Federal · Constitution

Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan

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THE CONSTITUTION OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN

ANNEX SCHEDULES FIRST SCHEDULE.__ Laws exempted from the operation of Article 8 (1) and (2)

SECOND SCHEDULE.__ Election of President

THIRD SCHEDULE.__ Oaths of Office FOURTH SCHEDULE.__ Legislative Lists

FIFTH SCHEDULE.__ Remuneration And Terms And Conditions Of Service Of Judges

SIXTH SCHEDULE.__ [Omitted] SEVENTH SCHEDULE.__ [Omitted]

THE CONSTITUTION OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN [12th April, 1973] (In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) PREAMBLE WHEREAS sovereignty over the entire Universe belongs to Almighty Allah alone, and the authority to be exercised by the people of Pakistan within the limits prescribed by Him is a sacred trust;

AND WHEREAS it is the will of the people of Pakistan to establish an order__ WHEREIN the State shall exercise its powers and authority through the chosen representatives of the people;

WHEREIN the principles of democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance and social justice, as enunciated by Islam, shall be fully observed; WHEREIN the Muslims shall be enabled to order their lives in the individual and collective spheres in accordance with the teachings and requirements of Islam as set out in the Holy Quran and Sunnah;

WHEREIN adequate provision shall be made for the minorities freely to profess and practise their religions and develop their cultures; WHEREIN the territories now included in or in accession with Pakistan and such other territories as may hereafter be included in or accede to Pakistan shall form a Federation wherein the units will be autonomous with such boundaries and limitations on their powers and authority as may be prescribed;

WHEREIN shall be guaranteed fundamental rights, including equality of status, of opportunity and before law, social, economic and political justice, and freedom of thought, expression, belief, faith, worship and association, subject to law and public morality; WHEREIN adequate provision shall be made to safeguard the legitimate interests of minorities and backward and depressed classes;

WHEREIN the independence of the judiciary shall be fully secured; WHEREIN the integrity of the territories of the Federation, its independence and all its rights, including its sovereign rights on land, sea and air, shall be safeguarded; So that the people of Pakistan may prosper and attain their rightful and honoured place amongst the nations of the World and make their full contribution towards international peace and progress and happiness of humanity;

NOW, THEREFORE, we, the people of Pakistan,

Conscious of our responsibility before Almighty Allah and men; Cognisant of the sacrifices made by the people in the cause of Pakistan; Faithful to the declaration made by the Founder of Pakistan, Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, that Pakistan would be a democratic State based on Islamic principles of social justice; Dedicated to the preservation of democracy achieved by the unremitting struggle of the people against oppression and tyranny;

Inspired by the resolve to protect our national and political unity and solidarity by creating an egalitarian society through a new order; Do hereby, through our representatives in the National Assembly, adopt, enact and give to ourselves, this Constitution.

________

PART I

INTRODUCTORY

[1] Article 1. The Republic and its territories

(1) Pakistan shall be a Federal Republic to be known as the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, hereinafter referred to as Pakistan. 2[(2) The territories of Pakistan shall comprise__

(a) the Provinces of 3[Balochistan], the 3[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa], the Punjab and 3[Sindh];

(b) the Islamabad Capital Territory, hereinafter referred to as the Federal Capital; 4[and]

4[* * * * * * *] 4[(c)] such States and territories as are or may be included in Pakistan, whether by accession or otherwise.

(3) 5[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may by law admit into the Federation new States or areas on such terms and conditions as it thinks fit.]]

Article 2. Islam to be State religion

Islam shall be the State religion of Pakistan.

[5] Article 2A. The Objectives Resolution to form part of substantive provisions

The principles and provisions set out in the Objectives Resolution reproduced in the Annex are hereby made substantive part of the Constitution and shall have effect accordingly.]

Article 3. Elimination of exploitation

The State shall ensure the elimination of all forms of exploitation and the gradual fulfilment of the fundamental principle, from each according to his ability to each according to his work.

Article 4. Right of individuals to be dealt with in accordance with law, etc

(1) To enjoy the protection of law and to be treated in accordance with law is the inalienable right of every citizen, wherever he may be, and of every other person for the time being within Pakistan.

(2) In particular__

(a) no action detrimental to the life, liberty, body, reputation or property of any person shall be taken except in accordance with law;

1The provisions of the Constitution except those of Articles 6, 8 to 28, (both inclusive), clauses 2 and (2a) of Article 101, Articles 199, 213 to 216 (both inclusive) and 270-A, brought into force with effect from 10th March, 1985, vide S.R.O. No. 212(I)/85. dated 10th March, 1985, Gazette of Pakistan, Extraordinary, Part-II, page 279 and the aforesaid Articles brought into force with effect from 30th December, 1985, vide S.R.O. No. 1273(I)/85 dated 29th December. 1985, Gazette of Pakistan, Extraordinary, Part-I1, page 3185.

2Subs. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 2, (w.e.f. the 4th May, 1974).

3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 3.

4Ins., omitted and re-numbered by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018), s. 2.

5Subs. and ins. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.NO. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

(b) no person shall be prevented from or be hindered in doing that which is not prohibited by law; and

Article 5. Loyalty to State and obedience to Constitution and law

(1) Loyalty to the State is the basic duty of every citizen.

(2) Obedience to the Constitution and law is the 1[inviolable] obligation of every citizen wherever he may be and of every other person for the time being within Pakistan.

Article 6. High treason

2[(1) Any person who abrogates or subverts or suspends or holds in abeyance, or attempts or conspires to abrogate or subvert or suspend or hold in abeyance, the Constitution by use of force or show of force or by any other unconstitutional means shall be guilty of high treason.]

(2) Any person aiding or abetting 2[or collaborating] the acts mentioned in clause (1) shall likewise be guilty of high treason. 2[(2A) An act of high treason mentioned in clause (1) or clause (2) shall not be validated by any court including the 3[Federal Constitutional Court,] Supreme Court and a High Court.]

(3) 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] shall by law provide for the punishment of persons found guilty of high treason.

PART II

FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS AND PRINCIPLES OF POLICY

Article 7. Definition of the State

In this Part, unless the context otherwise requires, “the State” means the Federal Government, 1[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.

CHAPTER 1

FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS

Article 8. Laws inconsistent with or in derogation of Fundamental Rights to be void

(1) Any law, or any custom or usage having the force of law, in so far as it is inconsistent with the rights conferred by this Chapter, shall, to the extent of such inconsistency, be void.

(2) The State shall not make any law which takes away or abridges the rights so conferred and any law made in contravention of this clause shall, to the extent of such contravention, be void.

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. NO. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

2Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 4.

3Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 2.

(3) The Provisions of this Article shall not apply to__

(a) any law relating to members of the Armed Forces, or of the police or of such other forces as are charged with the maintenance of public order, for the purpose of ensuring the proper discharge of their duties or the maintenance of discipline among them; or 1[(b) any of the__

(i) laws specified in the First Schedule as in force immediately before the commencing day or as amended by any of the laws specified in that Schedule;

(ii) other laws specified in Part I of the First Schedule;] and no such law nor any provision thereof shall be void on the ground that such law or provision is inconsistent with, or repugnant to, any provision of this Chapter.

(4) Notwithstanding anything contained in paragraph (b) of clause (3), within a period of two years from the commencing day, the appropriate Legislature shall bring the laws specified in 1[Part II of the First Schedule] into conformity with the rights conferred by this Chapter :

Provided that the appropriate Legislature may by resolution extend the said period of two years by a period not exceeding six months. Explanation.__ If in respect of any law 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] is the appropriate Legislature, such resolution shall be a resolution of the National Assembly.

(5) The rights conferred by this Chapter shall not be suspended except as expressly provided by the Constitution.

Article 9. Security of person

No person shall be deprived of life or liberty save in accordance with

law.

[3] Article 9A. Clean and healthy environment

Every person shall be entitled to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment.]

Article 10. Safeguards as to arrest and detention

(1) No person who is arrested shall be detained in custody without being informed, as soon as may be, of the grounds for such arrest, nor shall he be denied the right to consult and be defended by a legal practitioner of his choice.

(2) Every person who is arrested and detained in custody shall be produced before a magistrate within a period of twenty-four hours of such arrest, excluding the time necessary for the journey from the place of arrest to the court of the nearest magistrate, and no such person shall be detained in custody beyond the said period without the authority of a magistrate.

(3) Nothing in clauses (1) and (2) shall apply to any person who is arrested or detained under any law providing for preventive detention.

1Subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Act, 1975 (Act No. LXXI of 1975), s. 2, (w. e. f. the 21st November, 1985).

2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.NO. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

3Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 2.

(4) No law providing for preventive detention shall be made except to deal with persons acting in a manner prejudicial to the integrity, security or defence of Pakistan or any part thereof, or external affairs of Pakistan, or public order, or the maintenance of supplies or services, and no such law shall authorise the detention of a person for a period exceeding 1[three months] unless the appropriate Review Board has, after affording him an opportunity of being heard in person, reviewed his case and reported, before the expiration of the said period, that there is, in its opinion, sufficient cause for such detention, and, if the detention is continued after the said period of 1[three months], unless the appropriate Review Board has reviewed his case and reported, before the expiration of each period of three months, that there is, in its opinion, sufficient cause for such detention. Explanation I.__ In this Article, “the appropriate Review Board” means,__

(i) in the case of a person detained under a Federal law, a Board appointed by the Chief Justice of 2[Supreme Court of] Pakistan and consisting of a Chairman and two other persons, each of whom is or has been a Judge of the Supreme Court or a High Court; and

(ii) in the case of a person detained under a Provincial law, a Board appointed by the Chief Justice of the High Court concerned and consisting of a Chairman and two other persons, each of whom is or has been a Judge of a High Court. Explanation II.__ The opinion of a Review Board shall be expressed in terms of the views of the majority of its members.

(5) When any person is detained in pursuance of an order made under any law providing for preventive detention, the authority making the order shall, 3[within fifteen days] from such detention, communicate to such person the grounds on which the order has been made, and shall afford him the earliest opportunity of making a representation against the order:

Provided that the authority making any such order may refuse to disclose facts which such authority considers it to be against the public interest to disclose.

(6) The authority making the order shall furnish to the appropriate Review Board all documents relevant to the case unless a certificate, signed by a Secretary to the Government concerned, to the effect that it is not in the public interest to furnish any documents, is produced.

(7) Within a period of twenty-four months commencing on the day of his first detention in pursuance of an order made under a law providing for preventive detention, no person shall be detained in pursuance of any such order for more than a total period of eight months in the case of a person detained for acting in a manner prejudicial to public order and twelve months in any other case:

Provided that this clause shall not apply to any person who is employed by, or works for, or acts on instructions received from, the enemy 1[, or who is acting or attempting to act in a manner prejudicial to the integrity, security or defence of Pakistan or any part thereof or who commits or attempts to commit any act which amounts to an anti-national activity as defined in a Federal law or is a member of any association which has for its objects, or which indulges in, any such anti-national activity.].

1Subs. and added by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Act, 1975 (Act No. XXII of 1975), s. 2, (w. e. f. the 13th February. 1975).

2Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 3.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Act, 1975 (Act No. XXII of 1975), s. 2, (w.e.f. the 13th February, 1975).

(8) The appropriate Review Board shall determine the place of detention of the person detained and fix a reasonable subsistence allowance for his family.

(9) Nothing in this Article shall apply to any person who for the time being is an enemy alien.

[1] Article 10A. Right to fair trial

For the determination of his civil rights and obligations or in any criminal charge against him a person shall be entitled to a fair trial and due process.]

Article 11. Slavery, forced labour, etc., prohibited

(1) Slavery is non-existent and forbidden and no law shall permit or facilitate its introduction into Pakistan in any form.

(2) All forms of forced labour and traffic in human beings are prohibited.

(3) No child below the age of fourteen years shall be engaged in any factory or mine or any other hazardous employment.

(4) Nothing in this Article shall be deemed to affect compulsory service__

(a) by any person undergoing punishment for an offence against any law; or

(b) required by any law for public purpose:

Provided that no compulsory service shall be of a cruel nature or incompatible with human dignity.

Article 12. Protection against retrospective punishment

(1) No law shall authorize the punishment of a person__

(a) for an act or omission that was not punishable by law at the time of the act or omission; or

(b) for an offence by a penalty greater than, or of a kind different from, the penalty prescribed by law for that offence at the time the offence was committed.

(2) Nothing in clause (1) or in Article 270 shall apply to any law making acts of abrogation or subversion of a Constitution in force in Pakistan at any time since the twenty-third day of March, one thousand nine hundred and fifty-six, an offence.

Article 13. Protection against double punishment and self-incrimination

No person__

(a) shall be prosecuted or punished for the same offence more than once; or

(b) shall, when accused of an offence, be compelled to be a witness against himself.

Article 14. Inviolability of dignity of man, etc

(1) The dignity of man and, subject to law, the privacy of home, shall be inviolable.

(2) No person shall be subjected to torture for the purpose of extracting evidence.

1Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 5.

Article 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.

Article 16. Freedom of assembly

Every citizen shall have the right to assemble peacefully and without arms, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of public order.

[1] Article 17. Freedom of association

(1) Every citizen shall have the right to form associations or unions, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of sovereignty or integrity of Pakistan, public order or morality.

(2) Every citizen, not being in the service of Pakistan, shall have the right to form or be a member of a political party, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of the sovereignty or integrity of Pakistan and such law shall provide that where the Federal Government declares that any political party has been formed or is operating in a manner prejudicial to the sovereignty or integrity of Pakistan, the Federal Government shall, within fifteen days of such declaration, refer the matter to the 2[Federal Constitutional Court of Pakistan] whose decision on such reference shall be final.

(3) Every political party shall account for the source of its funds in accordance with law.]

Article 18. Freedom of trade, business or profession

Subject to such qualifications, if any, as may be prescribed by law, every citizen shall have the right to enter upon any lawful profession or occupation, and to conduct any lawful trade or business:

Provided that nothing in this Article shall prevent__

(a) the regulation of any trade or profession by a licensing system; or

(b) the regulation of trade, commerce or industry in the interest of free competition therein; or

(c) the carrying on, by the Federal Government or a Provincial Government, or by a corporation controlled by any such Government, of any trade, business, industry or service, to the exclusion, complete or partial, of other persons.

Article 19. Freedom of speech, etc

Every citizen shall have the right to freedom of speech and expression, and there shall be freedom of the press, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of the glory of Islam or the integrity, security or defence of Pakistan or any part thereof, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or morality, or in relation to contempt of court, 3[commission of] or incitement to an offence.

[1] Article 19A. Right to information

Every citizen shall have the right to have access to information in all matters of public importance subject to regulation and reasonable restrictions imposed by law.]

Article 20. Freedom to profess religion and to manage religious institutions

Subject to law, public order and morality,__

(a) every citizen shall have the right to profess, practice and propagate his religion; and

1Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 6-7.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 4.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Act, 1975 (Act No. LXXI of 1975), s. 4, (w. e. f. the 21st November, 1975).

(b) every religious denomination and every sect thereof shall have the right to establish, maintain and manage its religious institutions.

Article 21. Safeguard against taxation for purposes of any particular religion

No person shall be compelled to pay any special tax the proceeds of which are to be spent on the propagation or maintenance of any religion other than his own.

Article 22. Safeguards as to educational institutions in respect of religion, etc

(1) No person attending any educational institution shall be required to receive religious instruction, or take part in any religious ceremony, or attend religious worship, if such instruction, ceremony or worship relates to a religion other than his own.

(2) In respect of any religious institution, there shall be no discrimination against any community in the granting of exemption or concession in relation to taxation.

(3) Subject to law,__

(a) no religious community or denomination shall be prevented from providing religious instruction for pupils of that community or denomination in any educational institution maintained wholly by that community or denomination; and

(b) no citizen shall be denied admission to any educational institution receiving aid from public revenues on the ground only of race, religion, caste or place of birth.

(4) Nothing in this Article shall prevent any public authority from making provision for the advancement of any socially or educationally backward class of citizens.

Article 23. Provision as to property

Every citizen shall have the right to acquire, hold and dispose of property in any part of Pakistan, subject to the Constitution and any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the public interest.

Article 24. Protection of property rights

(1) No person shall be deprived of his property save in accordance with law.

(2) No property shall be compulsorily acquired or taken possession of save for a public purpose, and save by the authority of law which provides for compensation therefor and either fixes the amount of compensation or specifies the principles on and the manner in which compensation is to be determined and given.

(3) Nothing in this Article shall affect the validity of__

(a) any law permitting the compulsory acquisition or taking possession of any property for preventing danger to life, property or public health; or

(b) any law permitting the taking over of any property which has been acquired by, or come into the possession of, any person by any unfair means, or in any manner, contrary to law; or

(c) any law relating to the acquisition, administration or disposal of any property which is or is deemed to be enemy property or evacuee property under any law (not being property which has ceased to be evacuee property under any law); or

(d) any law providing for the taking over of the management of any property by the State for a limited period, either in the public interest or in order to secure the proper management of the property, or for the benefit of its owner; or

(e) any law providing for the acquisition of any class of property for the purpose of__

(i) providing education and medical aid to all or any specified class of citizens; or

(ii) providing housing and public facilities and services such as roads, water supply, sewerage, gas and electric power to all or any specified class of citizens; or

(iii) providing maintenance to those who, on account of unemployment, sickness, infirmity or old age, are unable to maintain themselves; or

(f) any existing law or any law made in pursuance of Article 253.

(4) The adequacy or otherwise of any compensation provided for by any such law as is referred to in this Article, or determined in pursuance thereof, shall not be called in question in any court.

Article 25. Equality of citizens

(1) All citizens are equal before law and are entitled to equal protection of law.

(2) There shall be no discrimination on the basis of sex 1[*].

(3) Nothing in this Article shall prevent the State from making any special provision for the protection of women and children.

[1] Article 25A. Right to education

The State shall provide free and compulsory education to all children of the age of five to sixteen years in such manner as may be determined by law.]

Article 26. Non-discrimination in respect of access to public places

(1) In respect of access to places of public entertainment or resort, not intended for religious purposes only, there shall be no discrimination against any citizen on the ground only of race, religion, caste, sex, residence or place of birth.

(2) Nothing in clause (1) shall prevent the State from making any special provision for women and children.

Article 27. Safeguard against discrimination in services

(1) No citizen otherwise qualified for appointment in the service of Pakistan shall be discriminated against in respect of any such appointment on the ground only of race, religion, caste, sex, residence or place of birth:

Provided that, for a period not exceeding 2[forty] years from the commencing day, posts may be reserved for persons belonging to any class or area to secure their adequate representation in the service of Pakistan:

1Omitted and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 8-9.

2Subs. and shall be deemed always to have been so subs. by the Constitution (Sixteenth Amendment) Act, 1999 (Act No. VII of 1999), s. 2.

Provided further that, in the interest of the said service, specified posts or services may be reserved for members of either sex if such posts or services entail the performance of duties and functions which cannot be adequately performed by members of the other sex 1[:] 1[Provided also that under-representation of any class or area in the service of Pakistan may be redressed in such manner as may be determined by an Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]

(2) Nothing in clause (1) shall prevent any Provincial Government, or any local or other authority in a Province, from prescribing, in relation to any post or class of service under that Government or authority, conditions as to residence in the Province, for a period not exceeding three years, prior to appointment under that Government or authority.

Article 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.

CHAPTER 2

PRINCIPLES OF POLICY

Article 29. Principles of Policy

(1) The Principles set out in this Chapter shall be known as the Principles of Policy, and it is the responsibility of each organ and authority of the State, and of each person performing functions on behalf of an organ or authority of the State, to act in accordance with those Principles in so far as they relate to the functions of the organ or authority.

(2) In so far as the observance of any particular Principle of Policy may be dependent upon resources being available for the purpose, the Principle shall be regarded as being subject to the availability of resources.

(3) In respect of each year, the President in relation to the affairs of the Federation, and the Governor of each Province in relation to the affairs of his Province, shall cause to be prepared and laid before 1[each House of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or, as the case may be, the Provincial Assembly, a report on the observance and implementation of the Principles of Policy, and provision shall be made in the rules of procedure of the National Assembly 1[and the Senate] or, as the case may be, the Provincial Assembly, for discussion on such report.

Article 30. Responsibility with respect to Principles of Policy

(1) The responsibility of deciding whether any action of an organ or authority of the State, or of a person performing functions on behalf of an organ or authority of the State, is in accordance with the Principles of Policy is that of the organ or authority of the State, or of the person, concerned.

(2) The validity of an action or of a law shall not be called in question on the ground that it is not in accordance with the Principles of Policy, and no action shall lie against the State, any organ or authority of the State or any person on such ground.

1Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 10-11.

Article 31. Islamic way of life

(1) Steps shall be taken to enable the Muslims of Pakistan, individually and collectively, to order their lives in accordance with the fundamental principles and basic concepts of Islam and to provide facilities whereby they may be enabled to understand the meaning of life according to the Holy Quran and Sunnah.

(2) The State shall endeavour, as respects the Muslims of Pakistan,__

(a) to make the teaching of the Holy Quran and Islamiat compulsory, to encourage and facilitate the learning of Arabic language and to secure correct and exact printing and publishing of the Holy Quran;

(b) to promote unity and the observance of the Islamic moral standards; and

Article 32. Promotion of local Government institutions

The State shall encourage local Government institutions composed of elected representatives of the areas concerned and in such institutions special representation will be given to peasants, workers and women.

Article 33. Parochial and other similar prejudices to be discouraged

The State shall discourage parochial, racial, tribal, sectarian and provincial prejudices among the citizens.

Article 34. Full participation of women in national life

Steps shall be taken to ensure full participation of women in all spheres of national life.

Article 35. Protection of family, etc

The State shall protect the marriage, the family, the mother and the child.

Article 36. Protection of minorities

The State shall safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of minorities, including their due representation in the Federal and Provincial services.

Article 37. Promotion of social justice and eradication of social evils

The State shall__

(a) promote, with special care, the educational and economic interests of backward classes or areas;

(b) remove illiteracy and provide free and compulsory secondary education within minimum possible period;

(c) make technical and professional education generally available and higher education equally accessible to all on the basis of merit;

(d) ensure inexpensive and expeditious justice;

(e) make provision for securing just and humane conditions of work, ensuring that children and women are not employed in vocations unsuited to their age or sex, and for maternity benefits for women in employment;

1Ins. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

(f) enable the people of different areas, through education, training, agricultural and industrial development and other methods, to participate fully in all forms of national activities, including employment in the service of Pakistan;

(g) prevent prostitution, gambling and taking of injurious drugs, printing, publication, circulation and display of obscene literature and advertisements;

(h) prevent the consumption of alcoholic liquor otherwise than for medicinal and, in the case of non-Muslims, religious purposes; and

(i) decentralise the Government administration so as to facilitate expeditious disposal of its business to meet the convenience and requirements of the public.

Article 38. Promotion of social and economic well-being of the people

The State shall—

(a) secure the well-being of the people, irrespective of sex, caste, creed or race, by raising their standard of living, by preventing the concentration of wealth and means of production and distribution in the hands of a few to the detriment of general interest and by ensuring equitable adjustment of rights between employers and employees, and landlords and tenants;

(b) provide for all citizens, within the available resources of the country, facilities for work and adequate livelihood with reasonable rest and leisure;

(c) provide for all persons employed in the service of Pakistan or otherwise, social security by compulsory social insurance or other means;

(d) provide basic necessities of life, such as food, clothing, housing, education and medical relief, for all such citizens, irrespective of sex, caste, creed or race, as are permanently or temporarily unable to earn their livelihood on account of infirmity, sickness or unemployment;

(e) reduce disparity in the income and earnings of individuals, including persons in the various classes of the service of Pakistan; 1[*] 2[(f) eliminate riba completely before the first day of January, two thousand twenty- eight; and] 1[(g) ensure that the shares of the Provinces in all Federal services, including autonomous bodies and corporations established by, or under the control of, the Federal Government, shall be secured and any omission in the allocation of the shares of the Provinces in the past shall be rectified.]

Article 39. Participation of people in Armed Forces

The State shall enable people from all parts of Pakistan to participate in the Armed Forces of Pakistan.

Article 40. Strengthening bonds with Muslim world and promoting international peace

The State shall endeavour to preserve and strengthen fraternal relations among Muslim countries based on Islamic unity, support the common interests of the peoples of Asia, Africa and Latin America, promote international peace and security, foster goodwill and friendly relations among all nations and encourage the settlement of international disputes by peaceful means.

1Omitted and added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 12.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 3.

PART III

THE FEDERATION OF PAKISTAN

CHAPTER 1.— THE PRESIDENT

Article 41. The President

(1) There shall be a President of Pakistan who shall be the Head of State and shall represent the unity of the Republic.

(2) A person shall not be qualified for election as President unless he is a Muslim of not less than forty-five years of age and is qualified to be elected as member of the National Assembly.

1[(3) The President 2[* * *] shall be elected in accordance with the provisions of the Second Schedule by the members of an electoral college consisting of__

(a) the members of both Houses; and

(b) the members of the Provincial Assemblies.]

(4) Election to the office of President shall be held not earlier than sixty days and not later than thirty days before the expiration of the term of the President in office:

Provided that, if the election cannot be held within the period aforesaid because the National Assembly is dissolved, it shall be held within thirty days of the general election to the Assembly.

(5) An election to fill a vacancy in the office of President shall be held not later than thirty days from the occurrence of the vacancy:

Provided that, if the election cannot be held within the period aforesaid because the National Assembly is dissolved, it shall be held within thirty days of the general election to the Assembly.

(6) The validity of the election of the President shall not be called in question by or before any court or other authority.

(7) 2[* * * * * * *]

(8) 2[* * * * * * *]

(9) 2[* * * * * * *]

Article 42. Oath of President

Before entering upon office, the President shall make before the Chief Justice of Pakistan oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule.

Article 43. Conditions of President’s office

(1) The President shall not hold any office of profit in the service of Pakistan or occupy any other position carrying the right to remuneration for the rendering of services.

(2) The President shall not be a candidate for election as a member of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or a Provincial Assembly; and, if a member of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or a Provincial Assembly is elected as President, his seat in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or, as the case may be, the Provincial Assembly shall become vacant on the day he enters upon his office.

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

2Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 13.

Article 44. Term of office of President

(1) Subject to the Constitution, the President shall hold office for a term of five years from the day he enters upon his office :

Provided that the President shall, notwithstanding the expiration of his terms, continue to hold office until his successor enters upon his office.

(2) Subject to the Constitution, a person holding office as President shall be eligible for re-election to that office, but no person shall hold that office for more than two consecutive terms.

(3) The President may, by writing under his hand addressed to the Speaker of the National Assembly, resign his office.

Article 45. President’s power to grant pardon, etc

The President shall have power to grant pardon, reprieve and respite, and to remit, suspend or commute any sentence passed by any court, tribunal or other authority.

[1] Article 46. President to be kept informed

The Prime Minister shall keep the President informed on all matters of internal and foreign policy and on all legislative proposals the Federal Government intends to bring before Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament).]

Article 47. Removal 2[or impeachment] of President

2[(l) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, the President may, in accordance with the provisions of this Article, be removed from office on the ground of physical or mental incapacity or impeached on a charge of violating the Constitution or gross misconduct.

(2) Not less than one-half of the total membership of either House may give to the Speaker of the National Assembly or, as the case may be, the Chairman written notice of its intention to move a resolution for the removal of, or, as the case may be, to impeach, the President; and such notice shall set out the particulars of his incapacity or of the charge against him.]

(3) If a notice under clause (2) is received by the Chairman, he shall transmit it forthwith to the Speaker.

(4) The Speaker shall, within three days of the receipt of a notice under clause (2) or clause (3), cause a copy of the notice to be transmitted to the President.

(5) The Speaker shall summon the two Houses to meet in a joint sitting not earlier than seven days and not later than fourteen days after the receipt of the notice by him.

(6) The joint sitting may investigate or cause to be investigated the ground or the charge upon which the notice is founded.

(7) The President shall have the right to appear and be represented during the investigation, if any, and before the joint sitting.

(8) If, after consideration of the result of the investigation, if any, a resolution is passed at the joint sitting by the votes of not less than two-thirds of the total membership of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] declaring that the President is unfit to hold the office due to incapacity or is guilty of violating the Constitution or of gross misconduct, the President shall cease to hold office immediately on the passing of the resolution.

1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 14.

2Ins. and subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

[1] Article 48. President to act on advice, etc

(1) In the exercise of his functions, the President shall act 2[on and] in accordance with the advice of the Cabinet 3[or the Prime Minister]:

3[Provided that 2[within fifteen days] the President may require the Cabinet or, as the case may be, the Prime Minister to reconsider such advice, either generally or otherwise, and the President shall 2[, within ten days,] act in accordance with the advice tendered after such reconsideration.]

(2) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (1), the President shall act in his discretion in respect of any matter in respect of which he is empowered by the Constitution to do so 3[and the validity of anything done by the President in his discretion shall not be called in question on any ground whatsoever].

3[* * * * * * *]

4[(4) The question whether any, and if so what, advice was tendered to the President by the Cabinet, or the Prime Minister, shall not be inquired into in, or by, any court, tribunal or other authority.]

2[(5) Where the President dissolves the National Assembly, notwithstanding anything contained in clause (1), he shall,__

(a) appoint a date, not later than ninety days from the date of the dissolution, for the holding of a general election to the Assembly; and

(b) appoint a care-taker Cabinet 5[in accordance with the provisions of Article 224 or, as the case may be, Article 224A].]

2[(6) If at any time the Prime Minister considers it necessary to hold a referendum on any matter of national importance, he may refer the matter to a joint sitting of the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) and if it is approved in a joint sitting, the Prime Minister may cause such matter to be referred to a referendum in the form of a question that is capable of being answered by either “Yes” or “No”.]

(7) An Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) may lay down the procedure for the holding of a referendum and the compiling and consolidation of the result of a referendum.]

Article 49. Chairman or Speaker to act as, or perform functions of, President

(1) If the office of President becomes vacant by reason of death, resignation or removal of the President, the Chairman or, if he is unable to perform the functions of the office of President, the Speaker of the National Assembly shall act as President until a President is elected in accordance with clause (3) of Article 41.

(2) When the President, by reason of absence from Pakistan or any other cause, is unable to perform his functions, the Chairman or, if he too is absent or unable to perform the functions of the office of President, the Speaker of the National Assembly shall perform the functions of President until the President returns to Pakistan or, as the case may be, resumes his functions.

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 15.

3Subs., added and omitted by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act, 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 2

4Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 4.

5Added by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012), s. 2.

CHAPTER 2. – THE 1[MAJLIS-E-SHOORA (PARLIAMENT)]

COMPOSITION, DURATION AND MEETINGS OF 1[MAJLIS-E-SHOORA (PARLIAMENT)]

[1] Article 50. Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)

There shall be a Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) of Pakistan consisting of the President and two Houses to be known respectively as the National Assembly and the Senate.]

[2] Article 51. National Assembly

(1) There shall be 3[three hundred and thirty-six] seats for members in the National Assembly, including seats reserved for women and non-Muslims.

(2) A person shall be entitled to vote if__

(a) he is a citizen of Pakistan;

(b) he is not less than eighteen years of age;

(d) he is not declared by a competent court to be of unsound mind.

3[(3) The seats in the National Assembly referred to in clause (1), except the seats mentioned in clause (4), shall be allocated to each Province and the Federal Capital as under:__

General Seats Women Seats Total Seats Balochistan 16 4 20 Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 45 10 55 Punjab 141 32 173 Sindh 61 14 75 Federal Capital 3 - 3 Total 266 60 326]

3[(3A) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (3) or any other law for the time being in force, the members of the National Assembly from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas to be elected in the general elections, 2018 shall continue till dissolution of the National Assembly and thereafter this clause shall stand omitted.]

(4) In addition to the number of seats referred to in clause (3), there shall be, in the National Assembly, ten seats reserved for non- Muslims.

4[(5) 3[*******] 3[The] seats in the National Assembly shall be allocated to each province and the Federal Capital on the basis of population in accordance with the last preceding census officially published:

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 16, and shall be deemed always to have been so substituted with effect from the 21st day of August, 2002.

3Subs., ins. and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018), s. 3, (w. e. f. 31-05-2018).

4Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-fourth Amendment) Act, 2017 (Act No. XXXVIII of 2017), s. 2.

Provided that for purposes of the next general elections to be held in 2018 and bye-elections related thereto, the allocation shall be made on the basis of provisional results of the 2017 census which shall be published by the Federal Government.]

(6) For the purpose of election to the National Assembly,__

(a) the constituencies for the general seats shall be single member territorial constituencies and the members to fill such seats shall be elected by direct and free vote in accordance with law;

(b) each Province shall be a single constituency for all seats reserved for women which are allocated to the respective Provinces under clause (3);

(d) members to the seats reserved for women which are allocated to a Province under clause (3) shall be elected in accordance with law through proportional representation system of political parties’ lists of candidates on the basis of total number of general seats secured by each political party from the Province concerned in the National Assembly:

Provided that for the purpose of this paragraph the total number of general seats won by a political party shall include the independent returned candidate or candidates who may duly join such political party within three days of the publication in the official Gazette of the names of the returned candidates; and

(e) members to the seats reserved for non-Muslims shall be elected in accordance with law through proportional representation system of political parties’ lists of candidates on the basis of total number of general seats won by each political party in the National Assembly:

Article 52. Duration of National Assembly

The National Assembly shall, unless sooner dissolved, continue for a term of five years from the day of its first meeting and shall stand dissolved at the expiration of its term.

Article 53. Speaker and Deputy Speaker of National Assembly

(1) After a general election, the National Assembly shall, at its first meeting and to the exclusion of any other business, elect from amongst its members a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker and, so often as the office of Speaker or Deputy Speaker becomes vacant, the Assembly shall elect another member as Speaker or, as the case may be, Deputy Speaker.

(2) Before entering upon office, a member elected as Speaker or Deputy Speaker shall make before the National Assembly oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule.

(3) When the office of Speaker is vacant, or the Speaker is absent or is unable to perform his function due to any cause, the Deputy Speaker shall act as speaker, and if, at that time, the Deputy Speaker is also absent or is unable to act as Speaker due to any cause, such member as may be determined by the rules of procedure of the Assembly shall preside at the meeting of the Assembly.

(4) The Speaker or the Deputy Speaker shall not preside at a meeting of the Assembly when a resolution for his removal from office is being considered.

(5) The Speaker may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office.

(6) The Deputy Speaker may, by writing under his hand addressed to the Speaker, resign his office.

(7) The office of Speaker or Deputy Speaker shall become vacant if__

(a) he resigns his office;

(b) he ceases to be a member of the Assembly; or

(c) he is removed from office by a resolution of the Assembly, of which not less than seven days' notice has been given and which is passed by the votes of the majority of the total membership of the Assembly.

(8) When the National Assembly is dissolved, the Speaker shall continue in his office till the person elected to fill the office by the next Assembly enters, upon his office.

[1] Article 54. Summoning and prorogation of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)

(1) The President may, from time to time, summon either House or both Houses or 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in joint sitting to meet at such time and place as he thinks fit and may also prorogue the same.

(2) There shall be at least 2[three] sessions of the National Assembly every year, and not more than one hundred and twenty days shall intervene between the last sitting of the Assembly in one session and the date appointed for its first sitting in the next session:

Provided that the National Assembly shall meet for not less than one hundred and 3[thirty] working days in each year.

4[Explanation.__ In this clause, ‘working days’ includes any day on which there is a joint sitting and any period, not exceeding two days, for which the National Assembly is adjourned.]

(3) On a requisition signed by not less than one-fourth of the total membership of the National Assembly, the Speaker shall summon the National Assembly to meet, at such time and place as he thinks fit, within fourteen days of the receipt of the requisition; and when the Speaker has summoned the Assembly only he may prorogue it.

1Article 54 of the constitution shall, until the 31st day of December, 1973, have effect as if the proviso to clause (2) thereof were omitted, see the Removal of Difficulties (Sittings of National Assembly) Order, 1973 (P.O. No.23 of 1973), Art. 2.

2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.N. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Tenth Amendment) Act, 1987 (Act No. I of 1987). s. 2.

4Added by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Act, 1975 (Act No. LXXI of 1975), s. 6 (w. e. f. the 21st November, 1975).

Article 55. Voting in Assembly and quorum

(1) Subject to the Constitution, all decisions of the National Assembly shall be taken by majority of the members present and voting, but the person presiding shall not vote except in the case of equality of votes.

(2) If at any time during a sitting of the National Assembly the attention of the person presiding is drawn to the fact that less than one-fourth of the total membership of the Assembly is present, he shall either adjourn the Assembly or suspend the meeting until at least one-fourth of such membership is present.

Article 56. Address by President

1[(1)] The President may address either House or both Houses assembled together and may for that purpose require the attendance of the members.

1[(2) The President may send messages to either House, whether with respect to a Bill then pending in the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) or otherwise, and a House to which any message is so sent shall with all convenient despatch consider any matter required by the message to be taken into consideration.

2[(3) At the commencement of the first session after each general election to the National Assembly and at the commencement of the first session of each year the President shall address both Houses assembled together and inform the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) of the causes of its summons.]

(4) Provision shall be made in the rules for regulating the procedure of a House and the conduct of its business for the allotment of time for discussion of the matters referred to in the address of the President.]

Article 57. Right to speak in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]

The Prime Minister, a Federal Minister, a Minister of State and the Attorney General shall have the right to speak and otherwise take part in the proceedings of either House, or a joint sitting or any committee thereof, of which he may be named a member, but shall not by virtue of this Article be entitled to vote.

[3] Article 58. Dissolution of the National Assembly

(1) The President shall dissolve the National Assembly if so advised by the Prime Minister; and the National Assembly shall, unless sooner dissolved, stand dissolved at the expiration of forty-eight hours after the Prime Minister has so advised.

Explanation.__ Reference in this Article to "Prime Minister" shall not be construed to include reference to a Prime Minister against whom a notice of a resolution for a vote of no-confidence has been given in the National Assembly but has not been voted upon or against whom such a resolution has been passed or who is continuing in office after his resignation or after the dissolution of the National Assembly.

(2) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (2) of Article 48, the President may also dissolve the National Assembly in his discretion where, a vote of no-confidence having been passed against the Prime Minister, no other member of the National Assembly commands the confidence of the majority of the members of the National Assembly in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution, as ascertained in a session of the National Assembly summoned for the purpose.]

1Re-numbered, added and subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act, 1985, (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 4.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 17.

[1] Article 59. The Senate

(1) The Senate shall consist of 2[ninety-six] members, of whom,__

(a) fourteen shall be elected by the members of each Provincial Assembly;

(b) 2[* * * * * * *]

(c) two on general seats, and one woman and one technocrat including aalim shall be elected from the Federal Capital in such manner as the President may, by Order, prescribe;

(d) four women shall be elected by the members of each Provincial Assembly;

(e) four technocrats including ulema shall be elected by the members of each Provincial Assembly; and

(f) four non-Muslims, one from each Province, shall be elected by the members of each Provincial Assembly:

Provided that paragraph (f) shall be effective from the next Senate election after the commencement of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010.

(2) Election to fill seats in the Senate allocated to each Province shall be held in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote.

(3) The Senate shall not be subject to dissolution but the term of its members, who shall retire as follows, shall be six years:

(a) of the members referred to in paragraph (a) of clause (1), seven shall retire after the expiration of the first three years and seven shall retire after the expiration of the next three years;

(b) 2[* * * * * * *]

(i) one elected on general seat shall retire after the expiration of the first three years and the other one shall retire after the expiration of the next three years; and

(ii) one elected on the seat reserved for technocrat shall retire after first three years and the one elected on the seat reserved for women shall retire after the expiration of the next three years;

(d) of the members referred to in paragraph (d) of the aforesaid clause, two shall retire after the expiration of the first three years and two shall retire after the expiration of the next three years;

1Subs.by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 18.

2Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018), s. 4, (w. e. f. 31-05-2018).

(e) of the members referred to in paragraph (e) of the aforesaid clause, two shall retire after the expiration of the first three years and two shall retire after the expiration of the next three years; and

(f) of the members referred to in paragraph (f) of the aforesaid clause, two shall retire after the expiration of first three years and two shall retire after the expiration of next three years:

Provided that the Election Commission for the first term of seats for non- Muslims shall draw a lot as to which two members shall retire after the first three years.

1[Explanation.- The term of a member, notwithstanding the date of his election, shall expire on the eleventh day of March of the year of the completion of term for which he is elected.]

2[(3A) Notwithstanding the omission of paragraph (b) of clause (1) and the omission of paragraph (b) of clause (3), the existing members of the Senate from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas shall continue till expiry of their respective terms of office and on the expiry of the aforesaid terms this clause shall stand omitted.]

(4) The term of office of a person elected to fill a casual vacancy shall be the unexpired term of the member whose vacancy he has filled.]

Article 60. Chairman and Deputy Chairman

(1) After the Senate has been duly constituted, it shall, at its first meeting and to the exclusion of any other business, elect from amongst its members a Chairman and a Deputy Chairman and, so often as the office of Chairman or Deputy Chairman becomes vacant, the Senate shall elect another member as Chairman or, as the case may be, Deputy Chairman.

(2) The term of office of the Chairman or Deputy Chairman shall be 3[three] years from the day on which he enters upon his office.

Article 61. Other provisions relating to Senate

The provisions of clauses (2) to (7) of Article 53, clauses (2) and (3) of Article 54 and Article 55 shall apply to the Senate as they apply to the National Assembly and, in their application to the Senate, shall have effect as if references therein to the National Assembly, Speaker and Deputy Speaker were references, respectively, to the Senate Chairman and Deputy Chairman 4[and as if, in the proviso to the said clause (2) of Article 54, for the words 5[one hundred and thirty] the words 6[one hundred and ten] were substituted].

provisions as to Members of 7[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]

[6] Article 62. Qualifications for membership of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)

(1) A person shall not be qualified to be elected or chosen as a member of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) unless__

(a) he is a citizen of Pakistan;

(b) he is, in the case of the National Assembly, not less than twenty-five years of age and is enrolled as a voter in any electoral roll in__

1Added by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 5.

2Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018) s. 4, (w. e. f. 31-05-2018).

3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act, 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 7.

4Added by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 5 (w. e. f. the 14th May, 1974).

5Subs. by the Constitution (Tenth Amendment) Act, 1987 (Act No. I of 1987), s. 3.

6Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 19-20.

7Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

(i) any part of Pakistan, for election to a general seat or a seat reserved for non-Muslims; and

(ii) any area in a Province from which she seeks membership for election to a seat reserved for women.

(c) he is, in the case of the Senate, not less than thirty years of age and is enrolled as a voter in any area in a Province or, as the case may be, the Federal Capital 1[******], from where he seeks membership;

(d) he is of good character and is not commonly known as one who violates Islamic Injunctions;

(e) he has adequate knowledge of Islamic teachings and practices obligatory duties prescribed by Islam as well as abstains from major sins;

(f) he is sagacious, righteous, non-profligate, honest and ameen, there being no declaration to the contrary by a court of law; and

(g) he has not, after the establishment of Pakistan, worked against the integrity of the country or opposed the ideology of Pakistan:

(2) The disqualifications specified in paragraphs (d) and (e) shall not apply to a person who is a non-Muslim, but such a person shall have good moral reputation.]

[2] Article 63. Disqualifications for membership of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)

(1) A person shall be disqualified from being elected or chosen as, and from being, a member of the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), if__

(a) he is of unsound mind and has been so declared by a competent court; or

(b) he is an undischarged insolvent; or

(d) he holds an office of profit in the service of Pakistan other than an office declared by law not to disqualify its holder; or

(e) he is in the service of any statutory body or any body which is owned or controlled by the Government or in which the Government has a controlling share or interest; or

(f) being a citizen of Pakistan by virtue of section 14B of the Pakistan Citizenship Act, 1951 (II of 1951), he is for the time being disqualified under any law in force in Azad Jammu and Kashmir from being elected as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Azad Jammu and Kashmir; or

1Omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018) s. 5, (w. e. f. 31-05-2018).

2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 21.

(g) he has been convicted by a court of competent jurisdiction for propagating any opinion, or acting in any manner, prejudicial to the ideology of Pakistan, or the sovereignty, integrity or security of Pakistan, or the integrity or independence of the judiciary of Pakistan, or which defames or brings into ridicule the judiciary or the Armed Forces of Pakistan, unless a period of five years has elapsed since his release; or

(h) he has been, on conviction for any offence involving moral turpitude, sentenced to imprisonment for a term of not less than two years, unless a period of five years has elapsed since his release; or

(i) he has been dismissed from the service of Pakistan or service of a corporation or office set up or controlled by the Federal Government, Provincial Government or a Local Government on the ground of misconduct, unless a period of five years has elapsed since his dismissal; or

(j) he has been removed or compulsorily retired from the service of Pakistan or service of a corporation or office set up or controlled by the Federal Government, Provincial Government or a Local Government on the ground of misconduct, unless a period of three years has elapsed since his removal or compulsory retirement; or

(k) he has been in the service of Pakistan or of any statutory body or any body which is owned or controlled by the Government or in which the Government has a controlling share or interest, unless a period of two years has elapsed since he ceased to be in such service; or

(l) he, whether by himself or by any person or body of persons in trust for him or for his benefit or on his account or as a member of a Hindu undivided family, has any share or interest in a contract, not being a contract between a cooperative society and Government, for the supply of goods to, or for the execution of any contract or for the performance of any service undertaken by, Government:

Provided that the disqualification under this paragraph shall not apply to a person__

(i) where the share or interest in the contract devolves on him by inheritance or succession or as a legatee, executor or administrator, until the expiration of six months after it has so devolved on him;

(ii) where the contract has been entered into by or on behalf of a public company as defined in the Companies Ordinance, 1984 (XLVII of 1984), of which he is a shareholder but is not a director holding an office of profit under the company; or

(iii) where he is a member of a Hindu undivided family and the contract has been entered into by any other member of that family in the course of carrying on a separate business in which he has no share or interest;

Explanation.__ In this Article “goods” does not include agricultural produce or commodity grown or produced by him or such goods as he is, under any directive of Government or any law for the

time being in force, under a duty or obligation to supply; or

(m) he holds any office of profit in the service of Pakistan other than the following offices, namely :__

(i) an office which is not whole time office remunerated either by salary or by fee;

(ii) the office of Lumbardar, whether called by this or any other title;

(iii) the Qaumi Razakars;

(iv) any office the holder whereof, by virtue of such office, is liable to be called up for military training or military service under any law providing for the constitution or raising of a Force; or

(n) he has obtained a loan for an amount of two million rupees or more, from any bank, financial institution, cooperative society or cooperative body in his own name or in the name of his spouse or any of his dependents, which remains unpaid for more than one year from the due date, or has got such loan written off; or

(o) he or his spouse or any of his dependents has defaulted in payment of government dues and utility expenses, including telephone, electricity, gas and water charges in excess of ten thousand rupees, for over six months, at the time of filing his nomination papers; or

(p) he is for the time being disqualified from being elected or chosen as a member of the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) or of a Provincial Assembly under any law for the time being in force.

Explanation.__ For the purposes of this paragraph “law” shall not include an Ordinance promulgated under Article 89 or Article 128.

(2) If any question arises whether a member of the Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament) has become disqualified from being a member, the Speaker or, as the case may be, the Chairman shall, unless he decides that no such question has arisen, refer the question to the Election Commission within thirty days and if he fails to do so within the aforesaid period it shall be deemed to have been referred to the Election Commission.

(3) The Election Commission shall decide the question within ninety days from its receipt or deemed to have been received and if it is of the opinion that the member has become disqualified, he shall cease to be a member and his seat shall become vacant.]

[1] Article 63A. Disqualification on grounds of defection, etc

(1)If a member of a Parliamentary Party composed of a single political party in a House__

1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 22.

(a) resigns from membership of his political party or joins another Parliamentary party; or

(b) votes or abstains from voting in the House contrary to any direction issued by the Parliamentary Party to which he belongs, in relation to__

(i) election of the Prime Minister or the Chief Minister; or

(ii) a vote of confidence or a vote of no-confidence; or

(iii) a Money Bill or a Constitution (Amendment) Bill;

he may be declared in writing by the Party Head to have defected from the political party, and the Party Head may forward a copy of the declaration to the Presiding Officer and the Chief Election Commissioner and shall similarly forward a copy thereof to the member concerned:

Provided that before making the declaration, the Party Head shall provide such member with an opportunity to show cause as to why such declaration may not be made against him.

Explanation.__ “Party Head” means any person, by whatever name called, declared as such by the Party.

(2) A member of a House shall be deemed to be a member of a Parliamentary Party if he, having been elected as a candidate or nominee of a political party which constitutes the Parliamentary Party in the House or, having been elected otherwise than as a candidate or nominee of a political party, has become a member of such Parliamentary Party after such election by means of a declaration in writing.

(3) Upon receipt of the declaration under clause (1), the Presiding Officer of the House shall within two days refer, and in case he fails to do so it shall be deemed that he has referred, the declaration to the Chief Election Commissioner who shall lay the declaration before the Election Commission for its decision thereon confirming the declaration or otherwise within thirty days of its receipt by the Chief Election Commissioner.

(4) Where the Election Commission confirms the declaration, the member referred to in clause

(1) shall cease to be a member of the House and his seat shall become vacant.

(5) Any party aggrieved by the decision of the Election Commission may, within thirty days, prefer an appeal to the 1[Federal Constitutional] Court which shall decide the matter within ninety days from the date of the filing of the appeal.

(6) Nothing contained in this Article shall apply to the Chairman or Speaker of a House.

(7) For the purpose of this Article,__

(a) "House" means the National Assembly or the Senate, in relation to the Federation; and a Provincial Assembly in relation to the Province, as the case may be;

(b) "Presiding Officer" means the Speaker of the National Assembly, the Chairman of the Senate or the Speaker of the Provincial Assembly, as the case may be.

1Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 6.

(8) Article 63A substituted as aforesaid shall comes into effect from the next general elections to be held after the commencement of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010:

Provided that till Article 63A substituted as aforesaid comes into effect the provisions of existing Article 63A shall remain operative.].

Article 64. Vacation of seats

(1) A member of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may, by writing under his hand addressed to the Speaker or, as the case may be, the Chairman resign his seat, and thereupon his seat shall become vacant.

(2) A House may declare the seat of a member vacant if, without leave of the House, he remains absent for forty consecutive days of its sittings.

Article 65. Oath of members

A person elected to a House shall not sit or vote until he has made before the House oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule.

Article 66. Privileges of members, etc

(1) Subject to the Constitution and to the rules of procedure of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], there shall be freedom of speech in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] and no member shall be liable to any proceedings in any court in respect of anything said or any vote given by him in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], and no person shall be so liable in respect of the publication by or under the authority of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] of any report, paper, votes or proceedings.

(2) In other respects, the powers, immunities and privileges of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], and the immunities and privileges of the members of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], shall be such as may from time to time be defined by law and, until so defined, shall be such as were, immediately before the commencing day, enjoyed by the National Assembly of Pakistan and the committees thereof and its members.

Provision may be made by law for the punishment, by a House, of persons who refuse to give evidence or produce documents before a committee of the House when duly required by the chairman of the committee so to do:

Provided that any such law__

(a) may empower a court to punish a person who refuses to give evidence or produce documents; and

(b) shall have effect subject to such Order for safeguarding confidential matters from disclosure as may be made by the President.

(4) The provisions of this Article shall apply to persons who have the right to speak in, and otherwise to take part in the proceedings of, 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] as they apply to members.

(5) In this Article, 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] means either House or a joint sitting, or a committee thereof.

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

Procedure Generally

Article 67. Rules of procedure, etc

(1) Subject to the Constitution, a House may make rules for regulating its procedure and the conduct of its business, and shall have power to act notwithstanding any vacancy in the membership thereof, and any proceedings in the House shall not be invalid on the ground that some persons who were not entitled to do so sat, voted or otherwise took part in the proceedings.

(2) Until rules are made under clause (1), the procedure and conduct of business in a House shall be regulated by the rules of procedure made by the President.

Article 68. Restriction on discussion in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]

No discussion shall take place in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] with respect to the conduct of any Judge of 2[the Federal Constitutional Court,] the Supreme Court or of a High Court in the discharge of his duties.

Article 69. Courts not to inquire into proceedings of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)

(1) The validity of any proceedings in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] shall not be called in question on the ground of any irregularity of procedure.

(2) No officer or member of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora Parliament)] in whom powers are vested by or under the Constitution for regulating procedure or the conduct of business, or for maintaining order in 1[Majlis- e-Shoora (Parliament)], shall be subject to the jurisdiction of any court in respect of the exercise by him of those powers.

(3) In this Article, 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] has the same meaning as in Article 66. Legislative Procedure

[3] Article 70. Introduction and passing of Bills

(1) A Bill with respect to any matter in the Federal Legislative List may originate in either House and shall, if it is passed by the House in which it originated, be transmitted to the other House; and, if the Bill is passed without amendment by the other House also, it shall be presented to the President for assent.

(2) If a Bill transmitted to a House under clause (1) is passed with amendments it shall be sent back to the House in which it originated and if that House passes the Bill with those amendments it shall be presented to the President for assent.

(3) If a Bill transmitted to a House under clause (1) is rejected or is not passed within ninety days of its laying in the House or a Bill sent to a House under clause (2) with amendments is not passed by that House with such amendments, the Bill, at the request of the House in which it originated, shall be considered in a joint sitting and if passed by the votes of the majority of the members present and voting in the joint sitting it shall be presented to the President for assent.

(4) In this Article and the succeeding provisions of the Constitution, "Federal Legislative List" means the Federal Legislative List in the Fourth Schedule.]

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 7.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 23.

Article 71. 1[Omitted]

Article 72. Procedure at joint sittings

(1) The President, after consultation with the Speaker of the National Assembly and the Chairman, may make 2rules as to the procedure with respect to the joint sittings of, and communications between, the two Houses.

(2) At a joint sitting, the Speaker of the National Assembly or, in his absence, such person as may be determined by the rules made under clause (1), shall preside.

(3) The rules made under clause (1) shall be laid before a joint sitting and may be added to, varied, amended or replaced at a joint sitting.

(4) Subject to the Constitution, all decisions at a joint sitting shall be taken by the votes of the majority of the members present and voting.

Article 73. Procedure with respect to Money Bills

1[(1) Notwithstanding anything contained in Article 70, a Money Bill shall originate in the National Assembly:

Provided that simultaneously when a Money Bill, including the Finance Bill containing the Annual Budget Statement, is presented in the National Assembly, a copy thereof shall be transmitted to the Senate which may, within fourteen days, make recommendations thereon to the National Assembly.]

1[(1A) The National Assembly shall consider the recommendations of the Senate and after the Bill has been passed by the Assembly with or without incorporating the recommendations of the Senate, it shall be presented to the President for assent.]

3* * * * * * *

(2) For the purposes of this Chapter, a Bill or amendment shall be deemed to be a Money Bill if it contains provisions dealing with all or any of the following matters, namely:__

(a) the imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulation of any tax;

(b) the borrowing of money, or the giving of any guarantee, by the Federal Government, or the amendment of the law relating to the financial obligations of that Government;

(d) the imposition of a charge upon the Federal Consolidated Fund, or the abolition or alteration of any such charge;

(e) the receipt of moneys on account of the Public Account of the Federation, the custody or issue of such moneys;

1Omitted, subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 24-25. 2For the Parliament (Joint Sitting), Rules 1973, see Gaz. of Pak. 1973, Ext. Pt. 11, pp. 1657-1672. 3Omitted as consequence of the (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), see section 2.

(f) the audit of the accounts of the Federal Government or a Provincial Government; and

(g) any matter incidental to any of the matters specified in the preceding paragraphs.

(3) A Bill shall not be deemed to be a Money Bill by reason only that it provides__

(a) for the imposition or alteration of any fine or other pecuniary penalty, or for the demand or payment of a licence fee or a fee or charge for any service rendered; or

(b) for the imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulation of any tax by any local authority or body for local purposes.

(4) If any question arises whether a Bill is a Money Bill or not, the decision of the Speaker of the National Assembly thereon shall be final.

(5) Every Money Bill presented to the President for assent shall bear a certificate under the hand of the Speaker of the National Assembly that it is a Money Bill, and such certificate shall be conclusive for all purposes and shall not be called in question.

Article 74. Federal Government’s consent required for financial measures

A Money Bill, or a Bill or amendment which if enacted and brought into operation would involve expenditure from the Federal Consolidated Fund or withdrawal from the Public Account of the Federation or affect the coinage or currency of Pakistan or the constitution or functions of the State Bank of Pakistan shall not be introduced or moved in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] except by or with the consent of the Federal Government.

[1] Article 75. President’s assent to Bills

(1) When a Bill is presented to the President for assent, the President shall, within 2[ten] days,__

(a) assent to the Bill; or

(b) in the case of a Bill other than a Money Bill, return the Bill to the Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament) with a message requesting that the Bill, or any specified provision thereof, be reconsidered and that any amendment specified in the message be considered.

2[(2) When the President has returned a Bill to the Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament), it shall be reconsidered by the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) in joint sitting and, if it is again passed, with or without amendment, by the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), by the votes of the majority of the members of both Houses present and voting, it shall be deemed for the purposes of the Constitution to have been passed by both Houses and shall be presented to the President, and the President shall give his assent within ten days, failing which such assent shall be deemed to have been given.]

(3) When the President has assented 2[or is deemed to have assented] to a Bill, it shall become law and be called an Act of Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament).

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 26.

(4) No Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), and no provision in any such Act, shall be invalid by reason only that some recommendation, previous sanction or consent required by the Constitution was not given if that Act was assented to in accordance with the Constitution.]

Article 76. Bill not to lapse on prorogation, etc

(1) A Bill pending in either House shall not lapse by reason of the prorogation of the House.

(2) A Bill pending in the Senate which has not been passed by the National Assembly shall not lapse on the dissolution of the National Assembly.

(3) A Bill pending in the National Assembly, or a Bill which having been passed by the National Assembly is pending in the Senate, shall lapse on the dissolution of the National Assembly.

Article 77. Tax to be levied by law only

No tax shall be levied for the purposes of the Federation except by or under the authority of Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]. Financial Procedure

Article 78. Federal Consolidated Fund and Public Account

(1) All revenues received by the Federal Government, all loans raised by that Government, and all moneys received by it in repayment of any loan, shall form part of a consolidated fund, to be known as the Federal Consolidated Fund.

(2) All other moneys—

(a) received by or on behalf of the Federal Government; or

(b) received by or deposited with 2[the Federal Constitutional Court,] the Supreme Court or any other court established under the authority of the Federation;

shall be credited to the Public Account of the Federation.

Article 79. Custody, etc., of Federal Consolidated Fund and Public Account

The custody of the Federal Consolidated Fund, the payment of moneys into that Fund, the withdrawal of moneys therefrom, the custody of other moneys received by or on behalf of the Federal Government, their payment into, and withdrawal from, the Public Account of the Federation, and all matters connected with or ancillary to the matters aforesaid, shall be regulated by Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or, until provision in that behalf is so made, by rules made by the President.

Article 80. Annual Budget Statement

(1) The Federal Government shall, in respect of every financial year, cause to be laid before the National Assembly a statement of the estimated receipt and expenditure of the Federal Government for that year, in this Part referred to as the Annual Budget Statement.

(2) The Annual Budget Statement shall show separately__

(a) the sums required to meet expenditure described by the Constitution as expenditure charged upon the Federal Consolidated Fund; and

(b) the sums required to meet other expenditure proposed to be made from the Federal Consolidated Fund;

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 8.

and shall distinguish expenditure on revenue account from other expenditure.

Article 81. Expenditure charged upon Federal Consolidated Fund

The following expenditure shall be expenditure charged upon the Federal Consolidated Fund:__

(a) the remuneration payable to the President and other expenditure relating to his office, and the remuneration payable to__

(i) the Judges of 1[the Federal Constitutional Court,] the Supreme Court 2[and the Islamabad High Court];

(ii) the Chief Election Commissioner;

(iii) the Chairman and the Deputy Chairman;

(iv) the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly;

(v) the Auditor-General;

2[(b) the administrative expenses, including the remuneration payable to officers and 3[staff], of 1[the Federal Constitutional Court,] the 4[Supreme Court, the Judicial Commission of Pakistan, the Supreme Judicial Council] the Islamabad High Court, the department of the Auditor-General, the Office of the Chief Election Commissioner and of the Election Commission and the Secretariats of the Senate and the National Assembly;]

(c) all debt charges for which the Federal Government is liable, including interest, sinking fund charges, the repayment or amortisation of capital, and other expenditure in connection with the raising of loans, and the service and redemption of debt on the security of the Federal Consolidated Fund;

(d) any sums required to satisfy any judgement, decree or award against Pakistan by any court or tribunal; 4[*] 4[(da) any sums required to organize and conduct elections to the National Assembly, Senate, Provincial Assemblies and the local governments; and]

(e) any other sums declared by the Constitution or by Act of 5[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] to be so charged.

Article 82. Procedure relating to Annual Budget Statement

(1) So much of the Annual Budget Statement as relates to expenditure charged upon the Federal Consolidated Fund may be discussed in, but shall not be submitted to the vote of, the National Assembly.

(2) So much of the Annual Budget Statement as relates to other expenditure shall be submitted to the National Assembly in the form of demands for grants, and the Assembly shall have power to assent to, or to refuse to assent to, any demand, or to assent to any demand subject to a reduction of the amount specified therein:

Provided that, for a period of ten years from the commencing day or the holding of the second general election to the National Assembly, whichever occurs later, a demand shall be deemed to have been assented to without any reduction of the amount specified therein, unless, by the votes of a majority of the total membership of the Assembly, it is refused or assented to subject to a reduction of the amount specified therein.

1Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 9.

2Added and subs. by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (Act No. I of 2011) s. 2.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (Act No. XXV of 2016), s. 2.

4Subs., omitted and ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-six Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024, s. 5.

5Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

(3) No demand for a grant shall be made except on the recommendation of the Federal Government.

Article 83. Authentication of schedule of authorised expenditure

(1) The Prime Minister shall authenticate by his signature a schedule specifying__

(a) the grants made or deemed to have been made by the National Assembly under Article 82; and

(b) 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.

(2) The schedule so authenticated shall be laid before the National Assembly, but shall not be open to discussion or vote thereon.

(3) 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).

Article 84. Supplementary and excess grants

If in respect of any financial year it is found__

(a) that the amount authorized to be expended for a particular service for the current financial year is insufficient, or that a need has arisen for expenditure upon some new service not included in the Annual Budget Statement for that year; or

(b) that any money has been spent on any service during a financial year in excess of the amount granted for that service for that year; the Federal Government shall have power to authorize expenditure from the Federal Consolidated Fund, whether the expenditure is charged by the Constitution upon that Fund or not, and shall cause to be laid before the National Assembly a Supplementary Budget Statement or, as the case may be, an Excess Budget Statement, setting out the amount of that expenditure, and the provisions of Articles 80 to 83 shall apply to those statements as they apply to the Annual Budget Statement.

Article 85. Votes on account

Notwithstanding anything contained in the foregoing provisions relating to financial matters, the National Assembly shall have power to make any grant in advance in respect of the estimated expenditure for a part of any financial year, not exceeding four months, pending completion of the procedure prescribed in Article 82 for the voting of such grant and the authentication of the schedule of authorized expenditure in accordance with the provisions of Article 83 in relation to the expenditure.

Article 86. Power to authorize expenditure when Assembly stands dissolved

Notwithstanding anything contained in the foregoing provisions relating to financial matters, at any time when the National Assembly stands dissolved, the Federal Government may authorize expenditure from the Federal Consolidated Fund in respect of the estimated expenditure for a period not exceeding four months in any financial year, pending completion of the procedure prescribed in Article 82 for the voting of grants and the authentication of the schedule of authorized expenditure in accordance with the provisions of Article 83 in relation to the expenditure.

Article 87. Secretariats of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]

(1) Each House shall have a separate Secretariat:

Provided that nothing in this clause shall be construed as preventing the creation of posts common to both Houses.

(2) 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may by law regulate the recruitment and the conditions of service of persons appointed to the secretarial staff of either House.

(3) Until provision is made by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] under clause (2), the Speaker or, as the case may be, the Chairman may, with the approval of the President, make rules2 regulating the recruitment, and the conditions of service, of persons appointed to the secretarial staff of the National Assembly or the Senate.

Article 88. Finance Committees

(1) The expenditure of the National Assembly and the Senate within authorised appropriations shall be controlled by the National Assembly or, as the case may be, the Senate acting on the advice of its Finance Committee.

(2) The Finance Committee shall consist of the Speaker or, as the case may be, the Chairman, the Minister of Finance and such other members as may be elected thereto by the National Assembly or, as the case may be, the Senate.

(3) The Finance Committee may make rules3 for regulating its procedure. Ordinances

Article 89. Power of President to promulgate Ordinances

(1) The President may, except when the 4[Senate or] National Assembly is in session, if satisfied that circumstances exist which render it necessary to take immediate action, make and promulgate an Ordinance as the circumstances may require.

(2) An Ordinance promulgated under this Article shall have the same force and effect as an Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] and shall be subject to like restrictions as the power of 1[Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament)] to make law, but every such Ordinance__

(a) shall be laid__

(i) before the National Assembly if it 5[contains provisions dealing with all or any of the matters specified in clause (2) of Article 73], and shall stand repealed at the expiration of 4[one hundred and twenty days] from its promulgation or, if before the expiration of that period a resolution disapproving it is passed by the Assembly, upon the passing of that resolution 4[:]

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2For the National Assembly Secretariat (Recruitment) Rules, 1973, see Gaz. of Pak. 1973, Ext., Part-II. pp. 2279-2286. For the Senate Secretariat (Recruitment) Rules. 1973, see ibid., pp. 2301-2307. 3For the National Assembly (Finance Committee) Rules, 1973, see Gaz. of Pak., 1973. Ext., Part II, pp. 2451- 2454. For the Senate (Finance Committee) Rules, 1973, see ibid., pp. 2479-2482.

4Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 27.

5Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1985 (P.O. No.20 of 1985), Art. 2.

1[Provided that the National Assembly may by a resolution extend the Ordinance for a further period of one hundred and twenty days and it shall stand repealed at the expiration of the extended period, or if before the expiration of that period a resolution disapproving it is passed by the Assembly, upon the passing of that resolution:

Provided further that extension for further period may be made only once.]

(ii) before both Houses if it 2[does not contain provisions dealing with any of the matters referred to in sub-paragraph (i)], and shall stand repealed at the expiration of 1[one hundred and twenty days] from its promulgation or, if before the expiration of that period a resolution disapproving it is passed by either House, upon the passing of that resolution 1[:]

1[Provided that either House may by a resolution extend it for a further period of one hundred and twenty days and it shall stand repealed at the expiration of the extended period, or if before the expiration of that period a resolution disapproving it is passed by a House, upon the passing of that resolution:

Provided further that extension for a further period may be made only once; and]

(b) may be withdrawn at any time by the President.

1[(3) without prejudice to the provisions of clause (2),__

(a) an Ordinance laid before the National Assembly under sub-paragraph (i) of paragraph (a) of clause (2) shall be deemed to be a Bill introduced in the National Assembly; and

(b) an Ordinance laid before both Houses under sub-paragraph (ii) of paragraph (a) of clause (2) shall be deemed to be a Bill introduced in the House where it was first laid.]

1Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 27.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1985 (P.O. No.20 of 1985), Art. 2.

CHAPTER 3

THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

1[ 2[90. The Federal Government.__ (1) Subject to the Constitution, the executive authority of the Federation shall be exercised in the name of the President by the Federal Government, consisting of the Prime Minister and the Federal Ministers, which shall act through the Prime Minister, who shall be the chief executive of the Federation.

(2) In the performance of his functions under the Constitution, the Prime Minister may act either directly or through the Federal Ministers.]

[2] Article 91. The Cabinet

(1) There shall be a Cabinet of Ministers, with the Prime Minister at its head, to aid and advise the President in the exercise of his functions.

(2) The National Assembly shall meet on the twenty-first day following the day on which a general election to the Assembly is held, unless sooner summoned by the President.

(3) After the election of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker, the National Assembly shall, to the exclusion of any other business, proceed to elect without debate one of its Muslim members to be the Prime Minister.

(4) The Prime Minister shall be elected by the votes of the majority of the total membership of the National Assembly:

Provided that, if no member secures such majority in the first poll, a second poll shall be held between the members who secure the two highest numbers of votes in the first poll and the member who secures a majority of votes of the members present and voting shall be declared to have been elected as Prime Minister:

Provided further that, if the number of votes secured by two or more members securing the highest number of votes is equal, further poll shall be held between them until one of them secures a majority of votes of the members present and voting.

(5) The member elected under clause (4) shall be called upon by the President to assume the office of Prime Minister and he shall, before entering upon the office, make before the President oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule:

Provided that there shall be no restriction on the number of terms for the office of the Prime Minister.

(6) The Cabinet, together with the Ministers of State, shall be collectively responsible to the Senate and the National Assembly.

(7) The Prime Minister shall hold office during the pleasure of the President, but the President shall not exercise his powers under this clause unless he is satisfied that the Prime Minister does not command the confidence of the majority of the members of the National Assembly, in which case he shall summon the National Assembly and require the Prime Minister to obtain a vote of confidence from the Assembly.

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 28-29.

(8) The Prime Minister may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office.

(9) A Minister who for any period of six consecutive months is not a member of the National Assembly shall, at the expiration of that period, cease to be a Minister and shall not before the dissolution of that Assembly be again appointed a Minister unless he is elected a member of that Assembly:

Provided that nothing contained in this clause shall apply to a Minister who is member of the Senate.

(10) Nothing contained in this Article shall be construed as disqualifying the Prime Minister or any other Minister or a Minister of State for continuing in office during any period during which the National Assembly stands dissolved, or as preventing the appointment of any person as Prime Minister or other Minister or a Minister of State during any such period.]

Article 92. Federal Ministers and Ministers of State

(1) Subject to clauses 1[(9) and (10)] of Article 91, the President shall appoint Federal Ministers and Ministers of State from amongst the members of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) on the advice of the Prime Minister :

Provided that the number of Federal Ministers and Ministers of State who are members of the Senate shall not at any time exceed one-fourth of the number of Federal Ministers 1[:]

1[Provided further that the total strength of the Cabinet, including Ministers of State, shall not exceed a eleven percent of the total membership of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament):

Provided also that the aforesaid amendment shall be effective from the next general election held after the commencement of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010.]

(2) Before entering upon office, a Federal Minister or Minister of State shall make before the President oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule.

(3) A Federal Minister or Minister of State may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office or may be removed from office by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister.

Article 93. Advisers

(1) The President may, on the advice of the Prime Minister, appoint not more than 2[seven] Advisers, on such terms and conditions as he may determine.

(2) The provisions of Article 57 shall also apply to an Adviser.

Article 94. Prime Minister continuing in office

The President may ask the Prime Minister to continue to hold office until his successor enters upon the office of Prime Minister.

Article 95. Vote of no-confidence against Prime Minister

(1) A resolution for a vote of no- confidence moved by not less than twenty per centum of the total membership of the National Assembly may be passed against the Prime Minister by the National Assembly.

1Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 30.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 10.

(2) A resolution referred to in clause (1) shall not be voted upon before the expiration of three days, or later than seven days, from the day on which such resolution is moved in the National Assembly.

(3) A resolution referred to in clause (1) shall not be moved in the National Assembly while the National Assembly is considering demands for grants submitted to it in the Annual Budget Statement.

(4) If the resolution referred to in clause (1) is passed by a majority of the total membership of the National Assembly, the Prime Minister shall cease to hold office.]

Article 96. 1[Omitted]

96A. [Referendum as to confidence in Prime Minister] It cease to be in force on the 30th September, 1977 by the Constitution (Seventh Amdt.) Act, 1977 (23 of 1977), s.1(3) and previously ins. by Act 23 of 1977, s.2, and come into force on 16th May, 1977.

Article 97. Extent of executive authority of Federation

Subject to the Constitution, the executive authority of the Federation shall extend to the matters with respect to which 2[Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament)] has power to make laws, including exercise of rights, authority and jurisdiction in and in relation to areas outside Pakistan:

Provided that the said authority shall not, save as expressly provided in the Constitution or in any law made by 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], extend in any Province to a matter with respect to which the Provincial Assembly has also power to make laws.

Article 98. Conferring of functions on subordinate authorities

On the recommendation of the Federal Government, 2[Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament)] may by law confer functions upon officers or authorities subordinate to the Federal Government.

[2] Article 99. Conduct of business of Federal Government

(1) All executive actions of the Federal Government shall be expressed to be taken in the name of the President.

(2) The 3[Federal Government] shall by rules specify the manner in which orders and other instruments made and executed 3[in the name of the President] shall be authenticated, and the validity of any order or instrument so authenticated shall not be questioned in any court on the ground that it was not made or executed by the President.

3[(3) The Federal Government shall also make rules for the allocation and transaction of its business.]]

Article 100. Attorney-General for Pakistan

(1) The President shall appoint a person, being a person qualified to be appointed a Judge of the 4[Federal Constitutional] Court, to be the Attorney- General for Pakistan.

