Overview of Article 70 of the Constitution of Pakistan
The Constitution of Pakistan, adopted in 1973, serves as the supreme law of the land and serves as a comprehensive framework for governance while outlining powers and functions for various institutions. Within this complex weave of legislation is Article 70 which sets out procedures for bill introduction and passing in legislative forums.
Article 70 States
70. Introduction and passing of Bills:
- 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 in which it originated, be transmitted to the other House; and, if the Bill is passed without amendment, by the other House also, it shall he presented to the President for assent.
- If a Bill transmitted to a House under clause (1) is passed with amendments it shall be sent back to the House in which it originated and if that House passes the Bill with those amendments it shall be presented to the President for assent.
- 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 House 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 votes of the majority of the members present and voting in the joint sitting it shall be presented to the President for assent.
- In this Article and the succeeding provisions of the Constitution, “Federal Legislative List” means the Federal Legislative List and the in the Fourth Schedule.
Key Points of Article 70 of the Constitution of Pakistan
- Origination of Bills: Bills related to matters within the Federal Legislative List, a crucial aspect of legislative jurisdiction, can originate in either House of the legislature. This ensures a decentralized initiation process, allowing both Houses to contribute to the legislative agenda.
- Amendments to Bills: When a bill is passed with amendments in the receiving House, it is sent back to the originating House. The collaborative nature of this process reflects the need for consensus in shaping legislation.
- Rejection or Non-Passage: In cases where a bill faces rejection or is not passed within ninety days, or if amendments are not accepted, Article 70 provides for a joint sitting. This joint deliberation involves members from both Houses and acts as a mechanism to break deadlocks, fostering cooperation for the greater legislative good.
- Definition of Federal Legislative List: The article introduces the term “Federal Legislative List,” clarifying it as the list outlined in the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution. This definition anchors the legislative process within a specific framework, preventing ambiguity.
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Crux of Article 70 of the Constitution of Pakistan
At its core, Article 70 embodies the essence of collaborative governance. It emphasizes the importance of cooperation between the two Houses in the legislative process, ensuring that bills undergo thorough scrutiny and garner consensus before reaching the President’s desk for approval. The provision’s meticulous design reflects a commitment to democratic principles and the shared responsibility of lawmakers in shaping the legal landscape.
Conclusion: Article 70 of the Constitution of Pakistan
In conclusion, Article 70 of the Constitution of Pakistan serves as a cornerstone in the legislative edifice. Its nuanced provisions underscore the significance of dialogue, compromise, and joint decision-making in the creation of laws that govern the nation. By navigating the intricacies of Article 70, we gain valuable insights into the commitment of the constitutional framers to a robust and inclusive legislative process, fostering a harmonious relationship between the two Houses for the collective benefit of the Pakistani people.
As we delve into the annals of the 1973 Constitution of Pakistan, Article 70 stands as a testament to the enduring principles that guide the nation’s governance, shaping a democratic and collaborative future for all.
