Constitution of Pakistan (1973) - Key Articles (Overview)

Flashcards covering key articles and fundamental rights from the Pakistan Constitution as presented in the notes.

What is stated in Article 2 about Islam's role in Pakistan?

Islam shall be the State religion of Pakistan.

What does Article 2A do in relation to the Objectives Resolution?

The principles and provisions set out in the Objectives Resolution form a substantive part of the Constitution.

How is 'the State' defined in Article 7?

The State means the Federal Government, Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), a Provincial Government, a Provincial Assembly, and such local or other authorities empowered to impose taxes or cess.

What is the core principle of Article 8?

Laws inconsistent with or derogating Fundamental Rights are void.

What fundamental right is protected by Article 9?

Security of person: No one shall be deprived of life or liberty except in accordance with law.

What safeguards does Article 10 set for arrest and detention?

Grounds for arrest must be communicated; the person has the right to consult and be defended by a lawyer; a magistrate must be informed within 24 hours; preventive detention is time-limited and subject to review.

What does Article 10A guarantee?

Right to a fair trial and due process in civil rights or criminal charges.

What does Article 11 prohibit?

Slavery and forced labour are prohibited; no child under fourteen shall be employed in factories or mines.

What does Article 12 protect?

Protection against retrospective punishment: no punishment for acts not punishable when committed; penalties cannot be harsher than those in place at the time.

What protection does Article 13 provide?

No person shall be prosecuted or punished for the same offence more than once; no compelled self-incrimination.

What does Article 14 guarantee about dignity and privacy?

The dignity of man and privacy of home are inviolable; torture for evidence is prohibited.

What does Article 15 guarantee?

Freedom of movement and residence throughout Pakistan, subject to legal restrictions.

What does Article 16 guarantee?

Freedom of assembly, peacefully and without arms, with reasonable restrictions for public order.

What does Article 17 cover?

Freedom of association, including forming associations and political parties; transparency of funds and related safeguards.

What is covered under Article 18?

Freedom to engage in any lawful profession or trade, with allowed regulation and licensing.

What does Article 19 protect, and what is Article 19A?

Freedom of speech and press; 19A provides the right to information.

What does Article 20 guarantee?

Right to profess religion and to manage religious institutions.

What is protected by Article 21?

Safeguard against taxation for purposes of any particular religion.

What does Article 22 address?

Safeguards as to educational institutions regarding religion; nondiscrimination in taxation; freedom to provide religious instruction under certain conditions.

What does Article 23 guarantee regarding property?

Every citizen’s right to acquire, hold and dispose of property, subject to constitutional limits and public interest.

What protections does Article 24 provide about property?

Protection of property rights; compensation for property taken for public purposes; exceptions listed in the Article.

What does Article 25 establish about citizenship and equality?

All citizens are equal before law; no discrimination on the basis of sex; special provisions for women and children may be made.

What does Article 25A require of the State?

The State shall provide free and compulsory education to all children aged five to sixteen.

What is Article 28 about?

Preservation of language, script and culture; the right to preserve and promote distinct language and culture.