharge of my duties as Prime Minister.
2

1
2[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]__________

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 100, for (3).
Added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,189

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANFEDERAL MINISTER OR MINISTER OF STATE[Article 92 (2)](In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.)

I, _________________________________ do solemnly swear that
I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan :That, as Federal Minister (or Minister of State); I will discharge
my duties, and perform my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability,
faithfully in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic ofPakistan and the law, and always in the interest of the sovereignty,
integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperity of Pakistan :That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is thebasis for the creation of Pakistan :That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official
conduct or my official decisions :That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of theIslamic Republic of Pakistan :That, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people,
according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will :And that I will not directly or indirectly communicate or reveal toany person any matter which shall be brought under my consideration orshall become known to me as Federal Minister (or Minister of State),
except as may be required for the due discharge of my duties as Federal
Minister (or Minister of State), or as may be specially permitted by thePrime Minister.
1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]___________

1

Added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,

190

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANSPEAKER OF NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OR
CHAIRMAN OF SENATE[Articles 53(2) and 61](In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful)I,___________________________________, do solemnly swear
that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan :That, as Speaker of the National Assembly (or Chairman of the
Senate) and whenever I am called upon to act as President of Pakistan, I
will discharge my duties, and perform my functions honestly, to the bestof my ability, faithfully, in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic
Republic of Pakistan the law and as Speaker of the National Assembly inaccordance with the rules of the Assembly (or as Chairman of the Senate
in accordance with the rules of the Senate), and always in the interest of
the sovereignty, integrity, well-being and prosperity of Pakistan :That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is thebasis for the creation of Pakistan :That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official
conduct or my official decisions :That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of theIslamic Republic of Pakistan :And that, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner ofpeople, according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will.
1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]___________

1

Added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,

191

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANDEPUTY SPEAKER OF NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OR
DEPUTY CHAIRMAN OF SENATE[Articles 53 (2) and 61](In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.)

I,__________________________________, do solemnly swear
that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan :That, whenever I am called upon to act as Speaker of the National
Assembly (or Chairman of the Senate), I will discharge my duties, andperform my functions honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully, in
accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, thelaw and the rules of the Assembly (or Senate), and always in the interestof the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperity ofPakistan:That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is thebasis for the creation of Pakistan :That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official
conduct or my official decisions :That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of theIslamic Republic of Pakistan :And that, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner ofpeople, according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will.
1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]___________

1

Added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,

192

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANMEMBER OF NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OR
MEMBER OF SENATE[Article 65](In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.)

I,___________________________________, do solemnly swear
that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan :That, as a member of the National Assembly (or Senate), I will
perform my functions honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully, in
accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, andthe law, and the rules of the Assembly (or Senate), and always in theinterest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperityof Pakistan:That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is thebasis for the creation of Pakistan.
And that I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of theIslamic Republic of Pakistan.
1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]__________

1

Added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,

193

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANGOVERNOR OF PROVINCE[Article 102]

(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.)

I,____________________________________, do solemnly swear
that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan :
That,
as
the
GovernoroftheProvinceof_____________________________, I will discharge my duties, andperform my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully, in
accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, andthe law and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity,well-being and prosperity of Pakistan :That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is thebasis for the creation of Pakistan :That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official
conduct or my official decisions :That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of theIslamic Republic of Pakistan :That, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people,
according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will :And that I will not directly or indirectly communicate or reveal toany person any matter which shall be brought under my consideration orshall become known to me as Governor of the Province of……………..………except as may be required for the due discharge of
my duties as Governor.
1

1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]

Added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,

194

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANCHIEF MINISTER OR PROVINCIAL MINISTER[Articles 1[130 (5)] and 132 (2)](In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.)
I,_________________________________, do solemnly swear that
I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan :That, as a Chief Minister (or Minister) of the Government of theProvince of__________________, I will discharge my duties, and perform
my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully, in accordancewith the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and the law andalways in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being
and prosperity of Pakistan :That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is thebasis for the creation of Pakistan :That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official
conduct or my official decisions :That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of theIslamic Republic of Pakistan :That, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people,
according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will :And that I will not directly or indirectly communicate or reveal toany person any matter which shall be brought under my consideration orshall become known to me as Chief Minister (or Minister) except as may
be required for the due discharge of my duties as Chief Minister (orMinister or as may be specially permitted by the Chief Minister).
2[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]___________

1
2

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 100 for “131(4)”.
Added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,

195

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANSPEAKER OF A PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLY[Articles 53(2) and 127]

(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.)