(2) The Attorney-General shall hold office during the pleasure of the President 3[and shall not engage in private practice so long as he holds the office of the Attorney-General].

1Omitted by substitution through re-numbering by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

3Subs. and added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 31-32.

4Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 11.

(3) It shall be the duty of the Attorney-General to give advice to the Federal Government upon such legal matters, and to perform such other duties of a legal character, as may be referred or assigned to him by the Federal Government, and in the performance of his duties he shall have the right of audience in all courts and tribunals in Pakistan.

(4) The Attorney-General may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office.

PART IV

PROVINCES

CHAPTER 1. – THE GOVERNORS

Article 101. Appointment of Governor

1[(1) There shall be a Governor for each Province, who shall be appointed by the President on the advise of the Prime Minister.]

(2) A person shall not be appointed a Governor unless he is qualified to be elected as a member of the National Assembly and is not less than thirty-five years of age 2[and is a registered voter and resident of the Province concerned.] 3[:]

4[* * * * * * *]

4[(2A) * * * * * * *]

(3) The Governor shall hold office during the pleasure of the President 5[and shall be entitled to such salary, allowances and privileges as the President may determine].

(4) The Governor may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office.

6[(5) The President may make such provision as he thinks fit for the discharge of the functions of a Governor 7[in any contingency not provided for in this Part].

Article 102. Oath of Office

Before entering upon office, the Governor shall make before the Chief Justice of the High Court oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule.

Article 103. Conditions of Governor’s office

(1) The Governor shall not hold any office of profit in the service of Pakistan or occupy any other position carrying the right to remuneration for the rendering of services.

(2) The Governor shall not be a candidate for election as a member of 8[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or a Provincial Assembly and, if a member of 8[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or a Provincial Assembly is appointed as Governor, his seat in 8[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or, as the case may be, the Provincial Assembly shall become vacant on the day he enters upon his office.

1Subs. and added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 33.

2Added ibid.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act. 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 2.

4Omitted by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act, 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 11.

5Added by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 6, (w.e.f. the 4th May, 1974).

6Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

7Added by constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 11.

8Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

[1] Article 104. Speaker Provincial Assembly to act as, or perform functions of Governor in his absence

When the Governor, by reason of absence from Pakistan or for any other cause, is unable to perform his functions, the Speaker of the Provincial Assembly and in his absence any other person as the President may nominate shall perform the functions of Governor until the Governor returns to Pakistan or, as the case may be, resumes his functions.]

[2] Article 105. Governor to act on advice, etc

(1) Subject to the Constitution, in the performance of his functions, the Governor shall act 3[on and] in accordance with the advice of the Cabinet, 4[or the Chief Minister]:

4[Provided that 3[within fifteen days] the Governor may require the Cabinet or, as the case may be, the Chief Minister to reconsider such advice, whether generally or otherwise, and the Governor shall 3[, within ten days,] act in accordance with the advice tendered after such reconsideration.]

5[* * * * * * *]

(2) The question whether any, and if so what, advice was tendered to the Governor by the Chief Minister 6[or the Cabinet] shall not be inquired into in, or by, any court, tribunal or other authority.

7[(3) Where the Governor dissolves the Provincial Assembly, notwithstanding anything contained in clause (1), he shall,__

(a) appoint a date, not later than ninety days from the date of dissolution, for the holding of a general election to the Assembly; and

(b) appoint a care-taker Cabinet 8[in accordance with the provisions of Article 224 or, as the case may be, Article 224A]]

9[* * * * * * *]

(5) The provisions of clause 10[(2)] of Article 48 shall have effect in relation to a Governor as if reference therein to “President” were reference to “Governor”.]

CHAPTER 2

PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLIES

[11] Article 106. Constitution of Provincial Assemblies

(1) Each Provincial Assembly shall consist of general seats and seats reserved for women and non-Muslims as specified herein below:__

1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 34.

2Subs. by the Revival of the constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

3Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 35.

4Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act. 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 12.

5Ommited. by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act. 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 12.

6Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act. 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 12.

7Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010) s, 35.

8Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 12.

9Ommited. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010) s. 35.

10Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act. 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985) s. 12.

11Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 36, and shall be deemed always to have been so, substituted with effect from 21st day of August, 2002.

General seats Women Non-Muslims Total Balochistan 51 11 3 65 1[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 115 26 4 145] Punjab 297 66 8 371 Sindh 130 29 9 168

2[* * * * * * *]

(2) A person shall be entitled to vote if__

(a) he is a citizen of Pakistan;

(b) he is not less than eighteen years of age;

(d) he is not declared by a competent court to be of unsound mind.

(3) For the purpose of election to a Provincial Assembly,__

(a) the constituencies for the general seats shall be single member territorial constituencies and the members to fill such seats shall be elected by direct and free vote;

(b) each Province shall be a single constituency for all seats reserved for women and non-Muslims allocated to the respective Provinces under clause (1);

(c) the members to fill seats reserved for women and non- Muslims allocated to a Province under clause (1) shall be elected in accordance with law through proportional representation system of political parties’ lists of candidates on the basis of the total number of general seats secured by each political party in the Provincial Assembly:

Provided that for the purpose of this sub-clause, the total number of general seats won by a political party shall include the independent returned candidate or candidates who may duly join such political party within three days of the publication in the official Gazette of the names of the returned candidates.]

Article 107. Duration of Provincial Assembly

A Provincial Assembly shall, unless sooner dissolved, continue for a term of five years from the day of its first meeting and shall stand dissolved at the expiration of its term.

1Subs. and Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018) s. 6. w.e.f. 31-05-2018.

2Clauses (1A) and (1B) ins. under s. 6 of Act No. 37 of 2018, after merger of former FATA areas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and effective for election of members from that areas within one year after general elections, 2018 stood omitted after their election.

Article 108. Speaker and Deputy Speaker

After a general election, a Provincial Assembly shall, at its first meeting and to the exclusion of any other business, elect from amongst its members a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker and, so often as the office of Speaker or Deputy Speaker becomes vacant, the Assembly shall elect another member as Speaker or, as the case may be, Deputy Speaker.

Article 109. Summoning and prorogation of Provincial Assembly

The Governor may from time to time__

(a) summon the Provincial Assembly to meet at such time and place as he thinks fit; and

(b) prorogue the Provincial Assembly.

Article 110. Right of Governor to address Provincial Assembly

The Governor may address the Provincial Assembly and may for that purpose require the attendance of the members.

Article 111. Right to speak in Provincial Assembly

The Advocate-General 1[and an Advisor appointed under clause (11) of Article 130] shall have the right to speak and otherwise take part in the proceedings of the Provincial Assembly or any committee thereof of which he may be named a member, but shall not by virtue of this Article be entitled to vote.

[2] Article 112. Dissolution of Provincial Assembly

(1) The Governor shall dissolve the Provincial Assembly if so advised by the Chief Minister; and the Provincial Assembly shall, unless sooner dissolved, stand dissolved at the expiration of forty-eight hours after the Chief Minister has so advised.

Explanation.__ Reference in this Article to ‘Chief Minister’ shall not be construed to include reference to a Chief Minister against whom a notice of a resolution for a vote of no-confidence has been given in the Provincial Assembly but has not been voted upon or against whom a resolution for a vote of no-confidence has been passed.

(2) The Governor may also dissolve the Provincial Assembly in his discretion, but subject to the previous approval of the President, where a vote of no-confidence having been passed against the Chief Minister, no other member of the Provincial Assembly commands the confidence of the majority of the members of the Provincial Assembly in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution, as ascertained in a session of the Provincial Assembly summoned for the purpose.]

[3] Article 113. Qualifications and disqualifications for membership of Provincial Assembly

The qualifications and disqualifications for membership of the National Assembly set out in Articles 62 and 63 shall also apply for membership of a Provincial Assembly as if reference therein to “National Assembly” were a reference to “Provincial Assembly”.]

Article 114. Restriction on discussion in Provincial Assembly

No discussion shall take place in a Provincial Assembly with respect to the conduct of any Judge of 4[the Federal Constitutional Court,] the Supreme Court or of a High Court in the discharge of his duties.

Article 115. Provincial Government’s consent required for financial measures

(1) A Money Bill, or a Bill or amendment which if enacted and brought into operation would involve expenditure from the Provincial Consolidated Fund or withdrawal from the Public Account of the Province shall not be introduced or moved in the Provincial Assembly except by or with the consent of the Provincial Government.

1Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 6.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 37.

3Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

4Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 13.

(2) For the purposes of this Article, a Bill or amendment shall be deemed to be a Money Bill if it contains provisions dealing with all or any of the following matters, namely:__

(a) the imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulation of any tax;

(b) the borrowing of money, or the giving of any guarantee, by the Provincial Government or the amendment of the law relating to the financial obligations of that Government;

(d) the imposition of a charge upon the Provincial Consolidated Fund, or the abolition or alteration of any such charge;

(e) the receipt of moneys on account of the Public Account of the Province, the custody or issue of such moneys; and

(f) any matter incidental to any of the matters specified in the preceding paragraphs.

(3) A Bill shall not be deemed to be a Money Bill by reason only that it provides__

(a) for the imposition or alteration of any fine or other pecuniary penalty or for the demand or payment of a licence fee or a fee or charge for any service rendered; or

(b) for the imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulation of any tax by any local authority or body for local purposes.

(4) If any question arises whether a Bill is a Money Bill or not, the decision of the Speaker of the Provincial Assembly thereon shall be final.

(5) Every Money Bill presented to the Governor for assent shall bear a certificate under the hand of the Speaker of the Provincial Assembly that it is a Money Bill and such certificate shall be conclusive for all purposes and shall not be called in question.

[1] Article 116. Governor’s assent to Bills

(1) When a Bill has been passed by the Provincial Assembly, it shall be presented to the Governor for assent.

(2) When a Bill is presented to the Governor for assent, the Governor shall, within 2[ten] days,__

(a) assent to the Bill; or

(b) in the case of a Bill other than a Money Bill, return the Bill to the Provincial Assembly with a message requesting that the Bill, or any specified provision thereof, be reconsidered and that any amendment specified in the message be considered.

3[(3) When the Governor has returned a Bill to the Provincial Assembly, it shall be reconsidered by the Provincial Assembly and, if it is again passed, with or without amendment, by the Provincial

1Subs. by Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 38.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act, 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 15.

Assembly, by the votes of the majority of the members of the Provincial Assembly present and voting, it shall be again presented to the Governor and the Governor shall 1[give his assent within ten days, failing which such assent shall be deemed to have been given].

(4) When the Governor has assented 2[or is deemed to have assented] to a Bill it shall become law and be called an Act of Provincial Assembly.

(5) No Act of a Provincial Assembly, and no provision in any such Act, shall be invalid by reason only that some recommendation, previous sanction or consent required by the Constitution was not given if that Act was assented to in accordance with the Constitution.]

Article 117. Bill not to lapse on prorogation, etc

(1) A Bill pending in a Provincial Assembly shall not lapse by reason of the prorogation of the Assembly.

(2) A Bill pending in a Provincial Assembly shall lapse on the dissolution of the Assembly. Financial Procedure

Article 118. Provincial Consolidated Fund and Public Account

(1) All revenues received by the Provincial Government, all loans raised by that Government, and all moneys received by it in repayment of any loan, shall form part of a consolidated fund, to be known as the Provincial Consolidated Fund.

(2) All other moneys__

(a) received by or on behalf of the Provincial Government; or

(b) received by or deposited with the High Court or any other court established under the authority of the Province;

shall be credited to the Public Account of the Province.

Article 119. Custody, etc., of Provincial Consolidated Fund and Public Account

The custody of the Provincial Consolidated Fund, the payment of moneys into that Fund, the withdrawal of moneys therefrom, the custody of other moneys received by or on behalf of the Provincial Government, their payment into, and withdrawal from the Public Account of the Province, and all matters connected with or ancillary to the matters aforesaid, shall be regulated by Act of the Provincial Assembly or, until provision in that behalf is so made, by rules made by the Governor.

Article 120. Annual Budget Statement

(1) The Provincial Government shall, in respect of every financial year, cause to be laid before the Provincial Assembly a statement of the estimated receipts and expenditure of the Provincial Government for that year, in this Chapter referred to as the Annual Budget Statement.

(2) The Annual Budget Statement shall show separately__

(a) the sums required to meet expenditure described by the constitution as expenditure charged upon the Provincial Consolidated Fund; and

1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 38.

2Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 38.

(b) the sums required to meet other expenditure proposed to be made from the Provincial Consolidated Fund;

and shall distinguish expenditure on revenue account from other expenditure.

Article 121. Expenditure charged upon Provincial Consolidated Fund

The following expenditure shall be expenditure charged upon the Provincial Consolidated Fund:__

(a) the remuneration payable to the Governor and other expenditure relating to his office, and the remuneration payable to__

(i) the Judges of the High Court; and

(ii) the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Provincial Assembly;

(b) the administrative expenses, including the remuneration payable to officers and servants, of the High Court and the Secretariat of the Provincial Assembly;

(c) all debt charges for which the Provincial Government is liable, including interest, sinking fund charges, the repayment or amortisation of capital, and other expenditure in connection with the raising of loans, and the service and redemption of debt on the security of the Provincial Consolidated Fund;

(d) any sums required to satisfy any judgement, decree or award against the Province by any court or tribunal; and

(e) any other sums declared by the Constitution or by Act of the Provincial Assembly to be so charged.

Article 122. Procedure relating to Annual Budget Statement

(1) So much of the Annual Budget Statement as relates to expenditure charged upon the Provincial Consolidated Fund may be discussed in, but shall not be submitted to the vote of, the Provincial Assembly.

(2) So much of the Annual Budget Statement as relates to other expenditure shall be submitted to the Provincial Assembly in the form of demands for grants, and that Assembly shall have power to assent to, or to refuse to assent to, any demand, or to assent to any demand subject to a reduction of the amount specified therein:

1[* * * * * * *]

(3) No demand for a grant shall be made except on the recommendation of the Provincial Government.

Article 123. Authentication of schedule of authorized expenditure

(1) The Chief Minister shall authenticate by his signature a schedule specifying__

(a) the grants made or deemed to have been made by the Provincial Assembly under Article 122, and

1Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.39.

(b) the several sums required to meet the expenditure charged upon the Provincial Consolidated Fund but not exceeding, in the case of any sum, the sum shown in the statement previously laid before the Assembly.

(2) The schedule so authenticated shall be laid before the Provincial Assembly, but shall not be open to discussion or vote thereon.

(3) Subject to the Constitution, no expenditure from the Provincial Consolidated Fund shall be deemed to be duly authorized unless it is specified in the schedule so authenticated and such schedule is laid before the Provincial Assembly as required by clause (2).

Article 124. Supplementary and excess grant

If in respect of any financial year it is found__

(b) that any money has been spent on any service during a financial year in excess of the amount granted for that service for that year;

the Provincial Government shall have power to authorize expenditure from the Provincial Consolidated Fund, whether the expenditure is charged by the Constitution upon that Fund or not, and shall cause to be laid before the Provincial Assembly a Supplementary Budget Statement or, as the case may be, an Excess Budget Statement, setting out the amount of that expenditure, and the provisions of Articles 120 to 123 shall apply to those statements as they apply to the Annual Budget Statement.

Article 125. Votes on account

Notwithstanding anything contained in the foregoing provisions relating to financial matters, the Provincial Assembly shall have power to make any grant in advance in respect of the estimated expenditure for a part of any financial year, not exceeding three months, pending completion of the procedure prescribed in Article 122 for the voting of such grant and the authentication of the schedule of expenditure in accordance with the provisions of Article 123 in relation to the expenditure.

Article 126. Power to authorize expenditure when Assembly stands, dissolved

Notwithstanding anything contained in the foregoing provisions relating to financial matters, at any time when the Provincial Assembly stands dissolved, the Provincial Government may authorize expenditure from the Provincial Consolidated Fund in respect of the estimated expenditure for a period not exceeding four months in any financial year, pending completion of the procedure prescribed in Article 122 for the voting of grants and the authentication of the schedule of authorized expenditure in accordance with the provisions of Article 123 in relation to the expenditure.

Article 127. Provisions relating to National Assembly, etc., to apply to Provincial Assembly, etc

Subject to the Constitution, the provisions of clauses (2) to (8) of Article 53, clauses (2) and (3) of Article 54, Article 55, Articles 63 to 67, Article 69, Article 77, Article 87 and Article 88 shall apply to and in relation to a Provincial Assembly or a committee or members thereof or the Provincial Government, but so that__

(a) any reference in those provisions to 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], a House or the National Assembly shall be read as a reference to the Provincial Assembly;

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

(b) any reference in those provisions to the President shall be read as a reference to the Governor of the Province;

(c) any reference in those provisions to the Federal Government shall be read as a reference to the Provincial Government;

(d) any reference in those provisions to the Prime Minister shall be read as a reference to the Chief Minister;

(e) any reference in those provisions to a Federal Minister shall be read as a reference to a Provincial Minister; 1[*]

(f) any reference in those provisions to the National Assembly of Pakistan shall be read as a reference to the Provincial Assembly in existence immediately before the commencing day 2[; and] 3[(g) the said clause (2) of Article 54 shall have effect as if, in the proviso thereto, for the words “one hundred and thirty” the word 4[one hundred] were substituted.] Ordinances

Article 128. Power of Governor to promulgate Ordinances

(1) The Governor may, except when the Provincial Assembly is in session, if satisfied that circumstances exist which render it necessary to take immediate action, make and promulgate an Ordinance as the circumstances may require.

(2) An Ordinance promulgated under this Article shall have the same force and effect as an Act of the Provincial Assembly and shall be subject to like restrictions as the power of the Provincial Assembly to make laws, but every such Ordinance__

(a) shall be laid before the Provincial Assembly and shall stand repealed at the expiration of 5[ninety days] from its promulgation or, if before the expiration of that period a resolution disapproving it is passed by the Assembly, upon the passing of that resolution 6[:]

7[Provided that the Provincial Assembly may by a resolution extend the Ordinance for a further period of ninety days and it shall stand repealed at the expiration of the extended period, or if before the expiration of that period a resolution disapproving it is passed by the Assembly, upon the passing of that resolution:]

Provided further that extension for a further period may be made only once.]

(b) may be withdrawn at any time by the Governor.

1Omitted by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act. 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s.7 (w.e.f the 4th May. 1974).

2Subs.by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act. 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s.7 (w.e.f the 4th May. 1974). 3Added.by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act. 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s.7 (w.e.f the 4th May. 1974).

4Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 40.

5Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 41.

6Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 41.

7Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 41.

(3) Without prejudice to the provisions of clause (2), an Ordinance laid before the Provincial Assembly shall be deemed to be a Bill introduced in the Provincial Assembly.

CHAPTER 3

THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENTS

[1] Article 129. The Provincial Government

(1) Subject to the Constitution, the executive authority of the Province shall be exercised in the name of the Governor by the Provincial Government, consisting of the Chief Minister and Provincial Ministers, which shall act through the Chief Minister.

(2) In the performance of his functions under the Constitution, the Chief Minister may act either directly or through the Provincial Ministers.]

[2] Article 130. The Cabinet

(1) There shall be a Cabinet of Ministers, with the Chief Minister at its head, to aid and advise the Governor in the exercise of his functions.

(2) The Provincial Assembly shall meet on the twenty-first day following the day on which a general election to the Assembly is held, unless sooner summoned by the Governor.

(3) After the election of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker, the Provincial Assembly shall, to the exclusion of any other business, proceed to elect without debate one of its members to be the Chief Minister.

(4) The Chief Minister shall be elected by the votes of the majority of the total membership of the Provincial Assembly:

Provided that, if no member secures such majority in the first poll, a second poll shall be held between the members who secures the two highest numbers of votes in the first poll and the member who secures a majority of votes of the members present and voting shall be declared to have been elected as Chief Minister:

Provided further that, if the number of votes secured by two or more members securing the highest number of votes is equal, further polls shall be held between them until one of them secures a majority of votes of the members present and voting.

(5) The member elected under clause (4) shall be called upon by the Governor to assume the office of Chief Minister and he shall, before entering upon the office, make before the Governor oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule:

Provided that there shall be no restriction on the number of terms for the office of the Chief Minister.

(6) The Cabinet shall be collectively responsible to the Provincial Assembly and the total strength of the Cabinet shall not exceed 3[seventeen] members or 3[thirteen] percent of the total membership of a Provincial Assembly, whichever is higher 3[.]

3[* * * * * * *]

1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 42.

2 Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 43.

3Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 14.

(7) The Chief Minister shall hold office during the pleasure of the Governor, but the Governor shall not exercise his powers under this clause unless he is satisfied that the Chief Minister does not command the confidence of the majority of the members of the Provincial Assembly, in which case he shall summon the Provincial Assembly and require the Chief Minister to obtain a vote of confidence from the Assembly.

(8) The Chief Minister may, by writing under his hand addressed to the Governor, resign his office.

(9) A Minister who for any period of six consecutive months is not a member of the Provincial Assembly shall, at the expiration of that period, cease to be a Minister and shall not before the dissolution of that Assembly be again appointed a Minister unless he is elected a member of that Assembly.

(10) Nothing contained in this Article shall be construed as disqualifying the Chief Minister or any other Minister for continuing in office during any period during which the Provincial Assembly stands dissolved, or as preventing the appointment of any person as Chief Minister or other Minister during any such period.

(11) The Chief Minister shall not appoint more than 1[seven] Advisors.]

[2] Article 131. Governor to be kept informed

The Chief Minister shall keep the Governor informed on matters relating to Provincial administration and on all legislative proposals the Provincial Government intends to bring before the Provincial Assembly.]

[3] Article 132. Provincial Ministers

(1) Subject to clauses 4[(9) and (10)] of Article 130, the Governor shall appoint Provincial Ministers from amongst members of the Provincial Assembly on the advice of the Chief Minister.

(2) Before entering upon office, a Provincial Minister shall make before the Governor oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule.

(3) A Provincial Minister may, by writing under his hand addressed to the Governor, resign his office or may be removed from office by the Governor on the advice of the Chief Minister.

Article 133. Chief Minister continuing in office

The Governor may ask the Chief Minister to continue to hold office until his successor enters upon the office of Chief Minister.]

Article 134. [Resignation by Chief Minister] Omitted by P.O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch.

Article 135. [Provincial Minister performing functions of Chief Minister.] Omitted by P.O. No. 14 of

1985, Art. 2 and Sch.

[5] Article 136. Vote of no-confidence against Chief Minister

(1) A resolution for a vote of no- confidence moved by not less than twenty per centum of the total membership of the Provincial Assembly may be passed against the Chief Minister by the Provincial Assembly.

1Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 14.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No X of 2010), s. 44.

3Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

4Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 45.

5Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

(2) A resolution referred to in clause (1) shall not be voted upon before the expiration of three days, or later than seven days, from the day on which such resolution is moved in the Provincial Assembly.

(3) If the resolution referred to in clause (l) is passed by a majority of the total membership of the Provincial Assembly, the Chief Minister shall cease to hold office.]

Article 137. Extent of executive authority of Province

Subject to the Constitution, the executive authority of the Province shall extend to the matters with respect to which the Provincial Assembly has power to make laws:

Provided that, in any matter with respect to which both 1[Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament)] and the Provincial Assembly of a Province have power to make laws, the executive authority of the Province shall be subject to, and limited by, the executive authority expressly conferred by the Constitution or by law made by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] upon the Federal Government or authorities thereof.

Article 138. Conferring of functions on subordinate authorities

On the recommendation of the Provincial Government, the Provincial Assembly may by law confer functions upon officers or authorities subordinate to the Provincial Government.

[2] Article 139. Conduct of business of Provincial Government

(1) All executive actions of the Provincial Government shall be expressed to be taken in the name of the Governor.

(2) The 3[Provincial Government] shall by rules specify the manner in which orders and other instruments made and executed 4[in the name of Governor] shall be authenticated, and the validity of any order or instrument so authenticated shall not be questioned in any court on the ground that it was not made or executed by the Governor.

5[(3) The Provincial Government shall also make rules for the allocation and transaction of its business.]

Article 140. Advocate General for a Province

(1) The Governor of each Province shall appoint a person, being a person qualified to be appointed a Judge of the High Court, to be the Advocate General for the Province.

(2) It shall be the duty of the Advocate-General to give advice to the Provincial Government upon such legal matters, and to perform such other duties of a legal character, as may be referred or assigned to him by the Provincial Government.

(3) The Advocate-General shall hold office during the pleasure of the Governor 6[and shall not engage in private practice so long as he holds the office of the Advocate-General].

(4) The Advocate-General may, by writing under his hand addressed to the Governor, resign his office.

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 46.

4Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 46.

5Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 46.

6Added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 47.

1[* * * * * * *]

[2] Article 140A. Local Government

(1) Each Province shall, by law, establish a local government system and devolve political, administrative and financial responsibility and authority to the elected representatives of the local governments.

(2) Elections to the local governments shall be held by the Election Commission of Pakistan.]

PART V

RELATIONS BETWEEN FEDERATION AND PROVINCES

CHAPTER 1.__ DISTRIBUTION OF LEGISLATIVE POWERS

Article 141. Extent of Federal and Provincial laws

Subject to the Constitution, 3[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may make laws (including laws having extra-territorial operation) for the whole or any part of Pakistan, and a Provincial Assembly may make laws for the Province or any part thereof.

Article 142. Subject-matter of Federal and Provincial laws

Subject to the Constitution__

(a) 3[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] shall have exclusive power to make laws with respect to any matter in the Federal Legislative List; 4[(b) Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) and a Provincial Assembly shall have power to make laws with respect to criminal law, criminal procedure and evidence.] 5[(c) Subject to paragraph (b), a Provincial Assembly shall, and Majlis-e-Shoora

(Parliament) shall not, have power to make laws with respect to any matter not enumerated in the Federal Legislative List.] 6[(d) Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) shall have exclusive power to make laws with respect to all matters pertaining to such areas in the Federation as are not included in any Province.]

[7] Article 143. Inconsistency between Federal and Provincial law

If any provision of an Act of a Provincial Assembly is repugnant to any provision of an Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) which Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament) is competent to enact, then the Act of Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament), whether passed before or after the Act of the Provincial Assembly, shall prevail and the Act of the Provincial Assembly shall, to the extent of the repugnancy, be void.]

Article 144. Power of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) to legislate for 8[One] or more Provinces by consent

(1) If 8[one] or more Provincial Assemblies pass resolutions to the effect that 3[Majlis-e-

1Existing Article 140A stands omitted as a consequence of the (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), see section 2.

2Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 48.

3Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

4Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 49.

5Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 49.

6Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 49.

7Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 50.

8Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 51.

Shoora (Parliament)] may by law regulate any matter not enumerated in 1[the Federal Legislation List] in the Fourth Schedule, it shall be lawful for 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] to pass an Act for regulating that matter accordingly, but any Act so passed may, as respects any Province to which it applies, be amended or repealed by Act of the Assembly of that Province. 3[* * * * * * *]

CHAPTER 2. – ADMINISTRATIVE RELATIONS BETWEEN FEDERATION AND

PROVINCES

Article 145. Power of President to direct Governor to discharge certain functions as his Agent

(1) The President may direct the Governor of any Province to discharge as his Agent, either generally or in any particular matter, such functions relating to such areas in the Federation which are not included in any Province as may be specified in the direction.

(2) The provisions of Article 105 shall not apply to the discharge by the Governor of his functions under clause (1).

Article 146. Power of Federation to confer powers, etc., on Provinces, in certain cases

(1) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, the Federal Government may, with the consent of the Government of a Province, entrust either conditionally or unconditionally to that Government, or to its officers functions in relation to any matter to which the executive authority of the Federation extends.

(2) An Act of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may, notwithstanding that it relates to a matter with respect to which a Provincial Assembly has no power to make laws, confer powers and impose duties upon a Province or officers and authorities thereof.

(3) Where by virtue of this Article powers and duties have been conferred or imposed upon a Province or officers or authorities thereof, there shall be paid by the Federation to the Province such sum as may be agreed or, in default of agreement, as may be determined by an arbitrator appointed by the Chief Justice of 4[Federal Constitutional Court], in respect of any extra costs of administration incurred by the Province in connection with the exercise of those powers or the discharge of those duties.

Article 147. Power of the Provinces to entrust functions to the Federation

Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, the Government of a Province may, with the consent of the Federal Government, entrust, either conditionally or unconditionally, to the Federal Government, or to its officers, functions in relation to any matter to which the executive authority of the Province extends 5[:] 6[Provided that the Provincial Government shall get the functions so entrusted ratified by the Provincial Assembly within sixty days.]

1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss.51-52.

2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

3Omitted by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act, 1985 (XVIII of 1985), s.17.

4Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 15.

5Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 52.

6Added. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 52.

Article 148. Obligation of Provinces and Federation

(1) The executive authority of every Province shall be so exercised as to secure compliance with Federal laws which apply in that Province.

(2) Without prejudice to any other provision of this Chapter, in the exercise of the executive authority of the Federation in any Province regard shall be had to the interests of that Province.

(3) It shall be the duty of the Federation to protect every Province against external aggression and internal disturbances and to ensure that the Government of every Province is carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.

Article 149. Directions to Provinces in certain cases

(1) The executive authority of every Province shall be so exercised as not to impede or prejudice the exercise of the executive authority of the Federation, and the executive authority of the Federation shall extend to the giving of such directions to a Province as may appear to the Federal Government to be necessary for that purpose. 1[(2)* * * * * * * *]

(3) The executive authority of the Federation shall also extend to the giving of directions to a Province as to the construction and maintenance of means of communication declared in the direction to be of national or strategic importance.

(4) The executive authority of the Federation shall also extend to the giving of directions to a Province as to the manner in which the executive authority thereof is to be exercised for the purpose of preventing any grave menace to the peace or tranquility or economic life of Pakistan or any part thereof.

Article 150. Full faith and credit for public acts, etc

Full faith and credit shall be given throughout Pakistan to public acts and records, and judicial proceedings of every Province.

Article 151. Inter-Provincial trade

(1) Subject to clause (2), trade, commerce and intercourse throughout Pakistan shall be free.

(2) 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may by law impose such restrictions on the freedom of trade, commerce or intercourse between one Province and another or within any part of Pakistan as may be required in the public interest.

(3) A Provincial Assembly or a Provincial Government shall not have power to—

(a) make any law, or take any executive action, prohibiting or restricting the entry into, or the export from, the Province of goods of any class or description, or

(b) impose a tax which, as between goods manufactured or produced in the Province and similar goods not so manufactured or produced, discriminates in favour of the former goods or which, in the case of goods manufactured or produced outside the Province discriminates between goods manufactured or produced in any area in Pakistan and similar goods manufactured or produced in any other area in Pakistan.

1Omitted. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 53.

2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

(4) An Act of a Provincial Assembly which imposes any reasonable restriction in the interest of public health, public order or morality, or for the purpose of protecting animals or plants from disease or preventing or alleviating any serious shortage in the Province of any essential commodity shall not, if it was made with the consent of the President, be invalid.

Article 152. Acquisition of land for Federal purposes

The Federation may, if it deems necessary to acquire any land situate in a Province for any purpose connected with a matter with respect to which 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] has power to make laws, require the Province to acquire the land on behalf, and at the expense, of the Federation or, if the land belongs to the Province, to transfer it to the Federation on such terms as may be agreed or, in default of agreement, as may be determined by an arbitrator appointed by the Chief Justice of 2[Federal Constitutional Court].

CHAPTER 3. – SPECIAL PROVISIONS

Article 152A. [National Security Council.] Omitted by the Constitution (Seventeenth Amendment) Act

2003 (3 of 2003), s. 5, which was previously ins. by C.E's. O. No. 24 of 2002, Art. 3 and Sch., as

amended by various enactments.

Article 153. Council of Common Interests

(1) There shall be a Council of Common Interests, in this Chapter referred to as the Council, to be appointed by the President. 3[(2) The Council shall consist of__

(a) the Prime Minister who shall be the Chairman of the Council;

(b) the Chief Ministers of the Provinces; and

(c) three members from the Federal Government to be nominated by the Prime Minister from time to time.] 4[(3)* * * * * * *]

(4) The Council shall be responsible to 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) 5[and shall submit an Annual Report to both Houses of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament).]]

Article 154. Functions and rules of procedure

6[(1) The Council shall formulate and regulate policies in relation to matters in Part II of the Federal Legislative List and shall exercise supervision and control over related institutions.] 7[(2) The Council shall be constituted within thirty days of the Prime Minister taking oath of office.

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 16.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 54.

4Omitted. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 54. 5Added. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 54.

6Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 55.

7Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 55.

(3) The Council shall have a permanent Secretariat and shall meet at least once in ninety days:

Provided that the Prime Minister may convene a meeting on the request of a Province on an urgent matter.] 1[(4)] The decisions of the Council shall be expressed in terms of the opinion of the majority. 1[(5)] Until 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] makes provision by law in this behalf, the Council may make its rules of procedure. 1[(6)] 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in joint sitting may from time to time by resolution issue directions through the Federal Government to the Council generally or in a particular matter to take action as 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may deem just and proper and such directions shall be binding on the Council. 1[(7)] If the Federal Government or a Provincial Government is dissatisfied with a decision of the Council, it may refer the matter to 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in a joint sitting whose decision in this behalf shall be final.

Article 155. Complaints as to interference with water supplies

(1) If the interests of a Province, the Federal Capital 3[******] or any of the inhabitants thereof, in water from any natural source of supply 4[or reservoir] have been or are likely to be affected prejudicially by__

(a) any executive act or legislation taken or passed or proposed to be taken or passed, or

(b) the failure of any authority to exercise any of its powers with respect to the use and distribution or control of water from that source, the Federal Government or the Provincial Government concerned may make a complaint in writing to the Council.

(2) Upon receiving such complaint, the Council shall, after having considered the matter, either give its decision or request the President to appoint a commission consisting of such persons having special knowledge and experience in irrigation, engineering, administration, finance or law as he may think fit, hereinafter referred to as the Commission.

(3) Until 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] makes provision by law in this behalf, the provisions of the Pakistan Commissions of Inquiry Act, 1956 (VI of 1956), as in force immediately before the commencing day shall apply to the Council or the Commission as if the Council or the Commission were a Commission appointed under that Act to which all the provisions of section 5 thereof applied and upon which the power contemplated by section 10A thereof had been conferred.

(4) After considering the report and supplementary report, if any, of the Commission, the Council shall record its decision on all matters referred to the Commission.

1Renumbered by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 55.

2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

3Omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018) s. 7, (w.e.f. the 31-05-2018).

4Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010. (Act No. X of 2010), s. 56.

(5) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, but subject to the provisions of clause (5) of Article 154, it shall be the duty of the Federal Government and the Provincial Government concerned in the matter in issue to give effect to the decision of the Council faithfully according to its terms and

tenor.

(6) No proceeding shall lie before any court at the instance of any party to a matter which is or has been in issue before the Council, or of any person whatsoever, in respect of a matter which is actually or has been or might or ought to have been a proper subject of complaint to the Council under this Article.

[1] Article 156. National Economic Council

(1)The President shall constitute a National Economic Council which shall consist of:__

(a) the Prime Minister, who shall be the Chairman of the Council;

(b) the Chief Ministers and one member from each Province to be nominated by the Chief Minister; and

(2) The National Economic Council shall review the overall economic condition of the country and shall, for advising the Federal Government and the Provincial Governments, formulate plans in respect of financial, commercial, social and economic policies; and in formulating such plans it shall, amongst other factors, ensure balanced development and regional equity and shall also be guided by the Principles of Policy setout in Chapter 2 of Part-II.

(3) The meetings of the Council shall be summoned by the Chairman or on a requisition made by one-half of the members of the Council.

(4) The Council shall meet at least twice in a year and the quorum for a meeting of the Council shall be one-half of its total membership.

(5) The Council shall be responsible to the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) and shall submit an Annual Report to each House of Majlis- e-Shoora (Parliament).].

Article 157. Electricity

(1) The Federal Government may in any Province construct or cause to be constructed hydro-electric or thermal power installations or grid stations for the generation of electricity and lay or cause to be laid inter-Provincial transmission lines 2[:] 3[Provided that the Federal Government, prior to taking a decision to construct or cause to be constructed, hydro-electric power stations in any Province, shall consult the Provincial Government concerned.]

1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.57.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.58.

3Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.58.

(2) The Government of a Province may__

(a) to the extent electricity is supplied to that Province from the national grid, require supply to be made in bulk for transmission and distribution within the Province;

(b) levy tax on consumption of electricity within the Province;

(d) determine the tariff for distribution of electricity within the Province. 1[(3) In case of any dispute between the Federal Government and a Provincial Government in respect of any matter under this Article, any of the said Governments may move the Council of Common Interests for resolution of the dispute.]

Article 158. Priority of requirements of natural gas

The Province in which a well-head of natural gas is situated shall have precedence over other parts of Pakistan in meeting the requirements from that well- head, subject to the commitments and obligations as on the commencing day.

Article 159. Broadcasting and telecasting

(1) The Federal Government shall not unreasonably refuse to entrust to a Provincial Government such functions with respect to broadcasting and telecasting as may be necessary to enable that Government__

(a) to construct and use transmitters in the Province; and

(b) to regulate, and impose fees in respect of, the construction and use of transmitters and the use of receiving apparatus in the Province:

Provided that nothing in this clause shall be construed as requiring the Federal Government to entrust to any Provincial Government any control over the use of transmitters constructed or maintained by the Federal Government or by persons authorised by the Federal Government, or over the use of receiving apparatus by person so authorised.

(2) Any functions so entrusted to a Provincial Government shall be exercised subject to such conditions as may be imposed by the Federal Government, including, notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, any conditions with respect to finance, but it shall not be lawful for the Federal Government so to impose any conditions regulating the matter broadcast or telecast by, or by authority of, the Provincial Government.

(3) Any Federal law with respect to broadcasting and tele-casting shall be such as to secure that effect can be given to the foregoing provisions of this Article.

(4) If any question arises whether any conditions imposed on any Provincial Government are lawfully imposed, or whether any refusal by the Federal Government to entrust functions is unreasonable, the question shall be determined by an arbitrator appointed by the Chief Justice of 2[Federal Constitutional Court].

(5) Nothing in this Article shall be construed as restricting the powers of the Federal Government under the Constitution for the prevention of any grave menace to the peace or tranquillity of Pakistan or any part thereof.

1Added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.58.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 17.

PART VI

FINANCE, PROPERTY, CONTRACTS AND SUITS

CHAPTER 1.– FINANCE DISTRIBUTION OF REVENUES BETWEEN THE

FEDERATION AND THE PROVINCES

Article 160. National Finance Commission

(1) Within six months of the commencing day and thereafter at intervals not exceeding five years, the President shall 1constitute a National Finance Commission consisting of the Minister of Finance of the Federal Government, the Ministers of Finance of the Provincial Governments, and such other persons as may be appointed by the President after consultation with the Governors of the Provinces.

(2) It shall be the duty of the National Finance Commission to make recommendations to the President as to__

(a) the distribution between the Federation and the Provinces of the net proceeds of the taxes mentioned in clause (3);

(b) the making of grants-in-aid by the Federal Government to the Provincial Governments;

(c) the exercise by the Federal Government and the Provincial Governments of the borrowing powers conferred by the Constitution; and

(d) any other matter relating to finance referred to the Commission by the President.

(3) The taxes referred to in paragraph (a) of clause (2) are the following taxes raised under the authority of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], namely:__

(i) taxes on income, including corporation tax, but not including taxes on income consisting of remuneration paid out of the Federal Consolidated Fund; 3[(ii) taxes on the sales and purchases of goods imported, exported, produced, manufactured or consumed;]

(iii) export duties on cotton, and such other export duties as may be specified by the President;

(iv) such duties of excise as may be specified by the President; and

(v) such other taxes as may be specified by the President. 4[(3A) The share of the Provinces in each Award of National Finance Commission shall not be less than the share given to the Provinces in the previous Award.

1For the notification constituting the National Finance Commission, see Gaz. of Pak. 1974, Ext., Part II. pp. 191-192.

2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 3, (w.e.f. the 13th September, 1976).

4Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 59.

(3B) The Federal Finance Minister and Provincial Finance Ministers shall monitor the implementation of the Award biannually and lay their reports before both Houses of Majlis-e-Shoora

(Parliament) and the Provincial Assemblies.]

(4) As soon as may be after receiving the recommendations of the National Finance Commission, the President shall, by 1Order, specify, in accordance with the recommendations of the Commission under paragraph (a) of clause (2), the share of the net proceeds of the taxes mentioned in clause (3) which is to be allocated to each Province, and that share shall be paid to the Government of the Province concerned, and, notwithstanding the provision of Article 78 shall not form part of the Federal Consolidated Fund.

(5) The recommendations of the National Finance Commission, together with an explanatory memorandum as to the action taken thereon, shall be laid before both Houses and the Provincial Assemblies.

(6) At any time before an Order under clause (4) is made, the President may, by Order, make such amendments or modifications in the law relating to the distribution of revenues between the Federal Government and the Provincial Governments as he may deem necessary or expedient.

(7) The President may, by Order, make grants in aid of the revenues of the Provinces in need of assistance and such grants shall be charged upon the Federal Consolidated Fund.

Article 161. Natural gas and hydro-electric power

2[(1) Notwithstanding the provisions of Article 78,__

(a) the net proceeds of the Federal duty of excise on natural gas levied at well-head and collected by the Federal Government and of the royalty collected by the Federal Government, shall not form part of the Federal Consolidated Fund and shall be paid to the Province in which the well-head of natural gas is situated;

(b) the net proceeds of the Federal duty of excise on oil levied at well-head and collected by the Federal Government, shall not form part of the Federal Consolidated Fund and shall be paid to the Province in which the well-head of oil is situated.]

(2) The net profits earned by the Federal Government, or any undertaking established or administered by the Federal Government from the bulk generation of power at a hydro-electric station shall be paid to the Province in which the hydro-electric station is situated. Explanation.__ For the purposes of this clause “net profits” shall be computed by deducting from the revenues accruing from the bulk supply of power from the bus-bars of a hydro-electric station at a rate to be determined by the Council of Common Interests, the operating expenses of the station, which shall include any sums payable as taxes, duties, interest or return on investment, and depreciations and element of obsolescence, and over-heads, and provision for reserves.

1For such Order, see the Distribution of Revenues and Grants-in-Aid Order, 1975 (P. O. No. 2 of 1975).

2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act (Act No. X of 2010), s. 60.

Article 162. Prior sanction of President required to Bills affecting taxation in which Provinces are interested

No Bill or amendment which imposes or varies a tax or duty the whole or part of the net proceeds whereof is assigned to any Province, or which varies the meaning of the expression “agricultural income” as defined for the purposes of the enactments relating to income-tax, as defined for the purposes of the enactments relating to income-tax, or which affects the principles on which under any of the foregoing provisions of this Chapter moneys are or may be distributable to Provinces, shall be introduced or moved in the National Assembly except with the previous sanction of the President.

Article 163. Provincial taxes in respect of professions, etc

A Provincial Assembly may by Act impose taxes, not exceeding such limits as may from time to time be fixed by Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], on persons engaged in professions, trades, callings or employments, and no such Act of the Assembly shall be regarded as imposing a tax on income. Miscellaneous Financial Provisions

Article 164. Grants out of Consolidated Fund

The Federation or a Province may make grants for any purpose, notwithstanding that the purpose is not one with respect to which 1[Majlis- e-Shoora (Parliament)] or, as the case may be, a Provincial Assembly may make laws.

Article 165. Exemption of certain public property from taxation

(1) The Federal Government shall not, in respect of its property or income, be liable to taxation under any Act of Provincial Assembly and, subject to clause (2), a Provincial Government shall not, in respect of its property or income, be liable to taxation under Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or under Act of the Provincial Assembly of any other Province.

(2) If a trade or business of any kind is carried on by or on behalf of the Government of a Province outside that Province, that Government may, in respect of any property used in connection with that trade or business or any income arising from that trade or business, be taxed under Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or under Act of the Provincial Assembly of the Province in which that trade or business is carried on.

(3) Nothing in this Article shall prevent the imposition of fees for services rendered.

[2] Article 165A. Power of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] to impose tax on the income of certain corporations, etc

(1) For the removal of doubt, it is hereby declared that 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] has, and shall be deemed always to have had, the power to make a law to provide for the levy and recovery of a tax on the income of a corporation, company or other body or institution established by or under a Federal law or a Provincial law or an existing law or a corporation, company or other body or institution owned or controlled, either directly or indirectly, by the Federal Government or a Provincial Government, regardless of the ultimate destination of such income.

(2) All orders made, proceedings taken and acts done by any authority or person, which were made, taken or done, or purported to have been made, taken or done, before the commencement of the Constitution (Amendment) Order, 1985, in exercise of the powers derived from any law referred to in clause (1), or in execution of any orders made by any authority in the exercise or purported exercise

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2Added by the Constitution (Amendment) Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 11 of 1985), Art. 2.

of powers as aforesaid, shall, notwithstanding any judgment of any court or tribunal, including the Supreme Court and a High Court, be deemed to be and always to have been validly made, taken or done and shall not be called in question in any court, including 1[the Federal Constitutional Court,] the Supreme Court and a High Court, on any ground whatsoever.

(3) Every judgement or order of any court or tribunal, including 1[the Federal Constitutional Court,] the Supreme Court and a High Court, which is repugnant to the provisions of clause (1) or clause (2) shall be, and shall be deemed always to have been, void and of no effect whatsoever.]

CHAPTER 2.– BORROWING AND AUDIT

Article 166. Borrowing by Federal Government

The executive authority of the Federation extends to borrowing upon the security of the Federal Consolidated Fund within such limits, if any, as may from time to time be fixed by Act of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], and to the giving of guarantees within such limits, if any, as may be so fixed.

Article 167. Borrowing by Provincial Government

(1) Subject to the provisions of this Article, the executive authority of a Province extends to borrowing upon the security of the Provincial Consolidated Fund within such limits, if any, as may from time to time be fixed by Act of the Provincial Assembly, and to the giving of guarantees within such limits, if any, as may be so fixed.

(2) The Federal Government may, subject to such conditions, if any, as it may think fit to impose, make loans to, or, so long as any limits fixed under Article 166 are not exceeded give guarantees in respect of loans raised by, any Province, and any sums required for the purpose of making loans to a Province shall be charged upon the Federal Consolidated Fund.

(3) A Province may not, without the consent of the Federal Government, raise any loan if there is still outstanding any part of a loan made to the Province by the Federal Government, or in respect of which guarantee has been given by the Federal Government; and consent under this clause may be granted subject to such conditions, if any, as the Federal Government may think fit to impose. 3[(4) A Province may raise domestic or international loan, or give guarantees on the security of the Provincial Consolidated Fund within such limits and subject to such conditions as may be specified by the National Economic Council.] Audit and Accounts

Article 168. Auditor-General of Pakistan

(1) There shall be an Auditor-General of Pakistan, who shall be appointed by the President.

(2) Before entering upon office, the Auditor-General shall make before the Chief Justice of Pakistan oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule. 4[(3) The Auditor-General shall, unless he sooner resigns or is removed from office in accordance with clause (5), hold office for a term of four years from the date on which he assumes such office or attains the age of sixty-five years, whichever is earlier.]

1Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 18.

2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

3Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 61.

4Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010) s. 62.

1[(3A) The other terms and conditions of service of the Auditor- General shall be determined by Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament); and, until so determined, by Order of the President.]

(4) A person who has held office as Auditor-General shall not be eligible for further appointment in the service of Pakistan before the expiration of two years after he has ceased to hold that office.

(5) The Auditor-General shall not be removed from office except in the like manner and on the like grounds as a Judge of the Supreme Court.

(6) At any time when the office of the Auditor-General is vacant or the Auditor-General is absent or is unable to perform the functions of his office due to any cause, 2[the President may appoint the most senior officer in the Office of the Auditor-General to] at as Auditor- General and perform the functions of that office.

Article 169. Functions and powers of Auditor-General

The Auditor-General shall, in relation to__

(a) the accounts of the Federation and of the Provinces; and

(b) the accounts of any authority or body established by the Federation or a Province, perform such functions and exercise such powers as may be determined by or under Act of 3[Majlis- e-Shoora (Parliament)] and, until so determined, by 4Order of the President.

Article 170. Power of Auditor-General to give directions as to accounts

5[(1)] The accounts of the Federation and of the Provinces shall be kept in such form and in accordance with such principles and methods as the Auditor-General may, with the approval of the President, prescribe. 5[(2) The audit of the accounts of the Federal and of the Provincial Governments and the accounts of any authority or body established by, or under the control of, the Federal or a Provincial Government shall be conducted by the Auditor-General, who shall determine the extent and nature of such audit.]

Article 171. Reports of Auditor-General

The reports of the Auditor-General relating to the accounts of the Federation shall be submitted to the President, who shall cause them to be laid before the 6[both Houses of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] and the reports of the Auditor-General relating to the accounts of a Province shall be submitted to the Governor of the Province, who shall cause them to be laid before the Provincial Assembly.

1Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment), Act, 2010, (Act No. X of 2010), s. 62.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment), Act, 2010, (Act No. X of 2010), s. 62.

3Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

4For such Order, see the Pakistan (Audit and Accounts) Order, 1973 (P. O. No. 21 of 1973). 5Re-numbered and added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 63.

6Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act 2010 (Act No. X of 2010) s. 64.

CHAPTER 3.__ PROPERTY, CONTRACTS, LIABILITIES AND SUITS

Article 172. Ownerless property

(1) Any property which has no rightful owner shall, if located in a Province, vest in the Government of that Province, and in every other case, in the Federal Government.

(2) All lands, minerals and other things of value within the continental shelf or underlying the ocean 1[beyond] the territorial waters of Pakistan shall vest in the Federal Government. 2[(3) Subject to the existing commitments and obligations, mineral oil and natural gas within the Province or the territorial water adjacent thereto shall vest jointly and equally in that Province and the Federal Government.]

Article 173. Power to acquire property and to make contracts, etc

(1) The executive authority of the Federation and of a Province shall extend, subject to any Act of the appropriate Legislature, to the grant, sale, disposition or mortgage of any property vested in, and to the purchase or acquisition of property on behalf of, the Federal Government or, as the case may be, the Provincial Government, and to the making of contracts.

(2) All property acquired for the purposes of the Federation or of a Province shall vest in the Federal Government or, as the case may be, in the Provincial Government.

(3) All contracts made in the exercise of the executive authority of the Federation or of a Province shall be expressed to be made in the name of the President or, as the case may be, the Governor of the Province, and all such contracts and all assurances of property made in the exercise of that authority shall be executed on behalf of the President or Governor by such persons and in such manner as he may direct or authorize.

(4) Neither the President, nor the Governor of a Province, shall be personally liable in respect of any contract or assurance made or executed in the exercise of the executive authority of the Federation or, as the case may be, the Province, nor shall any person making or executing any such contract or assurance on behalf of any of them be personally liable in respect thereof.

(5) Transfer of land by the Federal Government or a Provincial Government shall be regulated by law.

Article 174. Suits and proceedings

The Federation may sue or be sued by the name of Pakistan and a Province may sue or be sued by the name of the Province.

PART VII

THE JUDICATURE

CHAPTER 1.__ THE COURTS

Article 175. Establishment and jurisdiction of courts

(1) There shall be 3[a Federal Constitutional Court of Pakistan, hereinafter referred to as the Federal Constitutional Court] a Supreme Court of Pakistan 3[hereinafter referred to as the Supreme Court], a High Court for each Province 4[and a High Court for the Islamabad Capital Territory] and such other courts as may be established by law.

1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.65.

2Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.65.

3Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 19.

4Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.66.

1[Explanation.__ Unless the context otherwise requires, the words “High Court” wherever occurring in the Constitution shall include “Islamabad High Court”.]

(2) No court shall have any jurisdiction save as is or may be conferred on it by the Constitution or by or under any law.

(3) The Judiciary shall be separated progressively from the Executive within 2[fourteen] years from the commencing day. 3[*]

3[* * * * * * *]

[4] Article 175A. Appointment of Judges to 5[the Federal Constitutional Court,] the Supreme Court, High Courts and the Federal Shariat Court

(1) There shall be a Judicial Commission of Pakistan, hereinafter in this Article referred to as the Commission, for appointment of Judges of 5[the Federal Constitutional Court,] the Supreme Court, High Courts and the Federal Shariat Court, 7[and for performance evaluation of Judges of the High Courts,] as hereinafter provided.

6[(2) For appointment of Judges of 5[the Federal Constitutional Court and] the Supreme Court, the Commission shall consist of__

5[(i) Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court;

(ii) Chief Justice of the Supreme Court;

(iii)

one next most senior Judge each of the Federal Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court;

Members

(iiia)

a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court or the Supreme Court jointly and nominated by the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, for a period of two years; Member;]

(iv) Federal Minister for Law and Justice;

Member

(v) Attorney-General for Pakistan;

Member

(vi) an advocate having not less than fifteen years of practice in the Supreme Court to be nominated by the Pakistan Bar Council for a term of two years; Member

1Subs. by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. I of 2011), s.3.

2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

3Subs. and Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-third Amendment) Act, 2017 (Act No. XII of 2017) and shall cease to form part of the Constitution and shall stand repealed on the expiration of two years on 6th January, 2019.

4Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 67.

5Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 20.

6Ins. and subs. by the Constitution of (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 7.

(vii)

two members from the Senate and two members from the National Assembly of whom two shall be from the Treasury Benches, one from each House, and two from the Opposition Benches, one from each House. The nomination from the Treasury Benches shall be made by the Leader of the House and from the Opposition Benches by the Leader of the Opposition:

Provided that during the time when the National Assembly stands dissolved, the remaining two members, for the purpose of this paragraph, shall be nominated from the Senate in the manner as aforesaid, for such period;

Members 1[(viii)

a woman or non Muslim or a technocrat, other than a member of Majlis- e-Shoora (Parliament), who is qualified to be member of the Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament), to be appointed by the Speaker of the National Assembly;

Member;]

1[Explanation I.- The senior amongst the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court shall be the Chairperson of the Commission. Their inter se seniority shall be determined with reference to their dates of appointment as the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court otherwise than as Acting Chief Justice and in case the dates of such appointment are the same, with reference to their dates of appointment as Judges of the High Courts.

Explanation II.- If a Judge may not be nominated under paragraph (iiia), one nominee each of the respective Chief Justices shall be placed before the Commission which shall, by the majority of its total membership, nominate a Judge under paragraph (iiia) from amongst the nominees.

Explanation III.- If the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court or a Judge mentioned in paragraph

(iii) is to be nominated for appointment as a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court, the next most senior Judge, as the case may be, shall act as a member of the Commission in his place.

Explanation IV.- If a Judge appointed under paragraph (iiia) is a Judge of the Supreme Court and is to be nominated for appointment as a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court, another Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court or the Supreme Court shall be nominated under clause (iiia) or Explanation II, as the case may be, to act as a member of the Commission in his place.]

2[(3) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (1), or clause (2), 1[the Chief Justice of Federal Constitutional Court and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court] shall be nominated by the Special Parliamentary Committee, in this Article referred to as the Committee, from amongst the three most senior Judges of 1[the Federal Constitutional Court or the Supreme Court, as the case may be]. The Committee shall send the name of the nominee to the Prime Minister who shall forward the same to the President for appointment:

1[* * * * * * *]

1Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 20.

2Subs. by the Constitution of (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 7.

1[Provided that if the nominee under this clause declines to become the Chief Justice, he shall be deemed to have retired and the three next most senior Judges shall be considered and so on till the appointment of the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court or the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, as the case may be:

Provided further that notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, the President shall, on advice of the Prime Minister, appoint the first Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court from amongst the Judges of the Supreme Court:

Provided also and notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, the appointment of the first batch of Judges of the Federal Constitutional Court, shall be made by the President, on advice of the Prime Minister in consultation with the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court:

Provided also that the second, third and this proviso shall stand omitted on the appointment of the first Chief Justice and the Judges under the above said provisos.]

2[(3A) The Committee shall consist of the following twelve members, namely:—

(i) eight members from the National Assembly; and

(ii) four members from the Senate:

Provided that when the National Assembly stands dissolved, the total membership of the Committee shall consist of the members from the Senate only mentioned in paragraph (ii) and the provisions of this Article shall, mutatis mutandis, apply.

(3B) The Parliamentary Parties shall have proportional representation on the Committee, based on their strength in Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), to be nominated by their respective Parliamentary Leaders. The Chairman and the Speaker of the National Assembly, as the case may be, shall notify members of the Committee.

(3C) The Committee, by the majority of not less than two-thirds of its total membership, within fourteen days prior to the retirement of the Chief Justice of 1[the Federal Constitutional Court or the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, as the case may be] shall send the nomination as provided in clause

(3) 1[.] 1[* * * * * * *]

1Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 20.

2Ins. by the Constitution of (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 7.

(3D) No action or decision taken by the Commission or the Committee shall be invalid or called in question only on the ground of existence of a vacancy therein or of the absence of any member from any meeting thereof.

(3E) The meetings of the Committee shall be held in camera and the record of its proceedings shall be maintained.

(3F) The provisions of Article 68 shall not apply to the proceedings of the Committee.

(3G) The Committee may make rules for regulating its procedure.] 1[(4) The Commission 2[shall] make rules regulating its procedure including the procedure and criteria for assessment, 2[interview,] evaluation and fitness for appointment of Judges.]

(5) For appointment of Judges of a High Court, the Commission in clause (2) shall also include the following, namely:__

(i) Chief Justice of the High Court to which the appointment is being made;

Member

(ii) 1[Head of Constitutional Benches of that High Court] Member

(iii) Provincial Minister for Law; and Member 3[(iv) an advocate having not less than fifteen years practice in the High Court to be nominated by the concerned Bar Council for a term of two years 1[.]] 1[Explanation.—If Head of Constitutional Benches of a High Court is the Chief Justice of that High Court, the Judge who is next in seniority shall become member of the Commission:] Member

3[1[Provided that for appointment of the Chief Justice of a High Court the Judge mentioned in paragraph (ii), if he is the most senior Judge of a High Court, shall not be member of the Commission:]

Provided further that if for any reason the Chief Justice of a High Court is not available, he shall be substituted by a former Chief Justice or former Judge of that Court, to be nominated by the 1[Commission]1[:]]

2[Provided also that if Article 202A has not come into force for a High Court, the most senior Judge of such High Court shall be a member of the Commission under paragraph (ii).]

1Subs. and Ins. by the Constitution of (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 7.

2Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 20.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (Act No. I of 2011) s. 4.

(6) For appointment of Judges of the Islamabad High Court, the Commission in clause (2) shall also include the following, namely:__

(i) Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court; 1[*] Member

(ii) 1[Head of Constitutional Benches of that High Court]1[;] Member 1[(iii) an advocate having not less than fifteen years of practice in the High Court to be nominated by the Islamabad Bar Council for a term of two years; and Member

(iv) a Federal Minister nominated by the Prime Minister: Member]

Provided that for initial appointment of the 2[Chief Justice and the] Judges of the Islamabad High Court, the Chief Justices of the four Provincial High Courts shall also be members of the Commission:

Provided further that subject to the foregoing proviso, in case of appointment of Chief Justice 3[and the Judges] of Islamabad High Court, the 1[Explanation and] provisos to clause (5) shall, mutatis mutandis, apply.

(7) For appointment of Judges of the Federal Shariat Court, the Commission in clause (2) shall also include the Chief Justice of the Federal Shariat Court and the most senior Judge of that Court as its members:

Provided that for appointment of Chief Justice of Federal Shariat Court, the provisos to clause

(5) shall, mutatis mutandis, apply.

1[(8) The Commission, by the majority of its total membership, shall nominate one person for each vacancy of a Judge in 3[the Federal Constitutional Court,] the Supreme Court, a High Court or the Federal Shariat Court, as the case may be, to the Prime Minister who shall forward the same to the President for appointment.]

(9) 1[* * * * * * *]

(10) 1[* * * * * * *]

(11) Secretary, 1[National Assembly] shall act as the Secretary of the Committee.

(12) 1[* * * * * * *]

(13) 1[* * * * * * *]

(14) 1[* * * * * * *]

(15) 1[* * * * * * *]

(16) 1[* * * * * * *]

(17) 1[* * * * * * *] 1[(18) The Commission in clause (2) shall conduct an annual performance evaluation of Judges of the High Courts. 1Omitted, subs. added and ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 7

2Subs. by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (Act No. I of 2011) s. 4.

3Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 20.

(19) If the performance of a Judge of a High Court is found by the Commission to be inefficient, it shall grant him such period for improvement, as it deems appropriate. If, upon completion of the period so granted, the performance of such Judge is again found to be inefficient, the Commission shall send its report to the Supreme Judicial Council. 1[(20) The Commission shall make rules for the purposes of clauses (18) and (19) within sixty days of commencement of the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025.]

(21) For the purposes of this Article and subject to the rules made by the Commission, there shall be a secretariat of the Commission to be headed by a secretary and shall include such other officers and staff, as may be necessary.

(22) One-third of the members of the Commission may requisition a meeting of the Commission by sending a written request to the Chairperson who shall convene the meeting of the Commission not later than fifteen days from the receipt of such requisition. If the Chairperson fails to convene a meeting within the aforesaid period, the secretary shall convene the meeting within seven days of the expiry of the aforesaid period.

(23) For each anticipated or actual vacancy of a Judge in 1[the Federal Constitutional Court,] the Supreme Court, the Chief Justice of the Federal Shariat Court, the Chief Justice of a High Court, a Judge in the Federal Shariat Court or a Judge in a High Court, any member of the Commission may give nominations in the Commission for appointment against such vacancy.]

1[CHAPTER 1A.- THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTIONAL COURT

Article 175B. Constitution of Federal Constitutional Court

(1) The Federal Constitutional Court shall consist of a Chief Justice to be known as the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court of Pakistan hereinafter referred to as the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court and as many other Judges as may be determined by Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) or, until so determined, as may be fixed by the President:

Provided that the Federal Constitutional Court shall have equal number of Judges from each Province and at least one Judge from Islamabad High Court.

Explanation.- In no case the number of Judges from the Islamabad High Court shall exceed the numbers of Judges from a Province:

Provided further that nothing contained in the first proviso shall effect the functioning of the Federal Constitutional Court.

(2) The President may, by Order, make necessary provisions for the matters consequential or ancillary to the establishment and functioning of the Federal Constitutional Court.

Article 175C. Appointment of Federal Constitutional Court Judges

(1) The Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court and each of the other Judges thereof shall be appointed by the President in accordance with Article 175A.

(2) A person shall not be appointed as Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court unless he is a citizen of Pakistan and-

(a) is or has been a Judge of the Supreme Court; or

1Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (ACT No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 20-21.

(b) has, for a period of not less than five years, been a Judge of a High Court; or

(c) has, for a period of not less than twenty years, been an advocate of a High Court and is an advocate of the Supreme Court.

(3) The inter se seniority of Judges appointed under this Article shall be reckoned from the date they enter upon the office and in case that date is same then on the basis of their age:

Provided that a Judge of the Supreme Court, who holds the said office on the commencement of the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025, shall retain his inter se seniority among Judges other than the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court.

Article 175D. Oath of Office of the Chief Justice and other judges of the Federal Constitutional Court

Before entering upon office, the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court shall make before the President, and any other Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court shall make before the Chief Justice, oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule.

Article 175E. Original jurisdiction of Federal Constitutional Court

(1) The Federal Constitutional Court shall, to the exclusion of every other court, have original jurisdiction in any dispute between any two or more Governments.

Explanation.- In this clause, “Governments” means the Federal Government and the Provincial Governments.

(2) In the exercise of the jurisdiction conferred on it by clause (1), the Federal Constitutional Court shall pronounce declaratory judgments only.

(3) Without prejudice to the provisions of Article 199, the Federal Constitutional Court shall, if it considers that a question of public importance with reference to the enforcement of any of the Fundamental Rights conferred by Chapter 1 of Part II is involved, have the power to make an order of the nature mentioned in the said Article:

Provided that, subject to the satisfaction of the Federal Constitutional Court, the jurisdiction under this clause shall only be exercised if an application is filed by a person in that Court.

(4) All petitions which fall under this Article and appeals or review applications against judgments rendered or orders passed under this Article, pending or filed before the Supreme Court or its Constitutional Benches, prior to commencement of the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025, shall forthwith stand transferred to the Federal Constitutional Court and shall only be heard and decided by the Federal Constitutional Court.

(5) The Federal Constitutional Court may, on its own motion or otherwise, if it considers that the case involves a substantial question of law as to the interpretation of the Constitution, call for the record of any case pending before any court and make such order in the case as it thinks fit.

Article 175F. Appellate jurisdiction of the Federal Constitutional Court

(1) The Federal Constitutional Court shall have jurisdiction to hear and determine appeals from judgments, decrees, final orders or sentences of a High Court as provided herein below –

(a) where an Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) so provides;

(b) if the High Court certifies that the case involves a substantial question of law as to the interpretation of the Constitution; or

(c) from a judgment or an order of a High Court made under Article 199 only if the Federal Constitutional Court grants leave to appeal:

Provided that no appeal shall lie against a judgment or an order of a High Court made under Article 199, in a case which relates to rent and family except guardianship and such other matters as may be determined by law.

(2) All petitions for leave to appeal, appeals or review applications, to which clause (1) apply or any other proceedings falling within the jurisdiction of the Federal Constitutional Court, filed or pending before the Supreme Court prior to commencement of the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025, stand transferred to the Federal Constitutional Court and shall only be heard and decided by that Court.

Article 175G. Review of judgments or orders by the Federal Constitutional Court

The Federal Constitutional Court shall have the power, subject to the provisions of any Act of Majlis-e-Shoora

(Parliament) and any rules made by the Federal Constitutional Court, to review any judgment pronounced or any order made by it.

Article 175H. Advisory jurisdiction

(1) If, at any time, the President considers that it is desirable to obtain the opinion of the Federal Constitutional Court on any question of law which he considers of public importance, he may refer the question to the Federal Constitutional Court for consideration.

(2) The Federal Constitutional Court shall consider a question so referred and report its opinion on the question to the President.

Article 175I. Retiring Age of the Chief Justice and other judges of the Federal Constitutional Court

A Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court shall hold office until he attains the age of sixty- eight years, unless he sooner resigns or is removed from office in accordance with the Constitution:

Provided that the term of office of the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court shall be three years or unless he sooner resigns or he attains the age of sixty-eight years or is removed from his office in accordance with the Constitution, whichever is earlier:

Provided further that the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court on completion of his term of three years shall stand retired notwithstanding his age of superannuation.

Article 175J. Acting Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court

At any time when__

(a) the office of Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court is vacant; or

(b) the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court is absent or is unable to perform the functions of his office due to any other cause,

the President shall appoint one of the other Judges of the Federal Constitutional Court to act as its Chief Justice.

Article 175K. Acting Judges of the Federal Constitutional Court

(1) At any time when__

(a) the office of a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court is vacant; or

(b) a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court is absent or is unable to perform the functions of his office due to any other cause, the President may, in the manner provided in clause (1) of Article 175A, appoint a Judge of the Supreme Court or a High Court who is qualified for appointment as a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court to act temporarily as a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court. Explanation.__ In this clause, Judge of the Supreme Court or a High Court includes a person who has retired as a Judge of the Supreme Court or a High Court.

(2) An appointment under this Article shall continue in force until it is revoked by the President.

Article 175L. Seat of the Federal Constitutional Court

(1) The permanent seat of the Federal Constitutional Court shall be at Islamabad.

(2) The Federal Constitutional Court may from time to time sit at such other places as the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court, with the prior approval of the President, may appoint.]

CHAPTER 2.__ THE SUPREME COURT OF PAKISTAN

Article 176. Constitution of Supreme Court

The Supreme Court shall consist of a Chief Justice to be known as the Chief Justice 1[of Supreme Court] of Pakistan and so many other Judges as may be determined by Act of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or, until so determined, as may be fixed by the President 1[:]

1[Provided that and notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, the incumbent Chief Justice shall be and continue to be known as the Chief Justice of Pakistan during his term in office.]

Article 177. Appointment of Supreme Court Judges

3[(1) The Chief Justice of 1[Supreme Court] and each of the other Judges of the Supreme Court shall be appointed by the President in accordance with Article 175A.]

4[(2) A person shall not be appointed as Judge of the Supreme Court unless he is a citizen of Pakistan and—

(a) has for a period of, or for periods aggregating, not less than five years been a Judge of a High Court; or

(b) has, for a period of not less than fifteen years, been an advocate of a High Court and is an advocate of the Supreme Court.]

Article 178. Oath of Office

Before entering upon office, the Chief Justice of 1[Supreme Court] shall make before the President, and any other Judge of the Supreme Court shall make before the Chief Justice, oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule.

[5] Article 179. Retiring age

A Judge of the Supreme Court shall hold office until he attains the age of sixty- five years, unless he sooner resigns or is removed from office in accordance with the Constitution 4[:]]

4[Provided that the term of the Chief Justice of 1[Supreme Court] shall be three years or unless he sooner resigns or attains the age of sixty-five years or is removed from his office in accordance with the Constitution, whichever is earlier:

1Ins., subs. and added by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 22-25.

2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.68.

4Subs. and added by the Constitution of (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), ss. 8-9.

5Article 179 subs. by the Constitution (Seventeenth Arndt.) Act, 2003 (Act No. III of 2003), s.6 (see also Article 267B).

Provided further that the Chief Justice of 1[Supreme Court] on completion of his term of three years shall stand retired notwithstanding his age of superannuation.]

Article 180. Acting Chief Justice

At any time when__

(a) the office of Chief Justice of 1[the Supreme Court] is vacant; or

(b) the Chief Justice of 1[the Supreme Court] is absent or is unable to perform the functions of his office due to any other cause, the President shall appoint 2[1[one] of the other Judges of the Supreme Court] to act as Chief Justice of 1[the Supreme Court].

Article 181. Acting Judges

(1) At any time when__

(a) the office of a Judge of the Supreme Court is vacant; or

(b) a Judge of the Supreme Court is absent or is unable to perform the functions of his office due to any other cause, the President may, in the manner provided in clause (1) of Article 177, appoint a Judge of a High Court who is qualified for appointment as a Judge of the Supreme Court to act temporarily as a Judge of the Supreme Court. 3[Explanation.__ In this clause, ‘Judge of a High Court’ includes a person who has retired as a Judge of a High Court.]

(2) An appointment under this Article shall continue in force until it is revoked by the President.

Article 182. Appointment of ad-hoc Judges

If at any time it is not possible for want of quorum of Judges of the Supreme Court to hold or continue any sitting of the Court, or for any other reason it is necessary to increase temporarily the number of Judges of the Supreme Court, the Chief Justice of 1[Supreme Court] 4[, in Consultation with the Judicial Commission as provided in clause (2) of Article 175A,] may, in writing,__

(a) with the approval of the President, request any person who has held the office of a Judge of that Court and since whose ceasing to hold that office three years have not elapsed; or

(b) with the approval of the President and with the consent of the Chief Justice of a High Court, require a Judge of that Court qualified for appointment as a judge of the Supreme Court,

1Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 25-27.

2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985). Art. 2 and Sch.

3Added by the Constitution (Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 2 of 1982), Art. 2.

4Inserted by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (Act No. I of 2011), s. 5.

to attend sittings of the Supreme Court as an ad hoc Judge for such period as may be necessary and while so attending an ad hoc Judge shall have the same power and jurisdiction as a Judge of the Supreme Court.

Article 183. Seat of the Supreme Court

(1) The permanent seat of the Supreme Court shall, subject to clause (3), be at Islamabad.

(2) The Supreme Court may from time to time sit in such other places as the Chief Justice of 1[Supreme Court], with the approval of the President, may appoint.

(3)1[* * * * * * *]

Article 184. [Omitted]

1[* * * * * * *] 1[185, Appellate jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. (1) Subject to this Article and Article 175F, the Supreme Court shall have jurisdiction to hear and determine appeals from judgments, decrees, final orders or sentences of a High Court.

(2) An appeal shall lie to the Supreme Court from any judgment, decree, final order or sentence of a High Court-

(a) if the High Court has on appeal reversed an order of acquittal of an accused person and sentenced him to death or to transportation for life or imprisonment for life; or, on revision, has enhanced a sentence to a sentence as aforesaid; or

(b) if the High Court has withdrawn for trial before itself any case from any court subordinate to it and has in such trial convicted the accused person and sentenced him as aforesaid; or

(b) if the High Court has imposed any punishment on any person for contempt of the High Court; or

(c) if the amount or value of the subject-matter of the dispute in the court of first instance was, and also in dispute in appeal is, not less than one million rupees or such other sum as may be specified in that behalf by Act of Majlis-e-Shoora

(Parliament) and the judgment, decree or final order appealed from has varied or set aside the judgment, decree or final order of the court or tribunal immediately below; or

(d) if the judgment, decree or final order involves directly or indirectly some claim or question respecting property of the like amount or value and the judgment, decree or final order appealed from has varied or set aside the judgment, decree or final order of the court or tribunal immediately below.

(3) An appeal to the Supreme Court, from a judgment, decree, order or sentence of a High Court in case to which clause (2) does not apply shall lie only if the Supreme Court grants leave to appeal:

_______________________________________________________________________________________

1Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 28-30.

