Introduction of the Constitution of Pakistan, 1973
The Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, also known as the 1973 Constitution, is the supreme law of Pakistan. It was passed by Parliament on 10 April, 1973 and ratified on 14 August 1973.
The Constitution is intended to define Pakistan’s law, political culture and system. It defines the state (its physical existence and boundaries), the people and their fundamental rights, the constitutional law and order of the state, and the constitutional structure and make-up of the country’s institutions and armed forces.
The first three chapters lay down the rules, mandate and separate powers of the three branches of government: a bicameral legislature, an executive headed by the prime minister as the chief executive officer, and a supreme federal judiciary headed by the Supreme Court.
The Constitution designates the President of Pakistan as the ceremonial head of state to represent the unity of the state.
The first six articles of the Constitution describe the political system as a federal, parliamentary republic system, as well as Islam as the state religion.
The Constitution also contains provisions mandating the legal system’s adherence to Islamic precepts from the Qur’an and Sunnah.
Read the Constitution of Pakistan (Full Text)
Protection for Children under the Constitution of Pakistan, 1973
The Constitution of Pakistan protects the rights of children and provides for their welfare.
Fundamental Rights
Article 11 (3) No child below the age of fourteen years shall be engaged in any factory or mine or any other hazardous employment.
Article 25 (3) Nothing in this Article shall prevent the State from making any special provision for the protection of women and children.
Article 25 (A). 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.
Principles of Policy
Article 35. The State shall protect the marriage, the family, the mother and the child.
Article 37 (a). The State shall promote, with special care, the educational and economic interests of backward classes or areas.
Article 37 (b). The State shall remove illiteracy and provide free and compulsory secondary education within minimum possible period.
Article 37 (e). The State Shall make provision for securing just and humane conditions of work, ensuring that children and women are not employed in vocations unsuited to their age or sex, and for maternity benefits for women in employment.