I,_________________________________, do solemnly swear that
I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:That, as Speaker of the Provincial Assembly of the Province
of…………………………………… 1[and whenever I am called upon toact as Governor, I will discharge] my duties, and perform my functions,honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully, in accordance with theConstitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the law and the rules of
the Assembly, and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity,
solidarity, well-being and prosperity of Pakistan:That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is thebasis for the creation of Pakistan :That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official
conduct or my official decisions :That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of theIslamic Republic of Pakistan :And that, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner ofpeople, according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will.
2[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]___________

1
2

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 100 for “I will discharge”.
Added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,

196

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANDEPUTY SPEAKER OF A PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLY[Articles 53 (2) and 127]

(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.)

I,________________________________, do solemnly swear that I
will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:That, whenever I am called upon to act as Speaker of theProvincial Assembly of the Province of……………………….…, I willdischarge my duties, and perform my functions, honestly, to the best of
my ability, faithfully, in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic
Republic of Pakistan, the law and the rules of the Assembly, and always in
the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being andprosperity of Pakistan:That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is thebasis for the creation of Pakistan :That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official
conduct or my official decisions :That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of theIslamic Republic of Pakistan :And that, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner ofpeople, according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will.
1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]___________

1

Added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,197

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANMEMBER OF A PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLY[Articles 65 and 127]

(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.)

I,_____________________________, do solemnly swear that I
will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:That, as a member of the Provincial Assemblyof……………………I will perform my functions, honestly, to the best of
my ability, faithfully, in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic
Republic of Pakistan, the law and the rules of the Assembly, and always in
the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being andprosperity of Pakistan:That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is thebasis for the creation of Pakistan :And that I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of theIslamic Republic of Pakistan :1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]___________

1

Added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,198

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANAUDITOR-GENERAL OF PAKISTAN[Article 168 (2)](In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.)

I,________________________________, do solemnly swear that I
will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:That, as Auditor-General of Pakistan, I will discharge my duties,
and perform my functions, honestly, faithfully, in accordance with theConstitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and the law and to thebest of my knowledge, ability and judgement, without fear or favour,affection or ill-will, and that I will not allow my personal interest to
influence my official conduct or my official decisions.
1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]____________

1

Added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,

199

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANCHIEF JUSTICE OF PAKISTAN OR OF A HIGH COURTOR JUDGE OF THE SUPREME COURT
OR A HIGH COURT[Articles 178 and 194]

(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.)

I,_______________________________, do solemnly swear that I
will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:That, as Chief Justice of Pakistan (or a Judge of the Supreme Courtof Pakistan or Chief Justice or a Judge of the High Court for the Provinceor Provinces of……………………………..), I will discharge my duties,
and perform my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability, andfaithfully, in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic ofPakistan and the law :That I will abide by the code of conduct issued by the Supreme
Judicial Council:
That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official
conduct or my official decisions :That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of theIslamic Republic of Pakistan :And that, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner ofpeople, according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will.
1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]___________

1

Added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,

200

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1[CHIEF JUSTICE OR JUDGE OF THE
FEDERAL SHARIAT COURT[Article 203C (7)](In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.)
I,_______________________________, do solemnly swear that I
will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan :That, as the Chief Justice of the Federal Shariat Court (or a Judgeof the Federal Shariat Court), I will discharge my duties, and perform myfunctions, honestly, to the best of my ability, and faithfully, in accordancewith the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the law :That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official
conduct or my official decisions :That I will abide by the code of conduct issued by the Supreme
Judicial Council :That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of theIslamic Republic of Pakistan :And that, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner ofpeople, according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will.
May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]___________

1

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 100 for “Oath of Chief Justice or a
Judge of the Federal Shariat Court”.