Provided that no appeal shall lie to the Supreme Court in cases to which clause (1) of Article 175F applies.]

Article 186. [Omitted]

1[* * * * * * *]

Article 186A. [Omitted]

1[* * * * * * *] {187. Issue and execution of processes of 1[Federal Constitutional Court and] Supreme Court.__ (1) 2[Subject to clause (2) of Article 175, 1[the Federal Constitutional Court and] the] Supreme Court shall have power to issue such directions, orders or decrees as may be necessary for doing complete justice in any case or matter pending before it, including an order for the purpose of securing the attendance of any person or the discovery or production of any document 3[:]

3[Provided that no order under this clause shall be passed otherwise than in pursuance of any jurisdiction vested in and exercised by 1[the Federal Constitutional Court and] the Supreme Court.]

(2) Any such direction, order or decree shall be enforceable throughout Pakistan and shall, where it is to be executed in a Province, or a territory or an area not forming part of a Province but within the jurisdiction of the High Court of the Province, be executed as if it had been issued by the High Court of that Province.

(3) If a question arises as to which High Court shall give effect to a direction, order or decree of the Supreme Court, the decision of the Supreme Court on the question shall be final.

Article 188. Review of judgments or orders by the Supreme Court

The Supreme Court shall have power, subject to the provisions of any Act of 4[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] and of any rules made by the Supreme Court, to review any judgment pronounced or any order made by it.

[1] Article 189. Decisions of Federal Constitutional Court and Supreme Court binding on other courts

(1) Any decision of the Federal Constitutional Court shall, to the extent that it decides a question of law or is based upon or enunciates a principle of law, be binding on all other courts in Pakistan including the Supreme Court.

(2) Any decision of the Supreme Court shall, to the extent that it decides a question of law or is based upon or enunciates a principle of law, be binding on all other courts in Pakistan except the Federal Constitutional Court.]

Article 190. Action in aid of 1[Federal Constitutional Court and] Supreme Court

All executive and judicial authorities throughout Pakistan shall act in aid of 1[the Federal Constitutional Court and] the Supreme Court.

[1] Article 191. Rules of procedure

Subject to the Constitution and any Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), the Federal Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court may make rules regulating their respective practice and procedure.]

Article 191A. [Omitted]

1[* * * * * * *]

1Omitted, Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 31-37.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 7, (w.e.f. the 13th September, 1976).

3Subs. and Added by the Constitution of (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), ss. 13.

4Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

CHAPTER 3.__ THE HIGH COURTS

Article 192. Constitution of High Court

(1) A High Court shall consist of a Chief Justice and so many other Judges as may be determined by law or, until so determined, as may be fixed by the President. 1[(2) The Sind and Baluchistan High Court shall cease to function as a common High Court for the Provinces of Baluchistan and Sind.

(3) The President shall, by 2Order, establish a High Court for each of the Provinces of Baluchistan and Sind and may make such provision in the Order for the principal seats of the two High Courts, transfer of the Judges of the common High Court, transfer of cases pending in the common High Court immediately before the establishment of the two High Courts and, generally, for matters consequential or ancillary to the common High Court ceasing to function and the establishment of the two High Courts as he may deem fit.] 3[(4)] The jurisdiction of a High Court may, by Act of 4[Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament)], be extended to any area in Pakistan not forming part of a Province.

Article 193. Appointment of High Court Judges

5[(1) The Chief Justice and each of other Judges of a High Court shall be appointed by the President in accordance with Article 175A.] 6[(2) A person shall not be appointed as a Judge of a High Court unless he is a citizen of Pakistan, is not less than forty years of age, and—

(a) he has, for a period of not less than ten years, been an advocate of a High Court; or

(b) he has, for a period of not less than ten years, held a judicial office in Pakistan. Explanation.__ In computing the period during which a person has been an advocate of a High Court or has held judicial office, there shall be included any period during which he has held judicial office after he became an advocate or, as the case may be, the period during which he has been an advocate after having held judicial office.]

(3) 3[* * * * * * *]

Article 194. Oath of Office

Before entering upon office, the Chief Justice of a High Court shall make before the Governor, and any other Judge of the Court shall make before the Chief Justice, oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule 5[:] 5[Provided that the Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court shall make oath before the President and other Judges of that Court shall make oath before the Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court.]

[7] Article 195. Retiring age

A Judge of a High Court shall hold office until he attains the age of sixty- two years, unless he sooner resigns or is removed from office in accordance with the Constitution].

1Subs. by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 8, (w.e.f. the 1st December, 1976).

2For such Order, in respect of establishment of High Courts for Baluchistan and Sind, see the P O. No. 6 of 1976, dated the 29th November, 1976, see

Gaz. of Pak. 1976, Ext., Pt. 1, pp.595—599.

3Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 38-39.

4Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

5Subs. and added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.69-70.

6Subs by the Constitution (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 15.

7Subs. by the Constitution (Seventeenth Amendment) Act, 2003 (Act No. III of 2003), s.7 (see also Article 267B).

Article 196. Acting Chief Justice

At any time when__

(a) the office of Chief Justice of a High Court is vacant, or

(b) the Chief Justice of a High Court is absent or is unable to perform the functions of his office due to any other cause, the President shall appoint 1[one of the other Judges of the High Court, or may request one of the Judges of the Supreme Court], to act as Chief Justice.

Article 197. Additional Judges

At any time when__

(a) the office of a Judge of a High Court is vacant; or

(b) a Judge of a High Court is absent or is unable to perform the functions of his office due to any other cause; or

(c) for any reason it is necessary to increase the number of Judges of a High Court, the President may, in the manner provided in clause (1) of Article 193, appoint a person qualified for appointment as a Judge of the High Court to be Additional Judge of the Court for such period as the President may determine, being a period not exceeding such period, if any, as may be prescribed by law.

Article 198. Seat of the High Court

2[(l)] Each High Court in existence immediately before the commencing day shall continue to have its principal seat at the place where it had such seat before that day. 3[(1A) The High Court for Islamabad Capital Territory shall have its principal seat at Islamabad.] 4[(2) Each High Court and the Judges and divisional courts thereof shall sit at its principal seat and the seats of its Benches and may hold, at any place within its territorial jurisdiction, circuit courts consisting of such of the Judges as may be nominated by the Chief Justice.

(3) The Lahore High Court shall have a Bench each at Bahawalpur, Multan and Rawalpindi; the High Court of Sindh shall have a Bench at Sukkur; the Peshawar High Court shall have a Bench each at Abbottabad 5[, Mingora] and Dera Ismail Khan and the High Court of Balochistan shall have a Bench at Sibi 6[and Turbat.]

(4) Each of the High Courts may have Benches at such other places as the Governor may determine on the advice of the Cabinet and in consultation with the Chief Justice of the High Court.

(5) A Bench referred to in clause (3), or established under clause (4), shall consist of such of the Judges of the High Court as may be nominated by the Chief Justice from time to time for a period of not less than one year.

(6) The Governor in consultation with the Chief Justice of the High Court shall make rules to provide the following matters, that is to say,__

(a) assigning the area in relation to which each Bench shall exercise jurisdiction vested in the High Court; and

(b) for all incidental, supplemental or consequential matters.]

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985) Art. 2 and Sch.

2Re-numbered by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985) Art. 2 and Sch.

3Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 71.

4Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

5Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 71.

6Added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 71

Article 199. Jurisdiction of High Court

(1) Subject to the Constitution, a High Court may, if it is satisfied that no other adequate remedy is provided by law,__

(a) on the application of any aggrieved party, make an order—

(i) directing a person performing, within the territorial jurisdiction of the Court, functions in connection with the affairs of the Federation, a Province or a local authority, to refrain from doing anything he is not permitted by law to do, or to do anything he is required by law to do; or

(ii) declaring that any act done or proceeding taken within the territorial jurisdiction of the Court by a person performing functions in connection with the affairs of the Federation, a Province or a local authority has been done or taken without lawful authority and is of no legal effect; or

(b) on the application of any person, make an order—

(i) directing that a person in custody within the territorial jurisdiction of the Court be brought before it so that the Court may satisfy itself that he is not being held in custody without lawful authority or in an unlawful manner; or

(ii) requiring a person within the territorial jurisdiction of the Court holding or purporting to hold a public office to show under what authority of law he claims to hold that office; or

(c) on the application of any aggrieved person, make an order giving such directions to any person or authority, including any Government exercising any power or performing any function in, or in relation to, any territory within the jurisdiction of that Court as may be appropriate for the enforcement of any of the Fundamental Rights conferred by Chapter 1 of Part II. 1[(1A) For removal of doubt, the High Court shall not make an order or give direction or make a declaration on its own or in the nature of suo motu exercise of jurisdiction beyond the contents of any application filed under clause (1).]

(2) Subject to the Constitution, the right to move a High Court for the enforcement of any of the Fundamental Rights conferred by Chapter 1 of Part II shall not be abridged. 2[(3) An order shall not be made under clause (1) on application made by or in relation to a person who is a member of the Armed Forces of Pakistan, or who is for the time being subject to any law relating to any of those Forces, in respect of his terms and conditions of service, in respect of any matter arising out of his service, or in respect of any action taken in relation to him as a member of the Armed Forces of Pakistan or as a person subject to such law.] 3[(3A) * * * * * * *] 3[(3B) * * * * * * *] 3[(3C) * * * * * * *]

(4) Where__

(a) an application is made to a High Court for an order under paragraph (a) or paragraph

1Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 16.

2Subs. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 9, (w.e.f. the 4th May, 1974).

3Omitted by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

(b) the making of an interim order would have the effect of prejudicing or interfering with the carrying out of a public work or of otherwise being harmful to public interest 1[or State property] or of impeding the assessment or collection of public revenues, the Court shall not make an interim order unless the prescribed law officer has been given notice of the application and he or any person authorised by him in that behalf has had an opportunity of being heard and the Court, for reasons to be recorded in writing, is satisfied that the interim order__

(i) would not have such affect as aforesaid; or

(ii) would have the effect of suspending an order or proceeding which on the face of the record is without jurisdiction. 2[(4A) An interim order made by a High Court on an application made to it to question the validity or legal effect of any order made, proceeding taken or act done by any authority or person, which has been made, taken or done or purports to have been made, taken or done under any law which is specified in Part I of the First Schedule or relates to, or is connected with, State property or assessment or collection of public revenues shall cease to have effect on the expiration of a period of six months following the day on which it is made : 3[Provided that, for reasons to be recorded, an interim order may be extended only for a period upto six months.]] 4[(4B) Every case in which, on an application under clause (1), the High Court has made an interim order shall be disposed of by the High Court on merits within six months from the day on which it is made, unless the High Court is prevented from doing so for sufficient cause to be recorded.]

(5) In this Article, unless the context otherwise requires,__ “person” includes any body politic or corporate, any authority of or under the control of the Federal Government or of a Provincial Government, and any Court or tribunal, other than the 3[Federal Constitutional Court or the] Supreme Court, a High Court or a Court or tribunal established under a law relating to the Armed Forces of Pakistan; and “prescribed law officer” means__

(a) in relation to an application affecting the Federal Government or an authority of or under the control of the Federal Government, the Attorney-General, and

(b) in any other case, the Advocate-General for the Province in which the application is made.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

1Ins. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order,1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 72.

3Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 40.

4Clause (4B) restored by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 2.

[1] Article 200. Transfer of High Court Judges

(1) The President may transfer a Judge of a High Court from one High Court to another High Court on the recommendation of and on such terms and conditions as may be determined by the Judicial Commission of Pakistan as mentioned in clause (2) of Article 175A:

Provided that the Chief Justices of both High Courts shall also be members of the Judicial Commission of Pakistan for the purposes of this clause:

Provided further that the Judicial Commission of Pakistan before making recommendation under this clause may hear the Judge. Explanation. – In this Article, “Judge” does not include a Chief Justice but includes a Judge for the time being acting as Chief Justice of a High Court other than a Judge of the Supreme Court acting as such in pursuance of a request made under paragraph (b) of Article 196.

(2) The seniority of a Judge of a High Court transferred under clause (1) shall be reckoned from the date of his initial appointment as a Judge of the High Court:

Provided that no Judge shall be transferred to a High Court where on transfer he becomes senior to the Chief Justice of such High Court.

(3) Where a Judge is so transferred, he shall be entitled to such additional allowances and privileges, in addition to his salary and allowances, as the President may, by Order, determine.

(4) A Judge of a High Court who does not accept a transfer under this Article shall be proceeded against under Article 209 within a period of thirty days. Such Judge shall not perform his functions till such time the Council under Article 209 renders its decision.]

Article 201. Decision of High Court binding on subordinate Courts

Subject to Article 189, any decision of a High Court shall, to the extent that it decides a question of law or is based upon or enunciates a principle of law, be binding on all courts subordinate to it.

Article 202. Rules of procedure

Subject to the Constitution and law, a High Court may make rules regulating the practice and procedure of the Court or of any court subordinate to it.

[2] Article 202A. Constitutional Benches of High Courts

(1) There shall be Constitutional Benches of a High Court comprising such Judges of a High Court and for such term as may be nominated and determined by the Judicial Commission of Pakistan as constituted under clause (5) of Article 175A, from time to time.

(2) The most senior Judge amongst Judges nominated under clause (1) shall be the Head of the Constitutional Benches. 1[(3) No Bench of a High Court other than a Constitutional Bench shall exercise jurisdiction vested in the High Court under Article 199.]

(4) For the purposes of clause (1), a Bench, to be nominated by a committee comprising the Head of the Constitutional Benches and next two most senior Judges from amongst the Judges nominated under clause (1), shall hear and dispose of such matters.

(5) All petitions under sub-paragraph (i) of paragraph (a) and paragraph (c) of clause (1) of Article 199 or appeals therefrom, pending or filed in a High Court prior to commencement of the

1Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 41-42.

2Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 17.

Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (XXVI of 2024), subject to clause (7), forthwith stand transferred to the Constitutional Benches and shall only be heard and decided by Benches constituted under clause (4).

(6) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution but subject to an Act of Majlis-e-Shoora

(Parliament) in respect of the Islamabad High Court and an Act of Provincial Assembly in respect of other respective High Courts, a High Court may make rules regulating the practice and procedure of the Constitutional Benches.

(7) This Article shall come into force, if in respect of–

(a) the Islamabad High Court, both Houses of *[Majlis-e-Shoora] (Parliament) in the joint sitting; and

(a) a High Court, the respective Provincial Assembly, through a resolution passed by majority of the total membership of the joint sitting or the respective Provincial Assembly, as the case may be, give effect to the provisions of this Article.]

Article 203. High Court to superintend subordinate Courts

Each High Court shall supervise and control all courts subordinate to it. 1[CHAPTER 3A FEDERAL SHARIAT COURT

Article 203A. Provisions of Chapter to override other provisions of Constitution

The provisions of this Chapter shall have effect notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution.

Article 203B. Definitions

In this Chapter, unless there is anything repugnant in the subject or context,__ 2[(a) ‘Chief Justice’ means Chief Justice of the Court;]

(b) “Court” means the Federal Shariat Court constituted in pursuance of Article 203C ; 3[(bb) ‘Judge’ means Judge of the Court;]

(c) “law” includes any custom or usage having the force of law but does not include the Constitution, Muslim personal law, any law relating to the procedure of any court or tribunal or, until the expiration of 4[ten] years from the commencement of this Chapter, any fiscal law or any law relating to the levy and collection of taxes and fees or banking or insurance practice and procedure; and 5[* * * * * * *]

Article 203C. The Federal Shariat Court

(1) There shall be constituted for the purposes of this Chapter a Court to be called the Federal Shariat Court. 6[(2) The Court shall consist of not more than eight Muslim 7[Judges], including the 7[Chief Justice], to be appointed by the President 8[in accordance with Article 175A].

1Subs. by the Constitution (Amendment) Order, 1980 (P.O. No. 1 of 1980). Art. 3, (w.e.f. 26th May, 1980).

2Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 2.

3Ins. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 2.

4Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

5Omitted by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 2.

6Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1981 (P. O. No. 7 of 1981), Art. 2.

7Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982, (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 3.

8Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 74.

*Corrected through corrigendum by the Legal Aid and Justice Authority (Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXIX of 2024).

1[(3) The Chief Justice shall be a person who is, or has been, or is qualified to be, a Judge of the Supreme Court or who is or has been a permanent Judge of a High Court 2[or a Judge of the Federal Shariat Court qualified to be a Judge of the Supreme Court].

(3A) Of the Judges, not more than four shall be persons each one of whom is, or has been, or is qualified to be, a Judge of a High Court and not more than three shall be Ulema 3[having at least fifteen years experience in Islamic law, research or instruction].]

(4) The 4[Chief Justice] and a 5[Judge] shall hold office for a period not exceeding three years, but may be appointed for such further term or terms as the President may determine:

Provided that a Judge of a High Court shall not be appointed to be a 5[Judge] 6[* * * * * *] except with his consent and 7[, except where the Judge is himself the Chief Justice,] after consultation by the President with the Chief Justice of the High Court. 8[(4A) The 4[Chief Justice], if he is not a Judge of the Supreme Court, and a 5[Judge] who is not a Judge of a High Court, may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office.] 9[(4B) The Chief Justice and a Judge shall not be removed from office except in the like manner and on the like grounds as a Judge of the Supreme Court.]

(4C) 10[* * * * * * *]

(5) 10[* * * * * * *]

(6) The principal seat of the Court shall be at Islamabad, but the Court may from time to time sit in such other places in Pakistan as the 4[Chief Justice] may, with the approval of the President, appoint.

(7) Before entering upon office, the 4[Chief Justice] and a 5[Judge] shall make before the President or a person nominated by him oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule.

(8) At any time when the 4[Chief Justice] or a 5[Judge] is absent or is unable to perform the functions of his office, the President shall appoint another person qualified for the purpose to act as 4[Chief Justice] or, as the case may be, 5[Judge].

11[(9) A Chief Justice who is not a Judge of the Supreme Court shall be entitled to the same remuneration, allowances and privileges as are admissible to a Judge of the Supreme Court and a Judge who is not a Judge of a High Court shall be entitled to the same remuneration, allowances and privileges as are admissible to a Judge of a High Court:

Provided that where a Judge is already drawing a pension for any other post in the service of Pakistan, the amount of such pension shall be deducted from the pension admissible under this clause.]

Article 203CC. [Penal of Ulema and Ulema members.] Omitted by the Constitution (Second Amendment)

Order, 1981 (P.O. No. 7 of 1981), Art. 3, which was previously ins. by P.O. No. 5 of 1981, Art. 2.

1Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Order 1985 (P. O. No. 24 of 1985), Art. 4.

2Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 18.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 74.

4Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 3.

5Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 3.

6Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 74.

7Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 4 of 1980), Art. 2.

8Ins. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 4 of 1980), Art. 2.

9Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 74.

10Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 74.

11Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 74, and shall be deemed always to have been so, substituted.

with effect from the 21st day of August 2002.

Article 203D. Powers, jurisdiction and functions of the Court

(1) The Court may, 1[either of its own motion or] on the petition of a citizen of Pakistan or the Federal Government or a Provincial Government, examine and decide the question whether or not any law or provision of law is repugnant to the Injunctions of Islam, as laid down in the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet, hereinafter referred to as the Injunctions of Islam. 2[(1A) Where the Court takes up the examination of any law or provision of law under clause

(1) and such law or provision of law appears to it to be repugnant to the Injunctions of Islam, the Court shall cause to be given to the Federal Government in the case of a law with respect to a matter in the Federal Legislative List 3[* * * * *] or to the Provincial Government in the case of a law with respect to a matter not enumerated 4[in the Federal Legislative List], a notice specifying the particular provisions that appear to it to be so repugnant, and afford to such Government adequate opportunity to have its point of view placed before the Court.]

(2) If the Court decides that any law or provision of law is repugnant to the Injunctions of Islam, it shall set out in its decision :__

(a) the reasons for its holding that opinion; and

(b) the extent to which such law or provision is so repugnant; and specify the day on which the decision shall take effect 5[:] 6[Provided that no such decision shall be deemed to take effect before the expiration of the period within which an appeal therefrom may be preferred to the Supreme Court or, where an appeal has been so preferred, before the disposal of such appeal 7[:]] 7[Provided further that appeal against decision given after the commencement of the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (XXVI of 2024) shall be disposed of within twelve months whereafter the decision shall take effect unless suspended by the Supreme Court.]

(3) If any law or provision of law is held by the Court to be repugnant to the Injunctions of Islam,__

(a) the President in the case of a law with respect to a matter in the Federal Legislative List 3[* * *] or the Governor in the case of a law with respect to a matter not enumerated in 4[said List] shall take steps to amend the law so as to bring such law or provision into conformity with the Injunctions of Islam; and

(b) such law or provision shall, to the extent to which it is held to be so repugnant, cease to have effect on the day on which the decision of the Court takes effect.

8[* * * * * * *]

1Ins. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P.O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 4.

2Ins. by the Constitution (Amendment) Order, 1984 (P. O. No. 1 of 1984), Art. 2.

3Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 75.

4Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 75.

5Subs. by the Constitution (Amendment) order, 1984 (P.O. No. 1 of 1984), Art. 2, and shall be deemed always to have been so substituted.

6Added and shall be deemed always to have been so added ibid.

7Subs. and added by the Constitution (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 19.

8Omitted by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 4 of 1980), Art. 3.

[1] Article 203DD. Revisional and other jurisdiction of the Court

(1) The Court may call for and examine the record of any case decided by any criminal court under any law relating to the enforcement of Hudood for the purpose of satisfying itself as to the correctness, legality or propriety of any finding, sentence or order recorded or passed by, and as to the regularity of any proceedings of, such court and may, when calling for such record, direct that the execution of any sentence be suspended and, if the accused is in confinement, that he be released on bail or on his own bond pending the examination of the record.

(2) In any case the record of which has been called for by the Court, the Court may pass such order as it may deem fit and may enhance the sentence:

Provided that nothing in this Article shall be deemed to authorise the Court to convert a finding of acquittal into one of conviction and no order under this Article shall be made to the prejudice of the accused unless he has had an opportunity of being heard in his own defence.

(3) The Court shall have such other jurisdiction as may be conferred on it by or under any law.]

Article 203E. Powers and procedure of the Court

(1) For the purposes of the performance of its functions, the Court shall have the powers of a Civil Court trying a suit under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (Act V of 1908), in respect of the following matters, namely:__

(a) summoning and enforcing the attendance of any person and examining him on oath;

(b) requiring the discovery and production of any document;

(d) issuing commissions for the examination of witnesses or documents.

(2) The Court shall have power to conduct its proceedings and regulate its procedure in all respects as it deems fit.

(3) The Court shall have the power of a High Court to punish its own contempt.

(4) A party to any proceedings before the Court under clause (1) of Article 203D may be represented by a legal practitioner who is a Muslim and has been enrolled as an advocate of a High Court for a period of not less than five years or as an advocate of the Supreme Court or by a jurisconsult selected by the party from out of a panel of jurisconsults maintained by the Court for the purpose.

(5) For being eligible to have his name borne on the panel of jurisconsults referred to in clause (4), a person shall be an aalim who, in the opinion of the Court, is well-versed in Shariat.

(6) A legal practitioner or jurisconsult representing a party before the Court shall not plead for the party but shall state, expound and interpret the Injunctions of Islam relevant to the proceedings so far as may be known to him and submit to the Court a written statement of his interpretation of such Injunctions of Islam.

1Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 5.

(7) The Court may invite any person in Pakistan or abroad whom the Court considers to be well-versed in Islamic law to appear before it and render such assistance as may be required of him.

(8) No court fee shall be payable in respect of any petition or application made to the Court under 1[Article 203D]. 2[(9) The Court shall have power to review any decision given or order made by it.]

Article 203F. Appeal to Supreme Court

(1) Any party to any proceedings before the Court under Article 203D aggrieved by the final decision of the Court in such proceedings may, within sixty days of such decision, prefer an appeal to the Supreme Court 3[:] 4[Provided that an appeal on behalf of the Federation or of a Province may be preferred within six months of such decision.]

(2) The provisions of clauses (2) and (3) of Article 203D and clauses (4) to (8) of Article 203E shall apply to and in relation to the Supreme Court as if reference in those provisions to Court were a reference to the Supreme Court. 5[(2A) An appeal shall lie to the Supreme Court from any judgment, final order or sentence of the Federal Shariat Court—

(a) if the Federal Shariat Court has on appeal reversed an order of acquittal of an accused person and sentenced him to death or imprisonment for life or imprisonment for a term exceeding fourteen years; or, on revision, has enhanced a sentence as aforesaid; or

(b) if the Federal Shariat Court has imposed any punishment on any person for contempt of the Court.

(2B) An appeal to the Supreme Court from a judgment, decision, order or sentence of the Federal Shariat Court in a case to which the preceding clauses do not apply shall lie only if the Supreme Court grants leave to appeal.] 6[(3) For the purpose of the exercise of the jurisdiction conferred by this Article, there shall be constituted in the Supreme Court a Bench to be called the Shariat Appellate Bench and consisting of__

(a) three Muslim Judges of the Supreme Court; and

(b) not more than two Ulema to be appointed by the President to attend sittings of the Bench as ad hoc members thereof from amongst the Judges of the Federal Shariat Court or from out of a panel of Ulema to be drawn up by the President in consultation with the Chief Justice.

(4) A person appointed under paragraph (b) of clause (3) shall hold office for such period as the President may determine.

1Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 4 of 1980), Art. 5.

2Added by the Constitution (Amendment) Order, 1981 (P. O. No. 5 of 1981), Art. 3.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Order, 1983 (P. O. No. 9 of 1983), Art. 2.

4Added ibid.

5Ins. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 6.

6Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 12 of 1982), Art. 2.

(5) Reference in clauses (1) and (2) to “Supreme Court” shall be construed as a reference to the Shariat Appellate Bench.

(6) While attending sittings of the Shariat Appellate Bench, a person appointed under paragraph

(b) of clause (3) shall have the same power and jurisdiction, and be entitled to the same privileges, as a Judge of the Supreme Court and be paid such allowances as the President may determine.]

Article 203G. Bar of jurisdiction

Save as provided in Article 203F, no court or tribunal, including the Supreme Court and a High Court, shall entertain any proceedings or exercise any power or jurisdiction in respect of any matter within the power or jurisdiction of the Court.

[1] Article 203GG. Decision of Court binding on High Court and courts subordinate to it

Subject to Articles 203D and 203F, any decision of the Court in the exercise of its jurisdiction under this Chapter shall be binding on a High Court and on all courts subordinate to a High Court.]

Article 203H. Pending proceedings to continue, etc

(1) Subject to clause (2) nothing in this Chapter shall be deemed to require any proceedings pending in any court or tribunal immediately before the commencement of this Chapter or initiated after such commencement, to be adjourned or stayed by reason only of a petition having been made to the Court for a decision as to whether or not a law or provision of law relevant to the decision of the point in issue in such proceedings is repugnant to the Injunctions of Islam; and all such proceedings shall continue, and the point in issue therein shall be decided, in accordance with the law for the time being in force.

(2) All proceedings under clause (1) of Article 203B of the Constitution that may be pending before any High Court immediately before the commencement of this Chapter shall stand transferred to the Court and shall be dealt with by the Court from the stage from which they are so transferred.

(3) Neither the Court nor the Supreme Court shall in the exercise of its jurisdiction under this Chapter have power to grant an injunction or make any interim order in relation to any proceedings pending in any other court or tribunal.

Article 203I. [Administrative arrangements, etc.,] Omitted by the Constitution (Second Amendment)

Order, 1982, (P.O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 8.

Article 203J. Power to make rules

(1) The Court may, by notification in the official Gazette, make rules for carrying out the purposes of this Chapter.

(2) In particular, and without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing power, such rules may make provision in respect of all or any of the following matters, namely :__

(a) the scale of payment of honoraria to be made to jurisconsults, experts and witnesses summoned by the Court to defray the expenses, if any, incurred by them in attending for the purposes of the proceedings before the Court; 2[*]

(b) the form of oath to be made by a Jurisconsult, expert or witness appearing before the Court 3[;]

1Ins. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 7.

2Omitted by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 4 of 1980), Art. 6.

3Subs. ibid.

1[(c) the powers and functions of the Court being exercised or performed by Benches consisting of one or more members constituted by the Chairman;

(d) the decision of the Court being expressed in terms of the opinion of the majority of its members or, as the case may be, of the members constituting a Bench; and

(e) the decision of cases in which the members constituting a Bench are equally divided in their opinion.]

(3) Until rules are made under clause (1), the Shariat Benches of Superior Courts Rules, 1979, shall, with the necessary modifications and so far as they are not inconsistent with the provisions of this Chapter, continue in force.]

CHAPTER 4. – GENERAL PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE JUDICATURE

[2] Article 204. Contempt of Court

(1) In this Article, “Court” means the 3[Federal Constitutional Court or the] Supreme Court or a High Court.

(2) A Court shall have power to punish any person who__

(a) abuses, interferes with or obstructs the process of the Court in any way or disobeys any order of the Court;

(b) scandalizes the Court or otherwise does anything which tends to bring the Court or a Judge of the Court into hatred, ridicule or contempt;

(d) does any other thing which, by law, constitutes contempt of the Court.

(3) The exercise of the power conferred on a Court by this Article may be regulated by law and, subject to law, by rules made by the Court.]

Article 205. Remuneration etc., of Judges

The remuneration and other terms and conditions of service of a Judge of 3[Federal Constitutional Court or] the Supreme Court or of a High Court shall be as provided in the Fifth Schedule.

Article 206. Resignation

4[(1)] A Judge of the 3[Federal Constitutional Court or of the] Supreme Court or of a High Court may resign his office by writing under his hand addressed to the President. 3[(2) A Judge of a High Court who does not accept appointment as a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court or the Supreme Court or a Judge of the Supreme Court who does not accept appointment as a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court shall be deemed to have retired from his office and, on retirement, shall be entitled to receive a pension calculated on the basis of the length of his service as Judge and total service, if any, in the service of Pakistan.]

1Added by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 4 of 1980), Art. 6.

2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

3Ins. and sub. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 43-45.

4Renumbered by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 14, (w.e.f. the 13th September, 1976).

Article 207. Judge not to hold office of profit, etc

(1) A Judge of the 1[Federal Constitutional Court or of the Supreme Court] or of a High Court shall not__

(a) hold any other office of profit in the service of Pakistan if his remuneration is thereby increased; or

(b) occupy any other position carrying the right to remuneration for the rendering of services.

(2) A person who has held office as a Judge of the 1[Federal Constitutional Court or of the Supreme Court] or of a High Court shall not hold any office of profit in the service of Pakistan, not being a judicial or quasi-judicial office or the office of Chief Election Commissioner or of Chairman or member of a Law Commission or of Chairman or member of the Council of Islamic Ideology, before the expiration of two years after he has ceased to hold that office.

(3) A person who has held office as a permanent Judge__

(a) of the 1[Federal Constitutional Court or of the Supreme Court], shall not plead or act in any court or before any authority in Pakistan; 1[and]

(b) of a High Court, shall not plead or act in any court or before any authority within its jurisdiction 1[.]

Article 208. Officers and servants of Courts

The 1[Federal Constitutional Court, the] 2[Supreme Court, the Federal Shariat Court and the Islamabad High Court], with the approval of the President and a High Court, with the approval of the Governor concerned, may make rules providing for the appointment by the Court of officers and servants of the Court and for their terms and conditions of employment 1[:] 1[Provided that till such time rules are made in this regard, the rules providing for the appointment of officers and servants of the Supreme Court and for their terms and conditions of employment shall mutatis mutandis apply to the officers and servants of the Federal Constitutional Court.]

[2] Article 209. Supreme Judicial Council

(1) There shall be a Supreme Judicial Council of Pakistan, in this Chapter referred to as the Council. 1[(2) The Council shall consist of—

(a) the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court;

(b) the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court;

1Subs., ins. omitted and added by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 46-48.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024). ss.20-21.

(d) a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court or the Supreme Court jointly nominated by the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, for a period of two years;

(e) the two most senior Chief Justices of the High Courts. Explanation I. – The senior amongst the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court shall be the Chairperson of the Council. Their inter se seniority shall be determined with reference to their dates of appointment as the Chief Justices of the Federal Constitutional Court and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court otherwise than as acting Chief Justice, in case the dates of such appointment are the same, with reference to their dates of appointment as Judges of the High Courts. Explanation II. – If a Judge may not be nominated under paragraph (d), the respective Chief Justices shall forward one nominee each to the President who shall, on advice of the Prime Minister, nominate one of them as a Judge under paragraph (d). Explanation III. – For the purposes of this clause, the inter se seniority of the Chief Justices of the High Courts shall be determined with reference to their dates of appointment as Chief Justice otherwise than as acting Chief Justice, and in case the dates of such appointment are the same, with reference to their dates of appointment as Judges of the High Courts.]

1[(3) If at any time, the Council is inquiring into the capacity, inefficiency or conduct of a Judge who is a member of the Council, or a member of the Council is absent or is unable to act due to illness or any other cause, then if such member is the–

(a) Chief Justice or Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court or the Supreme Court, as the case may be, the Judge who is next in seniority below the Judges referred to in paragraph (c) of clause (2), as the case may be;

(b) Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court or the Supreme Court referred to in paragraph (d) of clause (2), another Judge nominated under paragraph (d) or Explanation II of clause (2); and

(c) Chief Justice of a High Court, the Chief Justice of another High Court who is next in seniority amongst the Chief Justices of the remaining High Courts, shall act as a member of the Council in his place.]

(4) If, upon any matter inquired into by the Council, there is a difference of opinion amongst its members, the opinion of the majority shall prevail, and the report of the Council to the President shall be expressed in terms of the view of the majority.

(5) If, on information from any source or the report from the Commission under clause (19) of Article 175A 1[and Article 200], the Council or the President is of the opinion that a Judge 1[of the Federal Constitutional Court or] of the Supreme Court or of a High Court-

(a) may be incapable of properly performing the duties of his office by reason of physical or mental incapacity; or

1Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 48.

(b) may be inefficient in the performance of the duties of his office; or

(c) may have been guilty of misconduct, 1[or] 1[(d) does not accept a transfer under Article 200.] the Council, on its own motion or on receipt of report from the Commission under clause (19) of Article 175A 1[and Article 200] or on the direction of the President, shall inquire into the matter.

(6) If, after inquiring into the matter, without unnecessary delay and in case of report or direction under clause (5), within six months 1[and within thirty days in case where paragraph (d) applies], the Council reports to the President that it is of the opinion that –

(a) the Judge is incapable of performing the duties of his office or is found inefficient in performance of the duties of his office or has been guilty of misconduct 1[or does not accept transfer under Article 200]; and

(b) he should be removed from office, the President may remove the Judge from office.

(7) A Judge 1[of the Federal Constitutional Court or] of the Supreme Court or of a High Court shall not be removed from office except as provided by this Article.

(8) The Council shall issue a code of conduct to be observed by Judges of 1[the Federal Constitutional Court,] the Supreme Court and the High Courts.

(9) Subject to the rules made by the Council, there shall be a secretariat of the Council to be headed by a secretary and shall include such other officers and staff, as may be necessary.] 1[(10) Within sixty days of commencement of the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025, the Council shall make rules regulating its procedure and conduct of business.]

Article 210. Power of Council to enforce attendance of persons, etc

(1) For the purpose of inquiring into any matter, the Council shall have the same power as the 1[the Federal Constitutional Court or the Supreme Court] has to issue directions or orders for securing the attendance of any person or the discovery or production of any document; and any such direction or order shall be enforceable as if it had been issued by the 1[the Federal Constitutional Court or the Supreme Court.]

(2) The provisions of Article 204 shall apply to the Council as they apply to the 1[Federal Constitutional Court, the Supreme Court] and a High Court.

1Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 48-49.

Article 211. Bar of jurisdiction

The proceedings before the Council, its report to the President and the removal of a Judge under clause (6) of Article 209 shall not be called in question in any court.

Article 212. Administrative Courts and Tribunals

(1) Notwithstanding anything hereinbefore contained the appropriate Legislature may by Act 1[provide for the establishment of] one or more Administrative Courts or Tribunals to exercise exclusive jurisdiction in respect of__

(a) matters relating to the terms and conditions of persons 2[who are or have been] in the service of Pakistan, including disciplinary matters;

(b) matters relating to claims arising from tortious acts of Government, or any person in the service of Pakistan, or of any local or other authority empowered by law to levy any tax or cess and any servant of such authority acting in the discharge of his duties as such servant; or

(c) matters relating to the acquisition, administration and disposal of any property which is deemed to be enemy property under any law.

(2) Notwithstanding anything hereinbefore contained where any Administrative Court or Tribunal is established under clause (1), no other court shall grant an injunction, make any order or entertain any proceedings in respect of any matter to which the jurisdiction of such Administrative Court or Tribunal extends 3[and all proceedings in respect of any such matter which may be pending before such other court immediately before the establishment of the Administrative Court or Tribunal 4[, other than an appeal pending before the Supreme Court,] shall abate on such establishment] :

Provided that the provisions of this clause shall not apply to an Administrative Court or Tribunal established under an Act of a Provincial Assembly unless, at the request of that Assembly made in the form of a resolution, 5[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] by law6 extends the provisions to such a Court or Tribunal.

(3) An appeal to the Supreme Court from a judgment, decree, order or sentence of an Administrative Court or Tribunal shall lie only if the Supreme Court, being satisfied that the case involves a substantial question of law of public importance, grants leave to appeal.

Article 212A. [Establishment of Military Courts or Tribunals.] Omitted by S.R.O. No. 1278 (1) 85,

dated 30-12-85, read with proclamation of withdrawal of Martial Law dated 30-12-85 see Gaz. of P. 1985, Ext., Pt. 1, dated 30-12-85, pp. 431-432, which was previously added by P.O. No. 21 of 1979,

Art. 2.

1Subs. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 12 and shall be deemed always to have been so substituted.

2Ins. and shall be deemed always to have been so inserted ibid.

3Ins. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974) s. 12 and shall be deemed always to have been so inserted.

4Ins. by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 15 and shall be deemed always to have been so inserted.

5Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

6For such law see the Provincial Service Tribunals (Extension of Provisions of the Constitution) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXII of 1974).

212B. [Establishment of Special Courts for trial of heinous offences.] Repealed by the Constitution (Twelfth Amendment) Act, 1991 (14 of1991), s. 1 (3), (w.e.f. 26th July, 1994), which was previously added by Act 14 of 1991 s. 2, (w.e.f. 27th July, 1991).

PART VIII

ELECTIONS

CHAPTER 1.__ CHIEF ELECTION COMMISSIONER AND ELECTION 1[COMMISSION]

Article 213. Chief Election Commissioner

(1) There shall be a Chief Election Commissioner (in this Part referred to as the Commissioner), who shall be appointed by the President 2[* * *]. 1[(2) No person shall be appointed to be Commissioner unless he has been a Judge of the Supreme Court or has been a senior civil servant or is a technocrat and is not more than sixty-eight years of age. Explanation 1.__ “senior civil servant” means a civil servant who has served for at least twenty years under Federal or a Provincial Government and has retired in BPS-22 or above. Explanation 2.__ “technocrat” means a person who is the holder of a degree requiring conclusion of at least sixteen years of education, recognized by the Higher Education Commission and has at least twenty years of experience, including a record of achievements at the national or international level.] 3[(2A) The Prime Minister shall in consultation with the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, forward three names for appointment of the Commissioner to a Parliamentary Committee for hearing and confirmation of any one person 1[:] 1[Provided that in case there is no consensus between the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition, each shall forward separate lists to the Parliamentary Committee for consideration which may confirm any one name.]

(2B) The Parliamentary Committee to be constituted by the Speaker shall comprise fifty percent members from the Treasury Benches and fifty percent from the Opposition Parties, based on their strength in Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), to be nominated by the respective Parliamentary Leaders:

1[*

* * *] 4[Provided 1[*] that the total strength of the Parliamentary Committee shall be twelve members out of which one-third shall be from the Senate.]

Provided 1[further] that when the National Assembly is dissolved and a vacancy occurs in the office of the Chief Election Commissioner, 5[total membership of the Parliamentary Committee shall consist of] the members from the Senate only and the foregoing provisions of this clause shall, mutatis mutandis, apply.]

1Subs., Ins. and Omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (Act No. XXV of 2016), ss. 3-4.

2Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 77.

3Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 77.

4Subs. by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (Act No. I of 2011), s. 6.

5Subs. by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (Act No. I of 2011), s. 6.

(3) The Commissioner 1[or a member] shall have such powers and functions as are conferred on him by the Constitution and law.

Article 214. 2[*] Oath of Office

Before entering upon office, the Commissioner shall make before the Chief Justice of Pakistan 2[, and a member of the Election Commission shall make before the Commissioner,] oath in the form set-out in the Third Schedule.

Article 215. Term of office of Commissioner 2[and members]

(1) The Commissioner 2[and a member] shall, subject to this Article, hold office for a term of 3[five] years from the day he enters upon his office:

1[Provided that two of the members shall retire after the expiration of first two and a half years and two shall retire after the expiration of the next two and a half years: 4[Provided further that the Commissioner and a member shall, notwithstanding the expiration of his term, continue to hold office until his successor enters upon the office:]

Provided 4[also] that the Commission shall for the first term of office of members draw a lot as to which two members shall retire after the first two and a half years:

Provided also that the term of office of a member appointed to fill a casual vacancy shall be the un-expired term of office of the member whose vacancy he has filled.] 5[* * * * * * *]

(2) The Commissioner 2[or a member] shall not be removed from office except in the manner prescribed in Article 209 for the removal from office of a Judge and, in the application of the Article for the purposes of this clause, any reference in that Article to a Judge shall be construed as a reference to the Commissioner 2[or, as the case may be, a member].

(3) The Commissioner 2[or a member] may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office. 1[(4) Vacancy in the office of the Commissioner or a member shall be filled within forty-five days.]

Article 216. Commissioner 2[and members] not to hold office of profit

(1) The Commissioner 2[or a member] shall not__

(a) hold any other office of profit in the service of Pakistan; or

(b) occupy any other position carrying the right to remuneration for the rendering of services.

(2) A person who has held office as Commissioner 2[or a member] shall not hold any office of profit in the service of Pakistan before the expiration of two years after he has ceased to hold that office 1[.]

1Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (Act No. XXV of 2016), ss.4-6.

2Omitted, Ins. and added by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012), ss.3-5.

3Subs by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.78.

4Ins. and Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s.22.

5Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 78.

1[* * * * * * *] 2[* * * * * * *]

Article 217. Acting Commissioner

At any time when__

(a) the office of Commissioner is vacant, or

(b) the Commissioner is absent or is unable to perform the functions of his office due to any other cause, 1[the most senior member in age of the members of Commission] shall act as Commissioner.

Article 218. Election Commission

2[(1) For the purpose of election to both Houses of Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament), Provincial Assemblies and for election to such other public offices as may be specified by law, a permanent Election Commission shall be constituted in accordance with this Article.] 2[(2) The Election Commission shall consist of,__

(a) the Commissioner who shall be the Chairman of the Commission; and 1[(b) four members, one from each Province, each of whom shall be a person who has been a judge of a High Court or has been a senior civil servant or is a technocrat and is not more than sixty-five years of age, to be appointed by the President in the manner provided for appointment of the Commissioner in clauses (2A) and (2B) of Article 213.] Explanation.__ “senior civil servant” and “technocrat” shall have the same meaning as given in clause (2) of Article 213.]

(3) It shall be the duty of the Election Commission 3[******] to organize and conduct the election and to make such arrangements as are necessary to ensure that the election is conducted honestly, justly, fairly and in accordance with law, and that corrupt practices are guarded against.

Article 219. Duties of 1[Commission]

The 2[Commission] shall be charged with the duty of__ 1[(a) preparing electoral rolls for election to the National Assembly, Provincial Assemblies and local governments, and revising such rolls periodically to keep them up-to-date;]

(b) organizing and conducting election to the Senate or to fill casual vacancies in a House or a Provincial Assembly; and

(c) appointing Election Tribunals 2[;] 2[(d) the holding of general elections to the National Assembly, Provincial Assemblies and the local governments; and

1Omitted and subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (Act No. XXV of 2016), ss.6-9. 2Omitted, subs. and added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss.79-81.

3Omitted by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012), s.6.

(e) such other functions as may be specified by an Act of Majlis-e-Shoora

(Parliament) 1[:] ] 1[Provided that till such time as the members of the Commission are first appointed in accordance with the provisions of paragraph (b) of clause (2) of Article 218 pursuant to the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010, and enter upon their office, the Commissioner shall remain charged with the duties enumerated in paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) of this Article.]

Article 220. Executive authorities to assist Commission, etc

It shall be the duty of all executive authorities in the Federation and in the Provinces to assist the Commissioner and the Election Commission in the discharge of his or their functions.

Article 221. Officers and 2[staff]

Until 3[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] by law otherwise provides, the 4[Election Commission] may, with the approval of the President, make rules providing for the appointment by the 2[Commissioner] of officers and 2[staff] to be employed in connection with the functions of the 5[* * *] Election Commission and for their terms and conditions of employment.

CHAPTER 2.__ ELECTORAL LAWS AND CONDUCT OF ELECTIONS

Article 222. Electoral laws

Subject to the Constitution, 3[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may by law provide for__

(a) the allocation of seats in the National Assembly as required by clauses (3) and

(4) of Article 51;

(b) the delimitation of constituencies by the Election Commission 2[including delimitation of constituencies of local governments;]

(c) the preparation of electoral rolls, the requirements as to residence in a constituency, the determination of objections pertaining to and the commencement of electoral rolls;

(d) the conduct of elections and election petitions the decision of doubts and disputes arising in connection with elections;

(e) matters relating to corrupt practices and other offences in connection with elections; and

(f) all other matters necessary for the due constitution of the two Houses 2[, ]2[*] the Provincial Assemblies 2[and local governments;]

1Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012) ss.7-10.

2Subs., added and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (Act No. XXV of 2016), ss.9-11.

3Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

4Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 82.

5Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 82.

but no such law shall have the effect of taking away or abridging any of the powers of the Commissioner or 1[the] Election Commission under this Part.

Article 223. Bar against double membership

(1) No person shall, at the same time, be a member of__

(a) both Houses; or

(b) a House and a Provincial Assembly; or

(d) a House or a Provincial Assembly in respect of more than one seat.

(2) Nothing in clause (1) shall prevent a person from being a candidate for two or more seats at the same time, whether in the same body or in different bodies, but if he is elected to more than one seat he shall, within a period of thirty days after the declaration of the result for the last such seat, resign all but one of his seats, and if he does not so resign, all the seats to which he has been elected shall become vacant at the expiration of the said period of thirty days except the seat to which he has been elected last or, if he has been elected to more than one seat on the same day, the seat for election to which his nomination was filed last. Explanation.__ In this clause, “body” means either House or a Provincial Assembly.

(3) A person to whom clause (2) applies shall not take a seat in either House or the Provincial Assembly to which he has been elected until he has resigned all but one of his seats.

(4) Subject to clause (2) if a member of either House or of a Provincial Assembly becomes a candidate for a second seat which, in accordance with clause (1), he may not hold concurrently with his first seat, then his first seat shall become vacant as soon as he is elected to the second seat.

Article 224. Time of Election and bye-election

2[(1) A general election to the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly shall be held within a period of sixty days immediately following the day on which the term of the Assembly is due to expire, unless the Assembly has been sooner dissolved, and the results of the election shall be declared not later than fourteen days before that day.] 3[(1A) On dissolution of the Assembly on completion of its term, or in case it is dissolved under Article 58 or Article 112, the President, or the Governor, as the case may be, shall appoint a care-taker Cabinet:

Provided that the care-taker Prime Minister shall be 4[appointed] by the President in consultation with the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in the outgoing National Assembly, and a care-taker Chief Minister shall be appointed by the Governor in consultation with the Chief Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in the outgoing Provincial Assembly: 4[Provided further that if the Prime Minister or a Chief Minister and their respective Leader of the Opposition do not agree on any person to be appointed as a care-taker Prime Minister or the care- taker Chief Minister, as the case may be, the provisions of Article 224A shall be followed:]

1Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (Act No. XXV of 2016), s.11.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 83.

3Ins. ibid.

4Subs. and ins.by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012) s.8.

Provided 1[also] that the Members of the Federal and Provincial care-taker Cabinets shall be appointed on the advice of the care-taker Prime Minister or the care-taker Chief Minister, as the case may be.

(1B) Members of the care-taker Cabinets including the care- taker Prime Minister and the care- taker Chief Minister and their immediate family members shall not be eligible to contest the immediately following elections to such Assemblies. Explanation.__ In this clause, “immediate family members” means spouse and children.]

(2) When the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly is dissolved, a general election to the Assembly shall be held within a period of ninety days after the dissolution, and the results of the election shall be declared not later than fourteen days after the conclusion of the polls.

(3) An election to fill the seats in the Senate which are to become vacant on the expiration of the term of the members of the Senate shall be held not earlier than thirty days immediately preceding the day on which the vacancies are due to occur.

(4) When, except by dissolution of the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly, a 2[*]seat in any such Assembly has become vacant not later than one hundred and twenty days before the term of that Assembly is due to expire, an election to fill the seat shall be held within sixty days from the occurrence of the vacancy.

(5) When a seat in the Senate has become vacant, an election to fill the seat shall be held within thirty days from the occurrence of the vacancy. 3[(6) When a seat reserved for women or non-Muslims in the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly falls vacant, on account of death, resignation or disqualification of a member, it shall be filled by the next person in order of precedence from the party list of the candidates to be submitted to the Election Commission by the political party whose member has vacated such seat1[:]] 1[Provided that if at any time the party list is exhausted, the concerned political party may submit a name for any vacancy which may occur thereafter.] 4[* * * * * * *]

[1] Article 224A. Resolution by Committee or Election Commission

(1) In case the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in the outgoing National Assembly do not agree on any person to be appointed as the care-taker Prime Minister, within three days of the dissolution of the National Assembly, they shall forward two nominees each to a Committee to be immediately constituted by the Speaker of the National Assembly, comprising eight members of the outgoing National Assembly, or the Senate, or both, having equal representation from the Treasury and the Opposition, to be nominated by the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition respectively.

1Subs., added and Ins. by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012) ss.8-9.

2Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.2.

3Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 83 and shall be deemed always to have been so inserted with effect from the 21st day of August 2002.

4Clause (7) stands omitted as a consequence (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), see section 2.

(2) In case a Chief Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in the outgoing Provincial Assembly do not agree on any person to be appointed as the care-taker Chief Minister, within three days of the dissolution of that Assembly, they shall forward two nominees each to a Committee to be immediately constituted by the Speaker of the Provincial Assembly, comprising six members of the outgoing Provincial Assembly having equal representation from the Treasury and the Opposition, to be nominated by the Chief Minister and the Leader of the Opposition respectively.

(3) The Committee constituted under clause (1) or (2) shall finalize the name of the care-taker Prime Minister or care-taker Chief Minister, as the case may be, within three days of the referral of the matter to it:

Provided that in case of inability of the Committee to decide the matter in the aforesaid period, the names of the nominees shall be referred to the Election Commission of Pakistan for final decision within two days.

(4) The incumbent Prime Minister and the incumbent Chief Minister shall continue to hold office till appointment of the care-taker Prime Minister and the care-taker Chief Minister, as the case may be.

(5) Notwithstanding anything contained in clauses (1) and (2), if the members of the Opposition are less than five in the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) and less than four in any Provincial Assembly, then all of them shall be members of the Committee mentioned in the aforesaid clauses and the Committee shall be deemed to be duly constituted.]

Article 225. Election dispute

No election to a House or a Provincial Assembly shall be called in question except by an election petition presented to such tribunal and in such manner as may be determined by Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament).]

[2] Article 226. Election by secret ballot

All elections under the Constitution, other than those of the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister, shall be by secret ballot.]

PART IX

ISLAMIC PROVISIONS

Article 227. Provisions relating to the Holy Quran and Sunnah

(1) All existing laws shall be brought in conformity with the Injunctions of Islam as laid down in the Holy Quran and Sunnah, in this part referred to as the Injunctions of Islam, and no law shall be enacted which is repugnant to such Injunctions. 3[Explanation.__ In the application of this clause to the personal law of any Muslim sect, the expression "Quran and Sunnah" shall mean the Quran and Sunnah as interpreted by that sect.]

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 84.

3Added by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Order, 1980 (P.O.No.14 of 1980), Art. 2.

(2) Effect shall be given to the provisions of clause (1) only in the manner provided in this Part.

(3) Nothing in this Part shall affect the personal laws of non- Muslim citizens or their status as citizens.

Article 228. Composition, etc., of Islamic Council

(1) There shall be constituted1 within a period of ninety days from the commencing day a Council of Islamic Ideology, in this part referred to as the Islamic Council.

(2) The Islamic Council shall consist of such members, being not less than eight and not more than 2[twenty] as the President may appoint from amongst persons having knowledge of the principles and philosophy of Islam as enunciated in the Holy Quran and Sunnah, or understanding of the economic, political, legal or administrative problems of Pakistan.

(3) While appointing members of the Islamic Council, the President shall ensure that__

(a) so far as practicable various schools of thought are represented in the Council;

(b) not less than two of the members are persons each of whom is, or has been a Judge of the Supreme Court or of a High Court;

(c) not less than 3[one third] of the members are persons each of whom has been engaged, for a period of not less than fifteen years, in Islamic research or instruction; and

(d) at least one member is a woman. 4[(4) The President shall appoint one of the members of the Islamic Council to be the Chairman thereof.]

(5) Subject to clause (6), a member of the Islamic Council shall hold office for a period of three

years.

(6) A member may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office or may be removed by the President upon the passing of a resolution for his removal by a majority of the total membership of the Islamic Council.

Article 229. Reference by 5[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], etc., to Islamic Council

The President or the Governor of a Province may, or if 6[one-fourth] of its total membership so requires, a House or a Provincial Assembly shall, refer to the Islamic Council for advice any question as to whether a proposed law is or is not repugnant to the Injunctions of Islam.

1For the notification constituting the Council of Islamic Ideology, see Gaz. of Pak..1974, Ext., Pt. II, p. 165. For the Council of Islamic Ideology (Terms and Conditions of Members) Rules, 1974, see Gaz. of Pak., Ext., Pt. II, p. 1727.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Order, 1980 (P.O. No. 16 of 1980), Art. 2.

3Subs by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 85.

4Subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Order, 1982 (P.O. No. 13 of 1982), Art. 2.

5Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

6Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 23.

Article 230. Functions of the Islamic Council

(1) The functions of the Islamic Council shall be__

(a) to make recommendations to 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] and the Provincial Assemblies as to the ways and means of enabling and encouraging the Muslims of Pakistan to order their lives individually and collectively in all respects in accordance with the principles and concepts of Islam as enunciated in the Holy Quran and Sunnah;

(b) to advise a House, a Provincial Assembly, the President or a Governor on any question referred to the Council as to whether a proposed law is or is not repugnant to the Injunctions of Islam;

(c) to make recommendations as to the measures for bringing existing laws into conformity with the Injunctions of Islam and the stages by which such measures should be brought into effect; and

(d) to compile in a suitable form, for the guidance of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] and the Provincial Assemblies, such Injunctions of Islam as can be given legislative effect.

(2) When, under Article 299, a question is referred by a House, a Provincial Assembly, the President or a Governor to the Islamic Council, the Council shall, within fifteen days thereof, inform the House, the Assembly, the President or the Governor, as the case may be, of the period within which the Council expects to be able to furnish that advice.

(3) Where a House, a Provincial Assembly, the President or the Governor, as the case may be, considers that, in the public interest, the making of the proposed law in relation to which the question arose should not be postponed until the advice of the Islamic Council is furnished, the law may be made before the advice is furnished:

Provided that, where a law is referred for advice to the Islamic Council and the Council advises that the law is repugnant to the Injunctions of Islam, the House or, as the case may be, the Provincial Assembly, the President or the Governor shall reconsider the law so made.

(4) The Islamic Council shall submit its final report within seven years of its appointment, and shall submit an annual interim report. The report, whether interim or final, shall be laid for discussion before both Houses and each Provincial Assembly within six months of its receipt, and 1[Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament)] and the Assembly, after considering the report, shall enact laws in respect thereof within a period of two years of the final report 2[:] 2[Provided that the final report in any case shall be considered within twelve months after it has been laid.]

Article 231. Rules of procedure

The proceedings of the Islamic Council shall be regulated by rules of procedure3 to be made by the Council with the approval of the President.

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

2Subs. and added by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 24.

3For the Council of Islamic Ideology (Procedure Rules), 1974, see Gaz. of Pak., 1974. Ext., Pt. II, pp. 771- 773.

PART X

EMERGENCY PROVISIONS

Article 232. Proclamation of emergency on account of war, internal disturbance, etc

(1) If the President is satisfied that a grave emergency exists in which the security of Pakistan, or any part thereof, is threatened by war or external aggression, or by internal disturbance beyond the power of a Provincial Government to control, he may issue a Proclamation of Emergency 1[:] 1[Provided that for imposition of emergency due to internal disturbances beyond the powers of a Provincial Government to control, a resolution from the Provincial Assembly of that Province shall be required:

Provided further that if the President acts on his own, the Proclamation of Emergency shall be placed before both Houses of Majlis- e-Shoora (Parliament) for approval by each House within ten days.]

(2) Notwithstanding anything in the Constitution, while a Proclamation of Emergency is in force__ 2[(a) Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) shall have power to make laws for a Province, or any part thereof, with respect to any matter not enumerated in the Federal Legislative List 3[* * *]]

(b) the executive authority of the Federation shall extend to the giving of directions to a Province as to the manner in which the executive authority of the Province is to be exercised; and

(c) the Federal Government may by Order4 assume to itself, or direct the Governor of a Province to assume on behalf of the Federal Government, all or any of the functions of the Government of the Province, and all or any of the powers vested in, or exercisable by, any body or authority in the Province other than the Provincial Assembly, and make such incidental and consequential provisions as appear to the Federal Government to be necessary or desirable for giving effect to the objects of the Proclamation, including provisions for suspending, in whole or in part, the operation of any provisions of the Constitution relating to any body or authority in the Province :

Provided that nothing in paragraph (c) shall authorise the Federal Government to assume to itself, or direct the Governor of the Province to assume on its behalf, any of the powers vested in or exercisable by a High Court, or to suspend either in whole or in part the operation of any provisions of the Constitution relating to High Courts.

1Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 86.

2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

3The words “or the Concurrent Legislative List” stand omitted as a consequence of the (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), see section 2. 4For such Order, in respect of N.W.F.P., see S.R.O. No. 202(I)/75, dated the 16th February, 1975, see Gaz. of Pak 1975, Ext.. Pt. II, p. 329. since rescinded by S R.O. No. 522(I)/75, dated the 3rd May, 1975, see Gaz. of Pak., 1975, Ext., Pt. II. p. 727; and For such Order, in respect of the Province of Baluchistan, see S.R.O. No. 641(I)/76, dated the 30th June, 1976, see Gaz. of Pak., 1976, Ext., Pt. II. p. 1207 since rescinded by S. R. O. No. 1161 (I)/76, dated the 6th December, 1976, see Gaz. of Pak., 1976, Ext., Pt. II, p. 2279. For such proclamation issued on 28-5-1998, see Gaz. of Pak. 1998, Ext., Pt. I, p. 32.

(3) The power of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] to make laws for a Province with respect to any matter shall include power to make laws conferring powers and imposing duties, or authorizing the conferring of powers and the imposition of duties upon the Federation, or officers and authorities of the Federation, as respects that matter.

(4) Nothing in this Article shall restrict the power of a Provincial Assembly to make any law which under the Constitution it has power to make, but if any provision of a Provincial law is repugnant to any provision of an Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] which 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] has under this Article power to make, the Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], whether passed before or after the Provincial law, shall prevail and the Provincial law shall, to the extent of the repugnancy, but so long only as the Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] continues to have effect, be void.

(5) A law made by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], which 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] would not but for the issue of a Proclamation of Emergency have been competent to make, shall, to the extent of the incompetency, cease to have effect on the expiration of a period of six months after the Proclamation of Emergency has ceased to be in force, except as respects things done or omitted to be done before the expiration of the said period.

(6) While a Proclamation of emergency is in force, 1[Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament)] may by law extend the term of the National Assembly for a period not exceeding one year and not extending in any case beyond a period of six months after the Proclamation has ceased to be in force.

(7) A Proclamation of Emergency shall be laid before a joint sitting which shall be summoned by the President to meet within thirty days of the Proclamation being issued and__

(a) shall cease to be in force at the expiration of two months unless before the expiration of that period it has been approved by a resolution2 of the joint sitting; and 3[(b) shall, subject to the provisions of paragraph (a), cease to be in force upon a resolution disapproving the proclamation being passed by the votes of the majority of the total membership of the two Houses in joint sitting.]

(8) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (7), if the National Assembly stands dissolved at the time when a Proclamation of Emergency is issued, the Proclamation shall continue in force for a period of four months but, if a general election to the Assembly is not held before the expiration of that period, it shall cease to be in force at the expiration of that period unless it has earlier been approved by a resolution of the Senate.

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2The joint sitting passed the following resolution on the 5th September, 1973 :__ “That the joint sitting approves under clause (7) of Art. 232 of the Constitution read with Art. 280 thereof, the Proclamation of Emergency issued on the 23rd day of November, 1971, and the continuance in force of the said Proclamation for the period of six months following the expiration of the period mentioned in paragraph (a) of the said clause (7).” The joint sitting passed the following resolution on 10-6-1998. “That the joint sitting approve under clause (7) of Article 232 of the Constitution the Proclamation of Emergency issued by the President on the 28th May, 1998, under clause (1) of Article 232 of the Constitution.” see Gaz. of Pak. 1998. Ext., Pt. III, p. 647.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Act, 1975, (Act No. XXII of 1975), s. 3, (w. e. f. the 13th February, 1975).

Article 233. Power to suspend Fundamental Rights, etc., during emergency period

(1) Nothing contained in Articles 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 24 shall, while a Proclamation of Emergency is in force, restrict the power of the State as defined in Article 7 to make any law or to take any executive action which it would, but for the provisions in the said Articles, be competent to make or to take, but any law so made shall, to the extent of the incompetency, cease to have effect, and shall be deemed to have been repealed, at the time when the Proclamation is revoked or has ceased to be in force.

(2) While a Proclamation of Emergency is in force, the President may, by Order,1 declare that the right to move any court for the enforcement of such of the Fundamental Rights conferred by Chapter 1 of Part II as may be specified in the Order, and any proceeding in any court which is for the enforcement, or involves the determination of any question as to the infringement, of any of the Rights so specified, shall remain suspended for the period during which the Proclamation is in force, and any such Order may be made in respect of the whole or any part of Pakistan.

(3) Every Order made under this Article shall, as soon as may be, be laid before 2[both houses of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) separately] for approval3 and the provisions of clauses (7) and (8) of Article 232 shall apply to such an Order as they apply to a Proclamation of Emergency.

Article 234. Power to issue Proclamation in case of failure of Constitutional machinery in a Province

(1) If the President, on receipt of a report from the Governor of a Province 2[* *] is satisfied that a situation has arisen in which the Government of the Province cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution, the President may, or if a resolution in this behalf is passed 2[by each House separately] shall, by Proclamation,__

(a) assume to himself, or direct the Governor of the Province to assume on behalf of the President, all or any of the functions of the Government of the Province, and all or any of the powers vested in, or exercisable by, anybody or authority in the Province, other than the Provincial Assembly;

(b) declare that the powers of the Provincial Assembly shall be exercisable by, or under the authority of, 4[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]; and

(c) make such incidental and consequential provisions as appear to the President to be necessary or desirable for giving effect to the objects of the Proclamation, including provisions for suspending in whole or in part the operation of any provisions of the Constitution relating to any body or authority in the Province:

1The Order suspending the right to move any court for the enforcement of certain Fundamental Rights issued vide see Gaz. of Pak., 1973, Ext., Pt. I. p. 602, has been rescinded by S.R.O. 1093(I)/74, dated the 14th August. 1974., see Gaz. of Pak. 1974, Ext. Pt. II, p. 1548.

2Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 87-88.

3For the Order issued on 28-5-1998 suspending of Fundamental Rights, (See Notifications No. 7-3/98-Min. I, dated 28-5-1998. Gaz. of Pak., 1998, Part I, Page 31). The joint sitting passed the following resolution on the 6th September, 1973:__ “That the joint sitting approves under clause (7) of Article 232 of the Constitution, read with clause (3) of Article 233 thereof, the President's Order of the 14th August, 1973, made under clause (2) of the said Art. 233 and the continuance in force of the said Order for the period of six months following the expiration of the period mentioned in paragraph (a) of the said clause (7) of Art. 232.” For resolution approving the continuance in force of the President's Order of the 14th August, 1973, for a further period of six months, see Gaz. of Pak.,

1974. Ext., Pt. III, p. 343. The joint sitting passed the following resolution on 10-6-1998. “That the joint sitting approves the Order made by the President on the 28th May, 1998, under clause (2) of Article 233 of the Constitution.” see Gaz. of

Pak. 1998. Part Ill, p. 647.

4Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

Provided that nothing in this Article shall authorise the President to assume to himself, or direct the Governor of the Province to assume on his behalf, any of the powers vested in, or exercisable by, a High Court, or to suspend either in whole or in part the operation of any provisions of the Constitution relating to High Courts.

(2) The provisions of Article 105 shall not apply to the dis-charge by the Governor of his functions under clause (1).

(3) A Proclamation issued under this Article shall be laid before a joint sitting and shall cease to be in force at the expiration of two months, unless before the expiration of that period it has been approved by resolution of the joint sitting and may by like resolution be extended for a further period not exceeding two months at a time; but no such Proclamation shall in any case remain in force for more than six months.

(4) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (3), if the National Assembly stands dissolved at the time when a Proclamation is issued under this Article, the Proclamation shall continue in force for a period of three months but, if a general election to the Assembly is not held before the expiration of that period, it shall cease to be in force at the expiration of that period unless it has earlier been approved by a resolution of the Senate.

(5) Where by a Proclamation issued under this Article it has been declared that the powers of the Provincial Assembly shall be exercisable by or under the authority of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], it shall be competent__

(a) to 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in joint sitting to confer on the President the power to make laws with respect to any matter within the legislative competence of the Provincial Assembly;

(b) to 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in joint sitting, or the President, when he is empowered under paragraph (a), to make laws conferring powers and imposing duties, or authorising the conferring of powers and the imposition of duties, upon the Federation, or officers and authorities thereof;

(c) to the President, when 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] is not in session, to authorise expenditure from the Provincial Consolidated Fund, whether the expenditure is charged by the Constitution upon that Fund or not, pending the sanction of such expenditure by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in joint sitting ; and

(d) to 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in joint sitting by resolution to sanction expenditure authorised by the President under paragraph (c)

(6) Any law made by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or the President which 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or the President would not, but for the issue of a Proclamation under this Article, have been competent to make, shall, to the extent of the incompetency, cease to have effect on the expiration of a period of six months after the Proclamation under this Article has ceased to be in force, except as to things, done or omitted to be done before the expiration of the said period.

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

Article 235. Proclamation in case of financial emergency

(1) If the President is satisfied that a situation has arisen whereby the economic life, financial stability or credit of Pakistan, or any part thereof, is threatened, he may, after consultation with the Governors of the Provinces or, as the case may be, the Governor of the Province concerned, by Proclamation make a declaration to that effect, and, while such a Proclamation is in force, the executive authority of the Federation shall extend to the giving of directions to any Province to observe such principles of financial propriety as may be specified in the directions, and to the giving of such other directions as the President may deem necessary in the interest of the economic life, financial stability or credit of Pakistan or any part thereof.

(2) Notwithstanding anything in the Constitution, any such directions may include a provision requiring a reduction of the salary and allowances of all or any class of persons serving in connection with the affairs of a Province.

(3) While a Proclamation issued under this Article is in force, the President may issue directions for the reduction of the salaries and allowances of all or any class of persons serving in connection with the affairs of the Federation.

(4) The provisions of clauses (3) and (4) of Article 234 shall apply to a Proclamation issued under this Article as they apply to a Proclamation issued under that Article.

Article 236. Revocation of Proclamation, etc

(1) A Proclamation issued under this Part may be varied or revoked by a subsequent Proclamation.

(2) The validity of any Proclamation issued or Order made under this Part shall not be called in question in any court.

Article 237. 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may make laws of indemnity, etc

Nothing in the Constitution shall prevent 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] from making any law indemnifying any person in the service of the Federal Government or a Provincial Government, or any other person, in respect of any act done in connection with the maintenance or restoration of order in any area in Pakistan.

PART XI

AMENDMENT OF CONSTITUTION

Article 238. Amendment of Constitution

Subject to this Part, the Constitution may be amended by Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)].

[2] Article 239. Constitution amendment Bill

(1) A Bill to amend the Constitution may originate in either House and, when the Bill has been passed by the votes of not less than two-thirds of the total membership of the House, it shall be transmitted to the other House.

(2) If the Bill is passed without amendment by the votes of not less than two-thirds of the total membership of the House to which it is transmitted under clause (1), it shall, subject to the provisions of clause (4), be presented to the President for assent.

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 20 of 1985), Art. 3.

(3) If the Bill is passed with amendment by the votes of not less than two-thirds of the total membership of the House to which it is transmitted under clause (1), it shall be reconsidered by the House in which it had originated, and if the Bill as amended by the former House is passed by the latter by the votes of not less than two-thirds of its total membership it shall, subject to the provisions of clause (4), be presented to the President for assent.

(4) A Bill to amend the Constitution which would have the effect of altering the limits of a Province shall not be presented to the President for assent unless it has been passed by the Provincial Assembly of that Province by the votes of not less than two-thirds of its total membership. 1[(5) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution and any judgment of any court, no court shall have jurisdiction to call in question any amendment to the Constitution on any ground whatsoever.]

(6) For the removal of doubt, it is hereby declared that there is no limitation whatever on the power of the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) to amend any of the provisions of the Constitution.]

PART XII

MISCELLANEOUS

CHAPTER 1.__ SERVICES

Article 240. Appointments to service of Pakistan and conditions of service

Subject to the Constitution, the appointments to and the conditions of service of persons in the service of Pakistan shall be determined__

(a) in the case of the services of the Federation, posts in connection with the affairs of the Federation and All-Pakistan Services, by or under Act of 2[Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament)]; and

(b) in the case of the services of a Province and posts in connection with the affairs of a Province, by or under Act of the Provincial Assembly. Explanation.__ In this Article, “All-Pakistan Service” means a service common to the Federation and the Provinces, which was in existence immediately before the commencing day or which may be created by Act of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)].

Article 241. Existing rules, etc., to continue

Until the appropriate Legislature makes a law under Article 240, all rules and orders in force immediately before the commencing day shall, so far as consistent with the provisions of the Constitution, continue in force and may be amended from time to time by the Federal Government or, as the case may be, the Provincial Government.

Article 242. Public Service Commission

(1) 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in relation to the affairs of the Federation, and the Provincial Assembly of a Province in relation to the affairs of the Province, may, by law, provide for the establishment and constitution of a Public Service Commission. 2[(1A) The Chairman of the Public Service Commission constituted in relation to the affairs of the Federation shall be appointed by the President 3[on the advice of the Prime Minister.]]

1Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 50.

2Subs.and ins. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 89.

1[(1B) The Chairman of the Public Service Commission constituted in relation to affairs of a Province shall be appointed by the Governor on advice of the Chief Minister.]

(2) A Public Service Commission shall perform such functions as may be prescribed by law.

CHAPTER 2.__ ARMED FORCES

[1] Article 243. Command of Armed Forces

(1) The Federal Government shall have control and command of the Armed Forces.

(2) Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing provision, the Supreme Command of the Armed Forces shall vest in the President.

(3) The President shall subject to law, have power__

(a) to raise and maintain the Military, Naval and Air Forces of Pakistan; and the Reserves of such Forces; and

(b) to grant Commissions in such Forces. 2[(4) The President shall, on advice of the Prime Minister, appoint__

(a) the Chief of the Army Staff concurrently the Chief of the Defense Forces;

(b) the Chief of the Naval Staff; and

(c) the Chief of the Air Staff; and shall also determine their salaries and allowances.] 2[(5) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (4), the office of the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee shall stand abolished with effect from the twenty-seventh day of November two thousand and twenty-five.

(6) The Prime Minister shall, on the recommendation of the Chief of the Army Staff concurrently the Chief of the Defense Forces, appoint the Commander of the National Strategic Command from the members of Pakistan Army and shall also determine his salary and allowances.

(7) Where the Federal Government promotes a member of the Armed Forces to the rank of Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force or Admiral of the Fleet, such officer shall retain the rank, privileges and remain in uniform for life.

(8) Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force and Admiral of the Fleet, being national heroes, shall not be removed from office except on the ground or charges and in the manner provided under Article 47.

(9) The provisions of Article 248, as applicable to the President, shall mutatis mutandis apply to Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force and Admiral of the Fleet.

1Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 89-90.

2Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 51.

(10) Upon completion of the term of his command, under the law, the Federal Government shall determine the responsibilities and duties of Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force or Admiral of the Fleet in the interest of State.

(11) The President shall, on advice of the Prime Minister, determine the salary, allowances and privileges of Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force and Admiral of the Fleet.]]

