Overview of Article 83 of the Constitution of Pakistan
The Constitution of Pakistan, established in 1973, serves as the fundamental legal document guiding the country’s governance and principles. Within its intricate framework, Article 83 holds particular importance, outlining a crucial process for the authentication of authorized expenditures. This provision sheds light on the intricate financial mechanisms governing the nation’s affairs.
Article 83 States
83. Authentication of schedule of authorised expenditure.
- The Prime Minister shall authenticate by his signature a schedule specifying-
- the grants made or deemed to have been made by the National Assembly under Article 82, and
- the several sums required to meet the expenditure charged upon the Federal Consolidated Fund but not exceeding, in the case of any sum, the sum shown in the statement previously laid before the National Assembly.
- The schedule so authenticated shall be laid before the National Assembly, but shall not be open to discussion or vote thereon.
- Subject to the Constitution, no expenditure from the Federal 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).
Key Points of Article 83 of the Constitution of Pakistan
- Authentication by the Prime Minister: The Prime Minister is entrusted with the vital duty of authenticating a detailed schedule, signifying grants made by the National Assembly and the corresponding sums necessary to fulfill specified expenditures.
- Contents of the Schedule: The schedule is mandated to include a comprehensive breakdown of grants made by the National Assembly and the sums required to meet specific expenditures charged upon the Federal Consolidated Fund. Notably, these sums should not surpass the amounts indicated in the statement previously presented to the National Assembly.
- Laying Before the National Assembly: Following authentication, the schedule is to be laid before the National Assembly. However, it is essential to note that the document is not open to discussion or voting, emphasizing the procedural nature of this financial transparency measure.
- Authorization of Expenditure: Article 83 explicitly states that no expenditure from the Federal Consolidated Fund can be considered duly authorized unless it is specified in the authenticated schedule and subsequently laid before the National Assembly, as mandated by the constitutional provision.
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Crux of Article 83 of the Constitution of Pakistan
At its core, Article 83 of the Constitution of Pakistan establishes a robust mechanism to ensure fiscal responsibility and accountability within the governmental structure. By designating the Prime Minister to authenticate the schedule of authorized expenditures, the provision aims to streamline the financial decision-making process and enhance the scrutiny of expenditures. The stipulation that no expenditure can be deemed duly authorized unless specified in the authenticated schedule and laid before the National Assembly underscores the commitment to transparency and adherence to constitutional protocols.
In practical terms, this provision acts as a safeguard against arbitrary financial decisions and fosters a system where elected representatives are well-informed about the financial landscape. The adherence to previously laid statements prevents unauthorized expansions of financial commitments and maintains a level of fiscal discipline.
Conclusion: Article 83 of the Constitution of Pakistan
In conclusion, Article 83 stands as a testament to the meticulous crafting of the Constitution of Pakistan in 1973, reflecting the farmers’ commitment to establishing a transparent and accountable governance structure. By delineating the process of authentication, laying before the National Assembly, and the subsequent authorization of expenditures, the provision not only serves as a legal requirement but also as a cornerstone for prudent financial management.
The inclusion of Article 83 in the 1973 constitution of Pakistan underscores the nation’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and ensuring that financial decisions align with constitutional norms. As we navigate the complexities of governance, Article 83 remains a crucial component in fostering responsible fiscal behavior, thereby contributing to the overall well-being and progress of the Pakistani nation.