201

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANCHIEF ELECTION COMMISSIONER 1[OR A MEMBER OF THE
ELECTION COMMISSION OF PAKISTAN][Article 214]

(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.)

I,________________________________, do solemnly swear thatas Chief Election Commissioner 1[or, as the case may be, member of theElection Commission of Pakistan] I will discharge my duties, and perform
my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully, in accordancewith the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the law, andwithout fear or favour, affection or ill-will, and that I will not allow mypersonal interest to influence my official conduct or my official decisions.
2[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]__________

1
2

Added & inserted by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (V of 2012) s.11.
Added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,202

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANMEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES[Article 244]

(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.)

I,_______________________________, do solemnly swear that I
will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan and uphold the Constitutionof the Islamic Republic of Pakistan which embodies the will of the people,
that I will not engage myself in any political activities whatsoever and that
I will honestly and faithfully serve Pakistan in the Pakistan Army (or Navyor Air Force) as required by and under the law.
1

1

[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]

Added by P. O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.,203

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANFOURTH SCHEDULE[Article 70 (4)]LEGISLATIVE LISTS
Federal Legislative List
PART I1.
The defence of the Federation or any part thereof in peace or war;
the military, naval and air forces of the Federation and any other armed
forces raised or maintained by the Federation ; any armed forces which are
not forces of the Federation but are attached to or operating with any of
the Armed Forces of the Federation including civil Armed Forces; FederalIntelligence Bureau; preventive detention for reasons of State connectedwith defence, external affairs, or the security of Pakistan or any part
thereof ; persons subjected to such detention; industries declared byFederal law to be necessary for the purpose of defence or for theprosecution of war.
2.
Military, naval and air force works; local self-government incantonment areas, the constitution and powers within such areas ofcantonment authorities, the regulation of house accommodation in suchareas, and the delimitation of such areas.
3.
External affairs; the implementing of treaties and agreements,
including educational and cultural pacts and agreements, with othercountries; extradition, including the surrender of criminals and accused
persons to Governments outside Pakistan.
4.

Nationality, citizenship and naturalisation.

5.
Migration from or into, or settlement in, a Province or the Federal
Capital.
6.
Admission into, and emigration and expulsion from, Pakistan,
including in relation thereto the regulation of the movements in Pakistanof persons not domiciled in Pakistan, pilgrimages to places beyond
Pakistan.
7.
Posts and telegraphs, including telephones, wireless, broadcastingand other like forms of communications; Post Office Saving Bank.
8.

Currency, coinage and legal tender.

204

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

9.
Foreign exchange; cheques, bills of exchange, promissory notes
and other like instruments.
10.
Public debt of the Federation, including the borrowing of moneyon the security of the Federal Consolidated Fund ; foreign loans andforeign aid.
11.

Federal Public Services and Federal Public Service Commission.

12.
Federal pensions, that is to say, pensions payable by the Federationor out of the Federal Consolidated Fund.
13.

Federal Ombudsman.

14.

Administrative Courts and Tribunals for Federal subjects.

15.
Libraries, museums, and similar institutions controlled or financedby the Federation.
16.
Federal agencies and institutes for the following purposes, that is
to say, for research, for professional or technical training, or for thepromotion of special studies.
17.
Education as respects Pakistani students in foreign countries andforeign students in Pakistan.
18.

Nuclear energy, including—(a)mineral resources necessary for the generation of nuclear
energy;(b)

the production of nuclear fuels and the generation and useof nuclear energy;(c)ionizing radiations. 1[; and]2boilers.]

[(d)

19.
Port quarantine, seamen's and marine hospitals and hospitals
connected with port quarantine.
20.
Maritime shipping and navigation, including shipping andnavigation on tidal waters; Admiralty jurisdiction.
1
2

Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 101 for the full stop.
New sub-entry (d) added ibid.

205

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1

*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
22.
Aircraft and air navigation; the provision of aerodromes; regulationand organisation of air traffic and of aerodromes.
23.
Lighthouses, including lightships, beacons and other provisions forthe safety of shipping and aircraft.
24.

Carriage of passengers and goods by sea or by air.

25.
Copyright, inventions, designs, trade-marks and merchandisemarks.
26.

Opium so far as regards sale for export.