Article 244. Oath of Armed Forces

Every member of the Armed Forces shall make oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule.

Article 245. Functions of Armed Forces

1[(1)] The Armed Forces shall, under the directions of the Federal Government, defend Pakistan against external aggression or threat of war, and, subject to law, act in aid of civil power when called upon to do so. 1[(2) The validity of any direction issued by the Federal Government under clause (1) shall not be called in question in any court.

(3) A High Court shall not exercise any jurisdiction under Article 199 in relation to any area in which the Armed Forces of Pakistan are, for the time being, acting in aid of civil power in pursuance of Article 245:

Provided that this clause shall not be deemed to affect the jurisdiction of the High Court in respect of any proceeding pending immediately before the day on which the Armed Forces start acting in aid of civil power.

(4) Any proceeding in relation to an area referred to in clause (3) instituted on or after the day the Armed Forces start acting in aid of civil power and pending in any High Court shall remain suspended for the period during which the Armed Forces are so acting.]

1Re-numbered and added by the Constitution (Seventh Amendment) Act, 1977 (Act No. XXIII of 1977), s. 4, (w. e. f. the 21st April, 1977).

CHAPTER 3. – TRIBAL AREAS

Article 246. Tribal Areas

In the Constitution,__

(a) “Tribal Areas” means the areas in Pakistan which, immediately before the commencing day, were Tribal Areas, and includes__

(i) the Tribal Areas of 1[Balochistan] and the 1[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa] Province; 1[*]

(ii) the former States of Amb, Chitral, Dir and Swat;

(iii) 2[* * * * * * *]

(iv) 2[* * * * * * *]

(b) “Provincially Administered Tribal Areas” means__

(i) the districts of Chitral, Dir and Swat (which includes Kalam) 3[the Tribal Area in Kohistan district,] Malakand Protected Area, the Tribal Area adjoining 3[Mansehra] district and the former State of Amb; and

(ii) Zhob district, Loralai district (excluding Duki Tehsil), Dalbandin Tehsil of Chagai district and Marri and Bugti tribal territories of Sibi district; 4[*]

(i) Tribal Areas adjoining Peshawar district;

(ii) Tribal Areas adjoining Kohat district;

(iii) Tribal Areas adjoining Bannu district;

2[(iiia) Tribal Areas adjoining Lakki Marwat district;]

(iv) Tribal Areas adjoining Dera Ismail Khan district; 2[(iva) Tribal Areas adjoining Tank District;] 5[(v) Bajaur Agency;

1Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 91.

2Omitted and ins. by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (Act No. I of 2011), s.7. 3Ins., subs. and shall be deemed to have been so inserted and substituted by the Constitution (Sixth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXXXIV of 1976),

s. 4, (w. e. f. the 1st October, 1976).

4Omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018) s. 8. (w. e. f. 31-05-2018.)

5Subs. and shall be deemed to have been so subs. by the Constitution (Sixth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXXXIV of 1976), s. 4, (w. e. f. the 1st December, 1973).

(va) Orakzai Agency;]

(vi) Mohmand Agency;

(vii) Khyber Agency;

(viii) Kurram Agency;

(ix) North Waziristan Agency; and

(x) South Waziristan Agency 1[; and] 1[(d) On the commencement of the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018, the areas mentioned in—

(i) paragraph (b),__

(a) in sub-paragraph (i), shall stand merged in the Province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa; and

(b) in sub-paragraph (ii), shall stand merged in the Province of Balochistan; and

(ii) paragraph (c), shall stand merged in the Province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.]

Article 247. [Omitted]

1[* * * * * * *]

CHAPTER 4.__ GENERAL

Article 248. Protection to President, Governor, Minister, etc

(1) 2[Notwithstanding any judgement of any court, the] President, a Governor, the Prime Minister, a Federal Minister, a Minister of State, the Chief Minister and a Provincial Minister shall not be answerable to any court for the exercise of powers and performance of functions of their respective offices or for any act done or purported to be done in the exercise of those powers and performance of those functions:

Provided that nothing in this clause shall be construed as restricting the right of any person to bring appropriate proceedings against the Federation or a Province. 2[(2) No criminal proceedings whatsoever shall be initiated or continued against the President for his life and for a Governor during his term of office in any court.] 2[(3) No process for arrest or imprisonment of the President for his life and for a Governor during his term of office, shall be issued from any court:

Provided that the provisions of clauses (2) and (3) shall not apply during the period the President holds a public office after he ceases to be the President.]

(4) No civil proceedings in which relief is claimed against the President or a Governor shall be instituted during his term of office in respect of anything done or not done by him in his personal capacity whether before or after he enters upon his office unless, at least sixty days before the proceedings are instituted, notice in writing has been delivered to him, or sent to him in the manner

1Subs., added and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018), ss. 8-9, (w. e. f. 31-05-2018).

2Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 52.

prescribed by law, stating the nature of the proceedings, the cause of action, the name, description and place of residence of the party by whom the proceedings are to be instituted and the relief which the party claims.

Article 249. Legal proceedings

(1) Any legal proceedings which, but for the Constitution, could have been brought by or against the Federation in respect of a matter which, immediately before the commencing day, was the responsibility of the Federation and has, under the Constitution, become the responsibility of a Province, shall be brought by or against the Province concerned; and if any such legal proceedings were pending in any court immediately before the commencing day then, in those proceedings, for the Federation the Province concerned shall, as from that day, be deemed to have been substituted.

(2) Any legal proceedings which, but for the Constitution, could have been brought by or against a Province in respect of a matter which, immediately before the commencing day, was the responsibility of the Province and has under the Constitution become the responsibility of the Federation, shall be brought by or against the Federation; and if any such legal proceedings were pending in any court immediately before the commencing day then, in those proceedings, for the Province the Federation shall, as from that day, be deemed to have been substituted.

Article 250. Salaries, allowances, etc., of the President, etc

(1) Within two years from the commencing day, provision shall be made by law for determining the salaries, allowances and privileges of the President, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker and a member of the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly, the Chairman and Deputy Chairman and a member of the Senate, the Prime Minister, a Federal Minister, a Minister of State, 1[* *] a Chief Minister, a Provincial Minister and the Chief Election Commissioner.

(2) Until other provision is made by law,__

(a) the salaries, allowances and privileges of the President, the Speaker or Deputy Speaker or a member of the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly, a Federal Minister, a Minister of State, 1[* *] a Chief Minister, a Provincial Minister and the Chief Election Commissioner shall be same as the salaries, allowances and privileges to which the President, the Speaker or Deputy Speaker or member of the National Assembly of Pakistan or a Provincial Assembly, a Federal Minister, a Minister of State, 1[* *] a Chief Minister, a Provincial Minister or, as the case may be, the Chief Election Commissioner was entitled immediately before the commencing day; and

(b) the salaries, allowances and privileges of the Chairman, the Deputy Chairman, the Prime Minister and a member of the Senate shall be such as the President may by Order determine.

(3) The salary, allowances and privileges of a person holding office as__

(a) the President;

(b) the Chairman or Deputy Chairman;

1Omitted by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 13, (w. e. f. the 4th May, 1974).

(d) a Governor;

(e) the Chief Election Commissioner; or

(f) the Auditor-General;

shall not be varied to his disadvantage during his term of office.

(4) At any time when the Chairman or Speaker is acting as President, he shall be entitled to the same salary, allowances and privileges as a President but shall not exercise any of the functions of the office of Chairman or Speaker or a member of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or be entitled to salary, allowances or privileges as Chairman, Speaker or such a member.

Article 251. National language

(1) The National language of Pakistan is Urdu, and arrangements shall be made for its being used for official and other purposes within fifteen years from the commencing day.

(2) Subject to clause (1), the English language may be used for official purposes until arrangements are made for its replacement by Urdu.

(3) Without prejudice to the status of the National language, a Provincial Assembly may by law prescribe measures for the teaching, promotion and use of a provincial language in addition to the national language.

Article 252. Special provisions in relation to major ports and aerodromes

(1) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution or in any law, the President may, by public notification, direct that, for a period not exceeding three months from a specified date, a specified law, whether a Federal law or a Provincial law, shall not apply to a specified major port or major aerodrome, or shall apply to a specified major port or major aerodrome subject to specified exceptions or modifications.

(2) The giving of a direction under this Article in relation to any law shall not affect the operation of the law prior to the date specified in the direction.

Article 253. Maximum limits as to property, etc

(1) 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may by law__

(a) prescribe the maximum limits as to property or any class thereof which may be owned, held, possessed or controlled by any person; and

(b) declare that any trade, business, industry or service specified in such law shall be carried on or owned, to the exclusion, complete or partial, of other persons, by the Federal Government or a Provincial Government, or by a corporation controlled by any such Government.

(2) Any law which permits a person to own beneficially or possess beneficially an area of land greater than that which, immediately before the commencing day, he could have lawfully owned beneficially or possessed beneficially shall be invalid.

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.

Article 254. Failure to comply with requirement as to time does not render an act invalid

When any act or thing is required by the Constitution to be done within a particular period and it is not done within that period, the doing of the act or thing shall not be invalid or otherwise ineffective by reason only that it was not done within that period.

Article 255. Oath of Office

(1) An oath required to be made by a person under the Constitution shall 1[preferably be made in Urdu or] a language that is understood by that person.

(2) Where, under the Constitution, an oath is required to be made before a specified person and, for any reason, it is impracticable for the oath to be made before that person, it may be made before such other person as may be nominated by 2[the Chief Justice of a High Court, in case of a Province and by the Chief Justice of Pakistan, in all other cases].

(3) Where, under the Constitution, a person is required to make an oath before he enters upon an office, he shall be deemed to have entered upon the office on the day on which he makes the oath.

Article 256. Private armies forbidden

No private organisation capable of functioning as a military organisation shall be formed, and any such organisation shall be illegal.

Article 257. Provision relating to the State of Jammu and Kashmir

When the people of the State of Jammu and Kashmir decide to accede to Pakistan, the relationship between Pakistan and that State shall be determined in accordance with the wishes of the people of that State.

Article 258. Government of territories outside Provinces

Subject to the Constitution, until 1[Majlis- e-Shoora (Parliament)] by law otherwise provides, the President may, by Order, make provision for peace and good government of any part of Pakistan not forming part of a Province.

Article 259. Awards

(1) No citizen shall accept any title, honour or decoration from any foreign State except with the approval of the Federal Government.

(2) No title, honour or decoration shall be conferred by the Federal Government or any Provincial Government on any citizen, but the President may award decorations in recognition of gallantry 3[, meritorious service in the Armed Forces] 4[, academic distinction or distinction in the field of sports 2[, science, technology, medicine, arts or public service]], as provided by Federal law.

(3) All titles, honours and decorations awarded to citizens by any authority in Pakistan before the commencing day otherwise than in recognition of gallantry 5[, meritorious service in the Armed Forces] or academic distinction shall stand annulled.

CHAPTER 5.__ INTERPRETATION

Article 260. Definitions

(1) In the Constitution, unless the context otherwise requires, the following expressions have the meaning hereby respectively assigned to them, that is to say,— “Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]” means an Act passed by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or the National Assembly and assented to, or deemed to have been assented to, by the President;

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), ss. 25-26.

3Ins. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 14, (w. e. f. the 4th May, 1974).

4Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Order, 1981 (P.O. No. 12 of 1981), Art. 2.

5Ins. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s.14, and shall be deemed always to have been so inserted.

“Act of Provincial Assembly” means an Act passed by the Provincial Assembly of a Province and assented to, or deemed to have been assented to, by the Governor; “agricultural income” means agricultural income as defined for the purposes of the law relating to income-tax;

“Article” means Article of the Constitution; “borrow” includes the raising of money by the grant of annuities, and “loans” shall be construed accordingly;

“Chairman” means the Chairman of the Senate and, except in Article 49, includes a person acting as Chairman of the Senate;

1[“Chief Justice”, in relation to the 2[Federal Constitutional Court or the] Supreme Court or a High Court, includes the Judge for the time being acting as Chief Justice of the Court;] 2[“Chief Justice of Pakistan” means the senior amongst the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court and the Chief Justice of Supreme Court;] “citizen” means a citizen of Pakistan as defined by law; “clause” means clause of the Article in which it occurs; 3[* * * * * * *]

“corporation tax” means any tax on income that is payable by companies and in respect of which the following conditions apply:__

(a) the tax is not chargeable in respect of agricultural income;

(b) no deduction in respect of the tax paid by companies is, by any law which may apply to the tax, authorised to be made from dividends payable by the companies to individuals;

(c) no provision exists for taking the tax so paid into account in computing for the purposes of income-tax the total income of individual receiving such dividends, or in computing the income-tax payable by, or refundable to, such individuals;

“debt” includes any liability in respect of any obligation to repay capital sums by way of annuities and any liability under any guarantee, and “debt charges” shall be construed accordingly;

“estate duty” means a duty assessed on, or by reference to, the value of property passing upon death;

“existing law” has the same meaning as in clause (7) of Article 268;

“Federal law” means a law made by or under the authority of 4[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)];

“financial year” means a year commencing on the first day of July;

1Ins. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 15, (w.e.f. the 4th May, 1974).

2Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 53.

3Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 92.

4Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

“goods” includes all materials, commodities and articles; “Governor” means the Governor of a Province and includes any person for the time being acting as the Governor of a Province;

“guarantee” includes any obligation undertaken before the commencing day to make payments in the event of the profits of an undertaking falling short of a specified amount; “House” means the Senate or the National Assembly; “Joint sitting” means a joint sitting of the two Houses; “Judge” in relation to the 1[Federal Constitutional Court or the] Supreme Court or a High Court, includes the Chief Justice of the Court and also includes__ 1[(a) in relation to the Federal Constitutional Court, a person who is acting as a Judge of the Court;] 1[(b)] in relation to the Supreme Court, a person who is acting as a Judge of the Court; and 1[(c)] in relation to the High Court, a person who is an Additional Judge of the Court; “members of the Armed Forces” does not include persons who are not, for the time being, subject to any law relating to the members of the Armed Forces; “net proceeds” means, in relation to any tax or duty, the proceeds thereof, reduced by the cost of collection, as ascertained and certified by the Auditor-General; “oath” includes affirmation;

“Part” means Part of the Constitution;

“pension” means a pension, whether contributory or not, of any kind whatsoever payable to, or in respect of, any person and includes retired pay so payable, a gratuity so payable, and any sum or sums so payable by way of the return, with or without interest thereon or any addition thereto, of subscriptions to a provident fund; “person” includes any body politic or corporate; “President” means the President of Pakistan and includes a person for the time being acting as, or performing the functions of, the President of Pakistan and, as respects anything required to be done under the Constitution before the commencing day, the President under the Interim Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan; “Property” includes any right, title or interest in property, movable or immovable, and any means and instruments of production;

“Provincial law” means a law made by or under the authority of the Provincial Assembly; “remuneration” includes salary and pension;

1Ins. and re-numbered by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 53.

“Schedule” means Schedule to the Constitution;

“security of Pakistan” includes the safety, welfare, stability and integrity of Pakistan and of each part of Pakistan, but shall not include public safety as such;

“service of Pakistan” means any service, post or office in connection with the affairs of the Federation or of a Province, and includes an All-Pakistan Service, service in the Armed Forces and any other service declared to be a service of Pakistan by or under Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or of a Provincial Assembly, but does not include service as 2[President,] Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Chairman, Deputy Chairman, Prime Minister, Federal Minister, Minister of State, Chief Minister, Provincial Minister, 3[, Attorney-General, 4[Advocate-General,] Parliamentary Secretary] or 5[, Chairman or member of a Law Commission, Chairman or member of the Council of Islamic Ideology, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, Adviser to the Prime Minister, Special Assistant to a Chief Minister, Adviser to a Chief Minister] or member of a House or a Provincial Assembly;

“Speaker” means the Speaker of the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly, and includes any person acting as the Speaker of the Assembly;

“taxation” includes the imposition of any tax or duty, whether general, local or special, and “tax” shall be construed accordingly;

“tax on income” includes a tax in the nature of an excess profits tax or a business profits tax. 2[“technocract” means a person who has sixteen years of education and fifteen years of experience in his field.]

(2) In the Constitution “Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]” or “Federal law” or “Act of Provincial Assembly” or “Provincial law” shall include an Ordinance promulgated by the President or, as the case may be, a Governor.

6[(3) In the Constitution and all enactments and other legal instruments, unless there is anything repugnant in the subject or context,__

(a) “Muslim” means a person who believes in the unity and oneness of Almighty Allah, in the absolute and unqualified finality of the Prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him), the last of the prophets, and does not believe in, or recognize as a prophet or religious reformer, any person who claimed or claims to be a prophet, in any sense of the word or of any description whatsoever, after Muhammad (peace be upon him); and

(b) “non-Muslim” means a person who is not a Muslim and includes a person belonging to the Christian, Hindu, Sikh, Budhist or Parsi community, a person of the Quadiani group or the Lahori group (who call themselves ‘Ahmadis’ or by any other name), or a Bahai, and a person belonging to any of the scheduled castes.]

Article 261. Person acting in office not to be regarded as successor to previous occupant of office, etc

For the purposes of the Constitution, a person who acts in an office shall not be regarded as the successor to the person who held that office before him or as the predecessor to the person who holds that office after him.

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (ACT No. XXXII of 2025), s. 53.

3Ins. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 15, (w. e. f. the 4th May, 1974).

4Ins. by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 16, (w. e. f. the 13th September, 1976).

5Ins. by the Constitution (Sixth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXXXIV of 1976), s. 5, (w. e. f. the 31st December, 1976).

6Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 24 of 1985), Art. 6.

Article 262. Gregorian calendar to be used

For the purposes of the Constitution, periods of time shall be reckoned according to the Gregorian calendar.

Article 263. Gender and number

In the Constitution,__

(a) words importing the masculine gender shall be taken to include females; and

(b) words in the singular shall include the plural, and words in the plural shall include the singular.

Article 264. Effect of repeal of laws

Where a law is repealed, or is deemed to have been repealed, by, under, or by virtue of the Constitution, the repeal shall not, except as otherwise provided in the Constitution,__

(a) revive anything not in force or existing at the time at which the repeal takes effect;

(b) affect the previous operation of the law or anything duly done or suffered under the law;

(d) affect any penalty, forfeiture or punishment incurred in respect of any offence committed against the law; or

(e) affect any investigation, legal proceeding or remedy in respect of any such right, privilege, obligation, liability, penalty, forfeiture or punishment; and any such investigation, legal proceeding or remedy may be instituted, continued or enforced, and any such penalty, forfeiture or punishment may be imposed, as if the law had not been repealed.

CHAPTER 6.__ TITLE, COMMENCEMENT AND REPEAL

Article 265. Title of Constitution and commencement

(1) This Constitution shall be known as the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

(2) Subject to clauses (3) and (4), the Constitution shall come into force on the fourteenth day of August, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-three or on such earlier day as the President may, by notification in the official Gazette, appoint, in the Constitution referred to as the “commencing day”.

(3) The Constitution shall, to the extent necessary__

(a) for the constitution of the first Senate;

(b) for the first meeting of a House or a joint sitting to be held;

(d) to enable any other thing to be done which, for the purposes of the Constitution, it is necessary to do before the commencing day, come into force upon the enactment of the Constitution, but the person elected as President or Prime Minister shall not enter upon his office before the commencing day.

(4) Where by the Constitution a power is conferred to make rules or to issue orders with respect to the enforcement of any provision thereof, or with respect to the establishment of any court or office, or the appointment of any Judge or officer there-under, or with respect to the person by whom, or the time when, or the place where, or the manner in which, anything is to be done under any such provision, then that power may be exercised at any time between the enactment of the Constitution and its commencement.

Article 266. Repeal

The Interim Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, together with the Acts and President's Orders making omissions from, additions to, modifications of, or amendments in, that Constitution is hereby repealed.

CHAPTER 7.__ TRANSITIONAL

Article 267. Power of President to remove difficulties

(1) At any time before the commencing day or before the expiration of three months from the commencing day, the President may, for the purpose of removing any difficulties, or for bringing the provisions of the Constitution into effective operation, by Order, direct that the provisions of the Constitution shall, during such period as may be specified in the Order, have effect, subject to such adaptations, whether by way of modification, addition or omission, as he may deem to be necessary or expedient.

(2) An Order made under clause (1) shall be laid before both Houses without undue delay, and shall remain in force until a resolution disapproving it is passed by each House or, in case of disagreement between the two Houses, until such resolution is passed at a joint sitting.

[1] Article 267A. Power to remove difficulties

(1) If any difficulty arises in giving effect to the provisions of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010, hereinafter in this Article referred to as the Act, or for bringing the provisions of the Act into effective operation, the matter shall be laid before both Houses in a joint sitting which may by a resolution direct that the provisions of the Act shall, during such period as may be specified in the resolution, have effect, subject to such adaptations, whether by way of modification, addition or omission, as may be deemed necessary or expedient:

Provided that this power shall be available for a period of one year from the commencement of the Act.

Article 267B. Removal of doubt

For removal of doubt it is hereby declared that Article 152A omitted and Articles 179 and 195 substituted by the Constitution (Seventeenth Amendment) Act, 2003 (Act No. III of 2003), notwithstanding its repeal, shall be deemed always to have been so omitted and substituted.]

Article 268. Continuance in force, and adaptation of certain laws

(1) Except as provided by this Article, all existing laws shall, subject to the Constitution, continue in force, so far as applicable and with the necessary adaptations, until altered, repealed or amended by the appropriate Legislature.

1Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 93.

1[* * * * * * *]

(3) For the purpose of bringing the provisions of any existing law into accord with the provisions of the Constitution (other than Part II of the Constitution), the President may by Order, within a period of two years from the commencing day, make such adaptations, whether by way of modification, addition or omission, as he may deem to be necessary or expedient, and any such Order may be made so as to have effect from such day, not being a day earlier than the commencing day, as may be specified in the Order.

(4) The President may 2authorise the Governor of a Province to exercise, in relation to the Province, the powers conferred on the President by clause (3) in respect of laws relating to matters with respect to which the Provincial Assembly has power to make laws.

(5) The powers exercisable under clauses (3) and (4) shall be subject to the provisions of an Act of the appropriate Legislature.

(6) Any court, tribunal or authority required or empowered to enforce an existing law shall, notwithstanding that no adaptations have been made in such law by an Order made under clause (3) or clause (4), construe the law with all such adaptations as are necessary to bring it into accord with the provisions of the Constitution.

(7) In this Article, “existing laws” means all laws (including Ordinances, Orders-in-Council, Orders, rules, bye-laws, regulations and Letters Patent constituting a High Court, and any notifications and other legal instruments having the force of law) in force in Pakistan or any part thereof, or having extra-territorial validity, immediately before the commencing day. Explanation.– In this Article, “in force”, in relation to any law, means having effect as law whether or not the law has been brought into operation.

Article 269. Validation of law, acts, etc

(1) All Proclamations, President's Orders, Martial Law Regulations, Martial Law Orders and all other laws made between the twentieth day of December, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-one and the twentieth day of April, one thousand nine hundred and seventy- two (both days inclusive), are hereby declared, notwithstanding any judgment of any court, to have been validly made by competent authority and shall not be called in question in any court on any ground whatsoever.

(2) All orders made, proceedings taken and acts done by any authority, or by any person, which were made, taken or done, or purported to have been made, taken or done, between the twentieth day of December, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-one, and the twentieth day of April, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-two (both days inclusive), in exercise of the powers derived from any President's Orders, Martial Law Regulations, Martial Law Orders, enactments, notifications, rules, orders or bye-laws, or in execution of any orders made or sentences passed by any authority in the exercise or purported exercise of powers as aforesaid, shall, notwithstanding any judgment of any court, be deemed to be and always to have been validly made, taken or done and shall not be called in question in any court on any ground whatsoever.

(3) No suit or other legal proceedings shall lie in any court against any authority or any person for or on account of or in respect of any order made, proceedings taken or act done whether in the

1Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 94.

2For such authorization, see Gaz. of Pak., 1973, Ext., Pt. II, p. 2001.

exercise or purported exercise of the powers referred to in clause (2) or in execution of or in compliance with orders made or sentences passed in exercise or purported exercise of such powers.

Article 270. Temporary validation of certain laws, etc

(1) 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may by law made in the manner prescribed for legislation for a matter in Part I of the Federal Legislative List validate all Proclamations, President's Orders, Martial Law Regulations, Martial Law Orders and other laws made between the twenty-fifth day of March, one thousand nine hundred and sixty-nine, and the nineteenth day of December, one thousand nine hundred and seventy- one (both days inclusive).

(2) Notwithstanding a judgment of any court, a law made by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] under clause (1) shall not be questioned in any court on any ground, whatsoever.

(3) Notwithstanding the provisions of clause (1), and a judgment of any court to the contrary, for a period of two years from the commencing day, the validity of all such instruments as are referred to in clause (1) shall not be called in question before any court on any ground whatsoever.

(4) All orders made, proceedings taken, and acts done by any authority, or any person, which were made, taken or done, or purported to have been made, taken or done, between the twenty-fifth day of March, one thousand nine hundred and sixty-nine and nineteenth day of December, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-one (both days inclusive), in exercise of powers derived from any President’s Orders, Martial Law Regulations, Martial Law Orders, enactments, notifications, rules, orders or bye-laws, or in execution of any order made or sentence passed by any authority in the exercise or purported exercise of power as aforesaid shall, notwithstanding any judgment of any court, be deemed to be and always to have been validly made, taken or done, so however that any such order, proceeding or act may be declared invalid by 1[Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament)] at any time within a period of two years from the commencing day by resolution of both Houses, or in case of disagreement between the two Houses, by such resolution passed at a joint sitting and shall not be called in question before any court on any ground, whatsoever. 2[3[270A. Affirmation of President’s Orders, etc.__ (1) The Proclamation of the fifth day of July, 1977, all President's Orders, Ordinances, Martial Law Regulations, Martial Law Orders, including the Referendum Order, 1984 (P.O. No. 11 of 1984), 4[* * * * * * *] the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 20 of 1985), the Constitution (Third Amendment) Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 24 of 1985), and all other laws made between the fifth day of July, 1977, and the date on which this Article comes into force are hereby affirmed, adopted and declared, notwithstanding any judgement of any court, to have been validly made by competent authority and, notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, shall not be called in question in any court on any ground whatsoever :

Provided that a President’s Order, Martial Law Regulation or Martial Law Order made after the thirtieth day of September, 1985, shall be confined only to making such provisions as facilitate, or are incidental to, the revocation of the Proclamation of the fifth day of July, 1977.

(2) All orders made, proceedings taken and acts done by any authority or by any person, which were made, taken or done, or purported to have been made, taken or done, between the fifth day of July, 1977, and the date on which this Article comes into force, in exercise of the powers derived from

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2Ins. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act. 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985) s. 19, for “Art. 270A” (w. e. f. 30-12-1985) vide S. R. O. No. 1279 (1)/85, dated 29-12-85 read with Proclamation of Withdrawal of Martial Law, dated 30-12-85, see Gaz. of Pak., 1985, Ext., Pt. 1. pp. 431-432.

4Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 95.

any Proclamation, President’s Orders, Ordinances, Martial Law Regulations, Martial Law Orders, enactments, notifications, rules, orders or bye-laws, or in execution of or in compliance with any order made or sentence passed by any authority in the exercise or purported exercise of powers as aforesaid, shall, notwithstanding any judgement of any court, be deemed to be and always to have been validly made, taken or done and shall not be called in question in any court on any ground whatsoever.

(3) All President’s Orders, Ordinances, Martial Law Regulations, Martial Law Orders, enactments, notifications, rules, orders, or bye-laws, in force immediately before the date* on which this Article comes into force shall continue in force until altered, repealed or amended by competent authority. Explanation.__ In this clause, “competent authority” means,__

(a) in respect of President’s Order’s, Ordinances, Martial Law Regulations, Martial Law Orders and enactments, the appropriate Legislature; and

(b) in respect of notifications, rules, orders and bye-laws, the authority in which the power to make, alter, repeal or amend the same vests under the law.

(4) No suit, prosecution or other legal proceedings shall lie in any court against any authority or any person, for or on account of or in respect of any order made, proceedings taken or act done whether in the exercise or purported exercise of the powers referred to in clause (2) or in execution of or in compliance with orders made or sentences passed in exercise or purported exercise of such powers.

(5) For the purposes of clauses (1), (2) and (4), all orders made, proceedings taken, acts done or purporting to be made, taken or done by any authority or person shall be deemed to have been made, taken or done in good faith and for the purpose intended to be served thereby.

1[(6) The laws referred to in clause (1) may be amended by the appropriate Legislature in the manner provided for amendment of such laws.

Explanation.__ In this Article, “President’s Orders” includes “President and Chief Martial Law Administrator’s Order” and “Chief Martial Law Administrator’s Orders.]

[1] Article 270AA. Declaration and continuance of laws etc

(1) The Proclamation of Emergency of the fourteenth day of October, 1999, the Provisional Constitution Order No. 1 of 1999, the Oath of Office (Judges) Order, 2000 (No. 1 of 2000), Chief Executive’s Order No. 12 of 2002, Chief Executive’s Order No. 19 of 2002, the amendments made in the Constitution through the Legal Framework Order, 2002 (Chief Executive’s Order No. 24 of 2002), the Legal Framework

(Amendment) Order, 2002 (Chief Executive’s Order No. 29 of 2002) and the Legal Framework (Second Amendment) Order, 2002 (Chief Executive’s Order No. 32 of 2002), notwithstanding any judgement of any court including the Supreme Court or a High Court, are hereby declared as having been made without lawful authority and of no legal effect.

(2) Except as provided in clause (1) and subject to the provisions of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010, all laws including President’s Orders, Acts, Ordinances, Chief Executive’s Orders, regulations, enactments, notifications, rules, orders or bye-laws made between the twelfth day of October, one thousand nine hundred and ninety-nine and the thirty-first day of December, two thousand and three (both days inclusive) and still in force shall, continue to be in force until altered, repealed or amended by the competent authority.

1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010, (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 95-96.

*Article. 270A subs. by the Constitution (Eight Amendment) Act, 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985), which received President’s assent on 09-11-1985, came into force on 09-11-1985.

Explanation.__ For the purposes of clause (2) and clause (6), “competent authority” means,__

(a) in respect of Presidents’ Orders, Ordinances, Chief Executive’s Orders and all other laws, the appropriate Legislature; and

(b) in respect of notification, rules, orders and bye-laws, the authority in which the power to make, alter, repeal or amend the same vests under the law.

(3) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution or clause (1), or judgement of any court including the Supreme Court or a High Court,__

(a) Judges of the Supreme Court, High Courts and Federal Shariat Court who were holding the office of a Judge or were appointed as such, and had taken oath under the Oath of Office (Judges) Order, 2000, (1 of 2000), shall be deemed to have continued to hold the office as a Judge or to have been appointed as such, as the case may be, under the Constitution, and such continuance or appointment, shall have effect accordingly.

(b) Judges of the Supreme Court, High Courts and Federal Shariat Court who not having been given or taken oath under the Oath of Office of (Judges) Order, 2000 (1 of 2000), and ceased to hold the office of a Judge shall, for the purposes of pensionary benefits only, be deemed to have continued to hold office under the Constitution till their date of superannuation.

(4) All orders made, proceedings taken, appointments made, including secondments and deputations, and acts done by any authority, or by any person which were made, taken or done, or purported to have been made, taken or done, between the twelfth day of October, one thousand nine hundred and ninety-nine and the thirty first day of December, two thousand and three (both days inclusive), in exercise of the powers derived from any authority or laws mentioned in clause (2), or in execution of or in compliance with any orders made or sentences passed by any authority in the exercise or purported exercise of powers as aforesaid, shall, notwithstanding anything contained in clause (1), be deemed to be valid and shall not be called in question in any court or forum on any ground whatsoever.

(5) No suit, prosecution or other legal proceedings, including writ petitions, shall lie in any court or forum against any authority or any person, for or on account of or in respect of any order made, Proceedings taken or act done whether in the exercise or purported exercise of the powers referred to in clause (2) or clause (4) or in execution of or in compliance with orders made or sentences passed in exercise or purported exercise of such powers.

(6) Notwithstanding omission of the Concurrent Legislative List by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010, all laws with respect to any of the matters enumerated in the said List (including Ordinances, Orders, rules, bye-laws, regulations and notifications and other legal instruments having the force of law) in force in Pakistan or any part thereof, or having extra-territorial operation, immediately before the commencement of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010, shall continue to remain in force until altered, repealed or amended by the competent authority.

(7) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, all taxes and fees levied under any law in force immediately before the commencement of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010, shall continue to be levied until they are varied or abolished by an Act of the appropriate

legislature.

(8) On the omission of the Concurrent Legislative List, the process of devolution of the matters mentioned in the said List to the Provinces shall be completed by the thirtieth day of June, two thousand and eleven.

(9) For purposes of the devolution process under clause (8), the Federal Government shall constitute an Implementation Commission as it may deem fit within fifteen days of the commencement of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010.]

270AAA. 1[Validation and affirmation of laws etc.]

Article 270B. Elections to be deemed to be held under Constitution

Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, the elections held under the Houses of (Parliament) and Provincial Assemblies (Elections) Order, 1977, 2[and the Conduct of General Elections Order, 2002 (Chief Executive's Order No. 7 of 2002),] to the Houses and the Provincial Assemblies shall be deemed to have been held under the Constitution and shall have effect accordingly.]

[3] Article 270BB. General Elections 2008

Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution or any other law for the time being in force, the General Elections 2008, to the National Assembly and the Provincial Assemblies held on the eighteenth day of February, two thousand and eight shall be deemed to have been held under the Constitution and shall have effect accordingly.]

Article 270C. [Omitted]

4[* * * * * * *]

[5] Article 271. First National Assembly

(1) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution but subject to 6[Article 63,] Article 64 and Article 223,__ 6[(a) the first National Assembly shall consist of__

(i) persons who have taken oath in the National Assembly of Pakistan existing immediately before the commencing day, and

(ii) the persons to be elected in accordance with law by the members of the Assembly to fill the seats referred to in clause (2A) of Article 51, and, unless sooner dissolved, shall continue until the fourteenth day of August, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-seven; and reference to ‘total membership’ of the National Assembly in the Constitution shall be construed accordingly;]

(b) the qualifications and disqualifications for being elected and being a member of the first National Assembly shall, except in case of members filling casual vacancies 6[, or to be elected to the additional seats referred to in clause (2A) of Article 51,] after the commencing day, be the same as under the Interim Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan:

1Article 270AAA has been inserted w. e. f the 20th Nov,2007, vide A.6 of the constitution (Amendment) Order, 2007, (P.O. 2007), which was declared unlawful, without authority and void ab initio by the Supreme Court of Pakistan.

2Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 97, and shall be deemed always to have been so, ins. with affect from the 21st day of August 2002.

3Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 98.

4Omitted as a consequence of the (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), see section 2 and Article 270AA.

5Art. 271 shall, during the period of five years from the 27th October, 1973, have effect as if,__ (a)after clause (2) thereof, the following new clause was ins., namely:__ “(2A) A person referred to in clause (2) shall resign one of his seats at any time on or before the 10th day of November, 1973, and, if he does not so resign, the seat to which he was elected first shall become vacant.”; and (b)in clause (3) thereof, after the words “election petition”, the words “or other-wise” were inserted, see the Removal of Difficulties (Bar against Double Membership) Order, 1973 (P. O. No. 22 of 1973).

6Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Act, 1975 (Act No. LXXI of 1975), s. 9, (w. e. f. the 21st November, 1975).

Provided that no person holding an office of profit in the service of Pakistan shall continue to be a member of the first National Assembly after the expiration of three months from the commencing

day.

(2) If a person referred to in paragraph (a) of clause (1) is, immediately before the commencing day, also a member of a Provincial Assembly, he shall not take a seat in the National Assembly or the Provincial Assembly until he resigns one of his seats.

(3) A casual vacancy in a seat in the first National Assembly, including a vacancy in a seat in the National Assembly of Pakistan existing before the commencing day which was not filled before that day, caused by reason of death or resignation of a member or consequent upon his incurring a disqualification or ceasing to be a member as a result of the final decision of an election petition may be filled in the same manner in which it would have been filled before the commencing day.

(4) A person referred to in paragraph (a) of clause (1) shall not sit or vote in the National Assembly until he has made the oath prescribed by Article 65 and, if, without the leave of the Speaker of the National Assembly granted on reasonable cause shown, he fails to make the oath within twenty one days from the day of the first meeting of the Assembly, his seat shall become vacant at the expiration of that period.

1272. First 2[constitution of] Senate. 3[*]Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, but subject to 3[Article 63 and] Article 223,__

(a) the Senate shall, until the first National Assembly under the Constitution continues in existence, consist of forty-five members and the provisions of Article 59 shall have effect as if, in paragraph (a) of clause (1) thereof, for the word "fourteen" the word "ten" and in paragraph (b) of that clause for the word "five" the word "three", were substituted, and reference to "total membership" of the Senate in the Constitution shall be construed accordingly;

(b) the members elected or chosen as members of the Senate shall be divided into two groups by drawing of lots, the first group consisting of five members from each Province, two members from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas and one member from the Federal Capital and the second group consisting of five members from each Province, one member from the said Areas and one member from the Federal Capital;

(c) the term of office of members of the first group and of the second group shall respectively be two years and four years;

(d) the term of office of persons elected or chosen to succeed the members of the Senate at the expiration of their respective terms shall be four years;

1Article 272 had, between the 9th June, 1973, and the 14th August, 1974, effect subject to the following modifications made by the Election to the Senate Order, 1973 (P.O.No.8 OF 1973), namely:__ In the said Article, after clause (1), the following new clause shall be added, namely:__ “(2) Until Parliament by law makes provision in that behalf, the President may, for the purpose of the due constitution of, and election to, the Senate, by Order, make provision for any of the matters referred to in__ (a)Paragraphs (d) and (e) of clause (1) of Article 63; (b)Paragraphs (d), (e) and (f) of Article 222; and (c)Article 225.".

2Ins. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 16, (w. e. f. the 4th May, 1974).

3Omitted and ins. by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Act. ,1975 (Act No. LXXI of 1975), s. 10, (w. e. f. 21st November, 1975).

(e) the term of office of a person elected or chosen to fill a casual vacancy shall be the unexpired term of the member whose vacancy he is elected or chosen to fill;

(f) as soon as the first general election to the National Assembly is held, there shall be elected to the Senate four additional members from each Province and two additional members from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas; and

(g) the term of office of such half of the members elected under paragraph (f) as may be determined by drawing of lots shall be the unexpired term of office of the members of the first group and the term of office of the other half shall be the unexpired term of the members of the second group.

1273. First Provincial Assembly.__ (1) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, but subject to 2[Article 63,] Article 64 and Article 223,__ 2[(a) the first Assembly of a Province under the Constitution shall consist of__

(i) the members of the Assembly of that Province in existence immediately before the commencing day, and

(ii) the additional members to be elected in accordance with law by the members of the Assembly to fill the seats referred to in clause (3) of Article 106, and, unless sooner dissolved, shall continue until the fourteenth day of August, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-seven; and reference to “total membership” of the Assembly of a Province in the Constitution shall be construed accordingly;]

(b) the qualifications and disqualifications for member-ship of the first Assembly of a Province shall, except in case of members filling casual vacancies 2[, or to be elected to the additional seats referred to in clause (3) of Article 106,] after the commencing day, be the same as were provided in the Interim Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan:

Provided that no person holding an office of profit in the service of Pakistan shall continue to be a member of the Assembly after the expiration of three months from the commencing day.

(2) A casual vacancy in a seat in the first Assembly of a Province, including a vacancy in a seat in the Assembly of that Province in existence immediately before the commencing day which was not filled before that day, caused by reason of death or resignation of a member or consequent upon his incurring a disqualification or ceasing to be a member as a result of the final decision of an election petition may be filled in the same manner in which it would have been filled before the commencing

day.

(3) A member referred to in paragraph (a) of clause (1) shall not sit or vote in the Provincial Assembly until he has made the oath prescribed by Article 65 read with Article 127 and, if, without leave of the Speaker of the Provincial Assembly granted on reasonable cause shown, he fails to make

1Article 273 shall, during the period of five years from the 27th October, 1973, have effect as if, in clause (2) thereof, after the words “elections petitions”, the words “or otherwise” were ins., see. the Removal of Difficulties (Bar against Double Membership) Order, 1973 (P.O. No.22 of 1973).

2Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Act, 1975 (Act No. LXXI of 1975), s. 11, (w. e. f. the 21st November, 1975).

the oath within twenty-one days from the day of the first meeting of the Provincial Assembly, his seat shall become vacant at the expiration of that period.

Article 274. Vesting of property, assets, rights, liabilities and obligations

(1) All property and assets which, immediately before the commencing day, were vested in the President or the Federal Government shall, as from that day, vest in the Federal Government unless they were used for purposes which, on that day, became purposes of the Government of a Province, in which case they shall, as from that day, vest in the Government of the Province.

(2) All property and assets which, immediately before the commencing day, were vested in the Government of a Province, shall, as from that day, continue to be vested in the Government of that Province, unless they were used for purposes, which on that day, became purposes of the Federal Government in which case they shall, as from that day, vest in the Federal Government.

(3) All rights, liabilities and obligations of the Federal Government or of the Government of a Province, whether arising out of contract or otherwise, shall as from the commencing day, continue to be respectively the rights, liabilities and obligations of the Federal Government or of the Government of the Province, except that__

(a) all rights, liabilities and obligations relating to any matter which, immediately before that day, was the responsibility of the Federal Government, but which under the Constitution, has become the responsibility of the Government of a Province, shall devolve upon the Government of that Province; and

(b) all rights, liabilities and obligations relating to any matter which, immediately before that day, was the responsibility of the Government of a Province, but which under the Constitution, has become the responsibility of the Federal Government, shall devolve upon the Federal Government.

Article 275. Continuance in office of persons in service of Pakistan, etc

(1) Subject to the Constitution and until law is made under Article 240 any person who, immediately before the commencing day, was in the service of Pakistan shall, as from that day, continue in the service of Pakistan on the same terms and conditions as were applicable to him under the Interim Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan immediately before that day.

(2) Clause (1) shall also apply in relation to a person holding office immediately before the commencing day as__

(a) Chief Justice of Pakistan or other Judge of the Supreme Court, or Chief Justice or other Judge of a High Court;

(b) Governor of a Province;

(d) Speaker or Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly;

(e) Chief Election Commissioner;

(f) Attorney-General for Pakistan or Advocate-General for a Province; and

(g) Auditor-General of Pakistan.

(3) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, for a period of six months from the commencing day, a Federal Minister or a Minister of State or the Chief Minister of a Province or a Provincial Minister may be a person who is not a member of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or, as the case may be, the Provincial Assembly of that Province; and such Chief Minister and Provincial Minister shall have the right to speak and otherwise take part in the proceedings of the Provincial Assembly or any committee thereof of which he may be named a member, but shall not by virtue of this clause be entitled to vote.

(4) Any person who, under this Article, is continued in an office in respect of which a form of oath is set out in the Third Schedule shall, as soon as is practicable after the commencing day, make before the appropriate person oath in that form.

(5) Subject to the Constitution and law__

(a) all civil, criminal and revenue courts exercising jurisdiction and functions immediately before the commencing day shall, as from that day, continue to exercise their respective jurisdictions and functions; and

(b) all authorities and all officers (whether judicial, executive, revenue or ministerial) throughout Pakistan exercising functions immediately before the commencing day shall, as from that day, continue to exercise their respective functions.

Article 276. Oath of first President

Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, the first President may, in the absence of the Chief Justice of Pakistan, make the oath referred to in Article 42 before the Speaker of the National Assembly.

Article 277. Transitional financial provisions

(1) The schedule of authorized expenditure authenticated by the President for the financial year ending on the thirtieth day of June, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-four, shall continue to remain a valid authority for expenditure from the Federal Consolidated Fund for that year.

(2) The President may, in respect of expenditure of the Federal Government for any financial year preceding the financial year commencing on the first day of July, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-three (being expenditure in excess of the authorized expenditure for that year), authorize the withdrawal of moneys from the Federal Consolidated Fund.

(3) The provisions of clauses (1) and (2) shall apply to and in relation to a Province, and for that purpose__

(a) any reference in those provisions to the President shall be read as a reference to the Governor of the Province;

(b) any reference in those provisions to the Federal Government shall be read as a reference to the Government of the Province; and

(c) any reference in those provisions to the Federal Consolidated Fund shall be read as a reference to the Provincial Consolidated Fund of the Province.

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

Article 278. Accounts not audited before commencing day

The Auditor-General shall perform the same functions and exercise the same powers in relation to accounts which have not been completed or audited before the commencing day as, by virtue of the Constitution, he is empowered to perform or exercise in relation to other accounts, and Article 171 shall, with the necessary modifications, apply accordingly.

Article 279. Continuance of taxes

Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, all taxes and fees levied under any law in force immediately before the commencing day shall continue to be levied until they are varied or abolished by Act of the appropriate Legislature.

Article 280. Continuance of Proclamation of Emergency

The Proclamation of Emergency issued on the twenty-third day of November, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-one, shall be deemed to be a Proclamation of Emergency issued under Article 232, and for the purposes of clause (7) and clause

(8) thereof to have been issued on the commencing day, and any law, rule or order made or purporting to have been made in pursuance of that Proclamation shall be deemed to have been validly made 1[and shall not be called in question in any Court on the ground of inconsistency with any of the rights conferred by Chapter I of Part II. ]

________

1Added by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 17 and shall be deemed always to have been so added.

1[ANNEX (Article 2A) The Objectives Resolution In the name of Allah, the Beneficient, the Merciful: Whereas sovereignty over the entire universe belongs to Allah Almighty alone and the authority which He has delegated to the State of Pakistan, through its people for being exercised within the limits prescribed by Him is a sacred trust; This Constituent Assembly representing the people of Pakistan resolves to frame a constitution for the sovereign independent State of Pakistan; Wherein the State shall exercise its powers and authority through the chosen representatives of the people;

Wherein the principles of democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance and social justice as enunciated by Islam shall be fully observed; Wherein the Muslims shall be enabled to order their lives in the individual and collective spheres in accordance with the teachings and requirements of Islam as set-out in the Holy Quran and the Sunnah;

Wherein adequate provision shall be made for the minorities to 2[freely] profess and practise their religions and develop their cultures; Wherein the territories now included in or in accession with Pakistan and such other territories as may hereafter be included in or accede to Pakistan shall form a Federation wherein the units will be autonomous with such boundaries and limitations on their powers and authority as may be prescribed; Wherein shall be guaranteed fundamental rights including equality of status, of opportunity and before law, social, economic and political justice, and freedom of thought, expression, belief, faith, worship and association, subject to law and public morality; Wherein adequate provision shall be made to safeguard the legitimate interests of minorities and backward and depressed classes;

Wherein the independence of the Judiciary shall be fully secured; Wherein the integrity of the territories of the Federation, its independence and all its rights including its sovereign rights on land, sea and air shall be safeguarded; So that the people of Pakistan may prosper and attain their rightful and honoured place amongst the nations of the World and make their full contribution towards international peace and progress and happiness of humanity.]

1Ins. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 99.

1[FIRST SCHEDULE

[Article 8(3) (b) and (4)] Laws exempted from the operation of Article 8 (1) and (2).

PART I

I. PRESIDENT’S ORDERS

Paragraph 1. The Acceding State (Property) Order, 1961 (P. O

No. 12 of 1961).

Paragraph 2. The Economic Reforms Order, 1972 (P. O

No. 1 of 1972).

II. REGULATIONS

1. The Land Reforms Regulation, 1972.

2. The Land Reforms (Baluchistan Pat Feeder Canal) Regulation, 1972.

3. The Economic Reforms (Protection of Industries) Regulation, 1972.

4. The Distribution of Property (Chitral) Regulation, 1974 (II of 1974).

5. The Settlement of Disputes of Immovable Property (Chitral) Regulation, 1974 (III of 1974).

6. The Dir and Swat (Devolution and Distribution of Property and Settlement of Disputes of Immovable Property) (Amendment) Regulation, 1975 (II of 1975). 2[7. The Settlement of Disputes of Immovable Property (Chitral) (Amendment) Regulation, 1976 (XII of 1976).]

III. FEDERAL ACTS

1. The Land Reforms (Amendment) Act, 1974 (XXX of 1974).

2. The Land Reforms (Amendment) Act, 1975 (XXXIX of 1975). 2[3. The Flour Milling Control and Development Act, 1976 (LVII of 1976).

4. The Rice Milling Control and Development Act, 1976 (LVIII of 1976).

5. The Cotton Ginning Control and Development Act, 1976 (LIX of 1976).] 3[* * * * * * *]

1Subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Act, 1975 (Act No. LXXI of 1975), s. 12, (w. e. f. the 21st November, 1975).

2Added by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 18, (w. e. f. the 13th September, 1976).

3Added by the Constitution (Twenty-first Amendment) Act, 2015 (Act No. I of 2015) and stood cease to form part of the Constitution and stood stand repealed on the expiration of two years.

Paragraph 6. High treason

1[* * * * * * *]

Paragraph 7. Definition of the State

1[* * * * * * *]

Paragraph 8. Laws inconsistent with or in derogation of Fundamental Rights to be void

2[* * * * * * *]

Paragraph 9. Security of person

2[* * * * * * *]

IV. ORDINANCES PROMULGATED BY THE PRESIDENT The Land Reforms (Amendment) Ordinance, 1975 (XXI of 1975), and the Federal Act enacted to replace the said Ordinance.

V. PROVINCIAL ACTS

1. The Land Reforms (Baluchistan Amendment) Act, 1974 (Baluchistan Act XI of 1974).

2. The Land Reforms (Pat Feeder Canal Regulation) (Amendment) Act, 1975 (Baluchistan Act VII of 1975). 3[VI. PROVINCIAL ORDINANCE The Land Reforms (Pat Feeder Canal) (Amendment) Ordinance, 1976.]

PART II

I. PRESIDENT’S ORDERS

1. The Minerals (Acquisition and Transfer) Order, 1961 (P. O. No. 8 of 1961).

2. The Companies (Managing Agency and Election of Directors) Order, 1972 (P. O. No. 2 of 1972).

Paragraph 3. The Co-operative Societies (Reforms) Order, 1972 (P. O

No. 9 of 1972).

Paragraph 4. The Life Insurance (Nationalization) Order, 1972 (P. O

No. 10 of 1972).

Paragraph 5. The Martial Law (Pending Proceedings) Order, 1972 (P. O

No. 14 of 1972).

6. The Rulers of Acceding States (Abolition of Privy Purses and Privileges) Order, 1972 (P. O.

No. 15 of 1972).

7. The Industrial Sanctions and Licences (Cancellation) Order, 1972 (P. O. No. 16 of 1972).

8. The Criminal Law Amendment (Special Court) Order, 1972 (P. O. No. 20 of 1972).

II. REGULATIONS

1. Rawalpindi (Requisition of Property) Regulation, 1959.

2. The Pakistan Capital Regulation, 1960.

1The entries 6 and 7 stood repealed by the Constitution (Twenty-third Amendment) Act, 2017 (Act No. XII of 2017)), s. 3, after the expiry of two years on 6th January, 2019. 2The entries 8 and 9 stood repealed by the Constitution (Twenty-first Amendment) Act, 2015 (Act No. I of 2015)), s.1, after the expiry of two years on 6th January, 2017.

3Added by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 18 (w.e.f. the 13th September, 1976).

3. The Scrutiny of Claims (Evacuee Property) Regulation, 1961.

4. The Income Tax (Correction of Returns and False Declaration) Regulation, 1969.

5. The Improper Acquisition of Property Regulation, 1969.

6. The Removal from Service (Special Provisions) Regulation, 1969.

7. The Living Beyond Ostensible Means (Punishment) Regulation, 1969.

8. The Government Agricultural Land (Recovery of Illegal Possession) Regulation, 1969.

9. The Enemy Property (Payment of Money Due to Enemy) Regulation, 1970.

10. The Withdrawal of Currency Notes (High Denomination) Regulation, 1971.

11. The Price of Evacuee Property and Public Dues (Recovery) Regulation, 1971.

12. The Peshawar District and Tribal Areas (Settlement of Disputes) Regulation, 1971.

13. The Convention Muslim League and Awami League (Scrutiny of Funds) Regulation, 1971.

14. The Foreign Exchange Repatriation Regulation, 1972.

15. The Foreign Assets (Declaration) Regulation, 1972.

16. The Removal from Service (Review Petition) Regulation, 1972.

17. The privately Managed Schools and Colleges (Taking Over) Regulation, 1972.

18. The Enemy Property (Revocation of Sales) Regulation, 1972.

19. The Dir and Swat (Devolution and Distribution of Property) Regulation, 1972.

20. The Dir and Swat (Settlement of Disputes of Immovable Property) Regulation, 1972.

21. The West Pakistan Industrial Development Corporation (Revocation of Sale or Transfer) Regulation, 1972.

22. The National Press Trust (Suspension of Board of Trustees and Directors) Regulation, 1972.

23. The Co-operative Banks (Repayment of Loans) (Punjab) Regulation, 1972.

24. The Co-operative Societies (Repayment of Loans) (Sindh) Regulation, 1972.

III. ORDINANCES PROMULGATED BY THE PRESIDENT

1. The Control of Shipping Ordinance, 1959 (XIII of 1959).

2. The Jammu and Kashmir (Administration of Property) Ordinance, 1961 (III of 1961).

3. The Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, 1961 (VIII of 1961).

4. The Security of Pakistan (Amendment) Ordinance, 1961 (XIV of 1961).

5. The Associated Press of Pakistan (Taking Over) Ordinance, 1961 (XX of 1961).

6. The Trade Organisations Ordinance, 1961 (XLV of 1961).

IV. FEDERAL ACTS The Censorship of Films Act, 1963 (XVIII of 1963).

V. ORDINANCES PROMULGATED BY THE GOVERNOR OF FORMER PROVINCE OF WEST PAKISTAN

1. The West Pakistan Government Educational and Training Institutions Ordinance, 1960 (W.P. Ordinance No. XI of 1960).

2. The West Pakistan Wakf Properties Ordinance, 1961 (W.P. Ordinance No. XXVIII of 1961).

3. The Societies Registration (West Pakistan Amendment) Ordinance, 1962 (W.P. Ordinance No. IX of 1962).

4. The West Pakistan Industries (Control on Establishment and Enlargement) Ordinance, 1963 (W.P. Ordinance No. IV of 1963).

VI. ORDINANCES PROMULGATED BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE NORTH-WEST FRONTIER PROVINCE

1. The North-West Frontier Province Government Educational and Training Institutions Ordinance, 1971 (N.W.F.P. Ordinance No. III of 1971).

2. The North-West Frontier Province Chashma Right Bank Canal Project (Control and Prevention of Speculation in Land) Ordinance, 1971 (N.W.F.P. Ordinance No. V of 1971).

3. The North-West Frontier Province Gomal Zam Project (Control and Prevention of Speculation in Land) Ordinance, 1971 (N.W.F.P. Ordinance No. VIII of 1971).]

_____

1[SECOND SCHEDULE

[Article 41 (3)] Election Of President

1. The 2[Election Commission of Pakistan] shall hold and conduct election to the office of President, and 2[Chief Election Commissioner] shall be the Returning Officer for such election.

2. The 2[Election Commission of Pakistan] shall appoint Presiding Officers to preside at the meeting of the members of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) and at the meetings of the members of the Provincial Assemblies.

3. The Chief Election Commissioner shall by public notification fix the time and place for depositing nomination papers, holding a scrutiny, making withdrawals, if any, and holding the poll, if necessary.

4. At any time before noon on the day fixed for nomination any member of the Majlis-e-Shoora

(Parliament) or of a Provincial Assembly may nominate for election as President a person qualified for election as President by delivering to the Presiding Officer a nomination paper, signed by himself as proposer and by another member of the Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament) or, as the case may be Assembly as seconder, together with a statement signed by the person nominated that he consents to the nomination:

Provided that no person shall subscribe, whether as proposer or as seconder, more than one nomination paper at any one election.

5. The scrutiny shall be held by the Chief Election Commissioner at the time and place fixed by him, and if after scrutiny only one person remains validly nominated, the Chief Election Commissioner shall declare that person to be elected, or if more than one person remains validly nominated, he shall announce, by public notification, the names of the persons validly nominated, to be hereinafter called the candidates.

6. A candidate may withdraw his candidature at any time before noon on the day fixed for this purpose by delivering a notice in writing under his hand to the Presiding Officer with whom his nomination paper has been deposited, and a candidate who has given a notice of withdrawal of his candidature under this paragraph shall not be allowed to cancel that notice.

7. If all but one of the candidates have withdrawn, that one shall be declared by the Chief Election Commissioner to be elected.

8. If there is no withdrawal, or if, after withdrawals have taken place, two or more candidates are left, the Chief Election Commissioner shall announce by Public notification the names of the candidates, and their proposers and seconders, and shall proceed to hold a poll by secret ballot in accordance with the provisions of the succeeding paragraphs.

9. If a candidate whose nomination has been found to be in order dies after the time fixed for nomination, and a report of his death is received by the Presiding Officer before the commencement

1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

2Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012), s. 10.

of the poll, the Presiding Officer shall, upon being satisfied of the fact of the death of the candidate, countermand the poll and report the fact to the Chief Election Commissioner, and all proceedings with reference to the election shall be commenced a new in all respects as if for a new election:

Provided that no further nomination shall be necessary in the case of a candidate whose nomination was valid at the time of the countermanding of the poll:

Provided further that no person who has under paragraph 6 of this Schedule given notice of withdrawal of his candidature before the countermanding of the poll shall be ineligible for being nominated as a candidate for the election after such countermanding.

10. The poll shall be taken at the meetings of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) and of each Provincial Assembly, and the respective Presiding Officers shall conduct the poll with the assistance of such officers as they may, with the approval of the Chief Election Commissioner, respectively appoint.

11. A ballot paper shall be issued to every member of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), and of each Provincial Assembly, who presents himself for voting at the meeting of the members of the Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament) or, as the case may be of the Provincial Assembly of which he is a member (hereinafter referred to as a person voting), and he shall exercise his vote personally by marking the paper in accordance with the provisions of the succeeding paragraphs.

12. The poll shall be by secret ballot by means of ballot papers containing the names of all the candidates in alphabetical order who have not withdrawn, and a person voting shall vote by placing a mark against the name of the person for whom he wishes to vote.

13. Ballot papers shall be issued from a book of ballot papers with counterfoils, each counterfoil being numbered; and when a ballot paper is issued to a person voting his name shall be entered on the counterfoil, and the ballot paper shall be authenticated by the initials of the Presiding Officer.

14. A ballot paper having been marked by the person voting shall be deposited by that person in a ballot box to be placed in front of the Presiding Officer.

15. If a ballot paper is spoiled by a person voting he may return it to the Presiding Officer, who shall issue a second ballot paper, cancelling the first ballot paper and marking the cancellation on the appropriate counterfoil.

16. A ballot paper shall be invalid if__

(i) there is upon it any name, word or mark, by which the person voting may be identified; or

(ii) it does not contain the initials of the Presiding Officer; or

(iii) it does not contain mark; or

(iv) a mark is placed against the names of two or more candidates; or

(v) there is any uncertainty as to the identity of the candidate against whose name the mark is placed.

17. After the close of the poll each Presiding Officer shall, in the presence of such of the candidates or their authorized representatives as may desire to be present, open and empty the ballot boxes and

examine the ballot papers therein, rejecting any which are invalid, count the number of votes recorded for each candidate on the valid ballot papers, and communicate the number of the votes so recorded to the Chief Election Commissioner.

18.

(1) The Chief Election Commissioner shall determine the result of the election in the following manner, namely:__

(a) the number of votes cast in the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) in favour of each candidate shall be counted;

(b) the number of votes cast in a Provincial Assembly in favour of each candidate shall be multiplied by the total number of seats in the Provincial Assembly for the time being having the smallest number of seats and divided by the total number of seats in the Provincial Assembly in which the votes have been cast; and

(c) the number of votes calculated in the manner referred to in clause (b) shall be added to the number of votes counted under clause (a). Explanation.__ In this paragraph, “total number of seats” includes seats reserved for non- Muslims and women.

(2) A fraction shall be rounded off to the nearest whole.

19. The candidate who has obtained the largest number of votes compiled in the manner specified in paragraph 18 shall be declared by the Chief Election Commissioner to be elected.

20. Where at any poll any two or more candidates obtain an equal number of votes, the selection of the candidate to be elected shall be by drawing of lots.

21. When, after any poll, the counting of the votes has been completed, and the result of the voting determined, the Chief Election Commissioner shall forthwith announce the result to those present, and shall report the result to the Federal Government, who shall forthwith cause the result to be declared by a public notification.

22. The 1[Election Commission of Pakistan] may, by public notification, with the approval of the President, make rules for carrying out the purposes of this Schedule.]

1Subs. by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012) s.10.

THIRD SCHEDULE

Oaths of Office PRESIDENT [Article 42]

(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) I,____________________________________________, do solemnly swear that I am a Muslim and believe in the Unity and Oneness of Almighty Allah, the Books of Allah, the Holy Quran being the last of them, the Prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the last of the Prophets and that there can be no Prophet after him, the Day of Judgement, and all the requirements and teachings of the Holy Quran and Sunnah:

That I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan: That, as President of Pakistan, I will discharge my duties, and perform my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the law, and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperity of Pakistan:

That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan: That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official decisions:

That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan: That, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people, according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will:

And that I will not directly or indirectly communicate or reveal to any person any matter which shall be brought under my consideration or shall become known to me as President of Pakistan, except as may be required for the due discharge of my duties as President. 1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]

1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

PRIME MINISTER [Article 91 1[(5)]] (In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) I, ____________________________________, do solemnly swear that I am a Muslim and believe in the Unity and Oneness of Almighty Allah, the Books of Allah, the Holy Quran being the last of them, the Prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the last of the Prophets and that there can be no Prophet after him, the Day of Judgement, and all the requirements and teachings of the Holy Quran and Sunnah. That I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan: That, as Prime Minister of Pakistan, I will discharge my duties, and perform my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the law, and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperity of Pakistan :

And that I will not directly or indirectly communicate or reveal to any person any matter which shall be brought under my consideration or shall become known to me as Prime Minister, except as may be required for the due discharge of my duties as Prime Minister. 2[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]

1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 100.

2Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

FEDERAL MINISTER OR MINISTER OF STATE [Article 92 (2)] (In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) I, _____________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:

That, as Federal Minister (or Minister of State); I will discharge my duties, and perform my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the law, and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperity of Pakistan : That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan: That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official decisions:

And that I will not directly or indirectly communicate or reveal to any person any matter which shall be brought under my consideration or shall become known to me as Federal Minister (or Minister of State), except as may be required for the due discharge of my duties as Federal Minister (or Minister of State), or as may be specially permitted by the Prime Minister. 1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]

___________

1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

SPEAKER OF NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OR CHAIRMAN OF SENATE [Articles 53(2) and 61] (In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) I, __________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:

That, as Speaker of the National Assembly (or Chairman of the Senate) and whenever I am called upon to act as President of Pakistan, I will discharge my duties, and perform my functions honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully, in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the law and as Speaker of the National Assembly in accordance with the rules of the Assembly (or as Chairman of the Senate in accordance with the rules of the Senate), and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperity of Pakistan : That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan: That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official decisions:

That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan: And that, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people, according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will. 1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]

_________

1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

DEPUTY SPEAKER OF NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OR DEPUTY CHAIRMAN [Articles 53 (2) and 61] (In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) I, ______________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:

That, whenever I am called upon to act as Speaker of the National Assembly (or Chairman of the Senate), I will discharge my duties, and perform my functions honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully, in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the law and the rules of the Assembly (or Senate), and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperity of Pakistan:

__________

1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

MEMBER OF NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OR MEMBER OF SENATE [Article 65] (In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) I, ____________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:

That, as a member of the National Assembly (or Senate), I will perform my functions honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully, in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and the law, and the rules of the Assembly (or Senate), and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperity of Pakistan: That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan: And that I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. 1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]

________

1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

GOVERNOR OF PROVINCE [Article 102] (In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) I, ____________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:

That, as the Governor of the Province of I will discharge my duties, and perform my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the law, and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperity of Pakistan:

And that I will not directly or indirectly communicate or reveal to any person any matter which shall be brought under my consideration or shall become known to me as Governor of the Province of ……………except as may be required for the due discharge of my duties as Governor.

1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]

_________

1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

CHIEF MINISTER OR PROVINCIAL MINISTER [Articles 1[130 (5)] and 132 (2)] (In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) I, _______________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:

That, as a Chief Minister (or Minister) of the Government of the Province of I will discharge my duties and perform my functions honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the law, and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity well-being and prosperity of Pakistan : That I will strive to preserve the Islamic ideology which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan: That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official decisions :

That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan : That, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people, according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will :

And that I will not directly or indirectly communicate or reveal to any person any matter which shall be brought under my consideration or shall become known to me as Chief Minister (or Minister) except as may be required for the due discharge of my duties as Chief Minister (or Minister or as may be specially permitted by the Chief Minister). 2[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]

__________

1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 100.

2Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

SPEAKER OF A PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLY [Articles 53(2) and 127] (In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) I, __________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:

That, as Speaker of the Provincial Assembly of the Province of……………………………………, 1[and whenever I am called upon to act as Governor, I will discharge] my duties, and perform my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the law and the rules of the Assembly, and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperity of Pakistan:

That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan: And that, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people, according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will. 2[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]

_________

1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 100.

2Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

DEPUTY SPEAKER OF A PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLY [Articles 53 (2) and 127] (In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) I, __________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:

That, whenever I am called upon to act as Speaker of the Provincial Assembly of the Province of……………………….…, I will discharge my duties, and perform my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the law and the rules of the Assembly, and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperity of Pakistan:

_______

1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

MEMBER OF A PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLY [Articles 65 and 127] (In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.)

I, __________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:

That, as a member of the Provincial Assembly of………………………………….., I will perform my functions honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the law and the rules of the Assembly, and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperity of Pakistan: That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan: And that I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. 1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]

_________

1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

AUDITOR-GENERAL OF PAKISTAN [Article 168 (2)] (In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) I, ___________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:

That, as Auditor-General of Pakistan, I will discharge my duties and perform my functions honestly, faithfully in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the law and to the best of my knowledge, ability and judgement, without fear or favour, affection or ill- will, and that I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official decisions. 1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]

__________

1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

1[CHIEF JUSTICE OF THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTIONAL COURT OF PAKISTAN OR CHIEF JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT OF PAKISTAN OR OF A HIGH COURT OR JUDGE OF THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTIONAL COURT OR OF THE SUPREME COURT OR OF A HIGH

COURT. [Articles 175D, 178 and 194]] (In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) I, ___________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:

That, as 1[Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court of Pakistan (or a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court of Pakistan) or Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Pakistan (or a Judge of the Supreme Court of Pakistan) or Chief Justice (or a Judge) of the High Court for the Province or Islamabad Capital Territory or Provinces of……………………………..] I will discharge my duties, and perform my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability and faithfully in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the law: That I will abide by the code of conduct issued by the Supreme Judicial Council: That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official decisions:

That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan: And that, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people, according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will. 2[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]

___________

1Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 54.

2Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

1[CHIEF JUSTICE OR JUDGE OF THE FEDERAL SHARIAT COURT “[Article 203C (7)] (In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.)

I, __________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan:

That, as Chief Justice of the Federal Shariat Court (or a Judge of the Federal Shariat Court), I will discharge my duties, and perform my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability, and faithfully, in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the law: That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official decisions:

That I will abide by the code of conduct issued by the Supreme Judicial Council: That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan: And that, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people, according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will. May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]

_________

1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 100.

CHIEF ELECTION COMMISSIONER 1[OR A MEMBER OF THE ELECTION COMMISSION OF PAKISTAN] [Article 214] (In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) I, ________________________, do solemnly swear that as Chief Election Commissioner 1[or, as the case may be, member of the Election Commission of Pakistan] I will discharge my duties, and perform my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the law, and without fear or favour, affection or ill-will, and that I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official decisions. 2[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]

_________

1Added & inserted by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012), s.11.

2Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES [Article 244] (In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) I, ____________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan and uphold the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan which embodies the will of the people, that I will not engage myself in any political activities whatsoever and that I will honestly and faithfully serve Pakistan in the Pakistan Army (or Navy or Air Force) as required by and under the law. 1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).]

__________

1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

FOURTH SCHEDULE

[Article 70 (4)] LEGISLATIVE LISTS FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE LIST

PART I

1. The defence of the Federation or any part thereof in peace or war; the military, naval and air forces of the Federation and any other armed forces raised or maintained by the Federation ; any armed forces which are not forces of the Federation but are attached to or operating with any of the Armed Forces of the Federation including civil armed forces; Federal Intelligence Bureau; preventive detention for reasons of State connected with defence, external affairs, or the security of Pakistan or any part thereof ; persons subjected to such detention; industries declared by Federal law to be necessary for the purpose of defence or for the prosecution of war.

2. Military, naval and air force works; local self-government in cantonment areas, 1[local taxes, fees, cess, charges, tolls in such areas,] the constitution and powers within such areas of cantonment authorities, the regulation of house accommodation in such areas, and the delimitation of such areas.

3. External affairs; the implementing of treaties and agreements, including educational and cultural pacts and agreements, with other countries; extradition, including the surrender of criminals and accused persons to Governments outside Pakistan.

4. Nationality, citizenship and naturalisation.

5. Migration from or into, or settlement in, a Province or the Federal Capital.

6. Admission into, and emigration and expulsion from, Pakistan, including in relation thereto the regulation of the movements in Pakistan of persons not domiciled in Pakistan; pilgrimages to places beyond Pakistan.

7. Posts and telegraphs, including telephones, wireless, broadcasting and other like forms of communications; Post Office Saving Bank.

8. Currency, coinage and legal tender.

9. Foreign exchange; cheques, bills of exchange, promissory notes and other like instruments.

10. Public debt of the Federation, including the borrowing of money on the security of the Federal Consolidated Fund ; foreign loans and foreign aid.

11. Federal Public Services and Federal Public Service Commission.

12. Federal pensions, that is to say, pensions payable by the Federation or out of the Federal Consolidated Fund.

13. Federal Ombudsman.

14. Administrative Courts and Tribunals for Federal subjects.

1Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 27.

15. Libraries, museums, and similar institutions controlled or financed by the Federation.

16. Federal agencies and institutes for the following purposes, that is to say, for research, for professional or technical training, or for the promotion of special studies.

17. Education as respects Pakistani students in foreign countries and foreign students in Pakistan.

18. Nuclear energy, including__

(a) mineral resources necessary for the generation of nuclear energy;

(b) the production of nuclear fuels and the generation and use of nuclear energy; and

19. Port quarantine, seamen’s and marine hospitals and hospitals connected with port quarantine.

20. Maritime shipping and navigation, including shipping and navigation on tidal waters; Admiralty jurisdiction.

[1] Paragraph 21. Safeguard against taxation for purposes of any particular religion

* * * * * * *]

22. Aircraft and air navigation; the provision of aerodromes; regulation and organisation of air traffic and of aerodromes.

23. Lighthouses, including lightships, beacons and other provisions for the safety of shipping and aircraft.

24. Carriage of passengers and goods by sea or by air.

25. Copyright, inventions, designs, trade-marks and merchandise marks.

26. Opium so far as regards sale for export.

27. Import and export across customs frontiers as defined by the Federal Government, inter- provincial trade and commerce, trade and commerce with foreign countries; standard of quality of goods to be exported out of Pakistan.

28. State Bank of Pakistan; banking, that is to say, the conduct of banking business by corporations other than corporations owned or controlled by a Province and carrying on business only within that Province.

29. The law of insurance, except as respects insurance undertaken by a Province, and the regulation of the conduct of insurance business, except as respects business undertaken by a Province; Government insurance, except so far as undertaken by a Province by virtue of any matter within the legislative competence of the Provincial Assembly.

1Subs., added and omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 101.

30. Stock exchanges and futures markets with objects and business not confined to one Province.

31. Corporations, that is to say, the incorporation, regulation and winding-up of trading corporations, including banking, insurance and financial corporations, but not including corporations owned or controlled by a Province and carrying on business only within that Province, or cooperative societies, and of corporations, whether trading or not, with objects not confined to a Province, but not including universities. 1[32. International treaties, conventions and agreements and International arbitration.]

[1] Paragraph 33. Parochial and other similar prejudices to be discouraged

* * * * * * *]

34. National highways and strategic roads.

35. Federal surveys including geological surveys and Federal meteorological organisations.

36. Fishing and fisheries beyond territorial waters.

37. Works, lands and buildings vested in, or in the possession of Government for the purposes of the Federation (not being military, naval or air force works), but, as regards property situate in a Province, subject always to Provincial legislation, save in so far as Federal law otherwise provides.

[1] Paragraph 38. Promotion of social and economic well-being of the people

* * * * * * *]

39. Establishment of standards of weights and measures.

[1] Paragraph 40. Strengthening bonds with Muslim world and promoting international peace

* * * * * * *]

41. Elections to the office of President, to the National Assembly, the Senate and the Provincial Assemblies; Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissions.

