Overview of Article 28 of the Constitution of Pakistan
The Constitution of Pakistan, adopted in 1973, serves as the legal foundation of Pakistan and has many provisions aimed at upholding and celebrating its rich linguistic, script and cultural diversity. Article 28 in particular stands as testament to Pakistan’s dedication towards maintaining these important aspects. This Article ensures that any citizens possessing a specific language, script, or culture can protect and promote their heritage. Subject to the provisions of law, individuals can create institutions dedicated to maintaining and advancing their linguistic and cultural identities. In this post, we’ll dive deeper into it to understand its details and understand its relevance within Pakistan’s legal and cultural environment.
Article 28 States
28. Preservation of language, script and culture.
Subject to Article 251 any section of citizens having a distinct language, script or culture shall have the right to preserve and promote the same and subject to law, establish institutions for that purpose.
This concise but powerful statement encompasses the essence of the right to preserve and promote distinct languages, scripts, and cultures within the diverse tapestry of Pakistan.
Key Points of Article 28 of the Constitution of Pakistan
Distinct Language, Script, or Culture: The heart of it lies in the recognition of any section of citizens with a distinct language, script, or culture. This diversity is a crucial aspect of Pakistan’s identity.
Right to Preserve and Promote: The article grants these communities the right to both preserve and promote their distinct linguistic and cultural heritage. This goes beyond mere preservation; it acknowledges the value of celebrating and sharing these unique aspects.
Subject to Law: While the provision is clear about the rights it confers, it also emphasizes that the exercise of these rights is subject to the provisions of the law. This means that any actions taken to preserve and promote language, script, or culture must align with the broader legal framework of Pakistan.
Establishment of Institutions: Importantly, Article 28 also highlights the right of these sections of citizens to establish institutions for the purpose of preserving and promoting their language, script, or culture. These institutions serve as vehicles for the transmission and celebration of heritage.
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Crux of Article 28 of the Constitution of Pakistan
The crux of Article 28 of the Constitution of Pakistan is the celebration of cultural and linguistic diversity. This constitutional provision serves several critical purposes:
Cultural and Linguistic Identity: Pakistan is a nation rich in cultural and linguistic diversity. Article 28 acknowledges the significance of these identities and ensures that communities with distinct languages, scripts, or cultures have the right to safeguard and celebrate what makes them unique.
Preservation and Promotion: It’s not just about preserving languages, scripts, and cultures in a static manner. The provision encourages active promotion, allowing these communities to share their traditions, languages, and scripts with the broader society.
Legal Framework: While celebrating diversity is vital, it’s equally important to ensure that actions taken align with the legal framework of Pakistan. Article 28 strikes a balance between preserving heritage and respecting the rule of law.
Institution Building: By allowing the establishment of institutions, this provision creates a framework for the structured promotion and preservation of cultural and linguistic heritage. These institutions can serve as centers of learning, preservation, and celebration.
Conclusion: Article 28 of the Constitution of Pakistan
Article 28 of Pakistan’s Constitution is an essential pillar that upholds cultural and linguistic diversity, guaranteeing any section of citizens with distinct languages, scripts or cultures the right to preserve and promote their distinctive heritage. This provision represents Pakistan’s acknowledgement of diversity while celebrating and protecting a vibrant cultural tapestry which makes the nation so rich and dynamic.
Article 28 recognizes and encourages active engagement in preserving cultural identities that make Pakistan unique, as well as emphasizing the role institutions must play to foster these efforts within legal constraints. Thus, Article 28 represents both Pakistan’s diversity as well as an obligation to ensure it thrives for generations to come.