27.
Import and export across customs frontiers as defined by theFederal Government, inter-provincial trade and commerce, trade andcommerce with foreign countries; standard of quality of goods to beexported out of Pakistan.
28.
State Bank of Pakistan; banking, that is to say, the conduct ofbanking business by corporations other than corporations owned orcontrolled by a Province and carrying on business only within that
Province.
29.
The law of insurance, except as respects insurance undertaken by a
Province, and the regulation of the conduct of insurance business, except
as respects business undertaken by a Province; Government insurance,
except so far as undertaken by a Province by virtue of any matter within
the legislative competence of the Provincial Assembly.
30.
Stock exchanges and futures markets with objects and business notconfined to one Province.
31.
Corporations, that is to say, the incorporation, regulation andwinding-up of trading corporations, including banking, insurance andfinancial corporations, but not including corporations owned or controlled
by a Province and carrying on business only within that Province, or
cooperative societies, and of corporations, whether trading or not, with
objects not confined to a Province, but not including universities.
2[32. International treaties,
International arbitration.]1
2

conventions

andagreements

andEntry “21” omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 101.
Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 101 for “entry 32”.

206

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

34.

National highways and strategic roads.

*

*

*

35.
Federal surveys including geological surveys and Federal
meteorological organisations.
36.

Fishing and fisheries beyond territorial waters.

37.
Works, lands and buildings vested in, or in the possession ofGovernment for the purposes of the Federation (not being military, naval
or air force works), but, as regards property situate in a Province, subject
always to Provincial legislation, save in so far as Federal law otherwise
provides.
1

*
39.

*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Establishment of standards of weights and measures.

*

1

*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
41.
Elections to the office of President, to the National Assembly, theSenate and the Provincial Assemblies; Chief Election Commissioner andElection Commissions.
42.
The salaries, allowances and privileges of the President, Speaker
and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Chairman and Deputy
Chairman of the Senate, Prime Minister, Federal Ministers, Ministers ofState, the salaries, allowances and privileges of the members of the Senate
and the National Assembly; and the punishment of persons who refuse togive evidence or produce documents before committees thereof.
43.

Duties of customs, including export duties.

44.
Duties of excise, including duties on salt, but not including duties
on alcoholic liquors, opium and other narcotics.
2

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

2

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

47.

Taxes on income other than agricultural income.

48.

Taxes on corporations.

12

Entries 33, 38 and 40 omitted ibid.
Entries 45 and 46 omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 101.

207

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1[49. Taxes on the sales and purchases of goods imported, exported,
produced, manufactured or consumed 2[, except sales tax on services.]]50.
Taxes on the capital value of the assets, not including taxes on3* * * on immovable property.
51.
Taxes on mineral oil, natural gas and minerals for use in generationof nuclear energy.
52.
Taxes and duties on the production capacity of any plant,
machinery, undertaking, establishment or installation in lieu of the taxes
and duties specified in entries 44, 47, 48 and 49 or in lieu of any one ormore of them.
53.
Terminal taxes on goods, or passengers carried by railway, sea orair; taxes on their fares and freights.
54.
Fees in respect of any of the matters in this Part, but not including
fees taken in any court.
55.
Jurisdiction and powers of all courts, except the Supreme Court,with respect to any of the matters in this List and, to such extent as isexpressly authorised by or under the Constitution, the enlargement of thejurisdiction of the Supreme Court, and the conferring thereon of
supplemental powers.
56.
Part.

Offences against laws with respect to any of the matters in this

57.
Part.

Inquiries and statistics for the purposes of any of the matters in this58.
Matters which under the Constitution are within the legislativecompetence of 4[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or relate to the Federation.
59.
Part.

Matters incidental or ancillary to any matter enumerated in this___________

1

2
3
4

Subs. by the Constitution (Fifth Amdt.) Act, 1976 (62 of 1976), s. 19, for the "original entry 49" (w.e.f. the13th September,1976).
Added by Act 10 of 2010, s. 101.
The words “on capital gains” omitted ibid.
See footnote 6 on page 3, supra.

208

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANPART II

1.

Railways.