42. The salaries, allowances and privileges of the President, Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Chairman and Deputy Chairman of the Senate, Prime Minister, Federal Ministers, Ministers of State, the salaries, allowances and privileges of the members of the Senate and the National Assembly; and the punishment of persons who refuse to give evidence or produce documents before committees thereof.

43. Duties of customs, including export duties.

44. Duties of excise, including duties on salt, but not including duties on alcoholic liquors, opium and other narcotics.

[1] Paragraph 45. President’s power to grant pardon, etc

* * * * * * *]

[1] Paragraph 46. President to be kept informed

* * * * * * *]

47. Taxes on income other than agricultural income.

48. Taxes on corporations.

1Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 101.

1[49. Taxes on the sales and purchases of goods imported, exported, produced, manufactured or consumed 2[, except sales tax on services.]]

50. Taxes on the capital value of the assets, not including taxes 2[* * *] on immovable property.

51. Taxes on mineral oil, natural gas and minerals for use in generation of nuclear energy.

52. Taxes and duties on the production capacity of any plant, machinery, undertaking, establishment or installation in lieu of the taxes and duties specified in entries 44, 47, 48 and 49 or in lieu of any one or more of them.

53. Terminal taxes on goods or passengers carried by railway, sea or air; taxes on their fares and freights.

54. Fees in respect of any of the matters in this Part, but not including fees taken in any court.

55. Jurisdiction and powers of all courts, except the 3[Federal Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court], with respect to any of the matters in this List and, to such extent as is expressly authorised by or under the Constitution, the enlargement of the jurisdiction of the 3[Federal Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court], and the conferring thereon of supplemental powers.

56. Offences against laws with respect to any of the matters in this Part.

57. Inquiries and statistics for the purposes of any of the matters in this Part.

58. Matters which under the Constitution are within the legislative competence of 4[Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament)] or relate to the Federation.

Paragraph 59. Matters incidental or ancillary to any matter enumerate in this Part

PART II

1. Railways.

2. Mineral oil and natural gas; liquids and substances declared by Federal law to be dangerously inflammable.

3. Development of industries, where development under Federal control is declared by Federal law to be expedient in the public interest; institutions, establishments, bodies and corporations administered or managed by the Federal Government immediately before the Commencing day, including the 1[Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority and the Pakistan Industrial Development Corporation]; all undertakings, projects and schemes of such institutions, establishments, bodies and corporations, industries, projects and undertakings owned wholly or partially by the Federation or by a corporation set up by the Federation.

1Subs. by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 19. (w. e. f. the 13th September,1976).

2Added and omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act. 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 101.

3Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 55.

4Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.

1[4. Electricity.

5. Major ports, that is to say, the declaration and delimitation of such ports, and the constitution and powers of port authorities therein.

6. All regulatory authorities established under a Federal law.

7. National planning and national economic coordination including planning and coordination of scientific and technological research.

8. Supervision and management of public debt.

9. Census.

10. Extension of the powers and jurisdiction of members of a police force belonging to any Province to any area in another Province, but not so as to enable the police of one Province to exercise powers and jurisdiction in another province without the consent of the Government of that Province; extension of the powers and jurisdiction of members of a police force belonging to any Province to railway areas outside that Province.

11. Legal, medical and other professions.

12. Standards in institutions for higher education and research, scientific and technical institutions.

13. Inter-provincial matters and co-ordination.] 1[14.] Council of Common Interests. 1[15.] Fees in respect of any of the matters in this Part but not including fees taken in any court. 1[16.] Offences against laws with respect to any of the matters in this Part. 1[17.] Inquiries and statistics for the purposes of any of the matters in this Part. 1[18.] Matters incidental or ancillary to any matter enumerated in this Part. 1-47. 2[* * * * * * *]

________

1Re-numebred and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 101.

2Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 101.

*FIFTH SCHEDULE [Article 205] REMUNERATION AND TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE OF JUDGES 1[THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTIONAL COURT AND THE SUPREME COURT]

1. There shall be paid to the Chief Justice of 1[the Federal Constitutional Court and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court] a salary of Rs. 2[9,900] per mensem, and to every other Judge of the Supreme Court a salary of Rs. 2[9,500] per mensem 2[, or such higher salary as the President may, from time to time, determine.]

2. Every Judge of the 1[Federal Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court] shall be entitled to such privileges and allowances, and to such rights in respect of leave of absence and pension, as may be determined by the President, and until so determined, to the privileges, allowances and rights to which, immediately before the commencing day, the Judges of the 1[Federal Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court] 1[**] were entitled. 2[3. The pension payable to a retired Judge of the 1[Federal Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court] per mensem shall not be less or more than the amount specified in the table below, depending on the length of his service as Judge in that Court or a High Court:

Provided that the President may, from time to time, raise the minimum or maximum amount of pension so specified: __

Judge Minimum Amount Maximum Amount Chief Justice

Rs. 7,000

Rs. 8,000 Other Judge

Rs. 6,250

Rs. 7,125.]

[3] Paragraph 4. The widow of a Judge of the 1[Federal Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court] shall be entitled to a pension at the following rates, namely

(a) if the Judge dies after retirement–50 per cent of the net pension payable to him; or

(b) if the Judge dies after having rendered not less than three years’ service as Judge and while still serving as such–50 per cent of the pension admissible to him at the minimum rate.

5. The pension shall be payable to the widow for life or, if she remarries, until her marriage.

*w. e. f. 1-12-2001, the salary of the Chief Justice of Pakistan and other Judges of the Supreme Court has been determined by the President to be Rs. 55,000 and Rs. 52,000 respectively vide P.O. No. 2 of 2002, paragraph 2 (1), which was previously amended by P.O. No. 9 of 1991, P.O. No. 3 of 1995 and P.O. No. 4 of 1995. (w. e. f. 27-7-1991, vide P. O. No. 2 of 1997) the Chief Justice and a Judge of the Supreme Court on his retirement or resignation shall be entitled to the minimum amount of pension equal to 70% to the Chief Justice of his salary or as the case may be, a Judge plus 5% of salary for each completed year of service either as the Chief Justice or as the Judge not exceeding the maximum amount of pension equal to 85% of the said salary.

1Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 56.

2Subs. and added by the Constitution (Twelfth Amendment) Act., 1991 (Act No. XIV of 1991), s. 3.

3Added by the Constitution (Amendment) Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 6 of 1985), Art.2, (w. e. f. the 1st July, 1981).

6. If the widow dies, the pension shall be payable__

(a) to the sons of the Judge who are less than twenty-one years of age, until they attain that age; and

(b) to the unmarried daughters of the Judge who are less than twenty-one years of age, until they attain that age or are married, whichever first occurs.] THE HIGH COURT

1. *There shall be paid to the Chief Justice of a High Court a salary of Rs. 1[9,400] per mensem, and to every other Judge of a High Court a salary of Rs. 1[8,400] per mensem 1[, or such higher salary as the President may, from time to time, determine.]

2. Every Judge of a High Court shall be entitled to such privileges and allowances, and to such rights in respect of leave of absence and pension, as may be determined by the President, and until so determined, to the privileges, allowances and rights to which, immediately before the commencing day, the Judges of the High Court were entitled.

[1] Paragraph 3. Elimination of exploitation

The pension payable per mensem to a Judge of a High Court who retires after having put in not less than five years service as such Judge shall not be less or more than the amount specified in the table below, depending on the length of his service as Judge and total service, if any, in the service of Pakistan:

Provided that the President may, from time to time, raise the minimum or maximum amount of pension so specified:__

Judge Minimum amount Maximum amount Chief Justice

Rs. 5,640

Rs. 7,050 Other Judge

Rs. 5,040

Rs. 6,300.] 2[4. The widow of a Judge of the High Court shall be entitled to a pension at the following rates, namely :__

(a) if the Judge dies after retirement__50 per cent of the net pension payable to him; or

(b) if the Judge dies after having rendered not less than five years’ service as Judge and while still serving as such–50 per cent of the pension admissible to him at the minimum rate.

5. The pension shall be payable to the widow for life or, if she remarries, until her marriage.

*w. e. f. 1-12-2001, the salary of the Chief Justice of High Court and other Judges of a High Court has been determined by the President to be Rs. 51,000 and Rs. 49.000 respectively vide P. O. No. 2 of 2002, paragraph 2 (2), which was previously amended by P.O. No. 9 of 1991, P. O. No. 3 of 1995 and P.

O. No. 4 of 1995.

w. e. f. 27-7-1991, vide P. O. No. 3 of 1997) the Chief Justice and a Judge of the High Court on his retirement or resignation or removal shall be entitled to the minimum pension equal to 70% of the salary on the completion of 5 years service for pension as Judge and an extra pension @ 2% of such salary for each subsequent completed year of service as Chief Justice or the Judge including his service if any the maximum pension not exceeding 80% of the salary.

1Subs. and added by the Constitution (Twelfth Amendment) Act, 1991 (Act No. XIV of 1991). s. 3.

2Added by the Constitution (Amendment) Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 6 of 1985), Art.2, (w. e. f. the 1st July, 1981).

6. If the widow dies, the pension shall be payable__

(a) to the sons of the Judge who are less than twenty-one years of age, until they attain that age; and

(b) to the unmarried daughters of the Judge who are less than twenty-one years of age, until they attain that age or are married, whichever first occurs.] Sixth Schedule 1[* * * * * * *]

Seventh Schedule 1[* * * * * * *]

_________

RGN Date: 14-11-2025

1Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 102.

Print contents from the source

CONTENTS
PART I
INTRODUCTORY
1. The Republic and its territories
2. Islam to be State religion
2A. The Objectives Resolution to form part of substantive provisions
3. Elimination of exploitation
4. Right of individuals to be dealt with in accordance with law, etc.
5. Loyalty to State and obedience to Constitution and law
6. High treason
PART II
FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS AND PRINCIPLES OF POLICY
7. Definition of the State
CHAPTER 1.– FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS
8. Laws inconsistent with or in derogation of Fundamental Rights to be void
9. Security of person
9A. Clean and healthy environment
10. Safeguards as to arrest and detention
10A. Right to fair trial
11. Slavery, forced labour, etc., prohibited

Page 2 of 176

12. Protection against retrospective punishment
13. Protection against double punishment and self-incrimination
14. Inviolability of dignity of man, etc.
15. Freedom of movement, etc.
16. Freedom of assembly
17. Freedom of association
18. Freedom of trade, business or profession
19. Freedom of speech, etc.
19A. Right to information
20. Freedom to profess religion and to manage religious institutions
21. Safeguard against taxation for purposes of any particular religion
22. Safeguards as to educational institutions in respect of religion, etc.
23. Provision as to property
24. Protection of property rights
25. Equality of citizens
25A. Right to education
26. Non-discrimination in respect of access to public places
27. Safeguard against discrimination in services
28. Preservation of language, script and culture
CHAPTER 2.– PRINCIPLES OF POLICY
29. Principles of Policy
30. Responsibility with respect to Principles of Policy
31. Islamic way of life
32. Promotion of local Government institutions
33. Parochial and other similar prejudices to be discouraged
34. Full participation of women in national life
35. Protection of family, etc.

Page 3 of 176

36. Protection of minorities
37. Promotion of social justice and eradication of social evils
38. Promotion of social and economic well-being of the people
39. Participation of people in Armed Forces
40. Strengthening bonds with Muslim world and promoting international peace
PART III
THE FEDERATION OF PAKISTAN
CHAPTER 1.__ THE PRESIDENT
41. The President
42. Oath of President
43. Conditions of President’s office
44. Term of office of President
45. President’s power to grant pardon, etc.
46. President to be kept informed
47. Removal or impeachment of President
48. President to act on advice, etc.
49. Chairman or Speaker to act as, or perform functions of, President
CHAPTER 2.– THE MAJLIS-E-SHOORA (PARLIAMENT)
COMPOSITION, DURATION AND MEETINGS OF MAJLIS-E-SHOORA (PARLIAMENT)
50. Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)
51. National Assembly
52. Duration of National Assembly
53. Speaker and Deputy Speaker of National Assembly
54. Summoning and prorogation of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)
55. Voting in Assembly and quorum
56. Address by President
57. Right to speak in Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)
58. Dissolution of the National Assembly

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59. The Senate
60. Chairman and Deputy Chairman
61. Other provisions relating to Senate
Provisions as to Members of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)
62. Qualifications for membership of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)
63. Disqualifications for membership of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)
63A. Disqualification on grounds of defection, etc.
64. Vacation of seats
65. Oath of members
66. Privileges of members, etc.
Procedure Generally
67. Rules of procedure, etc.
68. Restriction on discussion in Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)
69. Courts not to inquire into proceedings of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)
70. Introduction and passing of Bills
71. [Omitted]
72. Procedure at joint sittings
73. Procedure with respect to Money Bills
74. Federal Government’s consent required for financial measures
75. President’s assent to Bills
76. Bill not to lapse on prorogation, etc.
77. Tax to be levied by law only
Financial Procedure
78. Federal Consolidated Fund and Public Account
79. Custody, etc., of Federal Consolidated Fund and Public Account
80. Annual Budget Statement
81. Expenditure charged upon Federal Consolidated Fund

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82. Procedure relating to Annual Budget Statement
83. Authentication of schedule of authorised expenditure
84. Supplementary and excess grants
85. Votes on account
86. Power to authorize expenditure when Assembly stands dissolved
87. Secretariats of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)
88. Finance Committees
Ordinances
89. Power of President to promulgate Ordinances
CHAPTER 3.__ THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT
90. The Federal Government
91. The Cabinet
92. Federal Ministers and Ministers of State
93. Advisers
94. Prime Minister continuing in office
95. Vote of no-confidence against Prime Minister
96. [Omitted]
96A. [Omitted]
97. Extent of executive authority of Federation
98. Conferring of functions on subordinate authorities
99. Conduct of business of Federal Government
100. Attorney-General for Pakistan
PART IV
PROVINCES
CHAPTER 1.__ THE GOVERNORS
101. Appointment of Governor
102. Oath of Office
103. Conditions of Governor’s office

Page 6 of 176

104. Speaker Provincial Assembly to act as, or perform functions of Governor in his absence
105. Governor to act on advice, etc.
CHAPTER 2.__ PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLIES
106. Constitution of Provincial Assemblies
107. Duration of Provincial Assembly
108. Speaker and Deputy Speaker
109. Summoning and prorogation of Provincial Assembly
110. Right of Governor to address Provincial Assembly
111. Right to speak in Provincial Assembly
112. Dissolution of Provincial Assembly
113. Qualifications and disqualifications for membership of Provincial Assembly
114. Restriction on discussion in Provincial Assembly
115. Provincial Government’s consent required for financial measures
116. Governor’s assent to Bills
117. Bill not to lapse on prorogation, etc.
Financial Procedure
118. Provincial Consolidated Fund and Public Account
119. Custody, etc., of Provincial Consolidated Fund and Public Account
120. Annual Budget Statement
121. Expenditure charged upon Provincial Consolidated Fund
122. Procedure relating to Annual Budget Statement
123. Authentication of schedule of authorized expenditure
124. Supplementary and excess grant
125. Votes on account
126. Power to authorize expenditure when Assembly stands dissolved
127. Provisions relating to National Assembly, etc., to apply to Provincial Assembly, etc.

Page 7 of 176

Ordinances
128. Power of Governor to promulgate Ordinances
CHAPTER 3.__ THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENTS
129. The Provincial Government
130. The Cabinet
131. Governor to be kept informed
132. Provincial Ministers
133. Chief Minister continuing in office
134. [Omitted]
135. [Omitted]
136. Vote of no-confidence against Chief Minister
137. Extent of executive authority of Province
138. Conferring of functions on subordinate authorities
139. Conduct of business of Provincial Government
140. Advocate General for a Province
140A. Local Government
PART V
RELATIONS BETWEEN FEDERATION AND PROVINCES
CHAPTER 1.__ DISTRIBUTION OF LEGISLATIVE POWERS
141. Extent of Federal and Provincial laws
142. Subject-matter of Federal and Provincial laws
143. Inconsistency between Federal and Provincial law
144. Power of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) to legislate for one or more Provinces by consent
CHAPTER 2.__ ADMINISTRATIVE RELATIONS BETWEEN FEDERATION AND
PROVINCES
145. Power of President to direct Governor to discharge certain functions as his Agent
146. Power of Federation to confer powers, etc., on Provinces, in certain cases
147. Power of the Provinces to entrust functions to the Federation

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148. Obligation of Provinces and Federation
149. Directions to Provinces in certain cases
150. Full faith and credit for public acts, etc.
151. Inter-Provincial trade
152. Acquisition of land for Federal purposes
CHAPTER 3.__ SPECIAL PROVISIONS
152A. [Omitted]
153. Council of Common Interests
154. Functions and rules of procedure
155. Complaints as to interference with water supplies
156. National Economic Council
157. Electricity
158. Priority of requirements of natural gas
159. Broadcasting and telecasting
PART VI
FINANCE, PROPERTY, CONTRACTS AND SUITS
CHAPTER 1. – FINANCE DISTRIBUTION OF REVENUES BETWEEN THE FEDERATION
AND THE PROVINCES
160. National Finance Commission
161. Natural gas and hydro-electric power
162. Prior sanction of President required to Bills affecting taxation in which Provinces are interested
163. Provincial taxes in respect of professions, etc.
Miscellaneous Financial Provisions
164. Grants out of Consolidated Fund
165. Exemption of certain public property from taxation
165A. Power of Majlis -e-Shoora (Parliament) to impose tax on the income of certain corporations,
etc.

Page 9 of 176

CHAPTER 2.__ BORROWING AND AUDIT
166. Borrowing by Federal Government
167. Borrowing by Provincial Government
Audit and Accounts
168. Auditor-General of Pakistan
169. Functions and powers of Auditor-General
170. Power of Auditor-General to give directions as to accounts
171. Reports of Auditor-General
CHAPTER 3.__ PROPERTY, CONTRACTS, LIABILITIES AND SUITS
172. Ownerless property
173. Power to acquire property and to make contracts, etc
174. Suits and proceedings
PART VII
THE JUDICATURE
CHAPTER 1.__ THE COURTS
175. Establishment and jurisdiction of courts
175A. Appointment of Judges to the Federal Constitutional Court, the Supreme Court, High Courts
and the Federal Shariat Court
CHAPTER 1A.__ THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTIONAL COURT
175B. Constitution of Federal Constitutional Court
175C. Appointment of Federal Constitutional Court Judges
175D. Oath of Office of the Chief Justice and other Judges of the Federal Constitutional Court
175E. Original jurisdiction of Federal Constitutional Court
175F. Appellate jurisdiction of the Federal Constitutional Court
175G. Review of judgements or orders by the Federal Constitutional Court
175H. Advisory jurisdiction
175I. Retiring age of the Chief Justice and other Judges of the Federal Constitutional Court
175J. Acting Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court

Page 10 of 176

175K. Acting Judges of the Federal Constitutional Court
175L. Seat of the Federal Constitutional Court
CHAPTER 2.__ THE SUPREME COURT OF PAKISTAN
176. Constitution of Supreme Court
177. Appointment of Supreme Court Judges
178. Oath of Office
179. Retiring age
180. Acting Chief Justice
181. Acting Judges
182. Appointment of ad-hoc Judges
183. Seat of the Supreme Court
184. [Omitted]
185. Appellate jurisdiction of the Supreme Court
186. [Omitted]
186A. [Omitted]
187. Issue and execution of processes of Federal Constitutional Court and Supreme Court
188. Review of judgments or orders by the Supreme Court
189. Decisions of Federal Constitutional Court and Supreme Court binding on other courts
190. Action in aid of Federal Constitutional Court and Supreme Court
191. Rules of procedure
191A. [Omitted]
CHAPTER 3.__ THE HIGH COURTS
192. Constitution of High Court
193. Appointment of High Court Judges
194. Oath of Office
195. Retiring age
196. Acting Chief Justice

Page 11 of 176

197. Additional Judges
198. Seat of the High Court
199. Jurisdiction of High Court
200. Transfer of High Court Judges
201. Decision of High Court binding on subordinate Courts
202. Rules of procedure
202A. Constitutional Benches of High Courts
203. High Court to superintend subordinate Courts
CHAPTER 3A.– FEDERAL SHARIAT COURT
203A. Provisions of Chapter to override other provisions of Constitution
203B. Definitions
203C. The Federal Shariat Court
203CC.[Omitted]
203D. Powers, jurisdiction and functions of the Court
203DD . Revisional and other jurisdiction of the Court
203E. Powers and procedure of the Court
203F. Appeal to Supreme Court
203G. Bar of jurisdiction
203GG. Decision of Court binding on High Court and courts subordinate to it
203H. Pending proceedings to continue, etc.
203I. [Omitted]
203J. Power to make rules
CHAPTER 4.__ GENERAL PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE JUDICATURE
204. Contempt of Court
205. Remuneration etc., of Judges
206. Resignation
207. Judge not to hold office of profit, etc.

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208. Officers and servants of Courts
209. Supreme Judicial Council
210. Power of Council to enforce attendance of persons, etc.
211. Bar of jurisdiction
212. Administrative Courts and Tribunals
212A. [Omitted]
212B. [Repealed]
PART VIII
ELECTIONS
CHAPTER 1.__ CHIEF ELECTION COMMISSIONER AND ELECTION COMMISSION
213. Chief Election Commissioner
214. Oath of Office
215. Term of office of Commissioner [and members]
216. Commissioner and members not to hold office of profit
217. Acting Commissioner
218. Election Commission
219. Duties of Commission
220. Executive authorities to assist Commission, etc.
221. Officers and staff
CHAPTER 2.__ ELECTORAL LAWS AND CONDUCT OF ELECTIONS
222. Electoral laws
223. Bar against double membership
224. Time of Election and bye-election
224A. Resolution by Committee or Election Commission
225. Election dispute
226. Election by secret ballot

Page 13 of 176

PART IX
ISLAMIC PROVISIONS
227. Provisions relating to the Holy Quran and Sunnah
228. Composition, etc., of Islamic Council
229. Reference by Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), etc., to Islamic Council
230. Functions of the Islamic Council
231. Rules of procedure
PART X
EMERGENCY PROVISIONS
232. Proclamation of emergency on account of war, internal disturbance, etc.
233. Power to suspend Fundamental Rights, etc., during emergency period
234. Power to issue Proclamation in case of failure of Constitutional machinery in a Province
235. Proclamation in case of financial emergency
236. Revocation of Proclamation, etc.
237. Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) may make laws of indemnity, etc.
PART XI
AMENDMENT OF CONSTITUTION
238. Amendment of Constitution
239. Constitution, amendment Bill
PART XII
MISCELLANEOUS
CHAPTER 1.__ SERVICES
240. Appointments to service of Pakistan and conditions of service
241. Existing rules, etc., to continue
242. Public Service Commission
CHAPTER 2.__ ARMED FORCES
243. Command of Armed Forces
244. Oath of Armed Forces
245. Functions of Armed Forces

Page 14 of 176

CHAPTER 3.__ TRIBAL AREAS
246. Tribal Areas
247. [Omitted]
CHAPTER 4.__ GENERAL
248. Protection to President, Governor, Minister, etc.
249. Legal proceedings
250. Salaries, allowances, etc., of the President, etc.
251. National language
252. Special provisions in relation to major ports and aerodromes
253. Maximum limits as to property, etc.
254. Failure to comply with requirement as to time does not render an act invalid
255. Oath of office
256. Private armies forbidden
257. Provision relating to the State of Jammu and Kashmir
258. Government of territories outside Provinces
259. Awards

CHAPTER 5.__ INTERPRETATION
260. Definitions
261. Person acting in office not to be regarded as successor to previous occupant of office, etc.
262. Gregorian calendar to be used
263. Gender and number
264. Effect of repeal of laws
CHAPTER 6.__ TITLE, COMMENCEMENT AND REPEAL
265. Title of Constitution and commencement
266. Repeal
CHAPTER 7.__ TRANSITIONAL
267. Power of President to remove difficulties

Page 15 of 176

267A. Power to remove difficulties
267B. Removal of doubt
268. Continuance in force, and adaptation of certain laws
269. Validation of law, acts, etc.
270. Temporary validation of certain laws, etc.
270A. Affirmation of President’s Orders, etc.
270AA. Declaration and continuance of laws etc.
270AAA. [Declared Void ab initio]
270B. Elections to be deemed to be held under Constitution
270BB. General Elections 2008
270C. [Omitted]
271. First National Assembly
272. First constitution of Senate
273. First Provincial Assembly
274. Vesting of property, assets, rights, liabilities and obligations
275. Continuance in office of persons in service of Pakistan, etc.
276. Oath of first President
277. Transitional financial provisions
278. Accounts not audited before commencing day
279. Continuance of taxes
280. Continuance of Proclamation of Emergency

Compare the original stored transcription

Exact source transcription retained, including print layout and extraction artifacts. Text SHA-256: b4c3398abc155e5d543d326f4cd2167a25f194de0e6b274f64aa5058006f705a.

Page 1 of 176   
 
 
 
 
 
 THE CONSTITUTION OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF 
PAKISTAN 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CONTENTS 
PART I 
INTRODUCTORY 
1. The Republic and its territories 
2. Islam to be State religion 
2A. The Objectives Resolution to form part of substantive provisions 
3. Elimination of exploitation 
4. Right of individuals to be dealt with in accordance with law, etc. 
5. Loyalty to State and obedience to Constitution and law 
6. High treason 
PART II 
FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS AND PRINCIPLES OF POLICY 
7. Definition of the State 
CHAPTER 1.– FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS 
8. Laws inconsistent with or in derogation of Fundamental Rights to be void 
9. Security of person 
9A. Clean and healthy environment 
10. Safeguards as to arrest and detention 
10A. Right to fair trial 
11. Slavery, forced labour, etc., prohibited 
 

 
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12. Protection against retrospective punishment 
13. Protection against double punishment and self-incrimination 
14. Inviolability of dignity of man, etc. 
15. Freedom of movement, etc. 
16. Freedom of assembly 
17. Freedom of association 
18. Freedom of trade, business or profession 
19. Freedom of speech, etc. 
19A. Right to information 
20. Freedom to profess religion and to manage religious institutions 
21. Safeguard against taxation for purposes of any particular religion 
22. Safeguards as to educational institutions in respect of religion, etc. 
23. Provision as to property 
24. Protection of property rights 
25. Equality of citizens 
25A. Right to education 
26. Non-discrimination in respect of access to public places 
27. Safeguard against discrimination in services 
28. Preservation of language, script and culture 
CHAPTER 2.– PRINCIPLES OF POLICY 
29. Principles of Policy 
30. Responsibility with respect to Principles of Policy 
31. Islamic way of life 
32. Promotion of local Government institutions 
33. Parochial and other similar prejudices to be discouraged 
34. Full participation of women in national life 
35. Protection of family, etc. 
 
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36. Protection of minorities 
37. Promotion of social justice and eradication of social evils 
38. Promotion of social and economic well-being of the people 
39. Participation of people in Armed Forces 
40. Strengthening bonds with Muslim world and promoting international peace 
PART III 
THE FEDERATION OF PAKISTAN 
CHAPTER 1.__ THE PRESIDENT 
41. The President 
42. Oath of President 
43. Conditions of President’s office 
44. Term of office of President 
45. President’s power to grant pardon, etc. 
46. President to be kept informed 
47. Removal or impeachment of President 
48. President to act on advice, etc. 
49. Chairman or Speaker to act as, or perform functions of, President 
CHAPTER 2.– THE MAJLIS-E-SHOORA (PARLIAMENT) 
COMPOSITION, DURATION AND MEETINGS OF MAJLIS-E-SHOORA (PARLIAMENT) 
50. Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) 
51. National Assembly 
52. Duration of National Assembly 
53. Speaker and Deputy Speaker of National Assembly 
54. Summoning and prorogation of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) 
55. Voting in Assembly and quorum 
56. Address by President 
57. Right to speak in Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) 
58. Dissolution of the National Assembly 
 
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59. The Senate 
60. Chairman and Deputy Chairman 
61. Other provisions relating to Senate 
Provisions as to Members of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) 
62. Qualifications for membership of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) 
63. Disqualifications for membership of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) 
63A. Disqualification on grounds of defection, etc. 
64. Vacation of seats 
65. Oath of members 
66. Privileges of members, etc. 
Procedure Generally 
67. Rules of procedure, etc. 
68. Restriction on discussion in Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) 
69. Courts not to inquire into proceedings of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) 
70. Introduction and passing of Bills 
71. [Omitted] 
72. Procedure at joint sittings 
73. Procedure with respect to Money Bills 
74. Federal Government’s consent required for financial measures 
75. President’s assent to Bills 
76. Bill not to lapse on prorogation, etc. 
77. Tax to be levied by law only 
Financial Procedure 
78. Federal Consolidated Fund and Public Account 
79. Custody, etc., of Federal Consolidated Fund and Public Account 
80. Annual Budget Statement 
81. Expenditure charged upon Federal Consolidated Fund 
 
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82. Procedure relating to Annual Budget Statement 
83. Authentication of schedule of authorised expenditure 
84. Supplementary and excess grants 
85. Votes on account 
86. Power to authorize expenditure when Assembly stands dissolved 
87. Secretariats of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) 
88. Finance Committees 
Ordinances 
89. Power of President to promulgate Ordinances 
CHAPTER 3.__ THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 
90. The Federal Government 
91. The Cabinet 
92. Federal Ministers and Ministers of State 
93. Advisers 
94. Prime Minister continuing in office 
95. Vote of no-confidence against Prime Minister 
96. [Omitted] 
96A. [Omitted] 
97. Extent of executive authority of Federation 
98. Conferring of functions on subordinate authorities 
99. Conduct of business of Federal Government 
100. Attorney-General for Pakistan 
PART IV 
PROVINCES 
CHAPTER 1.__ THE GOVERNORS 
101. Appointment of Governor 
102. Oath of Office 
103. Conditions of Governor’s office 
 
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104. Speaker Provincial Assembly to act as, or perform functions of Governor in his absence 
105. Governor to act on advice, etc. 
CHAPTER 2.__ PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLIES 
106. Constitution of Provincial Assemblies 
107. Duration of Provincial Assembly 
108. Speaker and Deputy Speaker 
109. Summoning and prorogation of Provincial Assembly 
110. Right of Governor to address Provincial Assembly 
111. Right to speak in Provincial Assembly 
112. Dissolution of Provincial Assembly 
113. Qualifications and disqualifications for membership of Provincial Assembly 
114. Restriction on discussion in Provincial Assembly 
115. Provincial Government’s consent required for financial measures 
116. Governor’s assent to Bills 
117. Bill not to lapse on prorogation, etc. 
Financial Procedure 
118. Provincial Consolidated Fund and Public Account 
119. Custody, etc., of Provincial Consolidated Fund and Public Account 
120. Annual Budget Statement 
121. Expenditure charged upon Provincial Consolidated Fund 
122. Procedure relating to Annual Budget Statement 
123. Authentication of schedule of authorized expenditure 
124. Supplementary and excess grant 
125. Votes on account 
126. Power to authorize expenditure when Assembly stands dissolved 
127. Provisions relating to National Assembly, etc., to apply to Provincial Assembly, etc. 
  
 
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Ordinances 
128. Power of Governor to promulgate Ordinances 
CHAPTER 3.__ THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENTS 
129. The Provincial Government 
130. The Cabinet 
131. Governor to be kept informed 
132. Provincial Ministers 
133. Chief Minister continuing in office 
134. [Omitted] 
135. [Omitted] 
136. Vote of no-confidence against Chief Minister 
137. Extent of executive authority of Province 
138. Conferring of functions on subordinate authorities 
139. Conduct of business of Provincial Government 
140. Advocate General for a Province 
140A. Local Government 
PART V 
RELATIONS BETWEEN FEDERATION AND PROVINCES 
CHAPTER 1.__ DISTRIBUTION OF LEGISLATIVE POWERS 
141. Extent of Federal and Provincial laws 
142. Subject-matter of Federal and Provincial laws 
143. Inconsistency between Federal and Provincial law 
144. Power of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) to legislate for one or more Provinces by consent 
CHAPTER 2.__ ADMINISTRATIVE RELATIONS BETWEEN FEDERATION AND 
PROVINCES 
145. Power of President to direct Governor to discharge certain functions as his Agent 
146. Power of Federation to confer powers, etc., on Provinces, in certain cases 
147. Power of the Provinces to entrust functions to the Federation 
 
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148. Obligation of Provinces and Federation 
149. Directions to Provinces in certain cases 
150. Full faith and credit for public acts, etc. 
151. Inter-Provincial trade 
152. Acquisition of land for Federal purposes 
CHAPTER 3.__ SPECIAL PROVISIONS 
152A. [Omitted] 
153. Council of Common Interests 
154. Functions and rules of procedure 
155. Complaints as to interference with water supplies 
156. National Economic Council 
157. Electricity 
158. Priority of requirements of natural gas 
159. Broadcasting and telecasting 
PART VI 
FINANCE, PROPERTY, CONTRACTS AND SUITS 
CHAPTER 1. – FINANCE DISTRIBUTION OF REVENUES BETWEEN THE FEDERATION 
AND THE PROVINCES 
160. National Finance Commission 
161. Natural gas and hydro-electric power 
162. Prior sanction of President required to Bills affecting taxation in which Provinces are interested 
163. Provincial taxes in respect of professions, etc. 
Miscellaneous Financial Provisions 
164. Grants out of Consolidated Fund 
165. Exemption of certain public property from taxation 
165A. Power of Majlis -e-Shoora (Parliament) to impose tax on the income of certain corporations, 
etc. 
  
 
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CHAPTER 2.__ BORROWING AND AUDIT 
166. Borrowing by Federal Government 
167. Borrowing by Provincial Government 
Audit and Accounts 
168. Auditor-General of Pakistan 
169. Functions and powers of Auditor-General 
170. Power of Auditor-General to give directions as to accounts 
171. Reports of Auditor-General 
CHAPTER 3.__ PROPERTY, CONTRACTS, LIABILITIES AND SUITS 
172. Ownerless property 
173. Power to acquire property and to make contracts, etc 
174. Suits and proceedings 
PART VII 
THE JUDICATURE 
CHAPTER 1.__ THE COURTS 
175. Establishment and jurisdiction of courts 
175A. Appointment of Judges to the Federal Constitutional Court, the Supreme Court, High Courts 
and the Federal Shariat Court 
CHAPTER 1A.__ THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTIONAL COURT 
175B. Constitution of Federal Constitutional Court 
175C. Appointment of Federal Constitutional Court Judges 
175D. Oath of Office of the Chief Justice and other Judges of the Federal Constitutional Court 
175E. Original jurisdiction of Federal Constitutional Court 
175F. Appellate jurisdiction of the Federal Constitutional Court 
175G. Review of judgements or orders by the Federal Constitutional Court 
175H. Advisory jurisdiction 
175I. Retiring age of the Chief Justice and other Judges of the Federal Constitutional Court 
175J. Acting Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court 
 
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175K. Acting Judges of the Federal Constitutional Court 
175L. Seat of the Federal Constitutional Court 
CHAPTER 2.__ THE SUPREME COURT OF PAKISTAN 
176. Constitution of Supreme Court 
177. Appointment of Supreme Court Judges 
178. Oath of Office 
179. Retiring age 
180. Acting Chief Justice 
181. Acting Judges 
182. Appointment of ad-hoc Judges 
183. Seat of the Supreme Court 
184. [Omitted] 
185. Appellate jurisdiction of the Supreme Court 
186. [Omitted] 
186A. [Omitted] 
187. Issue and execution of processes of Federal Constitutional Court and Supreme Court 
188. Review of judgments or orders by the Supreme Court 
189. Decisions of Federal Constitutional Court and Supreme Court binding on other courts 
190. Action in aid of Federal Constitutional Court and Supreme Court 
191. Rules of procedure 
191A. [Omitted] 
CHAPTER 3.__ THE HIGH COURTS 
192. Constitution of High Court 
193. Appointment of High Court Judges 
194. Oath of Office 
195. Retiring age 
196. Acting Chief Justice 
 
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197. Additional Judges 
198. Seat of the High Court 
199. Jurisdiction of High Court 
200. Transfer of High Court Judges 
201. Decision of High Court binding on subordinate Courts 
202. Rules of procedure 
202A. Constitutional Benches of High Courts  
203. High Court to superintend subordinate Courts 
CHAPTER 3A.– FEDERAL SHARIAT COURT 
203A. Provisions of Chapter to override other provisions of Constitution 
203B. Definitions 
203C. The Federal Shariat Court 
203CC.[Omitted] 
203D. Powers, jurisdiction and functions of the Court 
203DD . Revisional and other jurisdiction of the Court 
203E. Powers and procedure of the Court 
203F. Appeal to Supreme Court 
203G. Bar of jurisdiction 
203GG. Decision of Court binding on High Court and courts subordinate to it 
203H. Pending proceedings to continue, etc. 
203I. [Omitted] 
203J. Power to make rules 
CHAPTER 4.__ GENERAL PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE JUDICATURE 
204. Contempt of Court 
205. Remuneration etc., of Judges 
206. Resignation 
207. Judge not to hold office of profit, etc. 
 
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208. Officers and servants of Courts 
209. Supreme Judicial Council 
210. Power of Council to enforce attendance of persons, etc. 
211. Bar of jurisdiction 
212. Administrative Courts and Tribunals 
212A. [Omitted] 
212B.  [Repealed] 
PART VIII 
ELECTIONS 
CHAPTER 1.__ CHIEF ELECTION COMMISSIONER AND ELECTION COMMISSION 
213. Chief Election Commissioner 
214. Oath of Office 
215. Term of office of Commissioner [and members] 
216. Commissioner and members not to hold office of profit 
217. Acting Commissioner 
218. Election Commission 
219. Duties of Commission 
220. Executive authorities to assist Commission, etc. 
221. Officers and staff 
CHAPTER 2.__ ELECTORAL LAWS AND CONDUCT OF ELECTIONS 
222. Electoral laws 
223. Bar against double membership 
224. Time of Election and bye-election 
224A. Resolution by Committee or Election Commission 
225. Election dispute 
226. Election by secret ballot 
 
 
 
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PART IX 
ISLAMIC PROVISIONS 
227. Provisions relating to the Holy Quran and Sunnah 
228. Composition, etc., of Islamic Council 
229. Reference by Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), etc., to Islamic Council 
230. Functions of the Islamic Council 
231. Rules of procedure 
PART X 
EMERGENCY PROVISIONS 
232. Proclamation of emergency on account of war, internal disturbance, etc. 
233. Power to suspend Fundamental Rights, etc., during emergency period 
234. Power to issue Proclamation in case of failure of Constitutional machinery in a Province 
235. Proclamation in case of financial emergency 
236. Revocation of Proclamation, etc. 
237. Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) may make laws of indemnity, etc. 
PART XI 
AMENDMENT OF CONSTITUTION 
238. Amendment of Constitution 
239. Constitution, amendment Bill 
PART XII 
MISCELLANEOUS 
CHAPTER 1.__ SERVICES 
240. Appointments to service of Pakistan and conditions of service 
241. Existing rules, etc., to continue 
242. Public Service Commission 
CHAPTER 2.__ ARMED FORCES 
243. Command of Armed Forces 
244. Oath of Armed Forces 
245. Functions of Armed Forces 
 
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CHAPTER 3.__ TRIBAL AREAS 
246. Tribal Areas 
247. [Omitted] 
CHAPTER 4.__ GENERAL 
248. Protection to President, Governor, Minister, etc. 
249. Legal proceedings 
250. Salaries, allowances, etc., of the President, etc. 
251. National language 
252. Special provisions in relation to major ports and aerodromes 
253. Maximum limits as to property, etc. 
254. Failure to comply with requirement as to time does not render an act invalid 
255. Oath of office 
256. Private armies forbidden 
257. Provision relating to the State of Jammu and Kashmir 
258. Government of territories outside Provinces 
259. Awards 
 
CHAPTER 5.__ INTERPRETATION 
260. Definitions 
261. Person acting in office not to be regarded as successor to previous occupant of office, etc. 
262. Gregorian calendar to be used 
263. Gender and number 
264. Effect of repeal of laws 
CHAPTER 6.__ TITLE, COMMENCEMENT AND REPEAL 
265. Title of Constitution and commencement 
266. Repeal 
CHAPTER 7.__ TRANSITIONAL 
267. Power of President to remove difficulties 
 
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267A. Power to remove difficulties 
267B. Removal of doubt 
268. Continuance in force, and adaptation of certain laws 
269. Validation of law, acts, etc. 
270. Temporary validation of certain laws, etc. 
270A. Affirmation of President’s Orders, etc. 
270AA. Declaration and continuance of laws etc. 
270AAA. [Declared Void ab initio] 
270B. Elections to be deemed to be held under Constitution 
270BB. General Elections 2008 
270C. [Omitted] 
271. First National Assembly 
272. First constitution of Senate 
273. First Provincial Assembly 
274. Vesting of property, assets, rights, liabilities and obligations 
275. Continuance in office of persons in service of Pakistan, etc. 
276. Oath of first President 
277. Transitional financial provisions 
278. Accounts not audited before commencing day 
279. Continuance of taxes 
280. Continuance of Proclamation of Emergency 
ANNEX 
SCHEDULES 
FIRST SCHEDULE.__ Laws exempted from the operation of Article 8 (1) and (2)  
SECOND SCHEDULE.__ Election of President  
THIRD SCHEDULE.__ Oaths of Office 
FOURTH SCHEDULE.__ Legislative Lists 
 
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      FIFTH SCHEDULE.__ Remuneration And Terms And Conditions Of Service Of  Judges  
SIXTH SCHEDULE.__ [Omitted] 
SEVENTH SCHEDULE.__ [Omitted] 
  
 
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THE CONSTITUTION OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF 
PAKISTAN 
[12th April, 1973] 
(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) 
PREAMBLE 
WHEREAS sovereignty over the entire Universe belongs to Almighty Allah alone, and the 
authority to be exercised by the people of Pakistan within the limits prescribed by Him is a sacred 
trust; 
AND WHEREAS it is the will of the people of Pakistan to establish an order__ 
WHEREIN the State shall exercise its powers and authority through the chosen representatives 
of the people; 
WHEREIN the principles of democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance and social justice, as 
enunciated by Islam, shall be fully observed; 
WHEREIN the Muslims shall be enabled to order their lives in the individual and collective 
spheres in accordance with the teachings and requirements of Islam as set out in the Holy Quran and 
Sunnah; 
WHEREIN adequate provision shall be made for the minorities fre ely to profess and practise 
their religions and develop their cultures; 
WHEREIN the territories now included in or in accession with Pakistan and such other 
territories as may hereafter be included in or accede to Pakistan shall form a Federation wherein t he 
units will be autonomous with such boundaries and limitations on their powers and authority as may 
be prescribed; 
WHEREIN shall be guaranteed fundamental rights, including equality of status, of opportunity 
and before law, social, economic and political justice, and freedom of thought, expression, belief, faith, 
worship and association, subject to law and public morality; 
WHEREIN adequate provision shall be made to safeguard the legitimate interests of minorities 
and backward and depressed classes; 
WHEREIN the independence of the judiciary shall be fully secured; 
WHEREIN the integrity of the territories of the Federation, its independence and all its rights, 
including its sovereign rights on land, sea and air, shall be safeguarded; 
So that the people of Pakistan may prosper and attain their rightful and honoured place amongst 
the nations of the World and make their full contribution towards international peace and progress and 
happiness of humanity; 
NOW, THEREFORE, we, the people of Pakistan, 

 
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Conscious of our responsibility before Almighty Allah and men;  
Cognisant of the sacrifices made by the people in the cause of Pakistan; 
Faithful to the declaration made by the Founder of Pakistan, Quaid -i-Azam Mohammad Ali 
Jinnah, that Pakistan would be a democratic State based on Islamic principles of social justice; 
Dedicated to the preservation of democracy achieved by the unremitting struggle of the people 
against oppression and tyranny; 
Inspired by the resolve to protect our national and political unity and s olidarity by creating an 
egalitarian society through a new order; 
Do hereby, through our representatives in the National Assembly, adopt, enact and give to 
ourselves, this Constitution. 
 
 
________ 
  
 
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PART I 
INTRODUCTORY 
11. The Republic and its territories.__ (1) Pakistan shall be a Federal Republic to be known 
as the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, hereinafter referred to as Pakistan. 
2[(2) The territories of Pakistan shall comprise__ 
(a) the Provinces of 3[Balochistan], the 3[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa], the Punjab and 
3[Sindh]; 
(b) the Islamabad Capital Territory, hereinafter referred to as the Federal Capital; 
4[and] 
   4[* * * * * * *] 
4[(c)]  such States and territories as are or may be included in Pakistan, whether by 
accession or otherwise. 
(3) 5[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may by law admit into the Federation new States or areas 
on such terms and conditions as it thinks fit.]] 
2. Islam to be State religion. Islam shall be the State religion of Pakistan. 
5[2A. The Objectives Resolution to form part of substantive provisions. The principles and 
provisions set out in the Objectives Resolution reproduced in the Annex are hereby made substantive 
part of the Constitution and shall have effect accordingly.] 
3. Elimination of exploit ation. The State shall ensure the elimination of all forms of 
exploitation and the gradual fulfilment of the fundamental principle, from each according to his ability 
to each according to his work. 
4. Right of individuals to be dealt with in accordance with law, etc. __ (1) To enjoy the 
protection of law and to be treated in accordance with law is the ina lienable right of every citizen,  
wherever he may be, and of every other person for the time being within Pakistan. 
(2) In particular__ 
(a) no action detrimental to the life, liberty, body, reputation or property of any 
person shall be taken except in accordance with law; 
 
1The provisions of the Constitution except those of Articles 6, 8 to 28, (both inclusive), clauses 2 and (2a) of Article 101, Articles 199, 213 to 216 (both 
inclusive) and 270-A, brought into force with effect from 10th March, 1985, vide S.R.O. No. 212(I)/85. dated 10th March, 1985, Gazette of Pakistan, 
Extraordinary, Part-II, page 279 and the aforesaid Articles brought into force with  effect from 30th December, 1985, vide S.R.O. No. 1273(I)/85 dated 
29th December. 1985, Gazette of Pakistan, Extraordinary, Part-I1, page 3185. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 2, (w.e.f. the 4th May, 1974). 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 3. 
4Ins., omitted and re-numbered by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018), s. 2. 
5Subs. and ins. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.NO. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
 
  
 
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(b) no person shall be prevented from or be hindered in doing that which is 
not prohibited by law; and 
(c) no person shall be compelled to do that which the law does not required 
him to do. 
5. Loyalty to State and obedience to Constitution and law. __ (1) Loyalty to the State is the 
basic duty of every citizen. 
(2) Obedience to the Constitution and law is the 1[inviolable] obligation of every citizen 
wherever he may be and of every other person for the time being within Pakistan. 
6. High treason .__ 2[(1)   Any person who abrogates or subverts or suspends or holds in 
abeyance, or attempts or conspires to abrogate or subvert or suspend or hold in abeyance, the 
Constitution by use of force or show of force or by any other unconstitutional means shall be guilty of 
high treason.] 
(2) Any person aiding or abetting 2[or collaborating] the acts mentioned in clause (1) shall 
likewise be guilty of high treason. 
2[(2A) An act of high treason mentioned in clause (1) or clause (2) shall not be validated by 
any court including the 3[Federal Constitutional Court,] Supreme Court and a High Court.] 
(3) 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] shall by law provide for the punishme nt of persons found 
guilty of high treason. 
PART II 
FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS AND PRINCIPLES OF POLICY 
7. Definition of the State. In this Part, unless the context otherwise requires, “the State” means 
the Federal Government, 1[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. 
CHAPTER 1 
FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS 
8. Laws inconsistent with or in derogation of Fundamental Rights to be void.__ (1)    Any 
law, or any custom or usage having the force of law, in so far as it is inconsistent with the rights 
conferred by this Chapter, shall, to the extent of such inconsistency, be void. 
(2) The State shall not make any law which takes away or abridges the rights so conferred and 
any law made in contravention of this clause shall, to the extent of such contravention, be void. 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. NO. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
2Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 4. 
3Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No.  XXXII of 2025), s. 2. 
 
  
 
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(3) The Provisions of this Article shall not apply to__ 
(a) any law relating to members of the Armed Forces, or of the police or of such 
other forces as are charged with the maintenance of public order, for the purpose 
of ensuring the proper discharge of their duties or the maintenance of discipline 
among them; or 
1[(b)  any of the__ 
(i) laws specified in the First Schedule as in force immediately before the 
commencing day or as amended by any of the laws specified in that 
Schedule; 
(ii) other laws specified in Part I of the First Schedule;] 
and no such law nor any provision thereof shall be void on the ground that such law or provision 
is inconsistent with, or repugnant to, any provision of this Chapter. 
(4) Notwithstanding anything contained in paragraph (b) of clause (3), within a period of two 
years from the commencing day, the appropriate Legislature shall bring the laws specified in 1[Part II 
of the First Schedule] into conformity with the rights conferred by this Chapter : 
Provided that the appropriate Legislature may by resolution extend the said period of two years 
by a period not exceeding six months. 
Explanation.__ If in respect of any law 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] is the appropriate 
Legislature, such resolution shall be a resolution of the National Assembly. 
(5) The rights conferred by this Chapter shall not be  suspended except as expressly provided 
by the Constitution. 
9. Security of person. No person shall be deprived of life or liberty save in accordance with 
law. 
3[9A. Clean and healthy environment.__ Every person shall be entitled to a clean, healthy and 
sustainable environment.] 
10. Safeguards as to arrest and detention.__ (1) No person who is arrested shall be detained 
in custody without being informed, as soon as may be, of the grounds for such arrest, nor shall he be 
denied the right to consult and be defended by a legal practitioner of his choice. 
(2) Every person who is arrested and detained in custody shall be produced before a magistrate 
within a period of twenty-four hours of such arrest, excluding the time necessary for the journey from 
the place of arrest to the court of the nearest magistrate, and no such person shall be detained in custody 
beyond the said period without the authority of a magistrate. 
(3) Nothing in clauses (1) and (2) shall apply to any person who is arrested or detained under 
any law providing for preventive detention. 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Act, 1975 (Act No. LXXI of 1975), s. 2, (w. e. f. the 21st November, 1985). 
2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.NO. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
3Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 2.  
 
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(4) No law providing for preventive detention shall be made except to deal with persons acting 
in a manner prejudicial to the integrity, security or defence of Pakistan or any part thereof, or external 
affairs of Pakistan, or public order, or the maintenance of supplies or services, and no such law shall 
authorise the detention of a person for a period exceeding 1[three months] unless the appr opriate 
Review Board has, after affording him an opportunity of being heard in person, reviewed his case and 
reported, before the expiration of the said period, that there is, in its opinion, sufficient cause for such 
detention, and, if the detention is co ntinued after the said period of 1[three months], unless the 
appropriate Review Board has reviewed his case and reported, before the expiration of each period of 
three months, that there is, in its opinion, sufficient cause for such detention. 
Explanation I.__ In this Article, “the appropriate Review Board” means,__ 
(i) in the case of a person detained under a Federal law, a Board appointed by the Chief 
Justice of 2[Supreme Court of] Pakistan and consisting of a Chairman and two other 
persons, each of whom is o r has been a Judge of the Supreme Court or a High Court; 
and 
(ii) in the case of a person detained under a Provincial law, a Board appointed by the Chief 
Justice of the High Court concerned and consisting of a Chairman and two other 
persons, each of whom is or has been a Judge of a High Court. 
Explanation II.__ The opinion of a Review Board shall be expressed in terms of the views of 
the majority of its members. 
(5) When any person is detained in pursuance of an order made under any law providing for 
preventive detention, the authority making the order shall, 3[within fifteen days] from such detention, 
communicate to such person the grounds on which the order has been  made, and shall afford him the 
earliest opportunity of making a representation against the order: 
Provided that the authority making any such order may refuse to disclose facts which such 
authority considers it to be against the public interest to disclose. 
(6) The authority making the order shall furnish to the appropriate Review Board all documents 
relevant to the case unless a  certificate, signed by a Secretary to the Government concerned, to the 
effect that it is not in the public interest to furnish any documents, is produced. 
(7) Within a period of twenty -four months commencing on the day of his first detention in 
pursuance of an order made under a law providing for preventive detention, no person shall be detained 
in pursuance of any such orde r for more than a total period of eight months in the case of a person 
detained for acting in a manner prejudicial to public order and twelve months in any other case: 
Provided that this clause shall not apply to any person who is employed by, or works for , or 
acts on instructions received from, the enemy 1[, or who is acting or attempting to act in a manner 
prejudicial to the integrity, security or defence of Pakistan or any part thereof or who commits or 
attempts to commit any act which amounts to an anti -national activity as defined in a Federal law or 
is a member of any association which has for its objects, or which indulges in, any such  anti-national 
activity.]. 
 
1Subs. and added by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Act, 1975 (Act No. XXII of 1975), s. 2, (w. e. f. the 13th February. 1975). 
2Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 3. 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Act, 1975 (Act No. XXII of 1975), s. 2, (w.e.f. the 13th February, 1975). 
 
 Page 23 of 176   
 
 
(8) The appropriate Review Board shall determine the place of detention of the person 
detained and fix a reasonable subsistence allowance for his family. 
(9) Nothing in this Article shall apply to any person who for the time being is an enemy alien. 
1[10A. Right to fair trial. __For the determination of his civil rights and obligations or in any 
criminal charge against him a person shall be entitled to a fair trial and due process.] 
11. Slavery, forced labour, etc., prohibited.__ (1) Slavery is non-existent and forbidden and 
no law shall permit or facilitate its introduction into Pakistan in any form. 
(2) All forms of forced labour and traffic in human beings are prohibited. 
(3) No child below the age of fourteen years shall be engaged in any factory or mine or any 
other hazardous employment. 
(4) Nothing in this Article shall be deemed to affect compulsory service__ 
(a) by any person undergoing punishment for an offence against any law; or 
(b) required by any law for public purpose: 
Provided that no compulsory  service shall be of a cruel nature or incompatible with human 
dignity. 
12. Protection against retrospective punishment.__ (1) No law shall authorize the punishment 
of a person__ 
(a) for an act or omission that was not punishable by law at the time of the act or 
omission; or 
(b) for an offence by a penalty greater than, or of a kind different from, the penalty 
prescribed by law for that offence at the time the offence was committed. 
(2) Nothing in clause (1) or in Article 270 shall apply to any law making acts of abrogation or 
subversion of a Constitution in force in Pakistan at any time since the twenty-third day of March, one 
thousand nine hundred and fifty-six, an offence. 
13. Protection against double punishment and self-incrimination. No person__ 
(a) shall be prosecuted or punished for the same offence more than once; or 
(b) shall, when accused of an offence, be compelled to be a witness against himself. 
14. Inviolability of dignity of man, etc .__ (1) The dignity of man and, subject to law, the 
privacy of home, shall be inviolable. 
(2) No person shall be subjected to torture for the purpose of extracting evidence. 
 
1Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 5. 
  
 
 Page 24 of 176   
 
 
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. 
16. Freedom of assembly.  Every citizen shall have the rig ht to assemble peacefully and 
without arms, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of public order. 
1[17. Freedom of association.__ (1)   Every citizen shall have the right to form associations or 
unions, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of sovereignty or integrity 
of Pakistan, public order or morality. 
(2) Every citizen, not being in the service of Pakistan, shall have the right to form or be a 
member of a political party, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of the 
sovereignty or integrity of Pakistan and such law shall prov ide that where the Federal Government 
declares that any political party has been formed or is operating in a manner prejudicial to the 
sovereignty or integrity of Pakistan, the Federal Government shall, within fifteen days of such 
declaration, refer the matter to the 2[Federal Constitutional Court of Pakistan] whose decision on such 
reference shall be final. 
(3) Every political party shall account for the source of its funds in accordance with law.] 
18. Freedom of trade, business or profession . Subject to such qualifications, if any, as may 
be prescribed by law, every citizen shall have the right to enter upon any lawful profession or 
occupation, and to conduct any lawful trade or business: 
Provided that nothing in this Article shall prevent__ 
(a) the regulation of any trade or profession by a licensing system; or 
(b) the regulation of trade, commerce or industry in the interest of free competition 
therein; or 
(c) the carrying on, by the Federal Government or a Provincial Government, or by 
a corporation  controlled by any such Government, of any trade, business, 
industry or service, to the exclusion, complete or partial, of other persons. 
19. Freedom of speech, etc.  Every citizen shall have the right to freedom of speech and 
expression, and there shall be freedom of the press, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by 
law in the interest of the glory of Islam or the integrity, security or defence of Pakistan or any part 
thereof, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or moral ity, or in relation to 
contempt of court, 3[commission of] or incitement to an offence. 
1[19A. Right to information.__ Every citizen shall have the right to have access to information 
in all matters of public importance subject to regulation and reasonable restrictions imposed by law.] 
20. Freedom to profess religion and to manage religious institutions. Subject to law, public 
order and morality,__ 
(a) every citizen shall have the right to profess, practice and propagate his religion; 
and 
 
1Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 6-7. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 4. 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Act, 1975 (Act No. LXXI of 1975), s. 4, (w. e. f. the 21st November, 1975). 
 
 Page 25 of 176   
 
 
 (b) every religious denomination and every sect thereof shall have the right to 
establish, maintain and manage its religious institutions. 
21. Safeguard against taxation for purposes of any particular religion. No person shall be 
compelled to pay any special tax the proceeds of which are to be spent on the propagation or 
maintenance of any religion other than his own. 
22. Safeguards as to educational institutions in respect of religion, etc. __ (1) No person 
attending any educational institution shall be required to receive religious instruction, or take part in 
any religious ceremony, or attend religious worship, if such instruction, ceremo ny or worship relates 
to a religion other than his own. 
(2) In respect of any religious institution, there shall be no discrimination against any 
community in the granting of exemption or concession in relation to taxation. 
(3) Subject to law,__ 
(a) no religious community or denomination shall be prevented from providing 
religious instruction for pupils of that community or denomination in any 
educational institution maintained wholly by that community or denomination; 
and 
(b) no citizen shall be denied admission to any educational institution receiving aid 
from public revenues on the ground only of race, religion, caste or place of birth. 
(4) Nothing in this Article shall prevent any public authority from making provision for the 
advancement of any socially or educationally backward class of citizens. 
23. Provision as to property.  Every citizen shall have the right to acquire, hold and dispose 
of property in any part of Pakistan, subject to the Constitution and any reasonable restrictions imposed 
by law in the public interest. 
24. Protection of property rights. __ (1) No person shall be deprived of his property save in 
accordance with law. 
(2) No property shall be compulsorily acquired or taken possession of save for a public purpose, 
and save by the authority of law which provides for compensation therefor and either fixes the amount 
of compensation or specifies the principles on and the manner in which compensation is to be 
determined and given. 
(3) Nothing in this Article shall affect the validity of__ 
(a) any law permitting the compulsory acquisition or taking possession of any 
property for preventing danger to life, property or public health; or 
(b) any law permitting the taking over of any property which has been acquired by, 
or come into the possession  of, any person by any unfair means, or in any 
manner, contrary to law; or 
(c) any law relating to the acquisition, administration or disposal of any property 
which is or is deemed to be enemy property or evacuee property under any law 
(not being property which has ceased to be evacuee property under any law); or 
 
 Page 26 of 176   
 
 
(d) any law providing for the taking over of the management of any property by the 
State for a limited period, either in the public interest or in order to secure the 
proper management of the property, or for the benefit of its owner; or 
(e) any law providing for the acquisition of any class of property for the purpose 
of__ 
(i) providing education and medical aid to all or any specified class of 
citizens; or 
(ii) providing housing and public facilities and services such as roads, water 
supply, sewerage, gas and electric power to all or any specified class of 
citizens; or 
(iii) providing maintenance to those who, on account of unemployment, 
sickness, infirmity or old age, are unable to maintain themselves; or 
(f)  any existing law or any law made in pursuance of Article 253. 
(4) The adequacy or otherwise of any compensation provided for by any such law as is referred 
to in this Article, or determined in pursuance thereof, shall not be called in question in any court. 
25. Equality of citizens. __ (1) All citizens are equal before law and are entitled to equal 
protection of law. 
(2) There shall be no discrimination on the basis of sex 1[*]. 
(3) Nothing in this Article shall prevent the State from making any special provision for the 
protection of women and children. 
1[25A. Right to education. __ The State shall provide free and compulsory education to all 
children of the age of five to sixteen years in such manner as may be determined by law.] 
26. Non-discrimination in respect of access to public places. __ (1) In respect of access to 
places of public entertainment or resort, not intended for religious purposes only, there shall be no 
discrimination against any citizen on the ground only of race, rel igion, caste, sex, residence or place 
of birth. 
(2) Nothing in clause (1) shall prevent the State from making any special provision for women 
and children. 
27. Safeguard against discrimination in services. __ (1) No citizen otherwise qualified for 
appointment in the service of Pakistan shall be discriminated against in respect of any such 
appointment on the ground only of race, religion, caste, sex, residence or place of birth: 
Provided that, for a period not exceeding 2[forty] years from the commencing day,  posts may 
be reserved for persons belonging to any class or area to secure their adequate representation in the 
service of Pakistan: 
 
1Omitted and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 8-9. 
2Subs. and shall be deemed always to have been so subs. by the Constitution (Sixteenth Amendment) Act, 1999 (Act No. VII of 1999), s. 2. 
 
 Page 27 of 176   
 
 
Provided further that, in the interest of the said service, specified posts or services may be 
reserved for members of either sex if such p osts or services entail the performance of duties and 
functions which cannot be adequately performed by members of the other sex 1[:] 
1[Provided also that under-representation of any class or area in the service of Pakistan may be 
redressed in such manner as may be determined by an Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] 
(2) Nothing in clause (1) shall prevent any Provincial Government, or any local or other 
authority in a Province, from prescribing, in relation to any post or class of service under that 
Government or authority, conditions as to residence in the Province, for a period not exceeding three 
years, prior to appointment under that Government or authority. 
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. 
CHAPTER 2 
 PRINCIPLES OF POLICY 
29. Principles of Policy. __ (1) The Principles set out  in this Chapter shall be known as the 
Principles of Policy, and it is the responsibility of each organ and authority of the State, and of each 
person performing functions on behalf of an organ or authority of the State, to act in accordance with 
those Principles in so far as they relate to the functions of the organ or authority. 
(2) In so far as the observance of any particular Principle of Policy may be dependent upon 
resources being available for the purpose, the Principle shall be regarded as being sub ject to the 
availability of resources. 
(3) In respect of each year, the President in relation to the affairs of the Federation, and the 
Governor of each Province in relation to the affairs of his Province, shall cause to be prepared and laid 
before 1[each House of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or, as the case may be, the Provincial Assembly, 
a report on the observance and implementation of the Principles of Policy, and provision shall be made 
in the rules of procedure of the National Assembly 1[and the Sena te] or, as the case may be, the 
Provincial Assembly, for discussion on such report. 
30. Responsibility with respect to Principles of Policy. __ (1) The responsibility of deciding 
whether any action of an organ or authority of the State, or of a person performing functions on behalf 
of an organ or authority of the State, is in accordance with the Principles of Policy is that of the organ 
or authority of the State, or of the person, concerned. 
(2) The validity of an action or of a law shall not be called in question on the ground that it is 
not in accordance with the Principles of Policy, and no action shall lie against the State, any organ or 
authority of the State or any person on such ground. 
 
 
1Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 10-11. 
 
 
 
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31. Islamic way of life. __ (1) Steps shall be taken to enable the Muslims of Pakistan, 
individually and collectively, to order their lives in accordance with the fundamental principles and 
basic concepts of Islam  and to provide facilities whereby they may be enabled to understand the 
meaning of life according to the Holy Quran and Sunnah. 
(2) The State shall endeavour, as respects the Muslims of Pakistan,__ 
(a) to make the teaching of the Holy Quran and Islamiat compulsory, to encourage 
and facilitate the learning of Arabic language and to secure correct and exact 
printing and publishing of the Holy Quran; 
(b) to promote unity and the observance of the Islamic moral standards; and 
(c) to secure the proper organisation of zakat 1[ushr,] auqaf and mosques. 
32. Promotion of local Government institutions.  The State shall encourage local 
Government institutions composed of elected representatives of the areas concerned and in  such 
institutions special representation will be given to peasants, workers and women. 
33. Parochial and other similar prejudices to be discouraged.  The State shall discourage 
parochial, racial, tribal, sectarian and provincial prejudices among the citizens. 
34. Full participation of women in nationa l life.  Steps shall be taken to ensure full 
participation of women in all spheres of national life. 
 35. Protection of family, etc. The State shall protect the marriage, the family, the mother and 
the child. 
 36. Protection of minorities.  The State shall safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of 
minorities, including their due representation in the Federal and Provincial services. 
 37. Promotion of social justice and eradication of social evils. The State shall__ 
(a) promote, with special care, the educational and economic interests of backward 
classes or areas; 
(b) remove illiteracy and provide free and compulsory secondary education within 
minimum possible period; 
(c) make technical and professional education generally available and higher 
education equally accessible to all on the basis of merit; 
(d) ensure inexpensive and expeditious justice; 
(e) make provision for securing just and humane conditions of work, ensuring that 
children and women are not employed in vocations unsuited to their age or sex, 
and for maternity benefits for women in employment; 
 
 
1Ins. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
 
 Page 29 of 176   
 
 
(f) enable the people of different areas, through education, training, agricultural and 
industrial development and other methods, to participate fully in all forms of 
national activities, including employment in the service of Pakistan; 
(g) prevent prostitution, gambling and taking of injurious drugs, printing, publication, 
circulation and display of obscene literature and advertisements; 
(h) prevent the consumption of alcoholic liquor otherwise than for medicinal and, in 
the case of non-Muslims, religious purposes; and 
(i) decentralise the Government administration so as to facilitate expeditious disposal 
of its business to meet the convenience and requirements of the public. 
 38. Promotion of social and economic well-being of the people. The State shall— 
(a) secure the well -being of the people, irrespective of sex, caste, creed or race, by 
raising their standard of living, by preventing the concentration of wealth and 
means of production and distribution in the hands of a few to the detriment of 
general interest and by ensuring equitable adjustment of rights between employers 
and employees, and landlords and tenants; 
(b) provide for all citizens, within the available resources of the country, facilities for 
work and adequate livelihood with reasonable rest and leisure; 
(c) provide for all persons employed in the service of Pakistan or otherwi se, social 
security by compulsory social insurance or other means; 
(d) provide basic necessities of life, such as food, clothing, housing, education and 
medical relief, for all such citizens, irrespective of sex, caste, creed or race, as are 
permanently or temporarily unable to earn their livelihood on account of infirmity, 
sickness or unemployment; 
(e) reduce disparity in the income and earnings of individuals, including persons in the 
various classes of the service of Pakistan; 1[*] 
2[(f) eliminate riba completely before the first day of January, two thousand twenty -
eight; and] 
1[(g)  ensure that the shares of the Provinces in all Federal services, including 
autonomous bodies and corporations established by, or under the control of, the 
Federal Government, shall be secured and any omission in the allocation of the 
shares of the Provinces in the past shall be rectified.] 
 39. Participation of people in Armed Forces.  The State shall enable people from all parts of 
Pakistan to participate in the Armed Forces of Pakistan. 
 40. Strengthening bonds with Muslim world and promoting international peace.  The State 
shall endeavour to preserve and strengthen fraternal relations among Muslim countries based on Islamic 
unity, support the common interests of the  peoples of Asia, Africa and Latin America, promote 
international peace and security, foster goodwill and friendly relations among all nations and encourage 
the settlement of international disputes by peaceful means. 
 
1Omitted and added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 12. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 3. 
 
 Page 30 of 176   
 
 
PART III 
THE FEDERATION OF PAKISTAN 
CHAPTER 1.— THE PRESIDENT 
 41. The President.__ (1) There shall be a President of Pakistan who shall be the Head of State and 
shall represent the unity of the Republic. 
 (2) A person shall not be qualified for election as President unless he is a Muslim of not less than 
forty-five years of age and is qualified to be elected as member of the National Assembly. 
 1[(3) The President 2[* * * ] shall be elected in accordance with the provisions of the Second 
Schedule by the members of an electoral college consisting of__ 
(a) the members of both Houses; and 
(b) the members of the Provincial Assemblies.] 
 (4) Election to the office of President shall be held not earlier than sixty days and not later than 
thirty days before the expiration of the term of the President in office: 
 Provided that, if the election cannot be held withi n the period aforesaid because the National 
Assembly is dissolved, it shall be held within thirty days of the general election to the Assembly. 
 (5) An election to fill a vacancy in the office of President shall be held not later than thirty days 
from the occurrence of the vacancy: 
 Provided that, if the election cannot be held within the period aforesaid because the National 
Assembly is dissolved, it shall be held within thirty days of the general election to the Assembly. 
 (6) The validity of the election  of the President shall not be called in question by or before any 
court or other authority. 
 (7) 2[* * * * * * *] 
(8) 2[* * * * * * *] 
(9) 2[* * * * * * *] 
 42. Oath of President.  Before entering upon office, the President shall make before the Chief 
Justice of Pakistan oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule. 
 43. Conditions of President’s office.__ (1) The President shall not hold any office of profit in the 
service of Pakistan or occupy any other position carrying the right to remuneration for  the rendering of 
services. 
 (2) The President shall not be a candida te for election as a member of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora 
(Parliament)] or a Provincial Assembly; and, if a member of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or a Provincial 
Assembly is elected as Preside nt, his seat in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or, as the case may be, the 
Provincial Assembly shall become vacant on the day he enters upon his office. 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.  
2Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 13. 
 
 Page 31 of 176   
 
 
 44. Term of office of President. __ (1) Subject to the Constitution, the President shall hold office 
for a term of five years from the day he enters upon his office : 
 Provided that the President shall, notwithstanding the expiration of his terms, continue to hold 
office until his successor enters upon his office. 
 (2) Subject to the Constitution, a person holding office as President shall be eligible for re-election 
to that office, but no person shall hold that office for more than two consecutive terms. 
 (3) The President may, by writing under his hand addressed to the Speaker of the National 
Assembly, resign his office. 
 45. President’s power to grant pardon, etc.  The President shall have power to grant pardon, 
reprieve and respite, and to remit, suspend or commute any sentence passed by any court, tribunal or other 
authority. 
 1[46. President to be kept informed. __ The Prime Minister shall keep the President informed on 
all matters of internal and foreign policy and on all legislative proposals the Federal Government intends 
to bring before Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament).] 
 47. Removal 2[or impeachment] of President.__ 2[(l) Notwithstanding anything contained in the 
Constitution, the President may, in accordance with the provisions of this Article, be removed from office 
on the ground of physical or mental incapacity or impeached on a charge of violating the Constituti on or 
gross misconduct. 
 (2) Not less than one-half of the total membership of either House may give to the Speaker of the 
National Assembly or, as the case may be, the Chairman written notice of its intention to move a resolution 
for the removal of, or, as the case may be, to impeach, the President; and such notice shall set out the 
particulars of his incapacity or of the charge against him.] 
 (3) If a notice under clause (2) is received by the Chairman, he shall transmit it forthwith to the 
Speaker. 
 (4) The Speaker shall, within three days of the receipt of a notice under clause (2) or clause (3), 
cause a copy of the notice to be transmitted to the President. 
 (5) The Speaker shall summon the two Houses to meet in a joint sitting not earlier than seven days 
and not later than fourteen days after the receipt of the notice by him. 
 (6) The joint sitting may investigate or cause to be investigated the ground or the charge upon 
which the notice is founded. 
 (7) The President shall have the right to appear and be represented during the investigation, if any, 
and before the joint sitting. 
 (8) If, after consideration of the result of the investigation, if any, a resolution is passed at the joint 
sitting by the votes of not less than two -thirds of the total membership of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] 
declaring that the President is unfit to hold the office due to incapacity or is guilty of violating the 
Constitution or of gross misconduct, the President shall cease to hold office immediately on the passing of 
the resolution. 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 14. 
2Ins. and subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
 
 Page 32 of 176   
 
 
1[48. President to act on advice, etc.__  (1) In the exercise of his functions, the President 
shall act 2[on and] in accordance with the advice of the Cabinet 3[or the Prime Minister]: 
 3[Provided that 2[within fifteen days] the President may require the Cabinet or, as the case may 
be, the Prime Minister to reconsider such advice, either generally or otherwise, and the President shall 
2[, within ten days,] act in accordance with the advice tendered after such reconsideration.] 
 (2) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (1), the President shall act in his discretion 
in respect of any matter in respect of which he is empowered by the Constitution to do so 3[and the 
validity of anything done by the President in his discretion shall not be called in question on any ground 
whatsoever]. 
 3[*        * * * *          * *] 
 4[(4) The question whether any, and if so what, advice was tendered to the President by the 
Cabinet, or the Prime Minister, shall not be inquired into in, or by, any court, tribunal or other 
authority.] 
 2[(5) Where the President dissolves the National Assembly, notwithstanding anything 
contained in clause (1), he shall,__ 
(a) appoint a date, not later than ninety days from the date of the dissolution, for 
the holding of a general election to the Assembly; and 
(b) appoint a care-taker Cabinet 5[in accordance with the provisions of Article 224 
or, as the case may be, Article 224A].] 
 2[(6) If at any time the Prime Minister considers it necessary to hold a referendum on any matter 
of national importance, he may refer the matter to a joint sitting of the Majlis -e-Shoora (Parliament) 
and if it is approved in a joint sitting, the Prime Mini ster may cause such matter to be referred to a 
referendum in the form of a question that is capable of being answered by either “Yes” or “No”.] 
 (7) An Act of Majlis -e-Shoora (Parliament) may lay down the procedure for the holding of a 
referendum and the compiling and consolidation of the result of a referendum.] 
 49. Chairman or Speaker to act as, or perform functions of, President. __ (1)   If the office 
of President becomes vacant by reason of death, resignation or removal of the President, the Chairman 
or, if he is unable to perform the functions of the office of President, the Speaker of the National 
Assembly shall act as President until a President is elected in accordance with clause (3) of Article 41. 
 (2) When the President, by reason of absence from Pakistan or any other cause, is unable to 
perform his functions, the Chairman or, if he too is absent or unable to perform the func tions of the 
office of President, the Speaker of the National Assembly shall perform the functions of President until 
the President returns to Pakistan or, as the case may be, resumes his functions. 
 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
2Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 15. 
3Subs., added and omitted by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act, 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 2 
4Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 4. 
5Added by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012), s. 2. 
 
