Overview Article 7 of the Constitution of Pakistan
The Constitution of Pakistan serves as the supreme legal document, providing guidance for governance, rights, and responsibilities within Pakistan. Article 7 stands out among its various articles by outlining key entities that come together to form “State of Pakistan.” In this blog post, we will delve into the details of Article 7, discussing its significance and the elements it encompasses.
Article 7 States
7. Definition of the State
In this Part, unless the context otherwise requires, “the State” means the Federal Government, Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), a Provincial Government, a Provincial Assembly, and such local or other authorities in Pakistan as are by law empowered to impose any tax or cess.
Key Points of Article 7 of the Constitution of Pakistan
The Definition of the State: Article 7 provides a foundational definition of the State of Pakistan. It includes the following entities:
- The Federal Government: the central authority responsible for administering the country. Majlis-e-Shura (Parliament): an electoral body responsible for creating laws at national level.
- Provincial Governments: Regional authorities responsible for governing their respective provinces.
- Provincial Assemblies: Legislative bodies at the provincial level that enact laws for their specific regions.
- Local and Other Authorities: Entities within Pakistan that have the legal power to impose taxes or cess as specified by law.
- Government Composition: The article clarifies that the Government of Pakistan comprises both the Federal Government and the Provincial Governments, highlighting the federal-provincial division of powers.
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Crux of Article 7 of the Constitution of Pakistan
Article 7 is of paramount importance in outlining the structure of Pakistani statehood. Not only does it outline key components that comprise it but it also strengthens Pakistan’s federal nature. Here is an outline of its essence:
- Definition of State: Article 7 provides a detailed definition of Pakistan as a whole, including federal, provincial, and local authorities.
- Composition of Government: It establishes the Government of Pakistan as a coalition between the Federal and Provincial governments, emphasizing cooperation and coordination between these levels of government.
- Hierarchy and Authority: Article 7 establishes Pakistan’s hierarchical government structure by outlining its constituent components, providing each level with specific roles within country governance.
- Federalism: This article highlights the federal character of the Pakistani government, emphasising its importance and how both federal and provincial governments play roles in governance of Pakistan.
Conclusion: Article 7 of the Constitution of Pakistan
Article 7 of Pakistan’s Constitution is an integral component of its governing framework, outlining roles and responsibilities among various governmental entities ranging from the Federal Government to provincial and local authorities. Understanding its significance is of critical importance for anyone studying Pakistan’s political structure – it affirms the federal character of Pakistan while setting out power sharing between central and provincial governments, ultimately contributing to country governance and stability.