2.
Mineral oil and natural gas; liquids and substances declared byFederal law to be dangerously inflammable.
3.
Development of industries, where development under Federal
control is declared by Federal law to be expedient in the public interest;
institutions, establishments, bodies and corporations administered or
managed by the Federal Government immediately before the Commencing
day, including the 1[Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority
and the Pakistan Industrial Development Corporation]; all undertakings,
projects and schemes of such institutions, establishments, bodies andcorporations, industries, projects and undertakings owned wholly or
partially by the Federation or by a corporation set up by the Federation.
2[4.

Electricity.

5.
Major ports, that is to say, the declaration and delimitation of suchports, and the constitution and powers of port authorities therein.
6.

All regulatory authorities established under a Federal law.

7.
National planning and national economic coordination including
planning and coordination of scientific and technological research.
8.

Supervision and management of public debt.

9.

Census.

10.
Extension of the powers and jurisdiction of members of a police
force belonging to any Province to any area in another Province, but not so
as to enable the police of one Province to exercise powers and jurisdiction
in another province without the consent of the Government of that
Province; extension of the powers and jurisdiction of members of a police
force belonging to any Province to railway areas outside that Province.
11.

1

2

Legal, medical and other professions.

Subs. by the Constitution (Fifth Amdt.) Act, 1976 (62 of 1976), s. 19, for "West Pakistan Water and Power
Development Authority and the West Pakistan Industrial Development Corporation" (w.e.f. the 13th
September, 1976).
New entries 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13 ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of2010), s. 101.

209

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

12.
Standards in institutions for higher education and research,scientific and technical institutions.
13.
1Inter-provincial matters and co-ordination.][14.] Council of Common Interests.

1[15.] Fees in respect of any of the matters in this Part but not including
fees taken in any court.
1[16.] Offences against laws with respect to any of the matters in thisPart.
1[17.] Inquiries and statistics for the purposes of any of the matters in thisPart.
1[18.] Matters incidental or ancillary to any matter enumerated in this
Part.
2

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

___________

1
2

Re-numbered entries 4,5, 6, 7, and 8 the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of 2010), s. 101.
Concurrent Legislative List and the Entries 1 to 47 omitted ibid.

210

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANFIFTH SCHEDULE[Article 205]
Remuneration and Terms and Conditions ofService of Judges
THE SUPREME COURT
1.
There shall be paid to the Chief Justice of Pakistan a salary of Rs.
1[9,900] per mensem, and to every other Judge of the Supreme Court asalary of Rs. 1[9,500] per mensem 2[,or such higher salary as the President
may, from time to time, determine.]2.
Every Judge of the Supreme Court shall be entitled to suchprivileges and allowances, and to such rights in respect of leave of absence
and pension, as may be determined by the President, and until sodetermined, to the privileges, allowances and rights to which, immediately
before the commencing day, the Judges of the Supreme Court of Pakistan
were entitled.
3[3.
The pension payable to a retired Judge of the Supreme Court permensem shall not be less or more than the amount specified in the tablebelow, depending on the length of his service as Judge in that Court or a
High Court :Provided that the President may, from time to time, raise theminimum or maximum amount of pension so specified :Judge
Chief Justice
Other Judge



1

2
3

Minimum
AmountRs. 7,000
Rs. 6,250

Maximum
AmountRs. 8,000
Rs. 7,125.]

w.e.f. 1-12-2001, the salary of the Chief Justice of Pakistan and other Judges of the Supreme Court has been
determined by the President to be Rs. 55,000 and Rs. 52,000 respectively vide P.O. No. 2 of 2002, paragraph
2 (1), which was previously amended by P.O. No. 9 of 1991, P.O. No. 3 of 1995 and P.O. No. 4 of 1995.
(w.e.,f. 27-7-1991, vide P. O. No. 2 of 1997) the Chief Justice and a Judge of the Supreme Court on his
retirement or resignation shall be entitled to the minimum amount of pension equal to 70% to the Chief
Justice of his salary or as the case may be, a Judge plus 5% of salary for each completed year of service
either as the Chief Justice or as the Judge not exceeding the maximum amount of pension equal to 85% of
the said salary.
Subs. by the Constitution (Twelfth Amdt.) Act., 1991 (14 of 1991), s. 3, for "7,900" and "7,400", which waspreviously amended by P.O. No. 6 of 1985, Art. 2 (w.e.f. 1-7-1983).
Added ibid.,
Subs. ibid., for "paragraph 3rd."211