 
 Page 33 of 176   
 
 
CHAPTER 2. – THE 1[MAJLIS-E-SHOORA (PARLIAMENT)] 
COMPOSITION, DURATION AND MEETINGS OF 1[MAJLIS-E-SHOORA 
(PARLIAMENT)] 
 
 1[50. Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament). There shall be a Majlis -e-Shoora (Parliament) of 
Pakistan consisting of the President and two Houses to be known respectively as the National 
Assembly and the Senate.] 
 2[51. National Assembly.__ (1) There shall be 3[three hundred and thirty-six] seats for members 
in the National Assembly, including seats reserved for women and non-Muslims. 
 (2) A person shall be entitled to vote if__ 
(a) he is a citizen of Pakistan; 
(b) he is not less than eighteen years of age; 
(c) his name appears on the electoral roll; and 
(d) he is not declared by a competent court to be of unsound mind. 
 3[(3) The seats in the National Assembly referred to in clause (1), except the seats mentioned 
in clause (4), shall be allocated to each Province and the Federal Capital as under:__ 
 
 General Seats Women Seats Total Seats 
Balochistan 16 4 20 
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 45 10 55 
Punjab 141 32 173 
Sindh 61 14 75 
Federal Capital 3 - 3 
Total 266 60 326] 
 3[(3A) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (3) or any other law for the time being in 
force, the members of the National Assembly from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas to be 
elected in the general elections, 2018 shall continue till dissolution of the  National Assembly and 
thereafter this clause shall stand omitted.] 
 (4)   In addition to the number of seats referred to in clause (3), there shall be, in the National 
Assembly, ten seats reserved for non- Muslims. 
 4[(5) 3[*******] 3[The] seats in the National Assembly shall be allocated to each province and 
the Federal Capital on the basis of population in accordance with the last preceding census officially 
published: 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 16, and shall be deemed always to have been so substituted with 
effect from the 21st day of August, 2002. 
3Subs., ins. and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018), s. 3, (w. e. f. 31-05-2018). 
4Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-fourth Amendment) Act, 2017 (Act No. XXXVIII of 2017), s. 2. 
 
 Page 34 of 176   
 
 
 Provided that for purposes of the next general elections to be held in 2018 and bye -elections 
related thereto, the allocation shall be made on the basis of provisional results of the 2017 census which 
shall be published by the Federal Government.] 
 (6) For the purpose of election to the National Assembly,__ 
(a) the constituencies for the general seats shall be single member territorial 
constituencies and the members to fill such seats shall be elected by direct and 
free vote in accordance with law; 
(b) each Province shall be a single constituency for all seats re served for women 
which are allocated to the respective Provinces under clause (3); 
(c) the constituency for all seats reserved for non -Muslims shall be the whole 
country; 
(d) members to the seats reserved for women which are allocated to a Province 
under clause (3) shall be elected in accordance with law through proportional 
representation system of political parties’ lists of candidates on the basis of total 
number of general seats secured by each political party from the Province 
concerned in the National Assembly: 
 Provided that for the purpose of this paragraph the total number of 
general seats won by a political party shall include the independent returned 
candidate or candidates who may duly join such political party within three days 
of the publication in the official Gazette of the names of the returned candidates; 
and 
(e) members to the seats reserved for non -Muslims shall be elected in accordance 
with law through proportional representation system of political parties’ lists of 
candidates on the bas is of total number of general seats won by each political 
party in the National Assembly: 
 Provided that for the purpose of this paragraph the total number of 
general seats won by a political party shall include the independent returned 
candidate or candidates who may duly join such political party within three days 
of the publication in the official Gazette of the names of the returned 
candidates.] 
 52. Duration of National Assembly.  The National Assembly shall, unless sooner dissolved, 
continue for a term  of five years from the day of its first meeting and shall stand dissolved at the 
expiration of its term. 
 53. Speaker and Deputy Speaker of National Assembly.__ (1)   After a general election, the 
National Assembly shall, at its first meeting and to the e xclusion of any other business, elect from 
amongst its members a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker and, so often as the office of Speaker or Deputy 
Speaker becomes vacant, the Assembly shall elect another member as Speaker or, as the case may be, 
Deputy Speaker. 
 (2) Before entering upon office, a member elected as Speaker or Deputy Speaker shall make 
before the National Assembly oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule. 
 
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 (3) When the office of Speaker is vacant, or the Speaker is absent or is  unable to perform his 
function due to any cause, the Deputy Speaker shall act as speaker, and if, at that time, the Deputy 
Speaker is also absent or is unable to act as Speaker due to any cause, such member as may be 
determined by the rules of procedure of the Assembly shall preside at the meeting of the Assembly. 
 (4) The Speaker or the Deputy Speaker shall not preside at a meeting of the Assembly when a 
resolution for his removal from office is being considered. 
 (5) The Speaker may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office. 
 (6) The Deputy Speaker may, by writing under his hand addressed to the Speaker, resign his 
office. 
 (7) The office of Speaker or Deputy Speaker shall become vacant if__ 
(a) he resigns his office; 
(b) he ceases to be a member of the Assembly; or 
(c) he is removed from office by a resolution of the Assembly, of which not less 
than seven days' notice has been given and which is passed by the votes of the 
majority of the total membership of the Assembly. 
 (8) When the National Assembly is dissolved, the Speaker shall continue in his office till the 
person elected to fill the office by the next Assembly enters, upon his office. 
 154. Summoning and prorogation of Majlis -e-Shoora (Parliament).__ (1)   The President 
may, from time to time, summon either House or both Houses or 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in 
joint sitting to meet at such time and place as he thinks fit and may also prorogue the same. 
 (2) There shall be at least 2[three] sessions of the National Assembly every year, and not more 
than one hundred and twenty days shall intervene between the last sitting of the Assembly in one 
session and the date appointed for its first sitting in the next session: 
 Provided that the National Assembly shall meet for  not less than one hundred and 3[thirty] 
working days in each year. 
 4[Explanation.__ In this clause, ‘working days’ includes any day on which there is a joint sitting 
and any period, not exceeding two days, for which the National Assembly is adjourned.] 
 (3) On a requisition signed by not less than one-fourth of the total membership of the National 
Assembly, the Speaker shall summon the National Assembly to meet, at such time and place as he 
thinks fit, within fourteen days of the receipt of the requisition; and when the Speaker has summoned 
the Assembly only he may prorogue it. 
 
1Article 54 of the constitution shall, until the 31st day of December, 1973, have effect as if the proviso to clause (2) thereof were omitted, see the 
Removal of Difficulties (Sittings of National Assembly) Order, 1973 (P.O. No.23 of 1973), Art. 2. 
2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.N. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
3Subs. by the Constitution (Tenth Amendment) Act, 1987 (Act No. I of 1987). s. 2. 
4Added by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Act, 1975 (Act No. LXXI of 1975), s. 6 (w. e. f. the 21st November, 1975). 
  
 
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 55. Voting in Assembly and quorum. __ (1) Subject to the Constitution, all decisions of the 
National Assembly shall be taken by majority of the members present and voting, but the person 
presiding shall not vote except in the case of equality of votes. 
 (2) If at any time during a sitting of the National Assembly the attention of the person presiding 
is drawn to the fact that less than one -fourth of the total membership of the Assembly is present, he 
shall either adjourn the Assembly or suspend the meeting until at least one-fourth of such membership 
is present. 
 56. Address by President. __ 1[(1)] The President may address either House or both Houses 
assembled together and may for that purpose require the attendance of the members. 
 1[(2) The President may  send messages to either House, whether with respect to a Bill then 
pending in the Majlis -e-Shoora (Parliament) or otherwise, and a House to which any message is so 
sent shall with all convenient despatch consider any matter required by the message to be t aken into 
consideration. 
 2[(3) At the commencement of the first session after each general election to the National 
Assembly and at the commencement of the first session of each year the President shall address both 
Houses assembled together and inform the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) of the causes of its summons.] 
 (4) Provision shall be made in the rules for regulating the procedure of a House and the conduct 
of its business for the allotment of time for discussion of the matters referred to in the addre ss of the 
President.] 
 57. Right to speak in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)].  The Prime Minister, a Federal 
Minister, a Minister of State and the Attorney General shall have the right to speak and otherwise take 
part in the proceedings of either House, or a joint sitting or any committee thereof, of which he may 
be named a member, but shall not by virtue of this Article be entitled to vote. 
 3[58. Dissolution of the National Assembly.__  (1) The President shall dissolve the National 
Assembly if so advised b y the Prime Minister; and the National Assembly shall, unless sooner 
dissolved, stand dissolved at the expiration of forty-eight hours after the Prime Minister has so advised. 
 Explanation.__  Reference in this Article to "Prime Minister" shall not be construed to include 
reference to a Prime Minister against whom a notice of a resolution for a vote of no -confidence has 
been given in the National Assembly but has not been voted upon or against whom such a resolution 
has been passed or who is continuing in office after his resignation or after the dissolution of the 
National Assembly. 
 (2) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (2) of Article 48, the President may also 
dissolve the National Assembly in his discretion where, a vote of no -confidence having been passed 
against the Prime Minister, no other member of the National Assembly command s the confidence of 
the majority of the members of the National Assembly in accordance with the provis ions of the 
Constitution, as ascertained in a session of the National Assembly summoned for the purpose.] 
 
1Re-numbered, added and subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act, 1985, (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 4. 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 17. 
  
 
 Page 37 of 176   
 
 
 1[59. The Senate.__ (1) The Senate shall consist of  2[ninety-six] members, of whom,__ 
(a) fourteen shall be elected by the members of each Provincial Assembly; 
(b) 2[* * * * * * *] 
(c) two on general seats, and one woman and one technocrat including aalim shall 
be elected from the Federal Capital in such manner as the President may , by 
Order, prescribe; 
(d) four women shall be elected by the members of each Provincial Assembly; 
(e) four technocrats including ulema shall be elected by the members of each 
Provincial Assembly; and 
(f) four non-Muslims, one from each Province, shall be elected by the members of 
each Provincial Assembly: 
 Provided that paragraph (f) shall be effective from the next Senate 
election after the commencement of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) 
Act, 2010. 
 (2) Election to fill seats in the Senate allocat ed to each Province shall be held in accordance 
with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote. 
 (3) The Senate shall not be subject to dissolution but the term of its members, who shall retire 
as follows, shall be six years: 
(a) of the members referred to in paragraph (a) of clause (1), seven shall retire after 
the expiration of the first three years and seven shall retire after the expiration 
of the next three years; 
(b) 2[* * * * * * *] 
(c) of the members referred to in paragraph (c) of the aforesaid clause,__ 
(i) one elected on general seat shall retire after the expiration of the first 
three years and the other one shall retire after the expiration of the next 
three years; and 
(ii) one elected on the seat reserved for technocrat shall retire after first three 
years and the one elect ed on the seat reserved for wome n shall retire 
after the expiration of the next three years; 
(d) of the members referred to in paragraph (d) of the aforesaid clause, two shall 
retire after the expiration of the first three years and two shall retire after the 
expiration of the next three years; 
 
 
1Subs.by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 18. 
2Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018), s. 4, (w. e. f. 31-05-2018). 
 
 Page 38 of 176   
 
 
(e) of the members referred to in paragraph (e) of the aforesaid clause, two shall 
retire after the expiration of the first three years and two shall retire after the 
expiration of the next three years; and 
 
(f) of the members referred to in paragraph (f) of the aforesaid clause, two shall 
retire after the expiration of first three years and two shall retire after the 
expiration of next three years: 
 
Provided that the Election Commission for the first term of seats for non-
Muslims shall draw a lot as to which two members shall ret ire after the first 
three years.  
 
1[Explanation.- The term of a member, notwithstanding the date of his election, shall expire on 
the eleventh day of March of the year of the completion of term for which he is elected.] 
 
2[(3A) Notwithstanding the omission of paragraph (b) of clause (1) and the omission of 
paragraph (b) of clause (3), the existing members of the Senate from the Federally Administered Tribal 
Areas shall continue till expiry of their respective terms of office and on the expiry of the aforesaid 
terms this clause shall stand omitted.] 
 
(4) The term of office of a person elected to fill a casual vacancy shall be the unexpired term 
of the member whose vacancy he has filled.] 
 
60. Chairman and Deputy Chairman. __ (1) After the Senate has been duly constituted, it 
shall, at its first meeting and to the exclusion of any other business, elect from amongst its members a 
Chairman and a Deputy Chairman and, so often as  the o ffice of Chairman or Deputy Chairman 
becomes vacant, the Senate shall elect another member as Chairman or, as the case may be, Deputy 
Chairman. 
 
(2) The term of office o f the Chairman or Deputy Chairman shall be 3[three] years from the 
day on which he enters upon his office. 
 
61. Other provisions relating to Senate.  The provisions of clauses (2) to (7) of Article 53, 
clauses (2) and (3) of Article 54 and Article 55 shall apply to the Senate as they apply to the National 
Assembly and, in their application to the Senate, shall have effect as if references therein to the 
National Assembly, Speaker and Deputy Speaker were references, respecti vely, to the Senate 
Chairman and Deputy Chairman 4[and as if, in the proviso to the said clause (2) of Article 54, for the 
words 5[one hundred and thirty] the words 6[one hundred and ten] were substituted]. 
 
provisions as to Members of 7[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] 
 
6[62. Qualifications for membership of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament). __ (1) A person 
shall not be qualified to be elected or chosen as a member of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) unless__ 
(a) he is a citizen of Pakistan; 
(b) he is, in the case of the National Assembly, not less than twenty -five years of 
age and is enrolled as a voter in any electoral roll in__ 
 
 
1Added by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 5. 
2Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018) s. 4, (w. e. f. 31-05-2018). 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act, 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 7. 
4Added by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 5 (w. e. f. the 14th May, 1974). 
5Subs. by the Constitution (Tenth Amendment) Act, 1987 (Act No. I of 1987), s. 3. 
6Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 19-20.  
7Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
 
 
 Page 39 of 176   
 
 
 (i) any part of Pakistan, for election to a general seat or a seat reserved for 
non-Muslims; and 
(ii) any area in a Province from which she seeks membership for election to 
a seat reserved for women. 
(c) he is, in the case of the Senate, not less than thirty years of age and is enrolled 
as a voter in any area in a Province or,  as the case may be, the Federal Capital 
1[******], from where he seeks membership; 
(d) he is of good character and is not commonly known as one who violates Islamic 
Injunctions; 
(e) he has adequate knowledge of Islamic teachings and practices obligatory duties 
prescribed by Islam as well as abstains from major sins; 
(f) he is sagacious, righteous, non -profligate, honest and ameen, there bein g no 
declaration to the contrary by a court of law; and 
(g) he has not, after the establishment of Pakistan, worked against the integrity of 
the country or opposed the ideology of Pakistan: 
 (2) The disqualifications specified in paragraphs (d) and (e) shall not apply to a person who is 
a non-Muslim, but such a person shall have good moral reputation.] 
 
2[63. Disqualifications for membership of Majlis -e-Shoora (Parliament). __ (1) A person 
shall be disqualified from being elected or chosen as, and from being, a member of the Majlis-e-Shoora 
(Parliament), if__ 
(a) he is of unsound mind and has been so declared by a competent court; or 
(b) he is an undischarged insolvent; or 
(c) he ceases to be a citizen of Pakistan, or acquires the citizenship of a foreign 
State; or 
(d) he holds an office of profit in the service of Pakistan other than an office 
declared by law not to disqualify its holder; or 
(e) he is in the service of any statutory body or any  body which is owned or 
controlled by the Government or in which the Government has a controlling 
share or interest; or 
(f) being a citizen of Pakistan by virtue of section 14B of the Pakistan Citizenship 
Act, 1951 (II of 1951), he is for the time being disqualified under any law in 
force in Azad Jammu and Kashmir from being elected as a member of the 
Legislative Assembly of Azad Jammu and Kashmir; or 
 
 
1Omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018) s. 5, (w. e. f. 31-05-2018). 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 21. 
 
 Page 40 of 176   
 
 
(g) he has been convicted by a court of competent jurisdiction for propagating any 
opinion, or acting in any manner, prejudicial to the ideology of Pakistan, or the 
sovereignty, integrity or securit y of Pakistan, or the integrity  or independence 
of the judiciary of Pakistan, or which defames or brings into ridicule the 
judiciary or the Armed Forces of Pakist an, unless a period of five years has 
elapsed since his release; or 
(h) he has been, on conviction for any offence involving moral turpitude, sentenced 
to imprisonment for a term of not less than two years, unless a period of five 
years has elapsed since his release; or 
(i) he has been dismissed from the service of Pakistan or service of a corporation 
or office set up or  controlled by the Federal Government, Provincial 
Government or a  Local Government on the ground  of misconduct, unless a 
period of five years has elapsed since his dismissal; or 
(j) he has been removed or compulsorily retired from the service of Pakistan or 
service of a corporation or office set up or controlled by the Federal 
Government, Provincial Government or a Local Government on the gro und of 
misconduct, unless a period of three years has elapsed since his removal or 
compulsory retirement; or 
(k) he has been in the service of Pakistan or of any statutory body or any body 
which is owned or controlled by the Government or in which the Gove rnment 
has a controlling share or interest, unless a period of two years has elapsed since 
he ceased to be in such service; or 
(l) he, whether by himself or by any person or body of persons in trust for him or 
for his benefit or on his account or as a memb er of a Hindu undivided family, 
has any share or interest in a contract, not being a contract between a cooperative 
society and Government, for the supply of goods to, or for the execution of any 
contract or for the performance of any service undertaken by, Government: 
  Provided that the disqualification under this paragraph shall not apply to 
a person__ 
(i) where the share or interest in the contract devolves on him by inheritance 
or succession or as a legatee, executor or administrator, until the 
expiration of six months after it has so devolved on him; 
(ii) where the contract has been entered into by or on behalf of a public 
company as defined in the Companies Ordinance, 1984 (XLVII of 
1984), of which he is a shareholder but is not a director holding an office 
of profit under the company; or 
(iii) where he is a member of a Hindu undivided family and the contract has 
been entered into by any other member of that family in the course of 
carrying on a separate business in which he has no share or interest; 
  Explanation.__ In this Article “goods” does not include 
agricultural produce or commodity grown or produced by him or such 
goods as he is, under any directive of Government or any law for the 
 
 Page 41 of 176   
 
 
time being in force, under a duty or obligation to supply; or 
(m) he holds any office of profit in the service of Pakistan other than the following 
offices, namely :__ 
(i) an office which is not whole time office remunerated either by salary or 
by fee; 
(ii) the office of Lumbardar, whether called by this or any other title; 
(iii) the Qaumi Razakars; 
(iv) any office the holder whereof, by virtue of such office, is liable to be 
called up for military training or military service under any law 
providing for the constitution or raising of a Force; or 
(n) he has obtained a loan for an amount of two million rupees or more, from any 
bank, financial institution, cooperative society or cooperative body in his own 
name or in the name  of his spouse or any of his dependents, which remains 
unpaid for more than one year fr om the due date, or has got such loan written 
off; or 
(o) he or his spouse or any of his dependents has defaulted in payment of 
government dues and utility expenses, including telephone, electricity, gas and 
water charges in excess of ten thousand rupees, for over six months, at the time 
of filing his nomination papers; or 
(p) he is for the time being disqualified from being elected or chosen as a member 
of the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) or of a Provincial Assembly under any law 
for the time being in force. 
 Explanation.__ For the purposes of this paragraph “law” shall not include 
an Ordinance promulgated under Article 89 or Article 128. 
 (2) If any question arises whether a member of the Majlis -e- Shoora (Parliament) has become 
disqualified from being a member, the Speaker or, as the case may be, the Chairman shall, unless he 
decides that no such question has arisen, refer the question to the Election Commission within thirty 
days and if he fails to do so within the aforesaid period it shall be deemed to have been referred to the 
Election Commission. 
 (3) The Election Commission shall decide the question within ninety days from its receipt or 
deemed to have been received and if it is of the opinion that the member has become disqualified, he 
shall cease to be a member and his seat shall become vacant.] 
 1[63A. Disqualification on grounds of defection, etc.__ (1)If a member of a Parliamentary 
Party composed of a single political party in a House__ 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 22. 
 
 
 Page 42 of 176   
 
 
(a) resigns from membership of his political party or joins another Parliamentary 
party; or 
(b) votes or abstains from voting in the House contrary to any direction iss ued by 
the Parliamentary Party to which he belongs, in relation to__ 
(i) election of the Prime Minister or the Chief Minister; or 
(ii) a vote of confidence or a vote of no-confidence; or 
(iii) a Money Bill or a Constitution (Amendment) Bill; 
 
he may be declared in writing by the Party Head to have defected from the political party, and the 
Party Head may forward a copy of the declaration to the Presiding Officer and the Chief Election 
Commissioner and shall similarly forward a copy thereof to the member concerned: 
 
 
 Provided that before making the declaration, the Party Head shall provide such member with 
an opportunity to show cause as to why such declaration may not be made against him. 
 
 
 Explanation.__ “Party Head” means any person, by whatever name called, declared as such by 
the Party. 
 
 
 (2) A member of a House shall be deemed to be a member of a Parliamentary Party if he, 
having been elected as a candidate or nominee of a political party which constitutes the Parliamentary 
Party in the House or, having been elected otherwise than as a candidate or nominee of a political 
party, has become a member of such Parliamentary Party after such election by means of a declaration 
in writing. 
 
 
 (3) Upon receipt of the declaration under clause (1), the Presiding Officer of the House shall 
within two days refer, and in case he fails to do so it shall be deemed that he has referred, the declaration 
to the Chief Election Commissioner who shall lay the declaration before the Election Commission for 
its decision thereon confirming the declaration or otherwise within thirty days of its receipt by the 
Chief Election Commissioner. 
 
 
 (4) Where the Election Commission confirms the declaration, the member referred to in clause 
(1) shall cease to be a member of the House and his seat shall become vacant. 
 
 
 (5) Any party aggrieved by the decision of the Election Commission may, within thirty days, 
prefer an appeal to the 1[Federal Constitutional] Court which shall decide the matter within ninety days 
from the date of the filing of the appeal. 
 
(6) Nothing contained in this Article shall apply to the Chairman or Speaker of a House. 
 (7) For the purpose of this Article,__ 
(a) "House" means the National Assembly or the Senate, in relation to the 
Federation; and a Provincial Assembly in relation to the Province, as the case 
may be; 
(b) "Presiding Officer" means the Speaker of the National Assembly, the Chairman 
of the Senate or the Speaker of the Provincial Assembly, as the case may be. 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 6. 
 
 Page 43 of 176   
 
 
 
 (8) Article 63A substituted as aforesaid shall comes into effect from the next general elections 
to be held after the commencement of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010: 
 Provided that till Article 63A substituted as aforesaid comes into effect the provisions of 
existing Article 63A shall remain operative.]. 
 64. Vacation of seats. __ (1) A member of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may, by writing 
under his hand addressed to the Speaker or, as the case may be, the Chairman resign his seat, and 
thereupon his seat shall become vacant. 
 (2) A House may declare the seat of a member vacant if, without leave of the House, he remains 
absent for forty consecutive days of its sittings. 
 65. Oath of m embers. A person elected to a House shall not sit or vote until he has made 
before the House oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule. 
 66. Privileges of members, etc.__ (1) Subject to the Constitution and to the rules of procedure 
of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], there shall be freedom of speech in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora 
(Parliament)] and no member shall be liable to any proceedings in any court in respect of anything said 
or any vote given by him in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], and no person shall be so liable in respect 
of the publication by or under the authority of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] of any report, paper, 
votes or proceedings. 
 (2) In other respects, the powers, immunities and privileges of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], 
and the immunities and privileges of the members of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], shall be such as 
may from time to time be defined by law and, until so defined, shall be such as wer e, immediately 
before the commencing day, enjoyed by the National Assembly of Pakistan and the committees thereof 
and its members. 
 Provision may be made by law for the punishment, by a House, of persons who refuse to give 
evidence or produce documents before a committee of the House when duly required by the chairman 
of the committee so to do: 
 Provided that any such law__ 
(a) may empower a court to punish a person who refuses to give evidence or 
produce documents; and 
(b) shall have effect subject to such  Order for safeguarding confidential matters 
from disclosure as may be made by the President. 
 (4) The provisions of this Article shall apply to persons who have the right to speak in, and 
otherwise to take part in the proceedings of, 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] as they apply to members. 
 (5) In this Article, 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] means either House or a joint sitting, or a 
committee thereof. 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
 
 Page 44 of 176   
 
 
Procedure Generally 
 67. Rules of procedure, etc. __ (1) Subject to the Constitution, a House may make rules for 
regulating its procedure and the conduct of its business, and shall have power to act notwithstanding 
any vacancy in the membership thereof, and any proceedings in the House shall not be invalid on the 
ground that some persons who were not entitled to do so sat, voted or otherwise took part in the 
proceedings. 
 (2) Until rules are made under clause (1), the procedure and conduct of business in  a House 
shall be regulated by the rules of procedure made by the President. 
 68. Restriction on discussion in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]. No discussion shall take 
place in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] with respect to the conduct of any Judge of 2[the Federal 
Constitutional Court,] the Supreme Court or of a High Court in the discharge of his duties. 
 69. Courts not to inquire into proceedings of Majlis -e-Shoora (Parliament). __ (1) The 
validity of any proceedings in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] shall not be called in question on the 
ground of any irregularity of procedure. 
 (2) No officer or member of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora Parliament)] in whom powers are vested by or 
under the Constitution for regulating procedure or the conduct of business, or for maintaining order in 
1[Majlis- e-Shoora (Parliament)], shall be subject to the jurisdiction of any court in respect of the 
exercise by him of those powers. 
 (3) In this Article, 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] has the same meaning as in Article 66. 
Legislative Procedure 
 3[70. Introduction and passing of Bills.__ (1) A Bill with respect to any matter in the Federal 
Legislative List may originate in either House and shall, if it is passed by the House in which it 
originated, be transmitted to the other House; and, if the Bill is passed without amendment by the other 
House also, it shall be presented to the President for assent. 
 (2) If a Bill transmitted to a House under clause (1) is passed with amendments it shall be sent 
back to the House in which it origina ted and if that House passes the Bill with those amendments it 
shall be presented to the President for assent. 
 (3) If a Bill transmitted to a House under clause (1) is rejected or is not passed within ninety 
days of its laying in the House or a Bill sent to a House under clause (2) with amendments is not passed 
by that House with such amendments, the Bill, at the request of the House in which it originated, shall 
be considered in a joint sitting and if passed by the votes of the majority of the members pre sent and 
voting in the joint sitting it shall be presented to the President for assent. 
 (4) In this Article and the succeeding provisions of the Constitution, "Federal Legislative List" 
means the Federal Legislative List in the Fourth Schedule.] 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
2Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 7. 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 23. 
 
  
 
 Page 45 of 176   
 
 
 71. 1[Omitted] 
 72. Procedure at joint sittings.__ (1) The President, after consultation with the Speaker of the 
National Assembly and the Chairman, may make 2rules as to the procedure with respect to the joint 
sittings of, and communications between, the two Houses. 
 (2) At a joint sitting, the Speaker of the National Assembly or, in his absence, such person as 
may be determined by the rules made under clause (1), shall preside. 
 (3) The rules made under clause (1) shall be laid  before a joint sitting and may be added to, 
varied, amended or replaced at a joint sitting. 
 (4) Subject to the Constitution, all decisions at a joint sitting shall be taken by the votes of the 
majority of the members present and voting. 
 73. Procedure with respect to Money Bills.__ 1[(1) Notwithstanding anything contained in 
Article 70, a Money Bill shall originate in the National Assembly: 
 Provided that simultaneously when a Money Bill, including the Finance Bill containing the 
Annual Budget Statement, is presented in the National Assembly, a copy thereof shall be transmitted 
to the Senate which may, within fourteen days, make recommendations thereon to the National 
Assembly.] 
 1[(1A) The National Assembly shall consider the recommendations of the Senate and after the 
Bill has been passed by the  Assembly with or without incorporating the recommend ations of the 
Senate, it shall be presented to the President for assent.] 
 3*        * * * *          * * 
 (2) For the purposes of this Chapter, a Bill or amendment shall be deemed to be a Money Bill 
if it contains provisions dealing with all or any of the following matters, namely:__ 
(a) the imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulation of any tax; 
(b) the borrowing of money, or the giving of any guarantee, by the Federal 
Government, or the amendment of the law relating to the financial obligations 
of that Government; 
(c) the custody of the Federal Consolidated Fund, the payment of moneys into, or 
the issue of moneys from, that Fund; 
(d) the imposition of a charge upon the Federal Consolidated Fund, or the 
abolition or alteration of any such charge; 
(e) the receipt of moneys on account of the Public Account of the Federation, the 
custody or issue of such moneys; 
 
 
1Omitted, subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 24-25. 
2For the Parliament (Joint Sitting), Rules 1973, see Gaz. of Pak. 1973, Ext. Pt. 11, pp. 1657-1672. 
3Omitted as consequence of the (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), see section 2. 
 
 Page 46 of 176   
 
 
(f) the audit of the accounts of the Federal Government or a Provincial 
Government; and 
(g) any matter incidental to any of the matters specified in the preceding paragraphs. 
 (3) A Bill shall not be deemed to be a Money Bill by reason only that it provides__ 
(a) for the imposition or alteration of any fine or other pecuniary penalty, or for the 
demand or payment of a licence fee or a fee or charge for any service rendered; 
or 
(b) for the imposition, abolition, remission, alterati on or regulation of any tax by 
any local authority or body for local purposes. 
 (4) If any question arises whether a Bill is a Money Bill or not, the decision of the Speaker of 
the National Assembly thereon shall be final. 
 (5) Every Money Bill presented t o the President for assent shall bear a certificate under the 
hand of the Speaker of the National Assembly that it is a Money Bill, and such certificate shall be 
conclusive for all purposes and shall not be called in question. 
 74. Federal Government’s consent required for financial measures. A Money Bill, or a Bill 
or amendment which if enacted and brought into operation would involve expenditure from the Federal 
Consolidated Fund or withdrawal from the Public Account of the Federation or affect the coinage or 
currency of Pakistan or the const itution or functions of the State Bank of Pakistan shall not be 
introduced or moved in 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] except by or with the consent of the Federal 
Government. 
 1[75. President’s assent to Bills.__ (1) When a Bill is presented to the President for assent, the 
President shall, within 2[ten] days,__ 
(a) assent to the Bill; or 
(b) in the case of a Bill other than a Money Bill, return the Bill to the Majlis -e-
Shoora (Parliament) with a message requesting that the Bill , or any specified 
provision thereof, be reconsidered and that any amendment specified in the 
message be considered. 
 2[(2) When the President has returned a Bill to the Majlis -e- Shoora (Parliament), it shall be 
reconsidered by the Majlis -e-Shoora (Parliament) in joint sitting and, if it is again passed, with or 
without amendment, by the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), by the votes of the majority of the members 
of both Houses present and voting, it shall be deemed for the purposes of the Constitution to have been 
passed by both Houses and shall be presented to the President, and the President shall give his assent 
within ten days, failing which such assent shall be deemed to have been given.] 
 (3) When the President has assented 2[or is deemed to have assented] to a Bill, it shall become 
law and be called an Act of Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament). 
 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
2Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 26. 
  
 
 Page 47 of 176   
 
 
 (4) No Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), and no provision in any such Act, shall be invalid 
by reason only that some recommendation, previous sanction or consent required by the Constitution 
was not given if that Act was assented to in accordance with the Constitution.] 
 76. Bill not to lapse on prorogation, etc.__ (1) A Bill pending in either House shall not lapse 
by reason of the prorogation of the House. 
 (2) A Bill pending in the Senate which has not been passed by the National Assembly shall not 
lapse on the dissolution of the National Assembly. 
 (3) A Bill pending in the National Assembly, or a Bill which having been passed by the 
National Assembly is pending in the Senate, shall lapse on the dissolution of the National Assembly. 
 77. Tax to be levied by law only.  No tax shall be levied for the purposes of the Federation 
except by or under the authority of Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]. 
Financial Procedure 
 78. Federal Consolidated Fund and Public Account .__ (1) All revenues received by the 
Federal Government, all loans raised by that Government, and all moneys received by it in repayment 
of any loan, shall form part of a consolidated fund, to be known as the Federal Consolidated Fund. 
 (2) All other moneys— 
(a) received by or on behalf of the Federal Government; or 
(b) received by or deposited with 2[the Federal Constitutional Court,] the Supreme 
Court or any other court established under the authority of the Federation; 
 shall be credited to the Public Account of the Federation. 
 79. Custody, etc., of Federal Consolidated Fund and Public Account. The custody of the 
Federal Consolidated Fund, the payment of moneys into that Fund, the withdrawal of moneys 
therefrom, the custody of other moneys received by or on behalf of the Federal Government, their 
payment into, and withdrawal from, the Public Account of the Federation, and all matters connected 
with or ancillary to the matters aforesaid, shall be regulated by Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] 
or, until provision in that behalf is so made, by rules made by the President. 
 80. Annual Budget Statement. __ (1) The Federal Government shall, in respect of every 
financial year, cause to be laid before the National Assembly a statement of the estimated receipt and 
expenditure of the Federal Governme nt for that year, in this Part referred to as the Annual Budget 
Statement. 
 (2) The Annual Budget Statement shall show separately__ 
(a) the sums required to meet expenditure described by the Constitution as 
expenditure charged upon the Federal Consolidated Fund; and 
(b) the sums required to meet other expenditure proposed to be made from the 
Federal Consolidated Fund; 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
2Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 8. 
 
 
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and shall distinguish expenditure on revenue account from other expenditure. 
 
 81. Expenditure charged upon Federal Consolidated Fund. The following expenditure shall 
be expenditure charged upon the Federal Consolidated Fund:__ 
 
(a) the remuneration payable to the President and other expenditure relating to his 
office, and the remuneration payable to__ 
 
(i) the   Judges  of 1[the Federal Constitutional Court,] the Supreme Court 
2[and the Islamabad High Court]; 
 
(ii) the Chief Election Commissioner; 
 
(iii) the Chairman and the Deputy Chairman; 
 
(iv) the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly; 
 
(v) the Auditor-General; 
 
2[(b)  the administrative expenses, including the remuneration payable to officers and 
3[staff], of 1[the Federal Constitutional Court,] the 4[Supreme Court, the Judicial 
Commission of Pakistan, the Supreme Judicial Council]  the Islamabad High 
Court, the department of the Auditor-General, the Office of the Chief Election 
Commissioner and of the Election Commission and the Secretariats of the 
Senate and the National Assembly;] 
(c) all debt charges for which the Federal Government is liable, including interest, 
sinking fund charges, the repayment or amortisation of capital, and other 
expenditure in connection with the raising of loans, and the service and 
redemption of debt on the security of the Federal Consolidated Fund; 
(d) any sums required to satisfy any judg ement, decree or award against Pakistan 
by any court or tribunal; 4[*] 
4[(da)  any sums required to organize and conduct elections to the National Assembly, 
Senate, Provincial Assemblies and the local governments; and] 
(e) any other sums declared by the Constitution or by Act of  5[Majlis-e-Shoora 
(Parliament)] to be so charged. 
 
 82. Procedure relating to Annual Budget Statement. __ (1) So much of the Annual Budget 
Statement as relates to expenditure charged upon the Federal Consolidated Fund may be discussed in, 
but shall not be submitted to the vote of, the National Assembly. 
 
 
 (2) So much of the Annual Budget Statement as relates to other expenditure shall be submitted 
to the National Assembly in the form of demands for grants, and the Assembly shall have power to 
assent to, or to refuse to assent to, any demand, or to assent to any demand subject to a reduction of 
the amount specified therein: 
 
 Provided that, for a period of ten years from the commencing day or the holding of the second 
general election to the National Assembly, whichever occurs later, a demand shall be deemed to have 
been assented to without any reduction of the amount specified therein, unless, by the votes of a 
majority of the total membership of the Assembly, it is refused or assented to subject to a reduction of 
the amount specified therein. 
 
1Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 9. 
2Added and subs. by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (Act No. I of 2011) s. 2. 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (Act No. XXV of 2016), s. 2. 
4Subs., omitted and ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-six Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024, s. 5. 
5Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
 
 Page 49 of 176   
 
 
 (3) No demand for a grant shall be made except on the recommendation of the Federal 
Government. 
 83. Authentication of schedule of authorised expenditure.__ (1) The Prime Minister shall 
authenticate by his signature a schedule specifying__ 
(a) the grants made or deemed to have been made by the National Assembly under 
Article 82; and 
(b) 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. 
 (2) The schedule so authenticated shall be laid before the National Assembly, but shall not be 
open to discussion or vote thereon. 
 (3) 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). 
 84. Supplementary and excess grants. If in respect of any financial year it is found__ 
(a) that the amount authorized to be expended for a particular service for the current 
financial year is insufficient, or that a need has arisen for expenditure upon some 
new service not included in the Annual Budget Statement for that year; or 
(b) that any money has been spent on any service during a financial year in excess 
of the amount granted for that service for that year; 
the Federal Government shall have power to authorize expenditure from th e Federal 
Consolidated Fund, whether the expenditure is charged by the Constitution upon that Fund or 
not, and shall cause to be laid before the National Assembly a Supplementary Budget Statement 
or, as the case may be, an Excess Budget Statement, setting out the amount of that expenditure, 
and the provisions of Articles 80 to 83 shall apply to those statements as they apply to the 
Annual Budget Statement. 
 85. Votes on account. Notwithstanding anything contained in the foregoing provisions relating 
to financial matters, the National Assembly shall have power to make any grant in advance in respect 
of the estimated expenditure for a part of any financial year, not exceeding four months, pending 
completion of the procedure prescribed in Article 82 for the voting of such grant and the authentication 
of the schedule of authorized expenditure in accordance with the provisions of Article 83 in relation 
to the expenditure. 
 86. Power to authorize expenditure when Assembly stands dissolved . Notwithstanding 
anything contained in the foregoing provisions relating to financial matters, at any time when the 
National Assembly stands dissolved, the Federal Government may authorize expenditure from the 
Federal Consolidated Fund in respect of the estimated expenditure for a period not exceeding four 
months in any financial year, pending completion of the procedure prescribed in Article 82 for the 
voting of grants and the authentication of the schedule of authorized expenditure in accordance with 
the provisions of Article 83 in relation to the expenditure. 
 
 
 Page 50 of 176   
 
 
 87. Secretariats of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)].__ (1) Each House shall have a separate 
Secretariat: 
 Provided that nothing in this clause shall be construed as preventing the creation of posts 
common to both Houses. 
 (2) 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may by law regulate the recruitment and the conditions of 
service of persons appointed to the secretarial staff of either House. 
 (3) Until provision is made by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] under clause (2), the Speak er 
or, as the case may be, the Chairman may, with the approval of the President, make rules 2 regulating 
the recruitment, and the conditions of service, of persons appointed to the secretarial staff of the 
National Assembly or the Senate. 
 88. Finance Commi ttees.__ (1) The expenditure of the National Assembly and the Senate 
within authorised appropriations shall be controlled by the National Assembly or, as the case may be, 
the Senate acting on the advice of its Finance Committee. 
 (2) The Finance Committee shall consist of the Speaker or, as the case may be, the Chairman, 
the Minister of Finance and such other members as may be elected thereto by the National Assembly 
or, as the case may be, the Senate. 
 (3) The Finance Committee may make rules3 for regulating its procedure. 
Ordinances 
 89. Power of President to promulgate Ordinances. __ (1) The President may, except when 
the 4[Senate or] National Assembly is in session, if satisfied that circumstances exist which render it 
necessary to take immediate action, make and promulgate an Ordinance as the circumstances may 
require. 
 (2) An Ordinance promulgated under this Article shall have the same force and effect as an Act 
of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] and shall be subject to like restrictions as the power of 1[Majlis-e-
Shoora (Parliament)] to make law, but every such Ordinance__ 
(a) shall be laid__ 
(i) before the National Assembly if it 5[contains provisions dealing with all 
or any of the matters specified in clause (2) of Article 73], and shall 
stand repealed at the expiration of 4[one hundred and twenty days] from 
its promulgation or, if before the expiration of that period a resolution 
disapproving it is passed by the Assembly, upon the passing of that 
resolution 4[:] 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
2For the National Assembly Secretariat (Recruitment) Rules, 1973, see Gaz. of Pak. 1973, Ext., Part-II. pp. 2279-2286. 
For the Senate Secretariat (Recruitment) Rules. 1973, see ibid., pp. 2301-2307. 
3For the National Assembly (Finance Committee) Rules, 1973, see Gaz. of Pak., 1973. Ext., Part II, pp. 2451- 2454. 
For the Senate (Finance Committee) Rules, 1973, see ibid., pp. 2479-2482. 
4Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 27. 
5Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1985 (P.O. No.20 of 1985), Art. 2. 
  
 
 Page 51 of 176   
 
 
 1[Provided that the National Assembly may by a resolution 
extend the Ordinance for a further period of one hundred and twenty 
days and it shall stand repealed at the expiration of the extended period, 
or if before the expiration of that period a resolution disapproving it is 
passed by the Assembly, upon the passing of that resolution: 
 Provided further that extension for further period may be made 
only once.] 
(ii) before both Houses if it 2[does not contain provisions dealing with any 
of the matters referred to in sub-paragraph (i)], and shall stand repealed 
at the expiration of 1[one hundred and twenty days] from its 
promulgation or, if before the expiration of that period a resolution 
disapproving it is passed by either House, upon the passing of that 
resolution 1[:] 
 1[Provided that either House may by a resolution extend it for a 
further period of one hundred and twenty days and it shall stand repealed 
at the expiration of the extended period, or if before the expiration of 
that period a resolution disappr oving it is passed by a House, upon the 
passing of that resolution: 
 Provided further that extension for a further period may be made 
only once; and] 
(b) may be withdrawn at any time by the President. 
 1[(3) without prejudice to the provisions of clause (2),__ 
(a) an Ordinance laid before t he National Assembly under sub -paragraph (i) of 
paragraph (a) of clause (2) shall be deemed to be a Bill introduced in the 
National Assembly; and 
(b) an Ordinance laid before both Houses under sub-paragraph (ii) of paragraph (a) 
of clause (2) shall be deemed to be a Bill introduced in the House where it was 
first laid.] 
 
 
 
1Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 27. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1985 (P.O. No.20 of 1985), Art. 2. 
  
 
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CHAPTER 3 
THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 
 1[ 2[90. The Federal Government.__ (1) Subject to the Constitution, the executive authority of 
the Federation shall be exercised in the name of the President by the Federal Government, consisting 
of the Prime Minister and the Federal Ministers, which shall act through the Prime Minister, who shall 
be the chief executive of the Federation. 
 (2) In the performance of his functions under the Constitution, the Prime Minister may act 
either directly or through the Federal Ministers.] 
 2[91. The Cabinet.__ (1) There shall be a Cabinet of Ministers, with the Prime Minister at its 
head, to aid and advise the President in the exercise of his functions. 
 (2) The National Assembly shall meet on the twenty -first day following the day on which a 
general election to the Assembly is held, unless sooner summoned by the President. 
 (3) After the election of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker, the National Assembly shall, to 
the exclusion of any other business, proceed to elect without debate one of its Muslim members to be 
the Prime Minister. 
 (4) The Prime Minister shall be elected by the votes of the majority of the total membership of 
the National Assembly: 
 Provided that, if no member secures such majority in the first poll, a second poll shall be held 
between the members who secure the two highest numbers of votes in the first poll and the member 
who secures a majority of votes of the members present and voting shall be declared to have been  
elected as Prime Minister: 
 Provided further that, if the number of votes secured by two or more members securing the 
highest number of votes is equal, further poll shall be held between them until one of them secures a 
majority of votes of the members present and voting. 
 (5) The member elected under clause (4) shall be called upon by the President to assume the 
office of Prime Minister and he shall, before entering upon the office, make before the President oath 
in the form set out in the Third Schedule: 
 Provided that there shall be no restriction on the number of terms for the office of the Prime 
Minister. 
 (6) The Cabinet, together with the Ministers of State, shall be collectively responsible to the 
Senate and the National Assembly. 
 (7) The Prime Minister shall hold office during the pleasure of the President, but the President 
shall not exercise his powers under this clause unless he is satisfied that the Prime Minister does not 
command the confidence of the majority of the members of the National Assembly, in which case he 
shall summon the National Assembly and require the Prime Minister to obtain a vote of confidence 
from the Assembly. 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 28-29. 
 
 Page 53 of 176   
 
 
 (8) The Prime Minister may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his 
office. 
 (9) A Minister who for any period of six consecutive months is not a me mber of the National 
Assembly shall, at the expiration of that period, cease to be a Minister and shall not before the 
dissolution of that Assembly be again appointed a Minister unless he is elected a member of that 
Assembly: 
 Provided that nothing contained in this clause shall apply to a Minister who is member of the 
Senate. 
 (10) Nothing contained in this Article shall be construed as disqualifying the Prime Minister 
or any other Minister or a Minister of State for continuing in office during any period during which 
the National Assembly stands dissolved, or as preventing the appointment of any person as Prime 
Minister or other Minister or a Minister of State during any such period.] 
 92. Federal Ministers and Ministers of State .__ (1) Subject to clauses 1[(9) and (10) ] of 
Article 91, the President shall appoint Federal Ministers and Ministers of State from amongst the 
members of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) on the advice of the Prime Minister : 
 Provided that the number of Federal Ministers and Ministers of State who are members of the 
Senate shall not at any time exceed one-fourth of the number of Federal Ministers 1[:] 
 1[Provided further that the total strength of the Cabinet, including Ministers of State, shall not 
exceed a eleven percent of the total membership of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament): 
 Provided also that the aforesaid amendment shall be effective from the next general election 
held after the commencement of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010.] 
 (2) Before entering upon office, a Federal Minister or Minister of State shall make before the 
President oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule. 
 (3) A Federal Minister or Minister of State may, by writing under his hand addressed to the 
President, resign his office or may be removed from office by the President on the advice of the Prime 
Minister. 
 93. Advisers.__ (1) The President may, on the advice of the Prime Minis ter, appoint not more 
than 2[seven] Advisers, on such terms and conditions as he may determine. 
 (2) The provisions of Article 57 shall also apply to an Adviser. 
 94. Prime Minister continuing in office.  The President may ask the Prime Minister to 
continue to hold office until his successor enters upon the office of Prime Minister. 
 95. Vote of no -confidence against Prime Minister. __ (1)   A resolution for a vote of no -
confidence moved by not less than twenty per centum of the total membership of the National 
Assembly may be passed against the Prime Minister by the National Assembly. 
 
1Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 30. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 10. 
 
 
 
 Page 54 of 176   
 
 
 
 (2) A resolution referred to in clause (1) shall not be voted upon before the expiration of three 
days, or later than seven days, from the day on which such resolution is moved in the National 
Assembly. 
 (3) A resolution referred to in clause (1) shall not be moved in the National Assembly while 
the National As sembly is considering demands for grants submitted to it in the Annual Budget 
Statement. 
 
 (4) If the resolution referred to in clause (1) is passed by a majority of the total membership of 
the National Assembly, the Prime Minister shall cease to hold office.] 
 96. 1[Omitted]  
96A. [Referendum as to confidence in Prime Minister] It cease to be in force on the 30 th 
September, 1977 by the Constitution (Seventh Amdt.) Act, 1977 (23 of 1977), s.1(3) and previously ins. 
by Act 23 of 1977, s.2, and come into force on 16th May, 1977. 
 97. Extent of executive authority of Federation.  Subject to the Constitution, the executive 
authority of the F ederation shall extend to the matters with respect to which 2[Majlis-e- Shoora 
(Parliament)] has power to make laws, including exercise of rights, authority and jurisdiction in and in 
relation to areas outside Pakistan: 
 Provided that the said authority shall not, save as expressly provided in the Constitution or in 
any law made by 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], extend in any Province to a matter with respect to 
which the Provincial Assembly has also power to make laws. 
 98. Conferring of functions on subordinate authorities.  On the recommendation of the 
Federal Government, 2[Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament)] may by law confer functions upon officers or 
authorities subordinate to the Federal Government. 
 2[99. Conduct of business of Federal Government.__ (1) All executive actions of the Federal 
Government shall be expressed to be taken in the name of the President. 
 (2) The 3[Federal Government] shall by rules specify the manner in which orders and other 
instruments made and executed 3[in the name of the President] shall be authenticated, and the validity 
of any order or instrument so authenticated shall not be questioned in any court on the  ground that it 
was not made or executed by the President. 
 3[(3) The Federal Government shall also make rules for the allocation and transaction of its 
business.]] 
 100. Attorney-General for Pakistan.__ (1) The President shall appoint a person, being a 
person qualified to be appointed a Judge of the 4[Federal Constitutional] Court, to be the Attorney -
General for Pakistan. 
 (2) The Attorney-General shall hold office during the pleasure of the President 3[and shall not 
engage in private practice so long as he holds the office of the Attorney-General]. 
 
1Omitted by substitution through re-numbering by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
3Subs. and added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 31-32. 
4Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 11. 
 
 
 Page 55 of 176   
 
 
 (3) It shall be the duty of the Attorney-General to give advice to the Federal Government upon 
such legal matters, and to perform such other duties of a legal character, as may be referred or assigned 
to him by the Federal  Government, and in the performance of his duties he shall have the right of 
audience in all courts and tribunals in Pakistan. 
 (4) The Attorney-General may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his 
office. 
PART IV 
PROVINCES 
CHAPTER 1. – THE GOVERNORS 
 101. Appointment of Governor. __ 1[(1) There shall be a Governor for each Province, who 
shall be appointed by the President on the advise of the Prime Minister.] 
 (2) A person shall not be appointed a Governor unless he is qualified to be elected as a member 
of the National Assembly and is not less than thirty -five years of age 2[and is a registered voter and 
resident of the Province concerned.] 3[:] 
 4[* * * * * * *] 
 4[(2A) * * * * * * *] 
 (3) The Governor shall hold office during the pleasure of the President 5[and shall be entitled 
to such salary, allowances and privileges as the President may determine]. 
 (4) The Governor may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office. 
 6[(5) The President may make such provision as he thinks fit for the discharge of the functions 
of a Governor 7[in any contingency not provided for in this Part]. 
 102. Oath of Office.  Before entering upon office, the Gov ernor shall make before the Chief 
Justice of the High Court oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule. 
 103. Conditions of Governor’s office. __ (1) The Governor shall not hold any office of profit 
in the service of Pakistan or occupy any other position carrying the right to remuneration for the 
rendering of services. 
 (2) The Governor shall not be a candidate for election as a member of 8[Majlis-e-Shoora 
(Parliament)] or a Provincial Assembly and, if a member of 8[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] o r a 
Provincial Assembly is appointed as Governor, his seat in 8[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or, as the 
case may be, the Provincial Assembly shall become vacant on the day he enters upon his office. 
 
1Subs. and added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 33. 
2Added ibid. 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act. 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 2. 
4Omitted by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act, 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 11. 
5Added by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 6, (w.e.f. the 4th May, 1974). 
6Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
7Added by constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 11. 
8Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
 
 Page 56 of 176   
 
 
 1[104. Speaker Provincial Assembly to act as, or perform functions of Governor in his 
absence.__ When the Governor, by reason of absence from Pakistan or for any other cause, is unable 
to perform his functions, the Speaker of the Provincial Assembly and in his absence any other person 
as the President may nominate shall perform the function s of Governor until the Governor returns to 
Pakistan or, as the case may be, resumes his functions.] 
  2[105. Governor to act on advice, etc. __ (1)   Subject to the Constitution, in the performance 
of his functions, the Governor shall act 3[on and] in accordance with the advice of the Cabinet, 4[or the 
Chief Minister]: 
 4[Provided that 3[within fifteen days] the Governor may require the Cabinet or, as the case may 
be, the Chief Minister to reconsider such advice, whether generally or otherwise, and the Governor 
shall 3[, within ten days,] act in accordance with the advice tendered after such reconsideration.] 
 5[* * * * * * *] 
 (2) The question whether any, and if so what, advice was tendered to the Governor by the Chief 
Minister 6[or the Cabinet] shall not be inquired into in, or by, any court, tribunal or other authority. 
 7[(3) Where th e Governor dissolves the Provincial Assembly, notwithstanding anything 
contained in clause (1), he shall,__ 
(a) appoint a date, not later than ninety days from the date of dissolution, for the 
holding of a general election to the Assembly; and 
(b) appoint a care-taker Cabinet 8[in accordance with the provisions of Article 224 
or, as the case may be, Article 224A]] 
 9[* * * * * * *] 
 (5) The provisions of clause 10[(2)] of Article 48 shall have effect in relation to a Gover nor as 
if reference therein to “President” were reference to “Governor”.] 
CHAPTER 2 
PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLIES 
 11[106. Constitution of Provincial Assemblies.__ (1) Each Provincial Assembly shall consist 
of general seats and seats reserved for women and non-Muslims as specified herein below:__ 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 34. 
2Subs. by the Revival of the constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
3Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 35. 
4Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act. 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 12. 
5Ommited. by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act. 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 12. 
6Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act. 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 12. 
7Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010) s, 35. 
8Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 12. 
9Ommited. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010) s. 35. 
10Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act. 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985) s. 12. 
11Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 36, and shall be deemed always to have been so, substituted with 
effect from 21st day of August, 2002. 
  
 
 Page 57 of 176   
 
 
                          General seats Women Non-Muslims Total 
Balochistan 51 11 3 65 
1[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 115 26 4 145] 
Punjab 297 66 8 371 
Sindh 130 29 9 168 
 2[* * * * * * *] 
 (2) A person shall be entitled to vote if__ 
(a) he is a citizen of Pakistan; 
(b) he is not less than eighteen years of age; 
(c) his name appears on the electoral roll for any area in the Province; and 
(d) he is not declared by a competent court to be of unsound mind. 
 (3) For the purpose of election to a Provincial Assembly,__ 
(a) the constituencies for the general seats shall be single member territorial 
constituencies and the members to fill such seats shall be elected by direct and free 
vote; 
(b) each Province shall be a single constituency for all seats reserved for women and 
non-Muslims allocated to the respective Provinces under clause (1); 
(c) the members to fill seats reserved for women and non - Muslims allocated to a 
Province under clause (1) shall be elected in accordance with law through 
proportional representation system of political parties’ lists of candidates on the 
basis of the total number of general seats secured by each p olitical party in the 
Provincial Assembly: 
 Provided that for the purpose of this sub-clause, the total number of general seats won by a political 
party shall include the independent returned candidate or candidates who may duly join such political party 
within three days of the publication in the official Gazette of the names of the returned candidates.] 
 107. Duration of Provincial Assembly.  A Provincial Assembly shall, unless sooner dissolved, 
continue for a term of five years from the day of its first meeting and shall stand dissolved at the expiration 
of its term. 
 
1Subs. and Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018) s. 6. w.e.f. 31-05-2018. 
2Clauses (1A) and (1B) ins. under s. 6 of Act No. 37 of 2018, after merger of former FATA areas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and effective for election of 
members from that areas within one year after general elections, 2018 stood omitted after their election.   
 
 Page 58 of 176   
 
 
 108. Speaker and Deputy Speaker. After a general election, a Provincial Assembly shall, at 
its first meeting and to the exclusion of any other business, elect from amongst its members a Speaker 
and a Deputy Speaker and, so often as the office of Speaker or Deputy Speaker becomes vacant, the 
Assembly shall elect another member as Speaker or, as the case may be, Deputy Speaker. 
 109. Summoning and prorogation of Provincial Assembly. The Governor may from time to 
time__ 
(a) summon the Provincial Assembly to meet at such time and place as he thinks 
fit; and 
 
(b) prorogue the Provincial Assembly. 
 
 110. Right of Governor to address Provincial Assembly. The Governor may address the 
Provincial Assembly and may for that purpose require the attendance of the members. 
 111. Right to speak in Provincial Assembly.  The Advocate -General 1[and an Advisor 
appointed under clause (11) of Article 130] shall have the right to speak and otherwise take part in the 
proceedings of the Provincial Assembly or any committee thereof of which he may be named a 
member, but shall not by virtue of this Article be entitled to vote. 
 2[112. Dissolution of Provincial Assembly. __ (1) The Governor shall dissolve the Provincial 
Assembly if so advised by the Chief Minister; and the Provincial Assembly shall, unless sooner 
dissolved, stand dissolved at the expiration of forty-eight hours after the Chief Minister has so advised. 
 Explanation.__ Reference in this Article to ‘Chief Minister’ shall not be construed to include 
reference to a Chief Minister against whom a notice of a resolution for a vote of no -confidence has 
been given in the Provincial Assembly but has not been voted upon or against whom a resolution for 
a vote of no-confidence has been passed. 
 (2) The Governor may also dissolve the Provincial Assembly in his discretion, but subject to 
the previous approval of the President, where a vote of no-confidence having been passed against the 
Chief Minister, no other member of the Provincial Assembly commands the confidence of the majority 
of the members of the Provincial Assembly in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution, as 
ascertained in a session of the Provincial Assembly summoned for the purpose.] 
 3[113. Qualifications and disqualifications for membership of Provincial Assembly. The 
qualifications and disqualifications for membership of  the National Assembly set out in Articles 62 
and 63 shall also apply for membership of a Provincial Assem bly as if reference therein to “National 
Assembly” were a reference to “Provincial Assembly”.] 
 114. Restriction on discussion in Provincial Assembly.  No discussion shall take place in a 
Provincial Assembly with respect to the conduct of any Judge of 4[the Federal Constitutional Court,] 
the Supreme Court or of a High Court in the discharge of his duties. 
 115. Provincial Government’s consent required for financial measures.__ (1) A Money Bill, 
or a Bill or amendment which if enacted and brought into operation would involve expenditure from 
the Provincial Consolidated Fund or withdrawal from the Public Account of the Province shall not be 
introduced or moved in the Provincial Assembly except by or with the consent of the Provincial 
Government. 
1Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 6. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 37. 
3Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
4Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 13. 
 
 
 Page 59 of 176   
 
 
 (2) For the purposes of this Article, a Bill or amendment shall be deemed to be a Money Bill if 
it contains provisions dealing with all or any of the following matters, namely:__ 
(a) the imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulation of any tax; 
(b) the borrowing of money, or the giving of any guarantee, by the Provincial 
Government or the amendment of the law relating to the financial obligations 
of that Government; 
(c) the custody of the Provincial Consolidated Fund, the payment of moneys into, 
or issue of moneys from, that Fund; 
(d) the imposition of a charge upon the Provincial Consolidated Fund, or the 
abolition or alteration of any such charge; 
(e) the receipt of moneys on account of the Public Account of the Province, the 
custody or issue of such moneys; and 
(f) any matter incidental to any of the matters specified in the preceding paragraphs. 
 (3) A Bill shall not be deemed to be a Money Bill by reason only that it provides__ 
(a) for the imposition or alteration of any fine or other pecuniary penalty or for the 
demand or payment of a licence fee or a fee or charge for any service rendered; 
or 
(b) for the imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulation of any tax by 
any local authority or body for local purposes. 
 (4) If any question arises whether a Bill is a Money Bill or not, the decision of the Speaker of 
the Provincial Assembly thereon shall be final. 
 (5) Every Money Bill presented to the Governor for assent shall be ar a certificate under the 
hand of the Speaker of the Provincial Assembly that it is a Money Bill and such certificate shall be 
conclusive for all purposes and shall not be called in question. 
 1[116. Governor’s assent to Bills. __ (1) When a Bill has been passed by the Provincial 
Assembly, it shall be presented to the Governor for assent. 
 (2) When a Bill is presented to the Governor for assent, the Governor shall, within 2[ten] days,__ 
(a) assent to the Bill; or 
(b) in the case of a Bill other than a Money  Bill, return the Bill to the Provincial 
Assembly with a message requesting that the Bill, or any specified provision 
thereof, be reconsidered and that any amendment specified in the message be 
considered. 
 3[(3) When the Governor has returned a Bill to the Provincial Assembly, it shall be reconsidered 
by the Provincial Assembly and, if it is again passed, with or without amendment,  by  the  Provincial  
1Subs. by Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 38. 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act, 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985), s. 15. 
 
 Page 60 of 176   
 
 
Assembly, by the votes of the majority of the members of the Provincial Assembly present and voting, 
it shall be again presented to the Governor and the Governor shall 1[give his assent within ten days, 
failing which such assent shall be deemed to have been given]. 
 (4) When the Governor has assented 2[or is deemed to have assented] to a Bill it shall become 
law and be called an Act of Provincial Assembly. 
 (5) No Act of a Provincial Assembly, and no provision in any such Act, shall be invalid by 
reason only that some recommendation, previous sanction or consent required by the Constitution was 
not given if that Act was assented to in accordance with the Constitution.] 
 117. Bill not to lapse on prorogation, etc.__ (1) A Bill pending in a Provincial Assembly shall 
not lapse by reason of the prorogation of the Assembly. 
 (2) A Bill pending in a Provincial Assembly shall lapse on the dissolution of the Assembly. 
Financial Procedure 
 118. Provincial Consolidated Fund and Public Account. __ (1) All revenues received by the 
Provincial Government, all loans raised by that Government, and a ll moneys received by it in 
repayment of any loan, shall form part of a consolidated fund, to be known as the Provincial 
Consolidated Fund. 
 (2) All other moneys__ 
(a) received by or on behalf of the Provincial Government; or 
(b) received by or deposited with the High Court or any other court established 
under the authority of the Province; 
shall be credited to the Public Account of the Province. 
 119. Custody, etc., of Provincial Consolidated Fund and Public Account.  The custody of 
the Provincial Consolidated Fund, the payment of moneys into that Fund, the withdrawal of moneys 
therefrom, the custody of other moneys received by or on behalf of the Provincial Government, their 
payment into, and withdrawal from the Public Account of the Province, and all matters connected with 
or ancillary to the matters aforesaid, shall be regulated by Act of the Provincial Assembly or, until 
provision in that behalf is so made, by rules made by the Governor. 
 120. Annual Budget Statement. __ (1) The Provincial Government shall, in respect of every 
financial year, cause to be laid before the Provincial Assembly a statement of the estimated receipts 
and expenditure of the Provincial Government for that year, in this Chapter referred to as the An nual 
Budget Statement. 
 (2) The Annual Budget Statement shall show separately__ 
(a) the sums required to meet expenditure described by the constitution as 
expenditure charged upon the Provincial Consolidated Fund; and 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 38. 
2Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 38. 
 
 
 Page 61 of 176   
 
 
(b) the sums required to meet other expenditure proposed to be made from the 
Provincial Consolidated Fund; 
and shall distinguish expenditure on revenue account from other expenditure. 
 121. Expenditure charged upon Provincial Consolidated Fund. The following expenditure 
shall be expenditure charged upon the Provincial Consolidated Fund:__ 
(a) the remuneration payable to the Governor and other expenditure relating to his 
office, and the remuneration payable to__ 
(i) the Judges of the High Court; and 
(ii) the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Provincial Assembly; 
(b) the administrative expenses, including the remuneration payable to officers and 
servants, of the High Court and the Secretariat of the Provincial Assembly; 
(c) all debt charges for which the Provincial Government is liable, including 
interest, sinking fund charges, the repayment or amortisation of capital, and 
other expenditure in connection with the raising of loans, and the service and 
redemption of debt on the security of the Provincial Consolidated Fund; 
(d) any sums required to satisfy any judgement, decree or award against the 
Province by any court or tribunal; and 
(e) any other sums declared by the Constitution or by Act of the Provincial 
Assembly to be so charged. 
 122. Procedure relating to Annual Budget Statement. __ (1) So much of the Annual Budget 
Statement as relates to expenditure charged upon the Provincial Consolidated Fund may be discussed 
in, but shall not be submitted to the vote of, the Provincial Assembly. 
 (2) So much of the Annual Budget Statement as relates to other expenditure shall be submitted 
to the Provincial Assembly in the form of demands for grants, and that Assembly shall have power to 
assent to, or to refuse to assent to, any demand, or to assent to any demand subject to a reduction of 
the amount specified therein: 
 1[* * * * * * *] 
 (3) No demand for a grant shall be made except on the recommendation of the Provincial 
Government. 
123. Authentication of schedule of authorized expenditure. __ (1) The Chief Minister shall 
authenticate by his signature a schedule specifying__ 
(a) the grants made or deemed to have been made by the Provincial Assembly under 
Article 122, and 
 
 
1Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.39. 
 
 Page 62 of 176   
 
 
(b) the several sums required to meet the expenditure charged upon the Provincial 
Consolidated Fund but not exceeding, in the case of any sum, the sum shown in 
the statement previously laid before the Assembly. 
 (2) The schedule so authenticated shall be laid before the Provincial Assembly, but shall not 
be open to discussion or vote thereon. 
 (3) Subject to the Constitution, no expenditure from the Provincial Consolidated Fund shall be 
deemed to be duly authorized unless it is specified in the schedule so authenticated and such schedule 
is laid before the Provincial Assembly as required by clause (2). 
 124. Supplementary and excess grant. If in respect of any financial year it is found__ 
(a) that the amount authorized to be expended for a particular service for the current 
financial year is insufficient, or that a need has arisen for expenditure upon some 
new service not included in the Annual Budget Statement for that year; or 
(b) that any money has been spent on any service during a financial year in excess 
of the amount granted for that service for that year; 
 the Provincial Government shall have power to authorize expe nditure from the Provincial 
Consolidated Fund, whether the expenditure is charged by the Constitution upon that Fund or not, and 
shall cause to be laid before the Provincial Assembly a Supplementary Budget Statement or, as the 
case may be, an Excess Budget  Statement, setting out the amount of that expenditure, and the 
provisions of Articles 120 to 123 shall apply to those statements as they apply to the Annual Budget 
Statement. 
 
 125. Votes on account. Notwithstanding anything contained in the foregoing provisions 
relating to financial matters, the Provincial Assembly shall have power to make any grant in advance 
in respect of the estimated expenditure for a part of any financial year, not exceeding three months, 
pending completion of the procedure prescr ibed in Article 122 for the voting of such grant and the 
authentication of the schedule of expenditure in accordance with the provisions of Article 123 in 
relation to the expenditure.  
 
 126. Power to authorize expenditure when Assembly stands , dissolved. Notwithstanding 
anything contained in the foregoing provisions relating to financial matters, at any time when the 
Provincial Assembly stands dissolved, the Provincial Government may authorize expenditure from the 
Provincial Consolidated Fund in respect of the estimated expenditure for a period not exceeding four 
months in any financial year, pending completion of the procedure prescribed in Article 122 for the 
voting of grants and the authentication of the sch edule of authorized expenditure in accordance with 
the provisions of Article 123 in relation to the expenditure. 
 
 127. Provisions relating to National Assembly, etc., to apply to Provincial Assembly, etc. 
Subject to the Constitution, the provisions of clauses (2) to (8) of Article 53, clauses (2) and (3) of 
Article 54, Article 55, Articles 63 to 67, Article 69, Article 77, Article 87 and Article 88 shall apply to 
and in relation to a Provincial Assembly or a committee or members thereof or the Provincial 
Government, but so that__ 
 
(a) any reference in those provisions to 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], a House 
or the National Assembly shall be read as a reference to the Provincial 
Assembly; 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
 
 Page 63 of 176   
 
 
(b) any reference in those provisions to the President shall be read as a reference to 
the Governor of the Province; 
(c) any reference in those provisions to the Federal Government shall be read as a 
reference to the Provincial Government; 
(d) any reference in those provisions to the Prime Minister shall be read as a 
reference to the Chief Minister; 
(e) any reference in those provisions to a Federal Minister shall be read as a 
reference to a Provincial Minister; 1[*] 
(f) any reference in those provisions to the National Assembly of Pakistan shall be 
read as a reference to the Provincial Assembly in existence immediately before 
the commencing day 2[; and] 
3[(g)  the said clause (2) of Article 54 shall have effect as if, in the proviso thereto, for 
the words “one hundred and thirty” the word 4[one hundred] were substituted.] 
Ordinances 
 128. Power of Governor to promulgate Ordinances .__ (1) The Governor may, except when 
the Provincial Assembly is in session, if satisfied that circumstances exist which render it necessary to 
take immediate action, make and promulgate an Ordinance as the circumstances may require. 
 (2) An Ordinance promulgated under this Article shall have the same force and effect as an Act 
of the Provincial Assembly and shall be subject  to like restrictions as the power of the Provincial 
Assembly to make laws, but every such Ordinance__ 
(a) shall be laid before the Provincial Assembly and shall stand repealed at the 
expiration of 5[ninety days] from its promulgation or, if before the expiration of 
that period a resolution disapproving it is passed by the Assembly, upon the 
passing of that resolution 6[:] 
 7[Provided that the Provincial Assembly may by a resolution extend the 
Ordinance for a further period of ninety days and it shall stand  repealed at the 
expiration of the extended period, or if before the expiration of that period a 
resolution disapproving it is passed by the Assembly, upon the passing of that 
resolution:] 
 Provided further that extension for a further period may be made o nly 
once.] 
(b) may be withdrawn at any time by the Governor. 
 
1Omitted by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act. 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s.7 (w.e.f the 4th May. 1974). 
2Subs.by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act. 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s.7 (w.e.f the 4th May. 1974). 
3Added.by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act. 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s.7 (w.e.f the 4th May. 1974). 
4Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 40. 
5Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 41. 
6Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 41. 
7Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 41. 
  
 
 Page 64 of 176   
 
 
 (3) Without prejudice to the provisions of clause (2), an Ordinance laid before the Provincial 
Assembly shall be deemed to be a Bill introduced in the Provincial Assembly. 
CHAPTER 3 
THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENTS 
 1[129. The Provincial Government.__ (1) Subject to the Constitution, the executive authority 
of the Province shall be exercised in the name of the Governor by the Provincial Government, 
consisting of the Chief Minister and Provincial Ministers, which shall act through the Chief Minister. 
 (2) In the performance of his functions under the Constitution, the Chief Minister may act either 
directly or through the Provincial Ministers.] 
 2[130. The Cabinet.__ (1) There shall be a Cabinet of Ministers, with the Chief Minister at its 
head, to aid and advise the Governor in the exercise of his functions. 
 (2) The Provincial Assembly shall meet on the twenty -first day following the day on which a 
general election to the Assembly is held, unless sooner summoned by the Governor. 
 (3) After the election of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker, the Provincial Assembly shall, 
to the exclusion of any other business, proceed to elect without debate one of its members to be the 
Chief Minister. 
 (4) The Chief Minister shall be elected by the votes of the majority of the total membership of 
the Provincial Assembly: 
 Provided that, if no member secures such majority in the first poll, a second poll shall be held 
between the members who secures the two highest numbers of votes in the first poll and the member 
who secures a majority of votes of the members present and voting shall be declared to have been 
elected as Chief Minister: 
 Provided further that, if the number of votes sec ured by two or more members securing the 
highest number of votes is equal, further polls shall be held between them until one of them secures a 
majority of votes of the members present and voting. 
 (5) The member elected under clause (4) shall be called up on by the Governor to assume the 
office of Chief Minister and he shall, before entering upon the office, make before the Governor oath 
in the form set out in the Third Schedule: 
 Provided that there shall be no restriction on the number of terms for the of fice of the Chief 
Minister. 
 (6) The Cabinet shall be collectively responsible to the Provincial Assembly and the total 
strength of the C abinet shall not exceed 3[seventeen] members or 3[thirteen] percent of the total 
membership of a Provincial Assembly, whichever is higher 3[.] 
 3[* * * * * * *] 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 42.  
2 Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 43. 
3Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 14. 
 
