Constitutions provide a beacon for their citizens, illuminating their rights and liberties. Pakistan’s guiding document, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Constitution of 1973, codified fundamental liberties for its citizens, including Article 15 which gives every person in Pakistan the right to freely move throughout Pakistan, reside anywhere they choose within its boundaries, settle anywhere within it subject to reasonable restrictions in public interest – among many other provisions that promote personal freedom and mobility. We will examine Article 15’s key features as we explore its profound importance for maintaining personal liberty and mobility for its citizens. In this blog post we will unpack this provision which gives all its citizens.
Overview of Article 15 of the Constitution of Pakistan
Article 15 is one of the central tenants of Pakistan’s Constitution, guaranteeing citizens their freedom of movement within its boundaries and to reside wherever they choose within its boundaries – subject only to reasonable restrictions imposed by law in order to serve public interests.
Article 15 States
15. Freedom of movement, etc.
Every citizen shall have the right to remain in, and, subject to any reasonable restriction imposed by law in the public interest, enter and move freely throughout Pakistan and to reside and settle in any part thereof.
Freedom of Movement
Article 15 begins by affirming the right of every citizen to reside and move freely within Pakistan, subject only to reasonable restrictions imposed by law for public interest reasons.
Right to Reside and Settle
The provision goes further to grant citizens the right to reside and settle in any part of Pakistan, emphasizing individual choice and freedom of movement within the nation.
Reasonable Restrictions
Article 15 establishes that freedom of movement, residence and settlement is not absolute; reasonable restrictions imposed by law in order to safeguard public interests must also be observed. This recognizes that certain circumstances may necessitate limitations on these rights to protect the well-being of society.
Key Points of Article 15 of the Constitution of Pakistan
Freedom of Movement: Article 15 protects every citizen’s right to freely move about Pakistan, promoting individual liberty and personal liberties.
Right to Reside and Settle: Residents have the freedom to select where they wish to reside and settle within Pakistan, creating an authentic sense of belonging and choice for all citizens.
Reasonable Restrictions: The Constitution recognizes that individual rights must be subject to reasonable restrictions in the public interest for society’s wellbeing.
Download the Constitution of Pakistan in PDF
Crux of Article 15 of the Constitution of Pakistan
Article 15 was designed to empower Pakistani citizens, giving them freedom of movement within the country, choosing where to reside and settling as desired. It recognizes both individual choice and liberty while acknowledging reasonable restrictions when necessary.
Conclusion: Article 15 of the Constitution of Pakistan
Article 15 of Pakistan’s 1973 Constitution guarantees personal freedom, mobility and choice for every citizen of this Islamic Republic. Under Pakistani law, every citizen has the right to freely move around Pakistan, reside anywhere within its boundaries and settle where they please; while acknowledging reasonable restrictions necessary in order to preserve public interests. This article emphasizes Pakistan’s commitment to upholding personal freedom and mobility for its citizens, giving them more autonomy regarding where they choose to reside and move within its borders. Pakistan continues its journey toward development and progress, and Article 15 remains an indispensable tool in creating an equitable society, instilling citizens with a sense of belonging, choice, and protection of individual freedoms.