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

1[4.
The widow of a Judge of the Supreme Court shall be entitled to apension at the following rates, namely :—(a) if the Judge dies after retirement–50 per cent of the net pension
payable to him; or(b) if the Judge dies after having rendered not less than three years'
service as Judge and while still serving as such–50 per cent of
the pension admissible to him at the minimum rate.
5.
The pension shall be payable to the widow for life or, if she
remarries, until her marriage.
6.

If the widow dies, the pension shall be payable—(a) to the sons of the judge who are less than twenty-one years ofage, until they attain that age; and(b) to the unmarried daughters of the Judge who are. less thantwenty-one years of age, until they attain that age or are
married, whichever first occurs.]

1

Added by P. O. No. 6 of 1985, Art. 2, (w.e.f. the 1st July, 1981).

212

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTANTHE HIGH COURT
There shall be paid to the Chief Justice of a High Court a salary of1.
Rs. 1[9,400] per mensem, and to every other Judge of a High Court asalary of Rs. 1[8,400] per mensem 2[,or such higher salary as the President
may, from time to time, determine.]2.
Every Judge of a High Court shall be entitled to such privileges
and allowances, and to such rights in respect of leave of absence andpension, as may be determined by the President, and until so determined,
to the privileges, allowances and rights to which, immediately before thecommencing day, the Judges of the High Court were entitled.
3[3.
The pension payable per mensem to a Judge of a High Court who
retires after having put in not less than five years service as such Judgeshall not be less or more than the amount specified in the table below,
depending on the length of his service as Judge and total service, if any, inthe service of Pakistan:
Provided that the President may, from time to time, raise theminimum or maximum amount of pension so specified :Judge
Chief Justice
Other Judge

Minimum
amount.
Rs. 5,640
Rs. 5,040

Maximum
amount.
Rs. 7,050
Rs. 6,300.]

4[4.
The widow of a Judge of the High Court shall be entitled to apension at the following rates, namely :—(a) if the Judge dies after retirement—50 per cent of the net
pension payable to him; or



1

2
3
4

w..e.f. 1-12-2001, the salary of the Chief Justice of High Court and other Judges of a High Court has been
determined by the President to be Rs. 51,000 and Rs. 49.000 respectively vide P. O. No. 2 of 2002, paragraph
2 (2), which was previously amended by P.O. No. 9 of 1991, P. O. No. 3 of 1995 and P. O. No. 4 of 1995.
(w.e.,f: 27-7-1991, vide P. O. No. 3 of 1997) the Chief Justice and a Judge of the High Court on his
retirement or resignation or removal shall be entitled to the minimum pension equal to 70% of the salary on
the completion of 5 years service for pension as Judge and an extra pension @ 2% of such salary for eachsubsequent completed year of service as Chief Justice or the Judge including his service if any the maximum
pension not exceeding 80% of the salary.
Subs. by the Constitution (Twelfth Amdt.) Act., 1991 (14 of 1991). s. 3, for "7,200" and "6,500". which waspreviously amended by P.O. No. 6 of 1985. Art. 2 (w.e.f. 1-7-1983).
Added ibid.,
Subs. ibid., for "paragraph 3rd".
Added by P. O. No. 6 of 1985, Art. 2, (w.e.f. the 1st July, 1981).

213

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN(b) if the Judge dies after having rendered not less than five years'
service as Judge and while still serving as such–50 per cent of
the pension admissible to him at the minimum rate.
5.
The pension shall be payable to the widow for life or, if she
remarries, until her marriage.
6.

If the widow dies, the pension shall be payable(a) to the sons of the Judge who are less than twenty-one years ofage, until they attain that age; and(b) to the unmarried daughters of the Judge who are less thantwenty-one years of age, until they attain that age or are
married, whichever first occurs.]

1

1

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Sixth Schedule and Seventh Schedule omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amdt.) Act, 2010 (10 of2010), s. 102.

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