 Page 65 of 176   
 
 
 (7) The Chief Minister shall hold office during the pleasure of the Governor, but the Governor 
shall not exercise his powers under this clause unless he is satisfied that the Chief Minister does not 
command the confidence of the majority of the members of the Provincial Assembly, in which case he 
shall summon the Provincial Assembly and require the Chief Minister to obtain a vote of confidence 
from the Assembly. 
 (8) The Chief Minister may, by writing under his hand addressed to the Governor, resign his 
office. 
 (9) A Minister who for any period of six consecutive months is not a member of the Provincial 
Assembly shall, at the expiration of that period, cease to be a M inister and shall not before the 
dissolution of that Assembly be again appointed a Minister unless he is elected a member of that 
Assembly. 
 (10) Nothing contained in this Article shall be construed as disqualifying the Chief Minister or 
any other Minister for continuing in office during any period during which the Provincial Assembly 
stands dissolved, or as preventing the appointment of any person as Chief Minister or other Minister 
during any such period. 
 (11) The Chief Minister shall not appoint more than 1[seven] Advisors.] 
 2[131. Governor to be kept informed. __ The Chief Minister shall keep the Governor informed 
on matters relating to Provincial administration and on all legislative proposals the Provincial 
Government intends to bring before the Provincial Assembly.] 
 3[132. Provincial Ministers. __ (1) Subject to clauses 4[(9) and (10)] of Article 130, the 
Governor shall appoint Provincial Ministers from amongst members of the Provincial Assembly on 
the advice of the Chief Minister. 
 (2) Before entering upon office, a Provincial Minister shall make before the Governor oath in 
the form set out in the Third Schedule. 
 (3) A Provincial Minister may, by writing under his hand addressed to the Governor, resign his 
office or may be removed from office by the Governor on the advice of the Chief Minister. 
 133. Chief Minister continuing in office. __ The Governor may ask the Chief Minister to 
continue to hold office until his successor enters upon the office of Chief Minister.] 
 134. [Resignation by Chief Minister] Omitted by P.O. No. 14 of 1985, Art. 2 and Sch. 
 135. [Provincial Minister performing functions of Chief Minister.] Omitted by P.O. No. 14 of 
1985, Art. 2 and Sch. 
 5[136. Vote of no -confidence against Chief Minister. __ (1)   A resolution for a v ote of no -
confidence moved by not less than twenty per centum of the total membership of the Provincial 
Assembly may be passed against the Chief Minister by the Provincial Assembly. 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of  2025), s. 14. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No X of 2010), s. 44. 
3Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
4Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 45. 
5Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
 
 Page 66 of 176   
 
 
 (2) A resolution referred to in clause (1) shall not be voted upon before the expiration of three 
days, or later than seven days, from the day on which such resolution is moved in the Provincial 
Assembly. 
 (3) If the resolution referred to in clause (l) is passed by a majority of the total membership of 
the Provincial Assembly, the Chief Minister shall cease to hold office.] 
 137. Extent of executive authority of Province. Subject to the Constitution, the executive 
authority of the Province shall extend to the matters with respect to which the Provincial Assembly 
has power to make laws: 
 Provided that, in any matter with respect to which both 1[Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament)] and 
the Provincial Assembly of a Province have power to make laws, the executive authority of the 
Province shall be subject to, and limited by, the executive authority  expressly conferred by the 
Constitution or by law made by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] upon the Federal Government or 
authorities thereof. 
 138. Conferring of functions on subordinate authorities. On the recommendation of the 
Provincial Government, the  Provincial Assembly may by law confer functions upon officers or 
authorities subordinate to the Provincial Government. 
 2[139. Conduct of business of Provincial Government. __ (1) All executive actions of the 
Provincial Government shall be expressed to be taken in the name of the Governor. 
 (2) The 3[Provincial Government] shall by rules specify the manner in which orders and other 
instruments made and executed 4[in the name of Governor] shall be authenticated, and the validity of 
any order or instrument so authenticated shall not be questioned in any court on the ground that it was 
not made or executed by the Governor. 
 5[(3) The Provincial Government shall also make rules for the allocation and transaction of its 
business.] 
 140. Advocate General for a Pro vince.__ (1) The Governor of each Province shall appoint a 
person, being a person qualified to be appointed a Judge of the High Court, to be the Advocate General 
for the Province. 
 (2) It shall be the duty of the Advocate -General to give advice to the Prov incial Government 
upon such legal matters, and to perform such other duties of a legal character, as may be referred or 
assigned to him by the Provincial Government. 
 (3) The Advocate-General shall hold office during the pleasure of the Governor 6[and shall not 
engage in private practice so long as he holds the office of the Advocate-General]. 
 (4) The Advocate-General may, by writing under his hand addressed to the Governor, resign 
his office. 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 46. 
4Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 46. 
5Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 46. 
6Added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 47. 
 
 
 Page 67 of 176   
 
 
 1[* * * * * * *] 
 2[140A. Local Government.__ (1) Each Province shall, by law, establish a local  government 
system and devolve political, administrative and financial responsibility and authority to the elected 
representatives of the local governments. 
 (2) Elections to the local governments shall be held by the Election Commission of Pakistan.] 
PART V 
RELATIONS BETWEEN FEDERATION AND PROVINCES 
CHAPTER 1.__ DISTRIBUTION OF LEGISLATIVE POWERS 
141. Extent of Federal and Provincial laws.  Subject to the Constitution, 3[Majlis-e-Shoora 
(Parliament)] may make laws (including laws having extra -territorial operation) for the whole or any 
part of Pakistan, and a Provincial Assembly may make laws for the Province or any part thereof. 
142. Subject-matter of Federal and Provincial laws. Subject to the Constitution__ 
(a) 3[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] shall have exclusive power to make laws with 
respect to any matter in the Federal Legislative List; 
4[(b)  Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) and a Provincial Assembly shall have power to 
make laws with respect to criminal law, criminal procedure and evidence.] 
5[(c)  Subject to paragraph (b), a Provincial Assembly shall, and Majlis -e-Shoora 
(Parliament) shall not, have power to make laws with respect to any matter not 
enumerated in the Federal Legislative List.] 
6[(d)  Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) shall have exclusive power to make laws with 
respect to all matters pertaining to such areas in the Federation as are not 
included in any Province.] 
7[143. Inconsistency between Federal and Provincial law. __ If any provision of an Act of a 
Provincial Assembly is repugnant to any provision of an Act of Majlis -e-Shoora (Parliament) which 
Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament) is competent to enact, then the Act of Majlis -e- Shoora (Parliament), 
whether passed before or after the Act of the Provincial Assembly, shall prevail and the Act of the 
Provincial Assembly shall, to the extent of the repugnancy, be void.] 
144. Power of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) to legislate for 8[One] or more Provinces by 
consent.__ (1) If 8[one] or more Provincial Assemblies pass resolutions to the effect that 3[Majlis-e- 
 
1Existing Article 140A stands omitted as a consequence of the (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), see section 2. 
2Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 48. 
3Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
4Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 49. 
5Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 49. 
6Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 49. 
7Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 50. 
8Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 51. 
  
 
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Shoora (Parliament)] may by law regulate any matter not enumerated in 1[the Federal Legislation List] 
in the Fourth Schedule, it shall be lawful for 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] to pass an Act for 
regulating that matter accordingly, but any A ct so passed may, as respects any Province to which it 
applies, be amended or repealed by Act of the Assembly of that Province. 
3[* * * * * * *] 
CHAPTER 2. – ADMINISTRATIVE RELATIONS BETWEEN FEDERATION AND 
PROVINCES 
145. Power of President to direct Governor to discharge certain functions as his Agent.__ 
(1) The President may direct the Governor of any Province to discharge as his Agent, either generally 
or in any particular matter, such functions relating to such are as in the Federation which are not 
included in any Province as may be specified in the direction. 
(2) The provisions of Article 105 shall not apply to the discharge by the Governor of his 
functions under clause (1). 
146. Power of Federation to confer power s, etc., on Provinces, in certain cases. __ (1) 
Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, the Federal Government may, with the 
consent of the Government of a Province, entrust either conditionally or unconditionally to that 
Government, or to its officers functions in relation to any matter to which the executive authority of 
the Federation extends. 
(2) An Act of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may, notwithstanding that it relates to a matter 
with respect to which a Provincial Assembly has no po wer to make laws, confer powers and impose 
duties upon a Province or officers and authorities thereof. 
(3) Where by virtue of this Article powers and duties have been conferred or imposed upon a 
Province or officers or authorities thereof, there shall be paid by the Federation to the Province such 
sum as may be agreed or, in default of agreement, as may be determined by an arbitrator appointed by 
the Chief Justice of 4[Federal Constitutional Court] , in respect of any extra costs of administration 
incurred by the Province in connection with the exercise of those powers or the discharge of those 
duties. 
147. Power of the Provinces to entrust functions to the Federation. Notwithstanding 
anything contained in the Constitution, the Government of a Province may, with the consent of the 
Federal Government, entrust, either conditionally or unconditionally, to t he Federal Government, or 
to its officers, functions in relation to any matter to which the executive authority of the Province 
extends 5[:] 
6[Provided that the Provincial Government shall get the functions so entrusted ratified by the 
Provincial Assembly within sixty days.] 
 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss.51-52. 
2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
3Omitted by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act, 1985 (XVIII of 1985), s.17. 
4Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 15. 
5Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 52. 
6Added. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 52. 
  
 
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148. Obligation of Provinces and Federation.__ (1) The executive authority of every Province 
shall be so exercised as to secure compliance with Federal laws which apply in that Province. 
(2) Without prejudice to any other provision of this Chapter, in the exercise of the executive 
authority of the Federation in any Province regard shall be had to the interests of that Province. 
(3) It shall be the duty of the Federation to protect every Province  against external aggression 
and internal disturbances and to ensure that the Government of every Province is carried on in 
accordance with the provisions of the Constitution. 
149. Directions to Provinces in certain cases.__ (1) The executive authority of every Province 
shall be so exercised as not to impede or prejudice the exercise of the executive authority of the 
Federation, and the executive authority of the Federation shall extend to the giving of such directions 
to a Province as may appear to the Federal Government to be necessary for that purpose. 
1[(2)* * * * * * * *] 
(3) The executive authority of the Federation shall also extend to the giving of directions to a 
Province as to the construction and maintenance of means of communication declared in the direction 
to be of national or strategic importance. 
(4) The executive authority of the Federation shall also extend to the giving of directions to a 
Province as to the manner in which the executive authority thereof is to be exercised for the purpose 
of preventing any grave menace to the peace or tranquility or economic life of Pakistan or any part 
thereof. 
150. Full faith and credit for public acts, etc. Full faith and credit shall be given throughout 
Pakistan to public acts and records, and judicial proceedings of every Province. 
151. Inter -Provincial trade. __ (1) Subject to clause (2),  trade, commerce and intercourse 
throughout Pakistan shall be free. 
(2) 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may by law impose such restrictions on the free dom of 
trade, commerce or inter course between one Province and another or within any part of Pakistan as 
may be required in the public interest. 
(3) A Provincial Assembly or a Provincial Government shall not have power to— 
(a) make any law, or take any executive action,  prohibiting or restricting the entry 
into, or the export from, the Province of goods of any class or description, or 
(b) impose a tax which, as between goods manufactured or produced in the 
Province and similar goods not so manufactured or produced, discr iminates in 
favour of the former goods or which, in the case of goods manufactured or 
produced outside the Province discriminates between goods manufactured or 
produced in any area in Pakistan and similar goods manufactured or produced 
in any other area in Pakistan. 
 
1Omitted. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 53. 
2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
  
 
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(4) An Act of a Provincial Assembly which imposes any reasonable restriction in the interest 
of public health, public order or  morality, or for the purpose of protecting animals or plants from 
disease or preventing or alleviating any serious shortage in the Province of any essential commodity 
shall not, if it was made with the consent of the President, be invalid. 
152. Acquisition of land for Federal purposes. The Federation may, if it deems necessary to 
acquire any land situate in a Province for any purpose connected with a matter with respect to which 
1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] has power to make laws, require the Province to acquire the land on 
behalf, and at the expense, of the Federation or, if the land belongs to the Province, to transfer it to the 
Federation on such terms as may be agreed or, in default of agreement, as may be determined by an 
arbitrator appointed by the Chief Justice of 2[Federal Constitutional Court]. 
CHAPTER 3. – SPECIAL PROVISIONS 
152A. [National Security Council.] Omitted by the Constitution (Seventeenth Amendment) Act 
2003 (3 of 2003), s. 5, which was previously ins. by C.E's. O. No. 24 of 2002, Art. 3 and Sch., as 
amended by various enactments. 
153. Council of Common Interests .__ (1) There shall be a Council of Common Interests, in 
this Chapter referred to as the Council, to be appointed by the President. 
3[(2) The Council shall consist of__ 
(a) the Prime Minister who shall be the Chairman of the Council; 
(b) the Chief Ministers of the Provinces; and 
(c) three members from the Federal Government to be nominated by the Prime 
Minister from time to time.] 
4[(3)* * * * * * *] 
(4) The Council shall be responsible to 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) 5[and shall submit an Annual 
Report to both Houses of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament).]] 
154. Functions and rules of procedure. __ 6[(1) The Council shall formulate and regulate 
policies in relation to matters in Part II of the Federal Legislative List and shall exercise supervision 
and control over related institutions.] 
7[(2) The Council shall be constituted within thirty days of the Prime Mi nister taking oath of 
office. 
 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
2Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 16. 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 54. 
4Omitted. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 54. 
5Added. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 54. 
6Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 55. 
7Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 55. 
  
 
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(3) The Council shall have a permanent Secretariat and shall meet at least once in ninety days: 
Provided that the Prime Minister may convene a meeting on the request of a Province on an 
urgent matter.] 
1[(4)] The decisions of the Council shall be expressed in terms of the opinion of the majority. 
1[(5)] Until 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] makes provision by law in this behalf, the Council 
may make its rules of procedure. 
1[(6)] 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in joint sitting may from time to time by resolution issue 
directions through the Federal Government to the Counci l generally or in a particular matter to take 
action as 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may deem just and proper and such directions shall be 
binding on the Council. 
1[(7)] If the Federal Government or a Provincial Government is dissatisfied with a decision of 
the Council, it may refer the matter to 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in a joint sitting whose decision 
in this behalf shall be final. 
155. Complaints as to interference with water supplies. __ (1) If the interests of a Province, 
the Federal Capital 3[******] or any of the inhabitants thereof, in water from any natural source of 
supply 4[or reservoir] have been or are likely to be affected prejudicially by__ 
(a) any executive act or legislation taken or passed or proposed to be taken or 
passed, or 
(b) the failure of any authority to exercise any of its powers with respect to the use 
and distribution or control of water from that source, 
the Federal Government or the Provincial Government concerned may make a complaint in writing to 
the Council. 
(2) Upon receiving such complaint, the Council shall, after having considered the matter, either 
give its decision or request the President to appoint a commission consisting of such persons having 
special knowledge and experience in irrigation, engineering, administration, finance or law as he may 
think fit, hereinafter referred to as the Commission. 
(3) Until 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] makes provision by law in this behalf, the provisions 
of the Pakistan C ommissions of Inquiry Act, 1956  (VI of 1956), as in force immediately before the 
commencing day shall apply to the Council or the Commission as if the Council or the Commission 
were a Commission appointed under that Act to which all the provisions of section 5 thereof applied 
and upon which the power contemplated by section 10A thereof had been conferred. 
(4) After considering the report and supplementary report, if any, of the Commission, the 
Council shall record its decision on all matters referred to the Commission. 
 
1Renumbered by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 55. 
2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
3Omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018) s. 7, (w.e.f. the 31-05-2018). 
4Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010. (Act No. X of 2010), s. 56. 
  
 
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(5) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, but subject to the provisions of clause (5) of 
Article 154, it shall be the duty of the Federal Government and the Provincial Government concerned 
in the matter in issue to give effect to the decision of the Council faithfully according to its terms and 
tenor. 
(6) No proceeding shall lie before any court at the instance of any party to a matter which is or 
has been in issue before the Council, or of any person whatsoever, in respect of a matter which is 
actually or has been or might or ought to have been a proper subject of complaint to the Council under 
this Article. 
1[156. National Economic Council.__ (1)The President shall constitute a National Economic 
Council which shall consist of:__ 
(a) the Prime Minister, who shall be the Chairman of the Council; 
(b) the Chief Ministers and one member from each Province to be nominated by 
the Chief Minister; and 
(c) four other members as the Prime Minister may nominate from time to time. 
(2) The National Economic Council shall review the overall economic condition of the country 
and shall, for advising the Federal Government and the Provincial Governments, formulate plans in 
respect of financial, commercial, social and economic policies; and in formulating such plans it shall, 
amongst other factors, ensure balanced development and regional equity and shall also be guided by 
the Principles of Policy setout in Chapter 2 of Part-II. 
(3) The meetings of the Council shall be summoned by the Chairman or on a requisition made 
by one-half of the members of the Council. 
(4) The Council shall meet at least twice in a year and the quorum for a meeting of the Council 
shall be one-half of its total membership. 
(5) The Council shall be responsible to the Majlis -e-Shoora (Parliament) and shall submit an 
Annual Report to each House of Majlis- e-Shoora (Parliament).]. 
157. Electricity.__ (1) The Federal Government may in an y Province construct or cause to be 
constructed hydro -electric or thermal power installations or grid stations for the generation of 
electricity and lay or cause to be laid inter-Provincial transmission lines 2[:] 
3[Provided that the Federal Government, pr ior to taking a decision to construct or cause to be 
constructed, hydro-electric power stations in any Province, shall consult the Provincial Government 
concerned.] 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.57. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.58. 
3Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.58. 
  
 
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(2) The Government of a Province may__ 
(a) to the extent electricity is supplied to that Province from the national grid, require 
supply to be made in bulk for transmission and distribution within the Province; 
(b) levy tax on consumption of electricity within the Province; 
(c) construct power houses and grid stations and lay transmiss ion lines for use within 
the Province; and 
(d) determine the tariff for distribution of electricity within the Province. 
1[(3) In case of any dispute between the Federal Government and a Provincial Government in 
respect of any matter under this Article, any of the said Governments may move the Council of Common 
Interests for resolution of the dispute.] 
158. Priority of requirements of natural gas. The Province in which a well -head of natural gas 
is situated shall have precedence over other parts of Pakistan  in meeting the requirements from that well-
head, subject to the commitments and obligations as on the commencing day. 
159. Broadcasting and telecasting. __ (1) The Federal Government shall not unreasonably refuse 
to entrust to a Provincial Government such functions with respect to broadcasting and telecasting as may 
be necessary to enable that Government__ 
(a) to construct and use transmitters in the Province; and 
(b) to regulate, and impose fees in respect of, the construction and use of transmitters 
and the use of receiving apparatus in the Province: 
Provided that nothing in this clause shall be construed as requiring the Federal Government to 
entrust to any Provincial Government any control over the use of transmitters constructed or maintained 
by the Fed eral Government or by persons authorised by the Federal Government, or over the use of 
receiving apparatus by person so authorised. 
(2) Any functions so entrusted to a Provincial Government shall be exercised subject to such 
conditions as may be imposed by the Federal Government, including, notwithstanding anything contained 
in the Constitution, any conditions with respect to finance, but it shall not be  lawful for the Federal 
Government so to impose any conditions regulating the matter broadcast or telecast by, or by authority of, 
the Provincial Government. 
(3) Any Federal law with re spect to broadcasting and tele -casting shall be such as to secure that 
effect can be given to the foregoing provisions of this Article. 
(4) If any question arises whether any conditions imposed on any Provincial Government are 
lawfully imposed, or whether any refusal by the Federal Government to entrust functions is unreasonable, 
the question shall be determined by an arbitrator appointed by the Chief Justice of 2[Federal Constitutional 
Court]. 
(5) Nothing in this Article shall be construed as restricting the powers of the Federal Government 
under the Constitution for the prevention of any grave menace to the peace or tranquillity  of Pakistan or 
any part thereof. 
 
1Added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.58. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 17. 
 
 
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PART VI 
FINANCE, PROPERTY, CONTRACTS AND SUITS 
CHAPTER 1.– FINANCE DISTRIBUTION OF REVENUES BETWEEN THE 
FEDERATION AND THE PROVINCES 
160. National Finance Commission. __ (1) Within six months of the commencing day and 
thereafter at intervals not exceeding five years, the President shall 1constitute a National Finance 
Commission consisting of the Minister of Finance of the Federal Government, the Ministers of Finance 
of the Provincial Governments, and such other persons as may be appointed by the President after 
consultation with the Governors of the Provinces. 
(2) It shall be the duty of the National Finance Commission to make recommendations to the 
President as to__ 
(a) the distribution between the Federation and the Provinces of the net proceeds of 
the taxes mentioned in clause (3); 
(b) the making of grants -in-aid by the Federal Government to the Provincial 
Governments; 
(c) the exercise by the Federal Government and the Provincial Governments of the 
borrowing powers conferred by the Constitution; and 
(d) any other matter relating to finance referred to the Commission by the President. 
(3) The taxes referred to in paragraph (a) of clause (2) are the following taxes raised under the 
authority of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], namely:__ 
(i)  taxes on income, including corporation tax , but not including taxes on income 
consisting of remuneration paid out of the Federal Consolidated Fund; 
3[(ii) taxes on the sales and purchases of goods imported, exported, produced, 
manufactured or consumed;] 
(iii) export duties on cotton, and such other export duties as may be specified by the 
President; 
(iv) such duties of excise as may be specified by the President; and 
(v) such other taxes as may be specified by the President. 
4[(3A) The share of the Provinces in each Award of National Finance Commission shall not be 
less than the share given to the Provinces in the previous Award. 
 
1For the notification constituting the National Finance Commission, see Gaz. of Pak. 1974, Ext., Part II. pp. 191-192. 
2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
3Subs. by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 3, (w.e.f. the 13th September, 1976). 
4Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 59. 
  
 
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(3B) The Federal Finance Minister and Provincial Finance Ministers shall monitor the 
implementation of the Award biannually and lay their reports before both Houses of Majlis -e-Shoora 
(Parliament) and the Provincial Assemblies.] 
(4) As soon as may be af ter receiving the recommendations of the National Finance 
Commission, the President shall, by 1Order, specify, in accordance with the recommendations of the 
Commission under paragraph (a) of clause (2), the share of the net proceeds of the taxes mentioned in 
clause (3) which is to be allocated to each Province, and that share shall be paid to the Government of 
the Province concerned, and, notwithstanding the provision of Article 78 shall not form part of the 
Federal Consolidated Fund. 
(5) The recommendations of the National Finance Commission, together with an explanatory 
memorandum as to the action taken thereon, shall be laid before both Houses and the Provincial 
Assemblies. 
(6) At any time before an Order under clause (4) is made, the President may, by Or der, make 
such amendments or modifications in the law relating to the distribution of revenues between the 
Federal Government and the Provincial Governments as he may deem necessary or expedient. 
(7) The President may, by Order, make grants in aid of the revenues of the Provinces in need 
of assistance and such grants shall be charged upon the Federal Consolidated Fund. 
161. Natural gas and hydro-electric power. 2[(1)   Notwithstanding the provisions of Article 
78,__ 
(a) the net proceeds of the Federal duty of excise on natural gas levied at well-head 
and collected by the Federal Government  and of the royalty collected by the 
Federal Government, shall not form part of the Federal Consolidated Fund and 
shall be paid to the Province in which the well-head of natural gas is situated; 
(b) the net proceeds of the Federal duty of excise on oil levied at well -head and 
collected by the Federal Government, shall not form part of the Federal 
Consolidated Fund and shall be paid to the Province in which the well -head of 
oil is situated.] 
(2) The net profits earned by the Federal Government, or any undertaking established or 
administered by the Federal Government from the bulk generation of power at a hydro-electric station 
shall be paid to the Province in which the hydro-electric station is situated. 
Explanation.__ For the purposes of this clause “net profits” shall be computed by deducting 
from the revenues accruing from the bulk supply of power from the bus-bars of a hydro-electric station 
at a rate to be determined by th e Council of Common Interests, the operating expenses of the station, 
which shall include any sums payable as taxes, duties, interest or return on investment, and 
depreciations and element of obsolescence, and over-heads, and provision for reserves. 
 
 
1For such Order, see the Distribution of Revenues and Grants-in-Aid Order, 1975 (P. O. No. 2 of 1975). 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act (Act No. X of 2010), s. 60. 
  
 
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162. Prior sanction of President required to Bills affecting taxation in which Provinces 
are interested. No Bill or amendment which imposes or varies a tax or duty the whole or part of the 
net proceeds whereof is assigned to any Province, or which varies  the meaning of the expression 
“agricultural income” as defined for the purposes of the enactments relating to income-tax, as defined 
for the purposes of the enactments relating to income -tax, or which affects the principles on which 
under any of the foregoing provisions of this Chapter moneys are or may be distributable to Provinces, 
shall be introduced or moved in the National Assembly except with the previous sanction of the 
President. 
163. Provincial taxes in respect of professions, etc. A Provincial Asse mbly may by Act 
impose taxes, not exceeding such limits as may from time to time be fixed by Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora 
(Parliament)], on persons engaged in professions, trades, callings or employments, and no such Act of 
the Assembly shall be regarded as imposing a tax on income. 
Miscellaneous Financial Provisions 
164. Grants out of Consolidated Fund. The Federation or a Province may make grants for 
any purpose, notwithstanding that the purpose is not one with respect to which 1[Majlis- e-Shoora 
(Parliament)] or, as the case may be, a Provincial Assembly may make laws. 
165. Exemption of certain public property from taxation.__ (1)     The Federal Government 
shall not, in respect of its property or income, be liable to taxation under any Act of Provincial 
Assembly and, subject to clause (2), a Provincial Government shall not, in respect of its property or  
income, be liable to taxation under Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or under Act of the 
Provincial Assembly of any other Province. 
(2) If a trade or business of any kind is carried on by or on behalf of the Government of a 
Province outside that Province, that Government may, in respect of any property used in connection 
with that trade or business or any income arising from that trade or business, be taxed under Act of 
1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or under Act of the Provincial Assembly of the Province in which that 
trade or business is carried on. 
(3) Nothing in this Article shall prevent the imposition of fees for services rendered. 
2[165A. Power of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] to impose tax on the income of certain 
corporations, etc. __ (1) For the removal of doubt, it is hereby declared that 1[Majlis-e-Shoora 
(Parliament)] has, and shall be deemed always to have had, the power to make a law to provide for the 
levy and recovery of a tax  on the income of a corporation, company or other body or institution 
established by or under a Federal law or a Provincial law or an existing law or a corporation, company 
or other body or institution  owned or controlled, either directly or indirectly, by the Federal 
Government or a Provincial Government, regardless of the ultimate destination of such income. 
(2) All orders made, proceedings taken and acts done by any authority or person, which were 
made, taken or done, or purported to have been made, taken or done, before the commencement of the 
Constitution (Amendment) Order, 1985, in exercise of the powers derived from any law referred to in 
clause (1), or in execution of any orders made by any authority in the exercise or purported exercise  
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
2Added by the Constitution (Amendment) Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 11 of 1985), Art. 2. 
  
 
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of powers as aforesaid, sh all, notwithstanding any judgment of any court or tribunal, including the 
Supreme Court and a High Court, be deemed to be and always to have been validly made, taken or 
done and shall not be called in question in any court, including 1[the Federal Constitutional Court,] the 
Supreme Court and a High Court, on any ground whatsoever. 
(3) Every judgement or order of any court or tribunal, including  1[the Federal Constitutional 
Court,] the Supreme Court and a High Court, which is repugnant to the provisi ons of clause (1) or 
clause (2) shall be, and shall be deemed always to have been, void and of no effect whatsoever.] 
CHAPTER 2.– BORROWING AND AUDIT 
166. Borrowing by Federal Government. The executive authority of the Federation extends 
to borrowing upon the security of the Federal Consolidated Fund within such limits, if any, as may 
from time to time be fixed by Act of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], and to the giving of guarantees 
within such limits, if any, as may be so fixed. 
167. Borrowing by Provincial Government. __ (1) Subject to the provisions of this Article, 
the executive authority of a Province extends to borrowing upon the security of the Provincial 
Consolidated Fund within such limits, if any, as may from time to time be fixed by Act of the Provincial 
Assembly, and to the giving of guarantees within such limits, if any, as may be so fixed. 
(2) The Federal Government may, subject to such conditions, if any, as it may think fi t to 
impose, make loans to, or, so long as any limits  fixed under Article 166 are not exceeded give 
guarantees in respect of loans raised by, any Province, and any sums required for the purpose of making 
loans to a Province shall be charged upon the Federal Consolidated Fund. 
(3) A Province may not, without the consent of the Federal Government, raise any loan if there 
is still outstanding any part of a loan made to the Province by the Federal Government, or in respect 
of which guarantee has been given by the Federal Government; and consent under this clause may be 
granted subject to such conditions, if any, as the Federal Government may think fit to impose. 
3[(4) A Province may raise domestic or international loan, or give guarantees on the security 
of the Provincial Consolidated Fund within such limits and subject to such conditions as may be 
specified by the National Economic Council.] 
Audit and Accounts 
168. Auditor-General of Pakistan.__ (1) There shall be an Auditor-General of Pakistan, who 
shall be appointed by the President. 
(2) Before entering upon office, the Auditor -General shall make before the Chief Justice of  
Pakistan oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule. 
4[(3) The Auditor -General shall, unless he sooner resigns or is removed from o ffice in 
accordance with clause (5), hold office for a term of four years from the date on which he assumes 
such office or attains the age of sixty-five years, whichever is earlier.] 
 
1Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 18. 
2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
3Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 61. 
4Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010) s. 62. 
 
 
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1[(3A) The other terms and conditions of service of the Auditor - General shall be determined 
by Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament); and, until so determined, by Order of the President.] 
(4) A person who has held office as Auditor -General shall not be eligible for further 
appointment in the service of Pakistan before the expiration of two years after he has ceased to hold  
that office. 
(5) The Auditor-General shall not be removed from office except in the like manner and on the 
like grounds as a Judge of the Supreme Court. 
(6) At any time when the office of the Auditor -General is vacant or the Auditor -General is 
absent or is unable to perform the functions of his office due to any cause, 2[the President may appoint 
the most senior officer in the Office of the Auditor-General to] at as Auditor- General and perform the 
functions of that office. 
169. Functions and powers of Auditor-General. The Auditor-General shall, in relation to__ 
(a) the accounts of the Federation and of the Provinces; and 
(b) the accounts of any authority or body established by the Federation or a 
Province, 
perform such functions and exercise such powers as may be deter mined by or under Act of 3[Majlis-
e-Shoora (Parliament)] and, until so determined, by 4Order of the President. 
170. Power of Auditor -General to give directions as to accounts. __ 5[(1)] The accounts of 
the Federation and of the Provinces shall be kept in such form and in accordance with such principles 
and methods as the Auditor-General may, with the approval of the President, prescribe. 
5[(2) The audit of the accounts of the Federal and of the Provincial Go vernments and the 
accounts of any authority or body established by, or under the control of, the Federal or a Provincial 
Government shall be conducted by the Auditor-General, who shall determine the extent and nature of 
such audit.] 
171. Reports of Auditor-General. The reports of the Auditor-General relating to the accounts 
of the Federation shall be submitted to the President, who shall cause them to be laid before the 6[both 
Houses of Majlis -e-Shoora (Parliament)] and the reports of the Auditor -General re lating to the 
accounts of a Province shall be submitted to the Governor of the Province, who shall cause them to be 
laid before the Provincial Assembly. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment), Act, 2010, (Act No. X of 2010), s. 62. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment), Act, 2010, (Act No. X of 2010), s. 62. 
3Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
4For such Order, see the Pakistan (Audit and Accounts) Order, 1973 (P. O. No. 21 of 1973). 
5Re-numbered and added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 63. 
6Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act 2010 (Act No. X of 2010) s. 64. 
  
 
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CHAPTER 3.__ PROPERTY, CONTRACTS, LIABILITIES AND SUITS 
172. Ownerless property.__ (1) Any property which has no rightful owner shall, if located in 
a Province, vest in the Government of that Province, and in every other case, in the Federal 
Government. 
(2) All lands, minerals and other things of value within the continental shelf or underlying the 
ocean 1[beyond] the territorial waters of Pakistan shall vest in the Federal Government. 
2[(3) Subject to the existing commitments and obligations, mineral oil  and natural gas within 
the Province or the territorial water adjacent thereto shall vest jointly and equally in that Province and 
the Federal Government.] 
173. Power to acquire property and to make contracts, etc.__ (1) The executive authority of 
the Federation and of a Province shall extend, subject to any Act of the appropriate Legislature, to the 
grant, sale, disposition or mortgage of any property vested in, and to the purchase or acquisition of 
property on behalf of, the Federal Government or, as the case may be, the Provincial Government, and 
to the making of contracts. 
(2) All property acquired for the purposes of the Federation or of a Province shall vest in the 
Federal Government or, as the case may be, in the Provincial Government. 
(3) All contrac ts made in the exercise of the executive authority of the Federation or of a 
Province shall be expressed to be made in the name of the President or, as the case may be, the 
Governor of the Province, and all such contracts and all assurances of property mad e in the exercise 
of that authority shall be executed on behalf of the President or Governor by such persons and in such 
manner as he may direct or authorize. 
(4) Neither the President, nor the Governor of a Province, shall be personally liable in respect 
of any contract or assurance made or executed in the exercise of the executive authority of the 
Federation or, as the case may be, the Province, nor shall any person making or executing any such 
contract or assurance on behalf of any of them be personally liable in respect thereof. 
(5) Transfer of land by the Federal Government or a Provincial Government shall be regulated 
by law. 
174. Suits and proceedings. The Federation may sue or be sued by the name of Pakistan and 
a Province may sue or be sued by the name of the Province. 
PART VII 
THE JUDICATURE 
CHAPTER 1.__ THE COURTS 
 
175. Establishment and jurisdiction of courts.__ (1) There shall be 3[a Federal Constitutional 
Court of Pakistan,  hereinafter referred to as the Federal Constitutional Court ] a Supreme Court of 
Pakistan 3[hereinafter referred to as the Supreme Court], a High Court for each Province 4[and a High 
Court for the Islamabad Capital Territory] and such other courts as may be established by law. 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.65. 
2Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.65. 
3Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 19. 
4Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.66. 
 
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1[Explanation.__ Unless the context otherwise requires, the words “High Court” wherever 
occurring in the Constitution shall include “Islamabad High Court”.] 
 
 
(2) No court shall have any jurisdiction save as is or may be conferred on it by the Constitution 
or by or under any law. 
 
 
(3) The Judiciary shall be separated progressively from the Executive within 2[fourteen] years 
from the commencing day. 3[*] 
 
 
3[* * * * * * *] 
 
4[175A. Appointment of Judges to  5[the Federal Constitutional Court,]  the Supreme 
Court, High Courts and the Federal Shariat Court .__ (1) There shall be a Judicial Commission of 
Pakistan, hereinafter in this Article referred to as the Commission, for appointment of Judges of 5[the 
Federal Constitutional Court,] the Supreme Court, High Courts and the Federal Shariat Court,  7[and 
for performance evaluation of Judges of the High Courts,] as hereinafter provided. 
 
6[(2) For appointment of Judges of 5[the Federal Constitutional Court and] the Supreme Court, 
the Commission shall consist of__ 
 
5[(i) Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court;  
(ii) Chief Justice of the Supreme Court;  
(iii) 
 
one next most senior Judge each of the Federal Constitutional Court and 
the Supreme Court; 
Members 
(iiia) 
 
a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court or the Supreme Court jointly 
and nominated by the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court and 
the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, for a period of two years; 
Member;] 
(iv) Federal Minister for Law and Justice; Member 
(v) Attorney-General for Pakistan; Member 
(vi) an advocate having not less than fifteen years of practice in the Supreme 
Court to be nominated by the Pakistan Bar Council for a term of two years; 
Member 
 
 
 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. I of 2011), s.3. 
2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
3Subs. and Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-third Amendment) Act, 2017 (Act No. XII of 2017) and shall cease to form part of the Constitution and shall 
stand repealed on the expiration of two years on 6th January, 2019. 
4Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 67. 
5Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 20. 
6Ins. and subs. by the Constitution of (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 7. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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(vii) 
 
two members from the Senate and two members from the National 
Assembly of whom two shall be from the Treasury Benches, one  from 
each House, and two from the Opposition Benches, one from each House. 
The nomination from the Treasury Benches shall be made by the Leader 
of the House and from the Opposition Benches by the Leader of the 
Opposition: 
 
 
       Provided that during the time when the National Assembly stands 
dissolved, the remaining two members, for the purpose of this paragraph, 
shall be nominated from the Senate in the manner as aforesaid, for such 
period; 
 
 
 
Members 
1[(viii) 
 
a woman or non Muslim or a technocrat, other than a member of Majlis-
e-Shoora (Parliament), who is qualified to be member of the Majlis-e-
Shoora (Parliament), to be appointed by the Speaker of the National 
Assembly; 
Member;] 
 
1[Explanation I.- The senior amongst the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court and 
the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court shall be the Chairperson of the Commission. Their inter se 
seniority shall be determined with reference to their dates of appointment as t he Chief Justice of the 
Federal Constitutional Court and the Chief Justice of the S upreme Court otherwise than as A cting 
Chief Justice and in case the dates of such appointment are the same, with reference to their dates of 
appointment as Judges of the High Courts. 
 
Explanation II.- If a Judge may not be nominated under paragraph (iiia), one nominee each of 
the respective Chief Justices shall be placed before the Commission which shall, by the majority of its 
total membership, nominate a Judge under paragraph (iiia) from amongst the nominees. 
 
Explanation III.- If the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court or a Judge mentioned in paragraph 
(iii) is to be nominated for appointment as a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court, the next most 
senior Judge, as the case may be, shall act as a member of the Commission in his place. 
 
Explanation IV.- If a Judge appointed under paragraph (iiia) is a Judge of the Supreme Court 
and is to be nominated for appointment as a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court, anoth er Judge 
of the Federal Constitutional Court or the Supreme Court shall be nominated under clause (iiia) or 
Explanation II, as the case may be, to act as a member of the Commission in his place.] 
 
 
2[(3) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (1), or  clause (2), 1[the Chief Justice of  
Federal Constitutional Court and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court]  shall be nominated by the  
Special Parliamentary Committee, in this Article referred to as the Committee, from amongst the three 
most senior Judges of 1[the Federal Constitutional Court or the Supreme Court, as the case may be].  
The Committee shall send the name of the nominee to the Prime Minister who shall forward the same 
to the President for appointment: 
 
 
 1[* * * * * * *] 
 
 
1Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 20. 
2Subs. by the Constitution of (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 7. 
 
 Page 82 of 176   
 
 
1[Provided that if the nominee under this clause declines to become the Chief Justice, he shall 
be deemed to have retired and the three next most senior Judges shall be considered and so on till the 
appointment of the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court or the Chief Justice of the Supreme 
Court, as the case may be: 
 
Provided further that notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, the President 
shall, on advice of the Prime Minister, appoint the first Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional 
Court from amongst the Judges of the Supreme Court: 
 
Provided also and notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, the appointment of 
the first batch of Judges of the Federal Constitutional Court, shall be made by the President, on advice 
of the Prime Minister in consultation with the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court:  
 
Provided also that the second, third and this proviso shall stand omitted on the appointment of 
the first Chief Justice and the Judges under the above said provisos.]  
 
  
2[(3A) The Committee shall consist of the following twelve members, namely:— 
 
 
(i) eight members from the National Assembly; and 
 
(ii) four members from the Senate: 
 
Provided that when the National Assembly stands dissolved, the total membership of the 
Committee shall consist of the members from the Senate only mentioned in paragraph (ii) and the 
provisions of this Article shall, mutatis mutandis, apply. 
 
 
(3B) The Parliamentary Parties shall have proportional representation on the Committee, based 
on their strength in  Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), to be nominated by their  respective Parliamentary 
Leaders. The Chairman and the  Speaker of the National Assembly, as the  case may be,  shall notify 
members of the Committee. 
 
             (3C) The Committee, by the majority of not less than two-thirds of its total membership, within 
fourteen days prior to the retirement of the Chief Justice of 1[the Federal Constitutional Co urt or the 
Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, as the case may be] shall send the nomination as provided in clause 
(3) 1[.] 
1[* * * * * * *] 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 20. 
2Ins. by the Constitution of (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 7. 
 
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(3D) No action or decision taken by the Commission or the Committee shall be invalid or called 
in question only on the ground of existence of a vacancy therein or of the absence of any member from 
any meeting thereof. 
(3E) The meetings of the Committee shall be held in camera and the record of its proceedings 
shall be maintained. 
(3F) The provisions of Article 68 shall not apply to the proceedings of the Committee. 
(3G) The Committee may make rules for regulating its procedure.] 
1[(4) The Commission 2[shall] make rules regulating its procedure including the procedure and 
criteria for assessment, 2[interview,] evaluation and fitness for appointment of Judges.]  
(5) For appointment of Judges of a High Court, the Commission in clause (2) shall also include 
the following, namely:__ 
(i) Chief Justice of the High Court to which the appointment is being 
made; 
Member 
(ii) 1[Head of Constitutional Benches of that High Court] Member 
(iii) Provincial Minister for Law; and Member 
3[(iv) an advocate having not less than fifteen years practice in the High 
Court to be nominated by the concerned Bar Council for a term of 
two years 1[.]] 
      1[Explanation.—If Head of Constitutional Benches of a High 
Court is the Chief Justice of that High Court, the Judge who is next 
in seniority shall become member of the Commission:] 
Member 
 
3[1[Provided that for appointment of the Chief Justice of a High Court the Judge mentioned in 
paragraph (ii), if he is the most senior Judge of a High Court, shall not be member of the Commission:] 
 
Provided further that if for any reason the Chief Justice of a High Court is not available,  he 
shall be substituted by a former Chief Justice or former Judge of that Court, to be nominated by the  
1[Commission]1[:]] 
 
 
2[Provided also that if Article 202A has not come into force for a High Court, the most senior 
Judge of such High Court shall be a member of the Commission under paragraph (ii).] 
 
 
 
 
1Subs. and Ins. by the Constitution of (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 7. 
2Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 20. 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (Act No. I of 2011) s. 4. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Page 84 of 176   
 
 
 
(6) For appointment of Judges of the Islamabad High Court, the Commission in clause (2) shall 
also include the following, namely:__ 
 
(i) Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court; 1[*] Member 
(ii) 1[Head of Constitutional Benches of that High 
Court]1[;] 
Member 
1[(iii) an advocate having not less than fifteen years of 
practice in the High Court to be nominated by the 
Islamabad Bar Council for a term of two years; and 
Member 
(iv) a Federal Minister nominated by the Prime Minister: Member] 
 
Provided that for initial appointment of the 2[Chief Justice and the] Judges of the Islamabad 
High Court, the Chief Justices of the four Provincial High  Courts shall also be members of the 
Commission: 
 
Provided further that subject to the foregoing proviso, in case of appointment of Chief Justice 
3[and the Judges] of Islamabad High Court, the 1[Explanation and] provisos to clause (5) shall, mutatis 
mutandis, apply. 
 
(7) For appointment of Judges of the Federal Shariat Court, the Commission in clause (2) shall 
also include the Chief Justice of the Federal Shariat Court and the most senior Judge of that Court as 
its members: 
 
 
Provided that for appointment of Chief Justice of Federal Shariat Court, the provisos to clause 
(5) shall, mutatis mutandis, apply. 
 
1[(8) The Commission, by the majority of its total membership, shall nominate one person for 
each vacancy of a Judge in  3[the Federal Constitutional Court,] the Supreme Court, a High Court or 
the Federal Shariat Court, as the case may be, to the Prime Minister who shall forward the same to the 
President for appointment.] 
 
 
(9)  1[*     *  * * * * *] 
 
 
 
(10)  1[*     *  * * * * *] 
 
 
 
(11) Secretary, 1[National Assembly] shall act as the Secretary of the Committee. 
 
 
(12)   1[*     *  * * * * *] 
 
 
(13)   1[*     *  * * * * *] 
 
 
(14)  1[*     *  * * * * *] 
 
 
(15)   1[*     *  *  * * * *]  
 
(16)   1[*     *  *  * * * *] 
 
(17)  1[*     *  * * * * *] 
1[(18) The Commission in clause (2) shall conduct an annual performance evaluation of Judges 
of the High Courts. 
1Omitted, subs. added and ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 7 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (Act No. I of 2011) s. 4. 
3Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 20. 
 
 Page 85 of 176   
 
 
(19)  If the performance of a Judge of a High Court is found by the Commission to be 
inefficient, it shall grant him such period for improvement, as it deems appropriate. If, upon completion 
of the period so granted, the performance of such Judge is again found to be inefficient, the 
Commission shall send its report to the Supreme Judicial Council. 
1[(20) The Commission shall make rules for the purposes of clauses (18) and (19) within sixty 
days of commencement of the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025.] 
 (21) For the purposes of this Article and subject to the rules made by the Commission, t here 
shall be a secretariat of the Commission to be headed by a secretary and shall include such other 
officers and staff, as may be necessary. 
 
(22) One -third of the members of the Commission may requisition a meeting of the 
Commission by sending a writte n request to the Chairperson who shall convene the meeting of the 
Commission not later than fifteen days from the receipt of such requisition. If the Chairperson fails to 
convene a meeting within the aforesaid period, the secretary shall convene the meetin g within seven 
days of the expiry of the aforesaid period. 
 
 
(23) For each anticipated or actual vacancy of a Judge in  1[the Federal Constitutional Court,] 
the Supreme Court, the Chief Justice of the Federal Shariat Court, the Chief Justice of a High Court, a 
Judge in the Federal Shariat Court or a Judge in a High Court, any member of the Commission may 
give nominations in the Commission for appointment against such vacancy.] 
 
1[CHAPTER 1A.- THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTIONAL COURT 
           175B. Constitution of Federal Constitutional Court. __ (1) The Federal Constitutional Court 
shall consist of a Chief Justice to be known as the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court of 
Pakistan hereinafter referred to as the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court and as many 
other Judges as may be determined by Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) or, until so determined, as 
may be fixed by the President: 
 Provided that the Federal Constitutional Court shall have equal number of Judges from each 
Province and at least one Judge from Islamabad High Court. 
 Explanation.- In no case the number of Judges from the Islamabad High Court shall exceed the 
numbers of Judges from a Province: 
 Provided further that nothing contained in the first proviso shall effect the functioning of the 
Federal Constitutional Court. 
 (2) The President may, by Order, make necessary provisions for the matters consequential or 
ancillary to the establishment and functioning of the Federal Constitutional Court. 
            175C. Appointment of Federal Constitutional Court Judge s.- (1) The Chief Justice of the 
Federal Constitutional Court and each of the other Judges thereof shall be appointed by the President 
in accordance with Article 175A. 
             (2) A person shall not be appointed as Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court unless he is a 
citizen of Pakistan and-  
 (a)     is or has been a Judge of the Supreme Court; or  
 
1Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (ACT No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 20-21. 
 
 Page 86 of 176   
 
 
(b)     has, for a period of not less than five years, been a Judge of a High Court; or  
                                    (c)      has, for a period of not less than twenty years, been an advocate of a High Court  
and is an advocate of the Supreme Court. 
            (3) The inter se seniority of Judges appointed under this Article shall be reckoned from the date 
they enter upon the office and in case that date is same then on the basis of their age: 
Provided that a Judge of the Supreme Court, who holds t he said office on the commencement 
of the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025, shall retain his inter se seniority among 
Judges other than the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court. 
175D. Oath of Office of the Chief Justice and ot her judges of the Federal Constitutional 
Court. __ Before entering upon office, the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court shall make 
before the President, and any other Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court shall make before the 
Chief Justice, oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule. 
 
175E. Original jurisdiction of Federal Constitutional Court.__ (1) The Federal Constitutional Court 
shall, to the exclusion of every other court, have original jurisdiction in any dispute between any two or more 
Governments. 
 
Explanation.- In this clause, “Governments” means the Federal Government and the Provincial 
Governments. 
 
(2) In the exercise of the jurisdiction conferred on it by clause (1), the Federal Constitutional 
Court shall pronounce declaratory judgments only. 
(3) Without prejudice to the provisions of Article 199, the Federal Constitutional Court shall, 
if it considers that a question of public importance with reference to the enforcement of any of the 
Fundamental Rights conferred by Chapter 1 of Part II is involved, have the power to make an order of 
the nature mentioned in the said Article: 
 
 Provided that, subject to the satisfaction of the Federal Constitutional Court, the jurisdiction 
under this clause shall only be exercised if an application is filed by a person in that Court. 
             (4) All petitions which fall under this Article and appeals or review applications against 
judgments rendered or orders passed under this Article, pending or filed before the Supreme Court or 
its Constitutional Benches, prior to commencement of the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) 
Act, 2025, shall forthwith stand transferred to the Federal Constitutional Court and shall only be heard 
and decided by the Federal Constitutional Court. 
 (5) The Federal Constitutional Court may, on it s own motion or otherwise, if it considers that 
the case involves a substantial question of law as to the interpretation of the Constitution, call for the 
record of any case pending before any court and make such order in the case as it thinks fit. 
             175F. Appellate jurisdiction of the Federal  Constitutional Court .__ (1) The Federal 
Constitutional Court shall have jurisdiction to hear and determine appeals from judgments, decrees, 
final orders or sentences of a High Court as provided herein below – 
                       (a)     where an Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) so provides; 
 
 Page 87 of 176   
 
 
                                    (b)     if the High Court certifies that the case involves a substan tial question of law as 
to the  interpretation of the Constitution; or  
                                    (c)     from a judgment or an order of a High Court made under A rticle 199 only if the 
Federal Constitutional Court grants leave to appeal: 
Provided that no appeal shall lie against a judgment o r an order of a High Court made under 
Article 199, in a case which relates to rent and family except guardianship and such other matters as 
may be determined by law. 
 
(2) All petitions for leave to appeal, appeals or review applications, to which clause (1 ) apply 
or any other proceedings falling within the jurisdiction of the Federal Constitutional Court, filed or 
pending before the Supreme Court prior to commencement of the Constitution (Twenty -seventh 
Amendment) Act, 2025, stand transferred to the Federal Constitutional Court and shall only be heard 
and decided by that Court. 
175G. Review of judgments or orders by the Federal Constitutional Court. __The Federal 
Constitutional Court shall have the power, subject to the provisions of any Act of Majlis -e-Shoora 
(Parliament) and any rules made by the Federal Constitutional Court, to review any judgment 
pronounced or any order made by it. 
175H. Advisory jurisdiction. __ (1) If, at any time, the President considers that it is desirable 
to obtain the opinion of the Federal Constitutional Court on any question of law which he considers of 
public importance, he may refer the question to the Federal Constitutional Court for consideration. 
(2) The Federal Constitutional Court shall consider a question so referred and report its opinion 
on the question to the President. 
175I. Retiring Age of the Chief Justice and other judges of the Federal Constitutional 
Court. __A Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court shall hold office until he attains the age of sixty-
eight years, unless he sooner resigns or is removed from office in accordance with the Constitution: 
Provided that the term of office of the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court shall 
be three years or unless he sooner resigns or he attains the age of sixty-eight years or is removed from 
his office in accordance with the Constitution, whichever is earlier: 
Provided further that the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court on completion of his 
term of three years shall stand retired notwithstanding his age of superannuation. 
175J. Acting Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court. __At any time when__ 
(a)        the office of Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court is vacant; or 
 
(b)      the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court is absent or is unable to 
perform the functions of his office due to any other cause, 
 
the President shall appoint one of the other Judges of the Federal Constitutional Court to act as its 
Chief Justice. 
175K. Acting Judges of the Federal Constitutional Court.__ (1) At any time when__ 
(a) the office of a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court is vacant; or 
 
 Page 88 of 176   
 
 
(b)  a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court is absent or is unable to perform the 
functions of his office due to any other cause, 
the President may, in the manner provided in clause (1) of Article 175A, appoint a Judge of the 
Supreme Court or a High Court who is qualified for appointment as a Judge of the Federal 
Constitutional Court to act temporarily as a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court. 
Explanation.__ In this clause, Judge of the Supreme Court or a High Court includes a person 
who has retired as a Judge of the Supreme Court or a High Court. 
(2) An appointment under this Article shall continue in force until it is revoked by the President. 
175L. Seat of the Federal Constitutional Court .__ (1) The permanent seat of the Federal 
Constitutional Court shall be at Islamabad. 
 
(2) The Federal Constitutional Court may from time to time sit at such other places as the Chief 
Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court, with the prior approval of the President, may appoint.] 
 
 
CHAPTER 2.__ THE SUPREME COURT OF PAKISTAN 
 
176. Constitution of Supreme Court. The Supreme Court shall consist of a Chief Justice to 
be known as the Chief Justice 1[of Supreme Court] of Pakistan and so many other Judges as may be 
determined by Act of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or, until so determined, as may be fixed by the 
President 1[:] 
 
1[Provided that and notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, the incumbent 
Chief Justice shall be and continue to be known as the Chief Justice of Pakistan during his term in 
office.] 
 
177. Appointment of Supreme Court Judges.__ 3[(1) The Chief Justice of 1[Supreme Court]  
and each of the other Judges of the Supreme Court shall be appointed by the President in accordance 
with Article 175A.] 
 
 
4[(2) A person shall not be appointed as Judge of the Supreme Court unless he is a citizen of 
Pakistan and— 
 
(a) has for a period of, or for periods aggregating, not less than five years been a Judge of a 
High Court; or 
 
 
(b) has, for a period of not less than fifteen years, been an advocate of a High Court and is an 
advocate of the Supreme Court.] 
 
 
178. Oath of Office. Before entering upon office, the Chief Justice of 1[Supreme Court] shall 
make before the President, and any other Judge of the Supreme Court shall make before the Chief 
Justice, oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule. 
 
5[179. Retiring age.__A Judge of the Supreme Court shall hold office until he attains the age of sixty-
five years, unless he sooner resigns or is removed from office in accordance with the Constitution 4[:]]  
 
4[Provided that the term of the Chief Justice of 1[Supreme Court] shall be three years or unless he sooner 
resigns or attains the age of sixty-five years or is removed from his office in accordance with the Constitution, 
whichever is earlier: 
 
1Ins., subs. and added by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 22-25. 
2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.68. 
4Subs. and added by the Constitution of (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), ss. 8-9. 
5Article 179 subs. by the Constitution (Seventeenth Arndt.) Act, 2003 (Act No. III of 2003), s.6 (see also Article 267B). 
 
 
 Page 89 of 176   
 
 
Provided further that the Chief Justice of 1[Supreme Court] on completion of his term of three 
years shall stand retired notwithstanding his age of superannuation.] 
180. Acting Chief Justice. At any time when__ 
(a) the office of Chief Justice of 1[the Supreme Court] is vacant; or 
(b) the Chief Justice of 1[the Supreme Court] is absent or is unable to perform the 
functions of his office due to any other cause, 
the President shall appoint 2[1[one] of the other Judges of the Supreme Court] to act as Chief 
Justice of 1[the Supreme Court]. 
181. Acting Judges.__ (1) At any time when__ 
(a) the office of a Judge of the Supreme Court is vacant; or 
(b) a Judge of the Supreme Court is absent or is unable to perform the functions of 
his office due to any other cause, 
the President may, in the manner provided in clause (1) of Article 177, appoint a Judge of a 
High Court who is qualified for appointment as a Judge of the Supreme Court to act temporarily 
as a Judge of the Supreme Court. 
3[Explanation.__ In this clause, ‘Judge of a High Court’ includes a person who has retired as a 
Judge of a High Court.] 
(2) An appointment under this Article shall continue in force until it is revoked by the President. 
182. Appointment of ad-hoc Judges. If at any time it is not poss ible for want of quorum of 
Judges of the Supreme Court to hold or continue any sitting of the Court, or for any other reason it is 
necessary to increase temporarily the number of Judges of the Supreme Court, the Chief Justice of 
1[Supreme Court] 4[, in Consultation with the Judicial Commission as provided in clause (2) of Article 
175A,] may, in writing,__ 
(a) with the approval of the President, request any person who has held the office 
of a Judge of that Court and since whose ceasing to hold that office three years 
have not elapsed; or 
(b) with the approval of the President and with the consent of the Chief Justice of a 
High Court, require a Judge of that Court qualified for appointment as a judge 
of the Supreme Court, 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 25-27. 
2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985). Art. 2 and Sch. 
3Added by the Constitution (Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 2 of 1982), Art. 2. 
4Inserted by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (Act No. I of 2011), s. 5.  
 
 Page 90 of 176   
 
 
to attend sittings of the Supreme Court as an ad hoc Judge for such period as may be necessary 
and while so attending an ad hoc Judge shall have the same power and jurisdiction as a Judge 
of the Supreme Court. 
 
 
183. Seat of the Supreme Court.__ (1) The permanent seat of the Supreme Court shall, subject 
to clause (3), be at Islamabad. 
 
(2) The Supreme Court may from time to time sit in such other places as the Chief Justice of 
1[Supreme Court], with the approval of the President, may appoint. 
 
(3)1[* * * * * * *] 
184. 1[* * * * * * *] 
1[185, Appellate jurisdiction of the Supreme Court.  (1) Subject to this Article and Article 
175F, the Supreme Court shall have jurisdiction to hear and determine appeals from judgments, 
decrees, final orders or sentences of a High Court. 
(2) An appeal shall lie to the Supreme Court from any judgment, decree, final order or sentence 
of a High Court- 
(a)  if the High Court has on appeal reversed an order of acquittal of an accused 
person and sentenced him to death or to transportation for life or imprisonment 
for life; or, on revision, has enhanced a sentence to a sentence as aforesaid; or 
(b)  if the High Court has withdrawn for trial before itself any case from any court 
subordinate to it and has in such trial convicted the accused person and 
sentenced him as aforesaid; or 
(b)  if the High Court has imposed any punishment on any person for contempt of 
the High Court; or 
(c)  if the amount or value of the subject -matter of the dispute in the court of first 
instance was, and also in dispute in appeal is, not less than one million rupees 
or such other sum as may be specified in that behalf by Act of Majlis-e-Shoora 
(Parliament) and the judgment, decree or final order appealed from has varied 
or set aside the judgment, decree or final order of the court or tribunal 
immediately below; or 
(d)  if the judgment, decree or final order involves directly or indirectly some claim 
or question respecting property of the like amount or value and the judgment, 
decree or final order appealed from has varied or set aside the judgment, decree 
or final order of the court or tribunal immediately below. 
(3) An appeal to the Supreme Court, from a judgment, decree, order or sentence of a High 
Court in case to which clause  (2) does not apply shall lie only if the Supreme Court grants leave to 
appeal: 
_______________________________________________________________________________________ 
1Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 28-30. 
  
 
 
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Provided that no appeal shall lie to the Supreme Court in cases to which clause (1) of Article 
175F applies.] 
 
 
186. 1[* * * * * * *] 
 
 
186A.1[* * * * * * *] 
{187. Issue and execution of processes of 1[Federal Constitutional Court and] Supreme 
Court.__ (1) 2[Subject to clause (2) of Article 175,  1[the Federal Constitutional Court and]  the] 
Supreme Court shall have power to issue such directions, orders or decrees as may be necessary for 
doing complete justice in any case or matter pending before it, including an order for the purpose of 
securing the attendance of any person or the discovery or production of any document 3[:] 
 
3[Provided that no order under this clause shall be passed otherwise than in pursuance of any 
jurisdiction vested in and exercised by 1[the Federal Constitutional Court and] the Supreme Court.] 
 
(2) Any such direct ion, order or decree shall be enforceable throughout Pakistan and shall, 
where it is to be executed in a Province, or a territory or an area not forming part of a Province but 
within the jurisdiction of the High Court of the Province, be executed as if it had been issued by the 
High Court of that Province.  
 
(3) If a question arises as to which High Court shall give effect to a direction, order or decree 
of the Supreme Court, the decision of the Supreme Court on the question shall be final. 
 
188. Review of judgments or orders by the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court shall have 
power, subject to the provisions of any Act of 4[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] and of any rules made 
by the Supreme Court, to review any judgment pronounced or any order made by it. 
 
1[189. Decisions of Federal Constitutional Court and Supreme Court binding on other 
courts. __ (1) Any decision of the Federal Constitutional Court shall, to the extent that it decides a 
question of law or is based upon or enunciates a principle of law, be b inding on all other courts in 
Pakistan including the Supreme Court. 
 
(2) Any decision of the Supreme Court shall, to the extent that it decides a question of law or 
is based upon or enunciates a principle of law, be binding on all other courts in Pakistan except the 
Federal Constitutional Court.] 
190. Action in aid of 1[Federal Constitutional Court and] Supreme Court. All executive and 
judicial authorities throughout Pakistan shall act in aid of 1[the Federal Constitutional Court and] the 
Supreme Court. 
1[191. Rules of procedure. - Subject to the Consti tution and any Act of Majlis -e-Shoora 
(Parliament), the Federal Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court may make rules regulating their 
respective practice and procedure.] 
191A. 1[* * * * * * *] 
 
1Omitted, Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 31-37. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 7, (w.e.f. the 13th September, 1976). 
3Subs. and Added by the Constitution of (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), ss. 13. 
4Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
 
 
 Page 92 of 176   
 
 
CHAPTER 3.__ THE HIGH COURTS 
 
192. Constitution of High Court.__ (1) A High Court shall consist of a Chief Justice and so many 
other Judges as may be determined by law or, until so determined, as may be fixed by the President. 
1[(2) The Sind and Baluchistan High Court shall cease to function as a common High Court for the 
Provinces of Baluchistan and Sind.  
(3) The President shall, by 2Order, establish a High Court for each of the Provinces of Baluchistan 
and Sind and may make such provision in the Order for the principal seats of the two High Courts, transfer 
of the Judges of the common High Court, transfer of cases pending in the common High Court 
immediately before the establishment of the two High Courts and, generally, for matters consequential 
or ancillary to the common High Court ceasing to funct ion and the establishment of the two High 
Courts as he may deem fit.] 
3[(4)] The jurisdiction of a High Court may, by Act of 4[Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament)], be 
extended to any area in Pakistan not forming part of a Province. 
193. Appointment of High Court Judges.__ 5[(1) The Chief Justice and each of other Judges 
of a High Court shall be appointed by the President in accordance with Article 175A.] 
6[(2) A person shall not be appointed as a Judge of a High Court unless he is a citizen of 
Pakistan, is not less than forty years of age, and— 
(a) he has, for a period of not less than ten years, been an advocate of a High Court; or 
(b) he has, for a period of not less than ten years, held a judicial office in Pakistan. 
Explanation.__ In computing the period during which a person has been an advocate of a High 
Court or has held judicial office, there shall be included any period during which he has held judicial 
office after he became an advocate or, as the case may be, the period duri ng which he has been an 
advocate after having held judicial office.]  
(3) 3[*  * * * * * *] 
194. Oath of Office. Before entering upon office, the Chief Justice of a High Court shall make 
before the Governor, and any other Judge of the Court shall make before the Chief Justice, oath in the 
form set out in the Third Schedule 5[:] 
5[Provided that the Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court shall make oath before the 
President and other Judges of that Court shall make oath before the Chief Justice of the Islamabad 
High Court.] 
7[195. Retiring age. A Judge of a High Court shall hold office until he attains the age of sixty-
two years, unless he sooner resigns or is removed from office in accordance with the Constitution]. 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 8, (w.e.f. the 1st December, 1976). 
2For such Order, in respect of establishment of High Courts for Baluchistan and Sind, see the P O. No. 6 of 1976, dated the 29th November, 1976, see 
Gaz. of Pak. 1976, Ext., Pt. 1, pp.595—599. 
3Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 38-39. 
4Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
5Subs. and added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.69-70. 
6Subs by the Constitution (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 15.    
7Subs. by the Constitution (Seventeenth Amendment) Act, 2003 (Act No. III of 2003), s.7 (see also Article 267B). 
 
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196. Acting Chief Justice. At any time when__ 
(a) the office of Chief Justice of a High Court is vacant, or 
(b) the Chief Justice of a High Court is absent or is unable to perform the functions of 
his of fice due to any other cause, the President shall appoint 1[one of the other 
Judges of the High Court, or may request one of the Judges of the Supreme Court], 
to act as Chief Justice. 
197. Additional Judges. At any time when__ 
(a) the office of a Judge of a High Court is vacant; or 
(b) a Judge of a High Court is absent or is unable to perform the functions of his office 
due to any other cause; or 
(c) for any reason it is necessary to increase the number of Judges of a High Court, the 
President may, in the manner provided in clause (1) of Article 193, appoint a person 
qualified for appointment as a Judge of the High Court to be Additional Judge of 
the Court for such period as the President may determine, being a period not 
exceeding such period, if any, as may be prescribed by law. 
198. Seat of the High Court. __ 2[(l)] Each High Court in existence immediately before the 
commencing day shall continue to have its principal seat at the place where it had such seat before that day. 
3[(1A) The High Court for Islamabad Capital Territory shall have its principal seat at Islamabad.] 
4[(2) Each High Court and the Judges and divisional courts thereof shall sit at its principal seat and 
the seats of its Benches and may hold, at any place within its territorial jurisdiction, circuit courts consisting 
of such of the Judges as may be nominated by the Chief Justice. 
(3) The Lahore High Court shall have a Bench each at Bahawalpur, Multan and Rawalpindi; the 
High Court of Sindh shall have a Bench at Sukkur; the Peshawar High Court shall have a Bench each at 
Abbottabad 5[, Mingora] and Dera Ismail Khan and the High Court of Balochistan shall have a Bench at 
Sibi 6[and Turbat.] 
(4) Each of the High Courts may have Benches at such other places as the Governor may determine 
on the advice of the Cabinet and in consultation with the Chief Justice of the High Court. 
(5) A Bench referred to in clause (3), or established under clause (4), shall consist of such of the 
Judges of the High Court as may be nominated by the Chief Justice from time to time for a period of not 
less than one year. 
(6) The Governor in consultation with the Chie f Justice of the High Court shall make rules to 
provide the following matters, that is to say,__ 
(a) assigning the area in relation to which each Bench shall exercise jurisdiction vested 
in the High Court; and 
(b) for all incidental, supplemental or consequential matters.] 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985) Art. 2 and Sch. 
2Re-numbered by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985) Art. 2 and Sch. 
3Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 71. 
4Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
5Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 71. 
6Added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 71 
 
 Page 94 of 176   
 
 
199. Jurisdiction of High Court.__ (1) Subject to the Constitution, a High Court may, if it is satisfied 
that no other adequate remedy is provided by law,__ 
(a) on the application of any aggrieved party, make an order— 
(i) directing a person performing, within the territorial jurisdiction of the Court, 
functions in connection with the affairs of the Federation, a Province or a local 
authority, to refrain from doing anything he is not permitted by law to do, or 
to do anything he is required by law to do; or 
(ii) declaring that any act done or proceeding taken within the territorial 
jurisdiction of the Court by a person performing functions in connection wi th 
the affairs of the Federation, a Province or a local authority has been done or 
taken without lawful authority and is of no legal effect; or 
(b) on the application of any person, make an order— 
(i) directing that a person in custody within the territorial jurisdiction of the Court 
be brought before it so that the Court may satisfy itself that he is not being held 
in custody without lawful authority or in an unlawful manner; or 
(ii) requiring a person within the territorial jurisdiction of the Court holdi ng or 
purporting to hold a public office to show under what authority of law he 
claims to hold that office; or 
(c) on the application of any aggrieved person, make an order giving such directions to any 
person or authority, including any Government exercising any power or performing 
any function in, or in relation to, any territory within the jurisdiction of that Court as 
may be appropriate for the enforcement of any of the Fundamental Rights conferred by 
Chapter 1 of Part II. 
1[(1A) For removal of doubt, the High Court shall not make an order or give direction or make a 
declaration on its own or in the nature of suo motu exercise of jurisdiction beyond the contents of any application 
filed under clause (1).] 
(2) Subject to the Constit ution, the right to move a High Court for the enforcement of any of the 
Fundamental Rights conferred by Chapter 1 of Part II shall not be abridged. 
2[(3) An order shall not be made under clause (1) on application made by or in relation to a person who 
is a member of the Armed Forces of Pakistan, or who is for the time being subject to any law relating to any of 
those Forces, in respect of his terms and conditions of service, in respect of any matter arising out of his service, 
or in respect of any action taken in relation to him as a member of the Armed Forces of Pakistan or as a person 
subject to such law.] 
3[(3A) * * * * * * *] 
3[(3B) * * * * * * *] 
3[(3C) * * * * * * *] 
(4) Where__ 
(a) an application is made to a High Court for an order under paragraph (a) or paragraph 
(c) of clause (1), and 
 
1Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 16. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 9, (w.e.f. the 4th May, 1974). 
3Omitted by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
  
 
 Page 95 of 176   
 
 
(b) the making of an interim order would have the effect of prejudicing or 
interfering with the carrying out of a public work or of otherwise being harmful 
to public interest 1[or State property] or of impeding the assessment or collection 
of public revenues, 
the Court shall not make an interim order unless the prescribed law officer has been given notice of 
the application and he or any person authorised by him in that behalf has had an opportunity of being 
heard and the Court, for reasons to be recorded in writing, is satisfied that the interim order__ 
(i) would not have such affect as aforesaid; or 
(ii) would have the effect of suspending an order or proceeding which on the face 
of the record is without jurisdiction. 
2[(4A) An interim order made by a High Court on an application made to it to question the 
validity or legal effect of any order made, proceeding taken or act done by any authority or perso n, 
which has been made, taken or done or purports to have been made, taken or done under any law which 
is specified in Part I of the First Schedule or relates to, or is connected with, State property or 
assessment or collection of public revenues shall cease to have effect on the expiration of a period of 
six months following the day on which it is made : 
3[Provided that, for reasons to be recorded, an interim order may be extended only for a period 
upto six months.]] 
4[(4B) Every case in which, on an application under clause (1), the High Court has made an 
interim order shall be disposed of by the High Court on merits within six months from the day on 
which it is made, unless the High Court is prevented from doing so for sufficient cause to be recorded.] 
(5) In this Article, unless the context otherwise requires,__ 
“person” includes any body politic or corporate, any authority of or under the control 
of the Federal Government or of a Provincial Government, and any Court or tr ibunal, 
other than the 3[Federal Constitutional Court or the] Supreme Court, a High Court or a 
Court or tribunal established under a law relating to the Armed Forces of Pakistan; and 
“prescribed law officer” means__ 
(a) in relation to an application affecting the Federal Government or an authority of 
or under the control of the Federal Government, the Attorney-General, and 
(b) in any other case, the Advocate -General for the Province in which the 
application is made. 
 
 
 
 
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 
1Ins. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order,1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 72. 
3Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 40. 
4Clause (4B) restored by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 2. 
 
 
 
 
 
 Page 96 of 176   
 
 
1[200. Transfer of High Court Judges.- (1) The President may transfer a Judge of a High Court 
from one High Court to another High Court on the recommendation of and on such terms and conditions 
as may be determined by the Judicial Commission of Pakistan as mentioned in clause (2) of Article 175A: 
Provided that the Chief Justices of both High Courts shall also be members of the Judicial 
Commission of Pakistan for the purposes of this clause: 
Provided further that the Judicial Commission of Pakistan before making recommendation under 
this clause may hear the Judge. 
Explanation. – In this Article, “Judge” does not include a Chief Justice but includes a Judge for the 
time being acting as Chief Justice of a High Court other than a Judge of the Supreme Court acting as such 
in pursuance of a request made under paragraph (b) of Article 196. 
(2) The seniority of a Judge of a High Court transferred under clause (1) shall be reckoned from 
the date of his initial appointment as a Judge of the High Court: 
Provided that no Judge shall be transferred to a High Court where on transfer he becomes senior to 
the Chief Justice of such High Court. 
(3) Where a Judge is so transferred, he shall be entitled to such additional allowances and privileges, 
in addition to his salary and allowances, as the President may, by Order, determine. 
(4) A Judge of a High Court who does not accept a transfer under this Article shall be  proceeded 
against under Article 209 within a period of thirty days. Such Judge shall not perform his functions till such 
time the Council under Article 209 renders its decision.] 
201. Decision of High Court binding on subordinate Courts. Subject to Article 189, any decision 
of a High Court shall, to the extent that it decides a question of law or is based upon or enunciates a principle 
of law, be binding on all courts subordinate to it. 
 
202. Rules of procedure. Subject to the Constitution and law, a High Court may make rules 
regulating the practice and procedure of the Court or of any court subordinate to it. 
 
2[202A. Constitutional Benches of High Courts.— (1) There shall be Constitutional Benches of 
a High Court comprising such Judges of a High Court and for such term as may be nominated and 
determined by the Judicial Commission of Pakistan as constituted under c lause (5) of Article 175A, from 
time to time. 
 
(2) The most senior Judge amongst Judges nominated under clause (1) shall be the Head of the 
Constitutional Benches. 
1[(3) No Bench of a High Court other than a Constitutional Bench shall exercise jurisdiction vested 
in the High Court under Article 199.]  
(4) For the purposes of clause (1), a Bench, to be nominated by a committee comprising the Head 
of the Constitutional Benches and next two most senior Judges from amongst the Judges nominated under 
clause (1), shall hear and dispose of such matters. 
(5) All petitions under sub-paragraph (i) of paragraph (a) and paragraph (c) of clause (1) of Article 
199 or appeals therefrom, pending or filed in a High Court prior to commencement of the 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 41-42. 
2Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 17. 
 
 Page 97 of 176   
 
 
Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (XXVI of 2024), subject to clause (7), forthwith stand 
transferred to the Constitutional Benches and shall only be heard and decided by Benches constituted under 
clause (4). 
 (6) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution but subject to an Act of Majlis-e-Shoora 
(Parliament) in respect of the Islamabad High Court and an Act of Provincial Assembly in respect of other 
respective High Courts, a High Court may make rules regulating the practice and procedure of the Constitutional 
Benches. 
(7) This Article shall come into force, if in respect of– 
(a)  the Islamabad High Court, both Houses of *[Majlis-e-Shoora] (Parliament) in the joint 
sitting; and 
(a) a High Court, the respective Provincial Assembly, 
through a resolution passed by majority of the total membership of the joint sitting or the 
respective Provincial Assembly, as the case may be, give effect to the provisions of this Article.] 
203. High Court to superintend subordinate Courts. Each High Court shall supervise and control all 
courts subordinate to it. 
1[CHAPTER 3A  
FEDERAL SHARIAT COURT 
203A. Provisions of Chapter to override other provisions of Constitution. __ The provisions of this 
Chapter shall have effect notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution. 
203B. Definitions.__ In this Chapter, unless there is anything repugnant in the subject or context,__ 
2[(a) ‘Chief Justice’ means Chief Justice of the Court;] 
(b) “Court” means the Federal Shariat Court constituted in pursuance of Article 203C ; 
3[(bb)  ‘Judge’ means Judge of the Court;] 
(c)  “law” includes any custom or usage having the force of law but does not include the 
Constitution, Muslim personal law, any law relating to the procedure of any court or 
tribunal or, until the expiration of 4[ten] years from the commencement of this Chapter, 
any fiscal law or any law relating to the levy and collection of taxes and fees or banking 
or insurance practice and procedure; and 
5[* * * * * * *] 
203C. The Federal Shariat Court.__ (1) There shall be constituted for the purposes of this Chapter a 
Court to be called the Federal Shariat Court. 
6[(2) The Court shall consist of not more than eight Muslim 7[Judges], including the 7[Chief Justice], to 
be appointed by the President 8[in accordance with Article 175A]. 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Amendment) Order, 1980 (P.O. No. 1 of 1980). Art. 3, (w.e.f. 26th May, 1980). 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 2. 
3Ins. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 2. 
4Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
5Omitted by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 2. 
6Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1981 (P. O. No. 7 of 1981), Art. 2. 
7Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982, (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 3. 
8Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 74. 
*Corrected through corrigendum by the Legal Aid and Justice Authority (Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXIX of 2024). 
 
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1[(3) The Chief Justice shall be a person who is, or has been, or is qualified to be, a Judge of the 
Supreme Court or who is or has been a permanent Judge of a High Court 2[or a Judge of the Federal Shariat 
Court qualified to be a Judge of the Supreme Court]. 
 
(3A) Of the Judges, not more than four shall be persons each one of whom is, or has been, or is 
qualified to be, a Judge of a High Court and not more than three shall be Ulema 3[having at least fifteen 
years experience in Islamic law, research or instruction].] 
 
(4) The 4[Chief Justice] and a 5[Judge] shall hold office for a period not exceeding three years, but 
may be appointed for such further term or terms as the President may determine: 
Provided that a Judge of a High Court shall not be appointed to be a 5[Judge] 6[* * * * * *] except 
with his consent and 7[, except where the Judge is himself the Chief Justice,] after consultation by the 
President with the Chief Justice of the High Court. 
8[(4A) The 4[Chief Justice], if he is not a Judge of the Supreme Court, and a 5[Judge] who is not a 
Judge of a High Court, may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office.] 
9[(4B) The Chief Justice and a Judge shall not be removed from office except in the like manner 
and on the like grounds as a Judge of the Supreme Court.] 
 (4C) 10[*        * * * *          * *] 
(5) 10[*        *   * * *          * *] 
 
(6) The principal seat of the Court shall be at Islamabad, but the Court may from time to time sit in 
such other places in Pakistan as the 4[Chief Justice] may, with the approval of the President, appoint. 
 
(7) Before entering upon office, the 4[Chief Justice] and a 5[Judge] shall make before the President 
or a person nominated by him oath in the form set out in the Third Schedule. 
 
(8) At any time when the 4[Chief Justice] or a 5[Judge] is absent or is unable to perform the functions 
of his office, the President shall appoint another person qualified for the purpose to act as 4[Chief Justice] 
or, as the case may be, 5[Judge]. 
 
11[(9)   A Chief Justice who is not a Judge of the Supreme Court shall be entitled to the same 
remuneration, allowances and privileges as are admissible to a Judge of the Supreme Court and a Judge 
who is not a Judge of a High Court shall be entitled to the same remuneration, allowances and privileges 
as are admissible to a Judge of a High Court: 
 
Provided that where a Judge  is already drawing a pension for any other post in the service of 
Pakistan, the amount of such pension shall be deducted from the pension admissible under this clause.] 
 
203CC. [Penal of Ulema and Ulema members.] Omitted by the Constitution (Second Amendment) 
Order, 1981 (P.O. No. 7 of 1981), Art. 3, which was previously ins. by P.O. No. 5 of 1981, Art. 2. 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Order 1985 (P. O. No. 24 of 1985), Art. 4. 
2Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 18. 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 74. 
4Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 3. 
5Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 3. 
6Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 74. 
7Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 4 of 1980), Art. 2. 
8Ins. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 4 of 1980), Art. 2. 
9Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 74. 
10Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 74. 
11Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 74, and shall be deemed always to have been so, substituted. 
with effect from the 21st day of August 2002. 
 
 Page 99 of 176   
 
 
203D. Powers, jurisdiction and functions of the Court. __ (1) The Court may, 1[either of its 
own motion or] on the petition of a citizen of Pakistan or the Federal Government or a Provincial 
Government, examine and decide the question whether or not any law or provision of law is repugnant 
to the Injunctions of I slam, as laid down in the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet, 
hereinafter referred to as the Injunctions of Islam. 
2[(1A) Where the Court takes up the examination of any law or provision of law under clause 
(1) and such law or provision of law appears to it to be repugnant to the Injunctions of Islam, the Court 
shall cause to be given to the Federal Government in the case of a law with respect to a matter in the 
Federal Legislative List 3[* * * * *] or to the Provincial Government in the case of a law with respect 
to a matter not enumerated 4[in the Federal Legislative List], a notice specifying the particular 
provisions that appear to it to be so repugnant, and afford to such Government adequate opportunity 
to have its point of view placed before the Court.] 
(2) If the Court decides that any law or provision of law is repugnant to the Injunctions of 
Islam, it shall set out in its decision :__ 
(a) the reasons for its holding that opinion; and 
(b) the extent to which such law or provision is so repugnant; 
and specify the day on which the decision shall take effect 5[:] 
6[Provided that no such decision shall be deemed to take effect before the expiration of the 
period within which an appeal therefrom may be preferred to the Supreme Court or, where  an appeal 
has been so preferred, before the disposal of such appeal 7[:]] 
7[Provided further that appeal against decision given after the commencement of the 
Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (XXVI of 2024) shall be disposed of within twelve 
months whereafter the decision shall take effect unless suspended by the Supreme Court.] 
(3) If any law or provision of law is held by the Court to be repugnant to the Injunctions of 
Islam,__ 
(a) the President in the case of a law with respect to a matter  in the Federal 
Legislative List 3[* * *] or the Governor in the case of a law with respect to a 
matter not enumerated in 4[said List] shall take steps to amend the law so as to 
bring such law or provision into conformity with the Injunctions of Islam; and 
(b) such law or provision shall, to the extent to which it is held to be so repugnant, 
cease to have effect on the day on which the decision of the Court takes effect. 
 
8[* * * * * * *] 
 
1Ins. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P.O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 4. 
2Ins. by the Constitution (Amendment) Order, 1984 (P. O. No. 1 of 1984), Art. 2. 
3Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 75. 
4Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 75.  
5Subs. by the Constitution (Amendment) order, 1984 (P.O. No. 1 of 1984), Art. 2, and shall be deemed always to have been so substituted. 
6Added and shall be deemed always to have been so added ibid. 
7Subs. and added by the Constitution (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 19. 
8Omitted by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 4 of 1980), Art. 3. 
  
 
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1[203DD. Revisional and other jurisdiction of the Court. __ (1) The Court may call for and 
examine the record of any case decided by any criminal court under any law relating to the enforcement 
of Hudood for the purpose of satisfying itself as to the correctness, legality or propriety of any finding, 
sentence or order recorded or passed by, and as to the regularity of any proceedings of, such court and 
may, when calling for such record, direct that the execution of any sentence be suspended and, if the 
accused is in confinement, that he be released on bail or on his own bond pending the examination of 
the record. 
(2) In any case the record of which has been called for by the Court, the Court may pass such 
order as it may deem fit and may enhance the sentence: 
Provided that nothing in this Article shall be deemed to authorise the Court to convert a finding 
of acquittal into one of conviction and no order under this Article shall be made to the prejudice of the 
accused unless he has had an opportunity of being heard in his own defence. 
(3) The Court shall have such other jurisdiction as may be conferred on it by or under any law.] 
203E. Powers and procedure of the Court. __ (1) For the purposes of the performance of its 
functions, the Court shall have the powers of a Civil Court trying a suit under the Code of Civil 
Procedure, 1908 (Act V of 1908), in respect of the following matters, namely:__ 
(a) summoning and enforcing the attendance of any person and examining him on 
oath; 
(b) requiring the discovery and production of any document; 
(c) receiving evidence on affidavits; and 
(d) issuing commissions for the examination of witnesses or documents. 
(2) The Court shall have power to conduct its proceedings and regulate its procedure in all 
respects as it deems fit. 
(3) The Court shall have the power of a High Court to punish its own contempt. 
(4) A party to any proceedings before the Court under clause (1) of Article 203D may be 
represented by a legal practitioner who is a Muslim and has been enrolled as an advocate of a High 
Court for a period of not less than five years or as an advocate of the Supreme Court or by a jurisconsult 
selected by the party from out of a panel of jurisconsults maintained by the Court for the purpose. 
(5) For being eligible to have his name borne on the panel of jurisconsults referred to in clause 
(4), a person shall be an aalim who, in the opinion of the Court, is well-versed in Shariat. 
(6) A legal practitioner or jurisconsult representing a party before the Court shall not plead for 
the party but shall state, expound and interpret the Injunctions of Islam relevant to the proceedings so 
far as may be known to him and submit to the Court a written statement of his interpretation of such 
Injunctions of Islam. 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 5. 
  
 
 Page 101 of 176   
 
 
(7) The Court may invite any person in Pakistan or abroad whom the Court considers to be 
well-versed in Islamic law to appear before it and render such assistance as may be required of him. 
(8) No court fee shall be payable in respect of any petition or appli cation made to the Court 
under 1[Article 203D]. 
2[(9) The Court shall have power to review any decision given or order made by it.] 
203F. Appeal to Supreme Court.__ (1) Any party to any proceedings before the Court under 
Article 203D aggrieved by the final decision of the Court in such proceedings may, within sixty days 
of such decision, prefer an appeal to the Supreme Court 3[:] 
4[Provided that an appeal on behalf of the Federation or of a Province may be preferred within 
six months of such decision.] 
(2) The provisions of clauses (2) and (3) of Article 203D and clauses (4) to (8) of Article 203E 
shall apply to and in relation to the Supreme Court as if reference in t hose provisions to Court were a 
reference to the Supreme Court. 
5[(2A) An appeal shall lie to the Supreme Court from any judgment, final order or sentence of 
the Federal Shariat Court— 
(a) if the Federal Shariat  Court has on appeal reversed an order of acquittal of an 
accused person and sentenced him to death or imprisonment for life or 
imprisonment for a term exceeding fourteen years; or, on revision, has enhanced 
a sentence as aforesaid; or 
(b) if the Federal S hariat Court has imposed any punishment on any person for 
contempt of the Court. 
(2B) An appeal to the Supreme Court from a judgment, decision, order or sentence of the Federal 
Shariat Court in a case to which the preceding clauses do not apply shall lie o nly if the Supreme Court 
grants leave to appeal.] 
6[(3) For the purpose of the exercise of the jurisdiction conferred by this Article, there shall be 
constituted in the Supreme Court a Bench to be called the Shariat Appellate Bench and consisting of__ 
(a) three Muslim Judges of the Supreme Court; and 
(b) not more than two Ulema to be appointed by the President to attend sittings of the 
Bench as ad hoc members thereof from amongst the Judges of the Federal Shariat 
Court or from out of a panel of Ulema to be drawn up by the President in 
consultation with the Chief Justice. 
(4) A person appointed under paragraph (b) of clause (3) shall hold office for such period as the 
President may determine. 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 4 of 1980), Art. 5. 
2Added by the Constitution (Amendment) Order, 1981 (P. O. No. 5 of 1981), Art. 3. 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Order, 1983 (P. O. No. 9 of 1983), Art. 2. 
4Added ibid. 
5Ins. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 6. 
6Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 12 of 1982), Art. 2. 
 
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(5) Reference in clauses (1) and (2) to “Supreme Court” shall be construed as a reference to the 
Shariat Appellate Bench. 
(6) While attending sittings of the Shariat Appellate Bench, a person appointed under paragraph 
(b) of clause (3) shall have the same power and jurisdiction, and be entitled to the same privileges, as a 
Judge of the Supreme Court and be paid such allowances as the President may determine.] 
203G. Bar of jurisdiction.__ Save as provided in Article 203F, no court or tribunal, including the 
Supreme Court and a High Court, shall entertain any proceedings or exercise any power or jurisdiction in 
respect of any matter within the power or jurisdiction of the Court. 
1[203GG. Decision of Court binding on High Court and courts subordinate to it.  Subject to 
Articles 203D and 203F, any decision of the Court in the exercise of its jurisdiction under this Chapter 
shall be binding on a High Court and on all courts subordinate to a High Court.] 
203H. Pending proceedings to continue, etc. __ (1) Subject to clause (2) nothing in this Chapter 
shall be deemed to require any proceedings pending in any court or tribunal immediatel y before the 
commencement of this Chapter or initiated after such commencement, to be adjourned or stayed by reason 
only of a petition having been made to the Court for a decision as to whether or not a law or provision of 
law relevant to the decision of t he point in issue in such proceedings is repugnant to the Injunctions of 
Islam; and all such proceedings shall continue, and the point in issue therein shall be decided, in accordance 
with the law for the time being in force. 
(2) All proceedings under clause (1) of Article 203B of the Constitution that may be pending before 
any High Court immediately before the commencement of this Chapter shall stand transferred to the Court 
and shall be dealt with by the Court from the stage from which they are so transferred. 
(3) Neither the Court nor the Supreme Court shall in the exercise of its jurisdiction under this 
Chapter have power to grant an injunction or make any interim order in relation to any proceedings pending 
in any other court or tribunal. 
203I. [Administrative arrangements, etc.,] Omitted by the Constitution (Second Amendment) 
Order, 1982, (P.O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 8. 
203J. Power to make rules.__ (1) The Court may, by notification in the official Gazette, make 
rules for carrying out the purposes of this Chapter. 
(2) In particular, and without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing power, such rules may 
make provision in respect of all or any of the following matters, namely :__ 
(a) the scale of payment of honoraria to be made to jurisconsults, experts and 
witnesses summoned by the Court to defray the expenses, if any, incurred by 
them in attending for the purposes of the proceedings before the Court; 2[*] 
(b)  the form of oath to be made by a Jurisconsult, expert or witness appearing before 
the Court 3[;] 
 
 
1Ins. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1982 (P. O. No. 5 of 1982), Art. 7. 
2Omitted by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 4 of 1980), Art. 6. 
3Subs. ibid. 
 
 
 
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1[(c)  the powers and functions of the Court being exercised or performed by Benches 
consisting of one or more members constituted by the Chairman; 
(d) the decision of the Court being expressed in terms of the opinion of the majority 
of its members or, as the case may be, of the members constituting a Bench; and 
(e) the decision of cases in which the members constituting a Bench are equally 
divided in their opinion.] 
(3) Until rules are made under clause (1), the Shariat Benches of Superior Courts Rules, 1979, 
shall, with the necessary modifications and so far as they are not inconsistent with the provisions of 
this Chapter, continue in force.] 
CHAPTER 4. – GENERAL PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE JUDICATURE 
2[204. Contempt of Court. __ (1) In this Article, “Court” means the 3[Federal Constitutional 
Court or the] Supreme Court or a High Court. 
(2) A Court shall have power to punish any person who__ 
(a) abuses, interferes with or obstructs the process of the Court in any way or 
disobeys any order of the Court; 
(b) scandalizes the Court or otherwise does anything which tends to bring the Court 
or a Judge of the Court into hatred, ridicule or contempt; 
(c) does anything which tends to prejudice the determination of a matter pending 
before the Court; or 
(d) does any other thing which, by law, constitutes contempt of the Court. 
(3) The exercise of the power conferred on a Court by this Article may be regulated by law 
and, subject to law, by rules made by the Court.] 
205. Remuneration etc., of Judges.__ The remuneration and other ter ms and conditions of 
service of a Judge of 3[Federal Constitutional Court or] the Supreme Court or of a High Court shall be 
as provided in the Fifth Schedule. 
206. Resignation. __ 4[(1)] A Judge of the 3[Federal Constitutional Court or of the] Supreme 
Court or of a High Court may resign his office by writing under his hand addressed to the President. 
3[(2) A Judge of a High Court who does not accept appointment as a Judge of the Federal 
Constitutional Court or the Supreme Court or a Judge of the Supreme Court who does not accept 
appointment as a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court shall be deemed to have retired from his 
office and, on retirement, shall be entitled to receive a pension calculated on the basis of the length of 
his service as Judge and total service, if any, in the service of Pakistan.] 
 
1Added by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1980 (P. O. No. 4 of 1980), Art. 6. 
2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1985 (P. O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
3Ins. and sub. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 43-45. 
4Renumbered by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 14, (w.e.f. the 13th September, 1976). 
 
 
 
 
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207. Judge not to hold office of profit, etc.__ (1) A Judge of the 1[Federal Constitutional Court 
or of the Supreme Court] or of a High Court shall not__ 
(a) hold any other office of profit in the service of Pakistan if his remuneration is 
thereby increased; or 
(b) occupy any other position carrying the right to remuneration for the rendering 
of services. 
(2) A person who has held office as a Judge of the 1[Federal Constitutional Court or of the 
Supreme Court] or of a High Court shall not hold any office of profit in the service of Pakistan, not 
being a judicial or quasi-judicial office or the office of Chief E lection Commissioner or of Chairman 
or member of a Law Commission or of Chairman or member of the Council of Islamic Ideology, before 
the expiration of two years after he has ceased to hold that office. 
(3) A person who has held office as a permanent Judge__ 
(a) of the 1[Federal Constitutional Court or of the Supreme Court] , shall not plead 
or act in any court or before any authority in Pakistan; 1[and] 
(b) of a High Court, shall not plead or act in any court or before any authority within 
its jurisdiction 1[.] 
(c) 1[* * * * * * *] 
208. Officers and servants of Courts.  The 1[Federal Constitutional Court, the]  2[Supreme 
Court, the Federal Shariat Court  and the Islamabad High Court ], with the approval of the President 
and a High Court, with the approval of the  Governor concerned, may make rules providing for the 
appointment by the Court of officers and servants of the Court and for their ter ms and conditions of 
employment 1[:] 
1[Provided that till such time rules are made in this regard, the rules providing for  the 
appointment of officers and servants of the Supreme Court and for their terms and conditions of 
employment shall mutatis mutandis apply to the officers and servants of the Federal Constitutional 
Court.] 
2[209. Supreme Judicial Council.—(1) There shall be a Supreme Judicial Council of Pakistan, 
in this Chapter referred to as the Council. 
1[(2) The Council shall consist of— 
(a)  the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court;  
(b)  the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court;  
(c)  one next most senior  Judge each of the Federal Constitutional Court and the 
Supreme Court; 
 
 
1Subs., ins. omitted and added by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), ss. 46-48. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024). ss.20-21.  
 
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(d)  a Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court or the Supreme Court jointly 
nominated by the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court and the Chief 
Justice of the Supreme Court, for a period of two years;  
(e)  the two most senior Chief Justices of the High Courts. 
Explanation I. – The senior amongst the Chief Justice of the Federal 
Constitutional Court and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court shall be the 
Chairperson of the Council. Their inter se seniority shall be determined with 
reference to their dates of appointment as the Chief Justices of the Federal 
Constitutional Court and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court otherwise than 
as acting Chief Justice, in case the dates of such appointment are the same, with 
reference to their dates of appointment as Judges of the High Courts. 
Explanation II. – If a Judge may not be nominated under paragraph (d), the 
respective Chief Justices shall forward one nominee each to the President who shall, 
on advice of the Prime Minister, nominate one of them as a Judge under paragraph (d). 
Explanation III. – For the purposes of this clause, the inter se seniority of the 
Chief Justices of the High Courts shall be determined with reference to their dates of 
appointment as Chief Justice otherwise than as acting Chief Justice, and in case the 
dates of such appointment are the same, with reference to their dates of appointment as 
Judges of the High Courts.] 
 
1[(3) If at any time, the Council is inquiring into the capacity, inefficiency or conduct of a Judge 
who is a member of the Council, or a member of the Council is absent or is unable to act due to illness 
or any other cause, then if such member is the– 
(a)  Chief Justice or Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court or the Supreme Court, 
as the case may be, the Judge who is next in seniority below the Judges referred 
to in paragraph (c) of clause (2), as the case may be; 
(b)  Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court or the  Supreme Court referred to in 
paragraph (d) of clause (2), another Judge nominated under paragraph (d) or 
Explanation II of clause (2); and 
(c)  Chief Justice of a High Court, the Chief Justice of another High Court who is 
next in seniority amongst the Chief Justices of the remaining High Courts, 
shall act as a member of the Council in his place.] 
(4) If, upon any matter inquired into by the Council, there is a difference of opinion amongst 
its members, the opinion of the majority shall prevail, and the report of the Council to the President 
shall be expressed in terms of the view of the majority. 
(5) If, on information from any source or the report from the Commission under clause (19) of 
Article 175A 1[and Article 200] , the Council or the President is o f the opinion that a Judge  1[of the 
Federal Constitutional Court or] of the Supreme Court or of a High Court- 
(a) may be incapable of properly performing the duties of his office by reason of 
physical or mental incapacity; or 
 
1Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 48. 
 
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(b) may be inefficient in the performance of the duties of his office; or 
(c) may have been guilty of misconduct, 1[or] 
1[(d) does not accept a transfer under Article 200.] 
the Council, on its own motion or on receipt of report from the Commission under clause (19) of 
Article 175A 1[and Article 200] or on the direction of the President, shall inquire into the matter. 
(6) If, after inquiring into the matter, without unne cessary delay and in case of report or 
direction under clause (5), within six months  1[and within thirty days  in case where paragraph (d) 
applies], the Council reports to the President that it is of the opinion that – 
(a) the Judge is incapable of performing the duties of his office or is found inefficient 
in performance of the duties of his office or has been guilty of misconduct  1[or 
does not accept transfer under Article 200]; and 
(b) he should be removed from office,  
the President may remove the Judge from office. 
(7) A Judge 1[of the Federal Constitutional Court or] of the Supreme Court or of a High Court 
shall not be removed from office except as provided by this Article. 
(8) The Council shall issue a code of conduct to be observed by Judges of  1[the Federal 
Constitutional Court,] the Supreme Court and the High Courts. 
(9) Subject to the rules made by the Council, there shall be a secretariat of the Council to be 
headed by a secretary and shall include such other officers and staff, as may be necessary.] 
1[(10) Within sixty days of commencement of the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) 
Act, 2025, the Council shall make rules regulating its procedure and conduct of business.] 
210. Power of Council to enforce attendance of persons, etc. __ (1) For the  purpose of 
inquiring into any matter, the Council shall have the same power as the 1[the Federal Constitutional 
Court or the Supreme Court] has to issue directions or orders for securing the attendance of any person 
or the discovery or production of any document; and any such direction or order shall be enforceable 
as if it had been issued by the 1[the Federal Constitutional Court or the Supreme Court.] 
(2) The provisions of Article 204 shall apply to the Council as they apply to the 1[Federal 
Constitutional Court, the Supreme Court] and a High Court. 
 
 
 
 
 
1Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 48-49. 
 
 
 
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211. Bar of jurisdiction.  The proceedings before the Council, its report to the President and 
the removal of a Judge under clause (6) of Article 209 shall not be called in question in any court. 
212. Administrative Courts and Tribunals.__ (1) Notwithstanding anything hereinbefore 
contained the appropriate Legislature may by Act 1[provide for the establishment of] one or more 
Administrative Courts or Tribunals to exercise exclusive jurisdiction in respect of__ 
(a) matters relating to the terms and conditions of persons 2[who are or have been] 
in the service of Pakistan, including disciplinary matters; 
(b) matters relating to claims arising from tortious acts of Government, or any 
person in the service of Pakistan, or of any local or other authority empowered 
by law to levy any tax or cess and any servant of such authority acting in the 
discharge of his duties as such servant; or 
(c) matters relating to the acquisition, administration and disposal of any property 
which is deemed to be enemy property under any law. 
(2) Notwithstanding anything hereinbefore contained where any Administrative Court or 
Tribunal is established under clause (1), no other court shall grant an injunction, make any order or 
entertain any procee dings in respect of any matter to which the jurisdiction of such Administrative 
Court or Tribunal extends 3[and all proceedings in respect of any such matter which may be pending 
before such other court immediately before the establishment of the Administrative Court or Tribunal 
4[, other than an appeal pending before the Supreme Court,] shall abate on such establishment] : 
Provided that the provisions of this clause shall not apply to an Administrative Court or 
Tribunal established under an Act of a Provincial Assembly unless, at the request of that Assembly 
made in the form of a resolution, 5[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] b y law6 extends the provisions to 
such a Court or Tribunal. 
(3) An appeal to the Supreme Court from a judgment, decree, order or sentence of an 
Administrative Court or Tribunal shall lie only if the Supreme Court, being satisfied that the case 
involves a substantial question of law of public importance, grants leave to appeal. 
212A. [Establishment of Military Courts or Tribunals.] Omitted by S.R.O. No. 1278 (1) 85, 
dated 30-12-85, read with proclamation of withdrawal of Martial Law dated 30 -12-85 see Gaz. of P. 
1985, Ext., Pt. 1, dated 30 -12-85, pp. 431-432, which was previously added by P.O. No. 21 of 1979, 
Art. 2. 
 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 12 and shall be deemed always to have been so substituted. 
2Ins. and shall be deemed always to have been so inserted ibid. 
3Ins. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974) s. 12 and shall be deemed always to have been so inserted. 
4Ins. by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 15 and shall be deemed always to have been so inserted. 
5Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
6For such law see the Provincial Service Tribunals (Extension of Provisions of the Constitution) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXII of 1974). 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Page 108 of 176   
 
 
212B. [Establishment of Special Courts for trial of heinous offences.] Repealed by the 
Constitution (Twelfth Amendment) Act, 1991 (14 of1991), s. 1 (3), (w.e.f. 26th July, 1994), which was 
previously added by Act 14 of 1991 s. 2, (w.e.f. 27th July, 1991). 
PART VIII 
ELECTIONS 
CHAPTER 1.__ CHIEF ELECTION COMMISSIONER AND ELECTION 1[COMMISSION] 
213. Chief Election Commissioner .__ (1) There shall be a Chief Election Commissioner (in 
this Part referred to as the Commissioner), who shall be appointed by the President 2[* * *]. 
1[(2) No person shall be appointed to be Commissioner unless he has been a Judge of the 
Supreme Court or has been a senior civil servant or is a technocrat and is not more than sixty -eight 
years of age. 
Explanation 1.__ “senior civil servant” means a civil servant who has served for at least twenty 
years under Federal or a Provincial Government and has retired in BPS-22 or above. 
Explanation 2 .__ “technocrat” means a person who is the holder of a degree requiring 
conclusion of at least sixteen years of education, recognized by the Higher Education Commission and 
has at least twenty years of experience, including a  record of achievements at the national or 
international level.] 
3[(2A) The Prime Minister shall in consultation with the Leader of the Opposition in the 
National Assembly, forward three names for appointment of the Commissioner to a Parliamentary 
Committee for hearing and confirmation of any one person 1[:] 
1[Provided that in case there is no consensus between the Prime Minister and the Leader of the 
Opposition, each shall forward separate lists to the Parliamentary Committee for consideration which 
may confirm any one name.] 
(2B) The Parliamentary Committee to be constituted by the Speaker shall comprise fifty 
percent members from the Treasury Benches and fifty percent from the Opposition Parties, based on 
their strength in Majlis -e-Shoora (Parliament), to be nominated by the respective Parliamentary 
Leaders: 
1[*  *  *  *  * * *] 
4[Provided 1[*] that the total strength of the Parliamentary Committee shall be twelve members 
out of which one-third shall be from the Senate.] 
Provided 1[further] that when the National Assembly is dissolved and a vacancy occurs in the 
office of the Chief Election Commissioner, 5[total membership of the Parliamentary Committee shall 
consist of] the members from the Senate only and the foregoing provisions of this clause shall, mutatis 
mutandis, apply.] 
 
1Subs., Ins. and Omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (Act No. XXV of 2016), ss. 3-4. 
2Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 77. 
3Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 77. 
4Subs. by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (Act No. I of 2011), s. 6. 
5Subs. by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (Act No. I of 2011), s. 6. 
 
 Page 109 of 176   
 
 
(3) The Commissioner 1[or a member] shall have such powers and functions as are conferred 
on him by the Constitution and law. 
214. 2[*] Oath of Office. Before entering upon office, the Commissioner shall make before the 
Chief Justice of Pakistan 2[, and a member of the Election Commission shall make before the 
Commissioner,] oath in the form set-out in the Third Schedule. 
215. Term of office of Commissioner 2[and members]. __ (1) The Commissioner 2[and a 
member] shall, subject to this Article, hold office for a term of 3[five] years from the day he enters 
upon his office: 
1[Provided that two of the members shall retire after the expiration of first two and a half years 
and two shall retire after the expiration of the next two and a half years: 
4[Provided further that the Commissioner and a member shall, notwithstanding the expiration 
of his term, continue to hold office until his successor enters upon the office:] 
Provided 4[also] that the Commission shall for the first term of office of members draw a lot as 
to which two members shall retire after the first two and a half years: 
Provided also that the term of office of a member appointed to fill a casual vacancy sha ll be 
the un-expired term of office of the member whose vacancy he has filled.] 
5[* * *          * * * *] 
(2) The Commissioner 2[or a member] shall not be removed from office except in the manner 
prescribed in Article 209 for the removal from office of a Judge and, in the application  of the Article 
for the purposes of this clause, any reference in that Article to a Judge shall be construed as a reference 
to the Commissioner 2[or, as the case may be, a member]. 
(3) The Commissioner 2[or a member] may, by writing under his hand addresse d to the 
President, resign his office. 
1[(4)   Vacancy in the office of the Commissioner or a member shall be filled within forty-five 
days.] 
216. Commissioner 2[and members] not to hold office of profit. __ (1) The Commissioner 
2[or a member] shall not__ 
(a) hold any other office of profit in the service of Pakistan; or 
(b) occupy any other position carrying the right to remuneration for the rendering 
of services. 
(2) A person who has held office as Commissioner 2[or a member] shall not hold any office of 
profit in the service of Pakistan before the expiration of two years after he has ceased to hold that office 
1[.] 
 
1Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (Act No. XXV of 2016), ss.4-6. 
2Omitted, Ins. and added by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012), ss.3-5. 
3Subs by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.78. 
4Ins. and Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s.22. 
5Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 78. 
 
 Page 110 of 176   
 
 
1[* * * * * * *] 
2[* * * * * * *] 
217. Acting Commissioner. At any time when__ 
(a) the office of Commissioner is vacant, or 
(b) the Commissioner is absent or is  unable to perform the functions of his office 
due to any other cause, 
1[the most senior member in age of the members of Commission] shall act as Commissioner. 
218. Election Commission. __ 2[(1) For the purpose of election to both Houses of Majlis -e- 
Shoora (Parliament), Provincial Assemblies and for election to such other public offices as may be 
specified by law, a permanent Election Commission shall be constituted in accordance with this 
Article.] 
2[(2) The Election Commission shall consist of,__ 
(a) the Commissioner who shall be the Chairman of the Commission; and 
1[(b)  four members, one from each Province, each of whom shall be a person who 
has been a judge of a High Court or has been a senior civil servant or is a 
technocrat and is not more than sixty -five years of age, to be appointed by the 
President in the manner provided for appointment of the Commissioner in 
clauses (2A) and (2B) of Article 213.] 
Explanation.__ “senior civil servant” and “technocrat” shall have the 
same meaning as given in clause (2) of Article 213.] 
(3) It shall be the duty of the Election Commission 3[******] to organize and conduct the 
election and to make such arrangements as are necessary to ensure that the election is conducted 
honestly, justly, fairly and in accordance with law, and that corrupt practices are guarded against. 
219. Duties of 1[Commission]. The 2[Commission] shall be charged with the duty of__ 
1[(a)  preparing electoral rolls for election to the National Assembly, Provincial 
Assemblies and local governments, and revising such rolls periodically to keep 
them up-to-date;] 
(b) organizing and conducting election to the Senate or to fill casual vacancies in a 
House or a Provincial Assembly; and 
(c) appointing Election Tribunals 2[;] 
2[(d) the holding of general ele ctions to the National Assembly, Provincial 
Assemblies and the local governments; and 
 
1Omitted and subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (Act No. XXV of 2016), ss.6-9. 
2Omitted, subs. and added by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss.79-81. 
3Omitted by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012), s.6. 
 
 
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(e) such other functions as may be specified by an Act of Majlis -e-Shoora 
(Parliament) 1[:] ] 
1[Provided that till such time as the members of the Commission are first appointed in 
accordance with the provisions of paragraph (b) of clause (2) of Article 218 pursuant to the 
Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010, and enter upon their office, the Commissioner shall 
remain charged with the duties enumerated in paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) of this Article.] 
220. Executive authorities to assist Commission, etc.  It shall be the duty of all executive 
authorities in the Federation and in the Provinces to assist the Commis sioner and the Election 
Commission in the discharge of his or their functions. 
221. Officers and 2[staff]. Until 3[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] by law otherwise provides, 
the 4[Election Commission] may, with the approval of the President, make rules providing for the 
appointment by the 2[Commissioner] of officers and 2[staff] to be employed in connection with the 
functions of the 5[* * *] Election Commission and for their terms and conditions of employment. 
CHAPTER 2.__ ELECTORAL LAWS AND CONDUCT OF ELECTIONS 
222. Electoral laws. Subject to the Constitution, 3[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may by law 
provide for__ 
(a) the allocation of seats in the National Assembly as required by clauses (3) and 
(4) of Article 51; 
(b) the delimitation of constituencies by the Election Commission 2[including 
delimitation of constituencies of local governments;] 
(c) the preparation of electoral rolls, the requirements as to residence in a 
constituency, the determination of objections pertaining to and the 
commencement of electoral rolls; 
(d) the conduct of elections and election petitions the decision of doubts and 
disputes arising in connection with elections; 
(e) matters relating to corrupt pract ices and other offences in connection with 
elections; and 
(f) all other matters necessary for the due constitution of the two Houses 2[, ]2[*] 
the Provincial Assemblies 2[and local governments;] 
 
1Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012) ss.7-10. 
2Subs., added and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (Act No. XXV of 2016), ss.9-11. 
3Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
4Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 82. 
5Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 82. 
 
 
  
 
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but no such law shall have the effect of taking away or abridging any of the powers of the 
Commissioner or 1[the] Election Commission under this Part. 
223. Bar against double membership.__ (1) No person shall, at the same time, be a member 
of__ 
(a) both Houses; or 
(b) a House and a Provincial Assembly; or 
(c) the Assemblies of two or more Provinces; or 
(d) a House or a Provincial Assembly in respect of more than one seat. 
(2) Nothing in clause (1) shall prevent a person from being a candidate for two or more seats 
at the same time, whether in the same body or in different bodies, but if he is elected to more than one 
seat he shall, within a period of thirty days after the declaration of the result for the last such seat, 
resign all but one of his seats, a nd if he does not so resign, all the seats to which he has been elected 
shall become vacant at the expiration of the said period of thirty days except the seat to which he has 
been elected last or, if he has been elected to more than one seat on the same day, the seat for election 
to which his nomination was filed last. 
Explanation.__ In this clause, “body” means either House or a Provincial Assembly. 
(3) A person to whom clause (2) applies shall not take a seat in either House or the Provincial 
Assembly to which he has been elected until he has resigned all but one of his seats. 
(4) Subject to clause (2) if a member of either House or of a Provincial Assembly becomes a 
candidate for a second seat which, in accordance with clause (1), he may not hold concurr ently with 
his first seat, then his first seat shall become vacant as soon as he is elected to the second seat. 
224. Time of Election and bye -election.__ 2[(1) A general election to the National Assembly 
or a Provincial Assembly shall be held within a period of sixty days immediately following the day on 
which the term of the Assembly is due to expire, unless the Assembly has been sooner dissolved, and 
the results of the election shall be declared not later than fourteen days before that day.] 
3[(1A) On dissolution of the Assembly on completion of its term, or in case it is dissolved under 
Article 58 or Article 112, the President, or the Governor, as the case may be, shall appoint a care-taker 
Cabinet: 
Provided that the care -taker Prime Minister shall be 4[appointed] by the President in 
consultation with the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in the outgoing National 
Assembly, and a care-taker Chief Minister shall be appointed by the Governor in consultation with the 
Chief Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in the outgoing Provincial Assembly: 
4[Provided further that if the Prime Minister or a Chief Minister and their respective Leader of 
the Opposition do not agree on any person to be appointed as a care-taker Prime Minister or the care-
taker Chief Minister, as the case may be, the provisions of Article 224A shall be followed:] 
 
1Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act, 2016 (Act No. XXV of 2016), s.11. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 83. 
3Ins. ibid. 
4Subs. and ins.by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012) s.8. 
 
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Provided 1[also] that the Members of the Federal and Provincial care -taker Cabinets shall be 
appointed on the advice of the care-taker Prime Minister or the care-taker Chief Minister, as the case 
may be. 
(1B) Members of the care-taker Cabinets including the care- taker Prime Minister and the care-
taker Chief Minister and their immediate family members shall not be eligible to contest the  
immediately following elections to such Assemblies. 
Explanation.__ In this clause, “immediate family members” means spouse and children.] 
(2) When the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly is dissolved, a general election to 
the Assembly shall be hel d within a period of ninety days after the dissolution, and the results of the 
election shall be declared not later than fourteen days after the conclusion of the polls. 
(3) An election to fill the seats in the Senate which are to become vacant on the expi ration of 
the term of the members of the Senate shall be held not earlier than thirty days immediately preceding 
the day on which the vacancies are due to occur. 
(4) When, except by dissolution of the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly, a 2[*]seat 
in any such Assembly has become vacant not later than one hundred and twenty days before the term 
of that Assembly is due to expire, an election to fill the seat shall be held within sixty days from the 
occurrence of the vacancy. 
(5) When a seat in the Senate has become vacant, an election to fill the seat shall be held within 
thirty days from the occurrence of the vacancy. 
3[(6) When a seat reserved for women or non-Muslims in the National Assembly or a Provincial 
Assembly falls vacant, on account of death , resignation or disqualification of a member, it shall be 
filled by the next person in order of precedence from the party list of the candidates to be submitted to 
the Election Commission by the political party whose member has vacated such seat1[:]] 
1[Provided that if at any time the party list is exhausted, the concerned political party may 
submit a name for any vacancy which may occur thereafter.] 
4[* * * * * * *] 
1[224A. Resolution by Committee or Election Commission.__ (1) In case the Prime Minister 
and the Leader of the Opposition in the outgoing National Assembly do not agree on any person to be 
appointed as the care -taker Prime Minister, within three days of the dissolution of the National 
Assembly, they shall forward two nominees each to a Committee to be immediately constituted by the 
Speaker of the National Assembly, comprising eight members of the outgoing National Assembly, or 
the Senate, or both, having equal representation from the Treasury and the Opposition, to be nominated 
by the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition respectively. 
 
 
1Subs., added and Ins. by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012) ss.8-9. 
2Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s.2. 
3Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 83 and shall be deemed always to have been so inserted with 
effect from the 21st day of August 2002. 
4Clause (7) stands omitted as a consequence (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), see section 2. 
 
 
 
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(2) In case a Chief Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in the outgoing Provi ncial 
Assembly do not agree on any person to be appointed as the care -taker Chief Minister, within three 
days of the dissolution of that Assembly, they shall forward two nominees each to a Committee to be 
immediately constituted by the Speaker of the Provincial Assembly, comprising six members of the 
outgoing Provincial Assembly having equal representation from the Treasury and the O pposition, to 
be nominated by the Chief Minister and the Leader of the Opposition respectively. 
(3) The Committee constituted under clause (1) or (2) shall finalize the name of the care-taker 
Prime Minister or care-taker Chief Minister, as the case may be, within three days of the referral of the 
matter to it: 
Provided that in case of inability of the Committee to decide the matter in the aforesaid period, 
the names of the nominees shall be referred to the Election Commission of Pakistan for final decision 
within two days. 
(4) The incumbent Prime Minister and the incumbent Chief Minister shall continue to hold 
office till appointment of the care-taker Prime Minister and the care-taker Chief Minister, as the case 
may be. 
(5) Notwithstanding anything contained in clauses (1) and (2), if the members of the Opposition 
are less than five in the Majlis -e-Shoora (Parliament) and less than four in any Provincial Assembly, 
then all of  them shall be members of the Committee mentioned in the aforesaid clauses and the 
Committee shall be deemed to be duly constituted.] 
225. Election dispute.  No election to a House or a Provincial Assembly shall be called in 
question except by an election petition presented to such tribunal and in such manner as may be 
determined by Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament).] 
2[226. Election by secret ballot. All elections under the Constitution, other than those of the 
Prime Minister and the Chief Minister, shall be by secret ballot.] 
PART IX 
ISLAMIC PROVISIONS 
227. Provisions relating to the Holy Quran and Sunnah. __ (1) All existing laws shall be 
brought in conformity with the Injunctions of Islam as laid down in the Holy Quran and Sunnah, in 
this part referred to as the Injunctions of Islam, and no law shall be enacted which is repugnant to such 
Injunctions. 
3[Explanation.__ In the application of this clause to the personal law of any Muslim sect, the 
expression "Quran and Sunnah" shall mean the Quran and Sunnah as interpreted by that sect.] 
 
 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
2Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 84. 
3Added by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Order, 1980 (P.O.No.14 of 1980), Art. 2. 
 
 
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(2) Effect shall be given to the provisions of clause (1) only in the manner provided in this Part. 
(3) Nothing in this Part shall affect the personal laws of non- Muslim citizens or their status as 
citizens. 
228. Composition, etc., of Islamic Council.__ (1)    There shall be constituted1 within a period 
of ninety days from the commencing day a Council of Islamic Ideology, in this part referred to as the 
Islamic Council. 
(2) The Islamic Council shall consist of such members, being not less than eight and not more 
than 2[twenty] as the President may appoint from amongst persons having knowledge of the principles 
and philosophy of Islam as enunciated in the Holy Quran and Sunnah, or understanding of the 
economic, political, legal or administrative problems of Pakistan. 
(3) While appointing members of the Islamic Council, the President shall ensure that__ 
(a) so far as practicable various schools of thought are represented in the Council; 
(b) not less than two of the members are persons each of whom is, or has  been a 
Judge of the Supreme Court or of a High Court; 
(c) not less than 3[one third] of the members are persons each of whom has been 
engaged, for a period of not less than fifteen years, in Islamic research or 
instruction; and 
(d) at least one member is a woman. 
4[(4) The President shall appoint one of the members of the Islamic Council to be the 
Chairman thereof.] 
(5) Subject to clause (6), a member of the Islamic Council shall hold office for a period of three 
years. 
(6) A member may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office or 
may be removed by the President upon the passing of a resolution for his removal by a majority of the 
total membership of the Islamic Council. 
229. Reference by 5[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], etc., to Islamic Council. The President 
or the Governor of a Province may, or if 6[one-fourth] of its total membership so requires, a House or 
a Provincial Assembly shall, refer to the Islamic Council for advice any question as to whether a 
proposed law is or is not repugnant to the Injunctions of Islam. 
 
 
1For the notification constituting the Council of Islamic Ideology, see Gaz. of Pak..1974, Ext., Pt. II, p. 165. For the Council of Islamic Ideology (Terms 
and Conditions of Members) Rules, 1974, see Gaz. of Pak., Ext., Pt. II, p. 1727. 
2Subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Order, 1980 (P.O. No. 16 of 1980), Art. 2. 
3Subs by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 85. 
4Subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Order, 1982 (P.O. No. 13 of 1982), Art. 2. 
5Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
6Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 23. 
 
 
 
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230. Functions of the Islamic Council. __ (1)      The functions of the Islamic Council shall 
be__ 
(a) to make recommendations to 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] and the Provincial 
Assemblies as to the ways and means of enabling and encouraging the Muslims 
of Pakistan to order their lives individually and collectively in all respects in 
accordance with the principles and concepts of Islam as enunciated in the Holy 
Quran and Sunnah; 
(b) to advise a House, a Provincial Assembly, the President or a Governor on any 
question referred to the Council as to whether  a proposed law is or is not 
repugnant to the Injunctions of Islam; 
(c) to make recommendations as to the measures for bringing existing laws into 
conformity with the Injunctions of Islam  and the stages by which such 
measures should be brought  into effect; and 
(d) to compile in a suitable form, for the guidance of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora 
(Parliament)] and the Provincial Assemblies, such Injunctions of Islam as can 
be given legislative effect. 
(2) When, under Article 299, a question is referred by a House, a Provincial Assembly, the 
President or a Governor to the Islamic Council, the Counc il shall, within fifteen days thereof, inform 
the House, the Assembly, the President or the Governor, as the case may be, of the period within which 
the Council expects to be able to furnish that advice. 
(3) Where a House, a Provincial Assembly, the President or the Governor, as the case may be, 
considers that, in the public interest, the making of the proposed law in relation to which the question 
arose should not be postponed until the advice of the Islamic Council is furnished, the law may be 
made before the advice is furnished: 
Provided that, where a law is referred for advice to the Islamic Council and the Council advises 
that the law is repugnant to the Injunctions of Islam, the House or, as the case may be, the Provincial 
Assembly, the President or the Governor shall reconsider the law so made. 
(4) The Islamic Council shall submit its final report within seven years of its appointment, and 
shall submit an annual interim report. The report, whether interim or final, shall be laid for discussion 
before both Houses and each Provincial Assembly within six months of its receipt, and 1[Majlis-e-
Shoora (Parliament)] and the Assembly, after considering the report, shall enact laws in respect thereof 
within a period of two years of the final report 2[:] 
2[Provided that the final report in any case shall be considered within twelve months after it 
has been laid.] 
231. Rules of procedure. The proceedings of the Islamic Council shall be regulated by rules 
of procedure3 to be made by the Council with the approval of the President. 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.  
2Subs. and added by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 24. 
3For the Council of Islamic Ideology (Procedure Rules), 1974, see Gaz. of Pak., 1974. Ext., Pt. II, pp. 771- 773. 
 
 
 
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PART X 
EMERGENCY PROVISIONS 
232. Proclamation of emergency on account of war, internal disturbance, etc. __ (1) If the 
President is satisfied that a grave emerge ncy exists in which the security of Pakistan, or any part 
thereof, is threatened by war or external aggression, or by internal disturbance beyond the power of a 
Provincial Government to control, he may issue a Proclamation of Emergency 1[:] 
1[Provided that for imposition of emergency due to internal disturbances beyond the powers of 
a Provincial Government to control, a resolution from the Provincial Assembly of that Province shall 
be required: 
Provided further that if the President acts on his own, the Proclamation of Emergency shall be 
placed before both Houses of Majlis - e-Shoora (Parliament) for approval by each House within ten 
days.] 
(2) Notwithstanding anything in the Constitution, while a Proclamation of Emergency is in 
force__ 
2[(a)  Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) shall have power to make laws for a Province, or 
any part thereof, with respect to any  matter not enumerated in the Federal 
Legislative List 3[* * *]] 
(b) the executive authority of the Federation shall extend to the giving of directions 
to a Province as to the manner in which the executive authority of the Province 
is to be exercised; and 
(c) the Federal Government may by Order4 assume to itself, or direct the Governor 
of a Province to assume on behalf of the Federal Government, all or any of  the 
functions of the Government of the Province, and all or any of the powers vested 
in, or exercisable by, any  body or authority in the Province other than the 
Provincial Assembly, and make such incidental and consequential provisions as 
appear to the Federal Government to be necessary or desirable for giving effect 
to the objects of the Proclamation, including provisi ons for suspending, in 
whole or in part, the operation of any provisions of the Constitution relating to 
any body or authority in the Province : 
Provided that nothing in paragraph (c) shall authorise the Federal Government to assume to 
itself, or direct th e Governor of the Province to assume on its behalf, any of the powers vested in or 
exercisable by a High Court, or to suspend either in whole or in part the operation of any provisions 
of the Constitution relating to High Courts. 
 
1Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 86. 
2Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch. 
3The words “or the Concurrent Legislative List” stand omitted as a consequence of the (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 ( Act No. X of 2010), see 
section 2. 
4For such Order, in respect of N.W.F.P., see S.R.O. No. 202(I)/75, dated the 16th February, 1975, see Gaz. of Pak 1975, Ext.. Pt. II, p. 329. since 
rescinded by S R.O. No. 522(I)/75, dated the 3rd May, 1975, see Gaz. of Pak., 1975, Ext., Pt. II. p. 727; and 
For such Order, in respect of the Province of Baluchistan, see S.R.O. No. 641(I)/76, dated the 30th June, 1976, see Gaz. of Pak., 1976, Ext., Pt. II. p. 
1207 since rescinded by S. R. O. No. 1161 (I)/76, dated the 6th December, 1976, see Gaz. of Pak., 1976, Ext., Pt. II, p. 2279. 
For such proclamation issued on 28-5-1998, see Gaz. of Pak. 1998, Ext., Pt. I, p. 32. 
  
 
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(3) The power of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] to make laws for a Province with respect to 
any matter shall include power to make laws conferring powers and imposing duties, or authorizing 
the conferring of powers and the imposition of duties  upon the Federation, or officers and authorities 
of the Federation, as respects that matter. 
(4) Nothing in this Article shall restrict the power of a Provincial Assembly to make any law 
which under the Constitution it has power to make, but if any provision of a Provincial law is repugnant 
to any provision of an Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] which 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] 
has under this Article power to make, the Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)], whether passed 
before or after the Provincial law, shall prevail and the Provincial law shall, to the extent of the 
repugnancy, but so long only as the Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] continues to have effect, 
be void. 
(5) A law made by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] , which 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] 
would not but for the issue of a Proclamation of Emergency have been compete nt to make, shall, to 
the extent of the incompetency, cease to have effect on the expiration of a period of six months after 
the Proclamation of Emergency has ceased to be in force, except as respects things done or omitted to 
be done before the expiration of the said period. 
(6) While a Proclamation of emergency is in force, 1[Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament)] may by 
law extend the term of the National Assembly for a period not exceeding one year and not extending 
in any case beyond a period of six months after the Proclamation has ceased to be in force. 
(7) A Proclamation of Emergency shall be laid before a joint sitting which shall be summoned 
by the President to meet within thirty days of the Proclamation being issued and__ 
(a)    shall cease to be in force  at the expiration of two months unless before the 
expiration of that period it has been approved by a resolution2 of the joint sitting; 
and 
3[(b)   shall, subject to the provisions of paragraph (a), cease to be in force upon a 
resolution disapproving the proclamation being passed by the votes of the 
majority of the total membership of the two Houses in joint sitting.] 
 (8) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (7), if the National Assembly stands 
dissolved at the time when a Proclamation of Emergency is issued, the Proclamation shall continue in 
force for a period of four months but, if a general election to the Assembly is not held befor e the 
expiration of that period, it shall cease to be in force at the expiration of that period unless it has earlier 
been approved by a resolution of the Senate. 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
2The joint sitting passed the following resolution on the 5th September, 1973 :__ 
“That the joint sitting approves under clause (7) of Art. 232 of the Constitution read with Art. 280 thereof, the Proclamation of Emergency issued on the 
23rd day of November, 1971, and the continuance in force of the said Proclamation for the period of six months followi ng the expiration of the period 
mentioned in paragraph (a) of the said clause (7).” 
The joint sitting passed the following resolution on 10-6-1998. 
“That the joint sitting approve under clause (7) of Article 232 of the Constitution the Proclamation of Emer gency issued by the President on the 28th 
May, 1998, under clause (1) of Article 232 of the Constitution.” see Gaz. of Pak. 1998. Ext., Pt. III, p. 647. 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Act, 1975, (Act No. XXII of 1975), s. 3, (w. e. f. the 13th February, 1975). 
  
 
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233. Power to suspend Fundamental Rights, etc., during emergency period.__ (1) Nothing 
contained in Articles 15, 16, 17, 18, 19  and 24 shall, while a Proclamation of Emergency is in force, 
restrict the power of the State as defined in Article 7 to make any law or to take any executive action 
which it would, but for the provisions in the said Articles, be competent to make or to ta ke, but any 
law so made shall, to the extent of the incompetency, cease to have effect, and shall be deemed to have 
been repealed, at the time when the Proclamation is revoked or has ceased to be in force. 
(2) While a Proclamation of Emergency is in force, the President may, by Order,1 declare that 
the right to move any court for the enforcement of such of the Fundamental Rights conferred by 
Chapter 1 of Part II as may be specified in the Order, and any proceeding in any court which is for the 
enforcement, or involves the determination of any question as to the infringement, of any of the Rights 
so specified, shall remain suspended for the period during which the Proclamation is in force, and any 
such Order may be made in respect of the whole or any part of Pakistan. 
(3) Every Order made under this Article shall, as soon as may be, be laid before 2[both houses 
of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) separately] for approval3 and the provisions of clauses (7) and (8) of 
Article 232 shall apply to such an Order as they apply to a Proclamation of Emergency. 
234. Power to issue Proclamation in case of failure of Constitutional machinery in a 
Province.__ (1) If the President, on receipt of a report from the Governor of a Province 2[* *] is satisfied 
that a situation has arisen in which the Government of the Province cannot be carried on in accordance 
with the provisions of the Constitution, the President may, or if a resolution in this behalf is passed 
2[by each House separately] shall, by Proclamation,__ 
(a) assume to himself, or direct the Governor of the Province to assume on behalf 
of the President, all or any of the functions of the Government of the Province, 
and all or any of the powers vested in, or exercisable by, anybody or auth ority 
in the Province, other than the Provincial Assembly; 
(b) declare that the powers of the Provincial Assembly shall be exercisable by, or 
under the authority of, 4[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]; and 
(c) make such incidental and consequential provisions as appear to the President to 
be necessary or desirable for giving effect to the objects of the Proclamation, 
including provisions for suspending in whole or in part the operation of any 
provisions of the Constitution relating to any body or authority in the Province: 
 
1The Order suspending the right to move any court for the enforcement of certain Fundamental Rights issued vide see Gaz. of Pak., 1973, Ext., Pt. I. p. 
602, has been rescinded by S.R.O. 1093(I)/74, dated the 14th August. 1974., see Gaz. of Pak. 1974, Ext. Pt. II, p. 1548. 
2Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 87-88. 
3For the Order issued on 28-5-1998 suspending of Fundamental Rights, (See Notifications No. 7-3/98-Min. I, dated 28-5-1998. Gaz. of Pak., 1998, Part 
I, Page 31). 
The joint sitting passed the following resolution on the 6th September, 1973:__ 
“That the joint sitting approves under clause (7) of Article 232 of the Constitution, read with clause (3) of Article 233 thereof, the President's Order of 
the 14th August, 1973, made under clause (2) of the said Art. 233 and the continuance in force of the said Order for the period of six months following 
the expiration of the period mentioned in paragraph (a) of the said clause (7) of Art. 232.” 
For resolution approving the continuance in force of the President's Order of the 14th August, 1973, for a further period of six months, see Gaz. of Pak., 
1974. Ext., Pt. III, p. 343. 
The joint sitting passed the following resolution on 10-6-1998. 
“That the joint sitting approves the Order made by the President on the 28th May, 1998, under clause (2) of Article 233 of the Constitution.” see Gaz. of 
Pak. 1998. Part Ill, p. 647. 
4Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O.No.14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
  
 
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Provided that nothing in this Article shall authorise the President to assume to himself, or direct 
the Governor of the Province to assume on his behalf, any of the powers vested in, or exercisable by, 
a High Court, or to suspend either in whole or in part the operation of any provisions of the Constitution 
relating to High Courts. 
(2) The provisions of Article 105 shall not apply to the dis -charge by the Governor of his 
functions under clause (1). 
(3) A Proclamation issued under this Article shall be laid before a joint sitting and shall cease 
to be in force at the expiration of two months, unless before the expiration of that period it has been 
approved by resolution of the joint sitting and may by like resolution be extended for a further period 
not exceeding two months at a time; but no such Proclamation s hall in any case remain in force for 
more than six months. 
(4) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (3), if the National Assembly stands 
dissolved at the time when a Proclamation is issued under this Article, the Proclamation shall continue 
in force for a period of three months but, if a general election to the Assembly is not held before the 
expiration of that period, it shall cease to be in force at the expiration of that period unless it has earlier 
been approved by a resolution of the Senate. 
(5) Where by a Proclamation issued under this Article it has been declared that the powers of 
the Provincial Assembly shall be exercisable by or under the authority of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora 
(Parliament)], it shall be competent__ 
(a) to 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in joint sitting to confer on the President the 
power to make laws with respect to any matter within the legislative competence 
of the Provincial Assembly; 
(b) to 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in joint sitting, or the President, when he is 
empowered under paragraph (a), to make laws conferring powers and imposing 
duties, or authorising the conferring of powers and the imposition of duties, 
upon the Federation, or officers and authorities thereof; 
(c) to the President, when 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] is not in session, to 
authorise expenditure from the Provincial Consolidated Fund, whether the 
expenditure is charged by the Constitution upon that F und or not, pending the 
sanction of such expenditure by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in joint sitting 
; and 
(d) to 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in joint sitting by resolution to sanction 
expenditure authorised by the President under paragraph (c) 
(6) Any law made by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or the President which 1[Majlis-e-Shoora 
(Parliament)] or the President would not, but for the issue of a Proclamation under this Article, have 
been competent to make, shall, to the extent of the incompetency, cease to have effect on the expiration 
of a period of six months after the Proclamation under this Article has ceased to be in force, except as 
to things, done or omitted to be done before the expiration of the said period. 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
  
 
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235. Proclamation in case of financial emergency .__ (1) If the President is satisfied that a 
situation has arisen whereby the economic life, financial stability or credit of Pakistan, or any part 
thereof, is threatened, he may, after consultation with the Governors of the Provinces or, as the case 
may be, the Governor of the Province concerned, by Proclamation make a declaration to that effect, 
and, while such a Proclamation is in force, the executive authority of the Federation shall extend to the 
giving of directions to any Province to observe such principles of financial propriety as may be 
specified in the directions, and to the giving of such other directions as the President may deem 
necessary in the interest of the economic life, financial stability or credit of Pakistan or any part thereof. 
(2) Notwithstanding anything in the Constitution, any such directions may include a provision 
requiring a reduction of the salary and allowances of all or any class of persons serving in connection 
with the affairs of a Province. 
(3) While a Proclamation issued under this Article is in force, the President may issue directions 
for the reduction of the salaries and allowances of all or any class of persons serving in connection 
with the affairs of the Federation. 
(4) The provisions of clauses (3) and (4) of Article 234 shall apply to a Proclama tion issued 
under this Article as they apply to a Proclamation issued under that Article. 
236. Revocation of Proclamation, etc.__ (1) A Proclamation issued under this Part may be 
varied or revoked by a subsequent Proclamation. 
(2) The validity of any Procl amation issued or Order made under this  Part shall not be called 
in question in any court. 
237. 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may make laws of indemnity, etc.  Nothing in the 
Constitution shall prevent 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] from making any law indemnifying any 
person in the service of the Federal Government or a Provincial Government, or any other person, in 
respect of any act done in connection with the maintenance or restoration of order in any area in 
Pakistan. 
PART XI 
AMENDMENT OF CONSTITUTION  
238. Amendment of Constitution. Subject to this Part, the Constitution may be amended by 
Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]. 
2[239. Constitution amendment Bill.__ (1)    A Bill to amend the Constitution may originate 
in either House and, when the Bill has been passed by the votes of not less than two-thirds of the total 
membership of the House, it shall be transmitted to the other House. 
(2) If the Bill is passed without amendment by the votes of not less than two-thirds of the total 
membership of the House to which it is transmitted under clause (1), it shall, subject to the provisions 
of clause (4), be presented to the President for assent. 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
2Subs. by the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 1985 (P. O. No. 20 of 1985), Art. 3. 
  
 
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(3) If the Bill is passed with amendment by the votes of not less than two -thirds of the total 
membership of the House to which it  is transmitted under clause (1), it shall be reconsidered by the 
House in which it had originated, and if the Bill as amended by the former House is passed by the 
latter by the votes of not less than two-thirds of its total membership it shall, subject to the provisions 
of clause (4), be presented to the President for assent. 
(4) A Bill to amend the Constitution which would have the effect of altering the limits of a 
Province shall not be presented to the President for assent unless it has been passed by t he Provincial 
Assembly of that Province by the votes of not less than two-thirds of its total membership. 
1[(5) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution and any judgment of any court, 
no court shall have jurisdiction to call in question any amendment to the Constitution on any ground 
whatsoever.] 
(6) For the removal of doubt, it is hereby declared that there is no limitation whatever on the 
power of the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) to amend any of the provisions of the Constitution.] 
PART XII 
MISCELLANEOUS 
CHAPTER 1.__ SERVICES 
240. Appointments to service of Pakistan and conditions of service.  Subject to the 
Constitution, the appointments to and the conditions of service of persons in the service of Pakistan 
shall be determined__ 
(a) in the case of the services of the Federation, posts in connection with the affairs 
of the Federation and All -Pakistan Services, by or under Act of 2[Majlis-e-
Shoora (Parliament)]; and 
(b) in the case of the services of a Province and posts in connection with the affairs 
of a Province, by or under Act of the Provincial Assembly. 
Explanation.__ In this Article, “All-Pakistan Service ” means a service common to the 
Federation and the Provinces, which was in existence immediately before the commencing day or 
which may be created by Act of 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]. 
241. Existing rules, etc., to continue . Until the appropriate Legislature makes a law under 
Article 240, all rules and orders in force  immediately before the commencing day shall, so far as 
consistent with the provisions of the Constitution, continue in force and may be amended from time to 
time by the Federal Government or, as the case may be, the Provincial Government. 
242. Public Service Commission. __ (1) 2[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] in relation t o the 
affairs of the Federation, and the Provincial Assembly of a Province in relation to the affairs of the 
Province, may, by law, provide for the establishment and constitution of a Public Service Commission. 
2[(1A) The Chairman of the Public Service Commission constituted in relation to the affairs of 
the Federation shall be appointed by the President 3[on the advice of the Prime Minister.]] 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 50. 
2Subs.and ins. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 89. 
 
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1[(1B) The Chairman of the Public Service Commission constituted in relation to affairs of a 
Province shall be appointed by the Governor on advice of the Chief Minister.] 
(2) A Public Service Commission shall perform such functions as may be prescribed by law. 
CHAPTER 2.__ ARMED FORCES 
1[243. Command of Armed Forces. __ (1) The Federal Government shall have control and 
command of the Armed Forces. 
(2) Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing provision, the Supreme Command of 
the Armed Forces shall vest in the President. 
(3) The President shall subject to law, have power__ 
(a) to raise and maintain the Military, Naval and Air Forces of Pakistan; and the 
Reserves of such Forces; and 
(b) to grant Commissions in such Forces. 
2[(4) The President shall, on advice of the Prime Minister, appoint__ 
(a)  the Chief of the Army Staff concurrently the Chief of the Defense Forces;  
(b)  the Chief of the Naval Staff; and  
(c)  the Chief of the Air Staff;  
and shall also determine their salaries and allowances.] 
2[(5) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (4), the office of the Chairman, Joint Chiefs 
of Staff Committee shall stand abolished with effect from the twenty -seventh day of November two 
thousand and twenty-five. 
(6) The Prime Minister shall, on the recommendation of the Chief of  the Army Staff 
concurrently the Chief of the Defense Forces, appoint the Commander of the National Strategic 
Command from the members of Pakistan Army and shall also determine his salary and allowances. 
(7) Where the Federal Government promotes a member o f the Armed Forces to the rank of 
Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force or Admiral of the Fleet, such officer shall retain the rank, 
privileges and remain in uniform for life.  
(8) Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force and Admiral of the Fleet, being n ational heroes, 
shall not be removed from office except on the ground or charges and in the manner provided under 
Article 47.  
(9) The provisions of Article 248, as applicable to the President, shall mutatis mutandis apply 
to Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force and Admiral of the Fleet. 
 
 
1Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 89-90. 
2Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 51. 
 
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(10) Upon completion of the term of his command, under the law, the Federal Government 
shall determine the responsibilities and duties of Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force or Admiral 
of the Fleet in the interest of State. 
(11) The President shall, on advice of the Prime Minister, determine the salary, allowances and 
privileges of Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force and Admiral of the Fleet.]] 
244. Oath of Armed Forces. Every member of the Armed Forces shall make oath in the form 
set out in the Third Schedule. 
245. Functions of Armed Forces.__1[(1)] The Armed Forces shall, under the directions of the 
Federal Government, defend Pakistan against external aggression or threat of war, and, subject to law, 
act in aid of civil power when called upon to do so. 
1[(2) The validity of any direction issued by the Federal Government under clause (1) shall 
not be called in question in any court. 
(3) A High Court shall not exercise any jurisdiction under Article 199 in relation to any area in 
which the Armed Forces of Pakistan are, for the time being, acting in aid of civil power in pursuance 
of Article 245: 
Provided that this clause shall not be deemed to affect the jurisdiction of the High Court in 
respect of any proceeding pending immediately before the day on which the Armed Forces start acting 
in aid of civil power. 
(4) Any proceeding in relation to an area referred to in clause (3) instituted on or after the day 
the Armed Forces start acting in aid of civil power and pending in any High Court shall remain 
suspended for the period during which the Armed Forces are so acting.] 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Re-numbered and added by the Constitution (Seventh Amendment) Act, 1977 (Act No. XXIII of 1977), s. 4, (w. e. f. the 21st April, 1977). 
  
 
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CHAPTER 3. – TRIBAL AREAS 
246. Tribal Areas. In the Constitution,__ 
(a) “Tribal Areas ” means the areas in Pakistan which, immediately before the 
commencing day, were Tribal Areas, and includes__ 
(i) the Tribal Areas of 1[Balochistan] and the 1[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa] 
Province; 1[*] 
(ii) the former States of Amb, Chitral, Dir and Swat; 
(iii) 2[* * * * * * *] 
(iv) 2[* * * * * * *] 
(b) “Provincially Administered Tribal Areas” means__ 
(i) the districts of Chitral, Dir and Swat (which includes Kalam) 3[the Tribal 
Area in Kohistan district,] Malakand Protected Area, the Tribal Area 
adjoining 3[Mansehra] district and the former State of Amb; and 
(ii) Zhob district, Loralai district (excluding Duki Tehsil), Dalbandin Tehsil 
of Chagai district and Marri and Bugti t ribal territories of Sibi  district; 
4[*] 
 (c)  “Federally Administered Tribal Areas” includes__ 
(i) Tribal Areas adjoining Peshawar district; 
(ii) Tribal Areas adjoining Kohat district; 
(iii) Tribal Areas adjoining Bannu district; 
2[(iiia) Tribal Areas adjoining Lakki Marwat district;] 
(iv) Tribal Areas adjoining Dera Ismail Khan district; 
2[(iva) Tribal Areas adjoining Tank District;] 
5[(v) Bajaur Agency; 
 
1Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 91. 
2Omitted and ins. by the Constitution (Nineteenth Amendment) Act, 2011 (Act No. I of 2011), s.7. 
3Ins., subs. and shall be deemed to have been so inserted and substituted by the Constitution (Sixth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXXXIV of 1976), 
s. 4, (w. e. f. the 1st October, 1976). 
4Omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018) s. 8. (w. e. f. 31-05-2018.) 
5Subs. and shall be deemed to have been so subs. by the Constitution (Sixth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXXXIV of 1976), s. 4, (w. e. f. the 1st 
December, 1973). 
 
 
 
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(va) Orakzai Agency;] 
(vi) Mohmand Agency; 
(vii) Khyber Agency; 
(viii) Kurram Agency; 
(ix) North Waziristan Agency; and 
(x) South Waziristan Agency 1[; and] 
1[(d) On the commencement of the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 
2018, the areas mentioned in— 
(i) paragraph (b),__ 
(a) in sub -paragraph (i), shall stand merged in the Province of Khyber 
Pakhtunkhwa; and 
(b) in sub-paragraph (ii), shall stand merged in the Province of Balochistan; 
and 
(ii) paragraph (c), shall stand merged in the Province of Khyber 
Pakhtunkhwa.] 
247.     1[*       * * * *          * *] 
CHAPTER 4.__ GENERAL 
248. Protection to President, Governor, Minister, etc. __ (1) 2[Notwithstanding any 
judgement of any court, the] President, a Governor, the Prime Minister, a Federal Minister, a Minister 
of State, the Chief Minister and a Provincial Minister shall not be answerable to any court for the 
exercise of powers and performance of functions of their respective offices or for  any act done or 
purported to be done in the exercise of those powers and performance of those functions: 
Provided that nothing in this clause shall be construed as restricting the right of any person to 
bring appropriate proceedings against the Federation or a Province. 
2[(2) No criminal proceedings whatsoever shall be initiated or continued against the President 
for his life and for a Governor during his term of office in any court.]  
2[(3) No process for arrest or imprisonment of the President for his life and for a Governor 
during his term of office, shall be issued from any court: 
Provided that the provisions of clauses (2) and (3) shall not apply during the period the 
President holds a public office after he ceases to be the President.] 
(4) No civil proceedings in which relief is claimed against the President or a Governor shall be 
instituted during his term of office in respect of anything done or not done by him in his personal 
capacity whether before or after he enters upon his office unless, at le ast sixty days before the 
proceedings are instituted, notice in writing has been delivered to him, or sent to him in the manner  
 
1Subs., added and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth Amendment) Act, 2018 (Act No. XXXVII of 2018), ss. 8-9, (w. e. f. 31-05-2018). 
2Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 52. 
 
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prescribed by law, stating the nature of the proceedings, the cause of action, the name, description and 
place of residence of the party by whom the proceedings are to be instituted and the relief which the 
party claims. 
249. Legal proceedings. __ (1) Any legal proceedings which, but for the Constitution, could 
have been brought by or against the Federation in respect of a matter which, immediately before the 
commencing day, was the responsibility of the Federation and has, under the Constitution, become the 
responsibility of a Province, shall be brought by or against the Province concerned; and if any such 
legal proceedings were pending in any court immediately before the commencing day then, in those 
proceedings, for the Federation the Province concerned shall, as from that day, be deemed to have been 
substituted. 
(2) Any legal proceedings which, but for the Constitution, could have been  brought by or 
against a Province in respect of a matter which, immediately before the commencing day, was the 
responsibility of the Province and has under the Constitution become the responsibility of the 
Federation, shall be brought by or against the Fed eration; and if any such legal proceedings were 
pending in any court immediately before the commencing day then, in those proceedings, for the 
Province the Federation shall, as from that day, be deemed to have been substituted. 
250. Salaries, allowances, e tc., of the President, etc. __ (1) Within two years from the 
commencing day, provision shall be made by law for determining the salaries, allowances and 
privileges of the President, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker and a member of the National Assembly 
or a Provincial Assembly, the Chairman and Deputy Chairman and a member of the Senate, the Prime 
Minister, a Federal Minister, a Minister of State, 1[* *] a Chief Minister, a Provincial Minister and the 
Chief Election Commissioner. 
(2) Until other provision is made by law,__ 
(a) the salaries, allowances and privileges of the President, the Speaker or Deputy 
Speaker or a member of the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly, a 
Federal Minister, a Minister of State, 1[* * ] a Chief Minister, a Provincial 
Minister and the Chief Election Commissioner shall be same as the salaries, 
allowances and privileges to which the President, the Speaker or Deputy 
Speaker or member of the National Assembly of Pakistan or a Provincial 
Assembly, a Federal Minister, a Minister of State, 1[* *] a Chief Minister,  a 
Provincial Minister or, as the case may be, the Chief Election Commissioner 
was entitled immediately before the commencing day; and 
(b) the salaries, allowances and privileges of the Chairman, the Deputy Chairman, 
the Prime Minister and a member of the Senate shall be such as the President 
may by Order determine. 
(3) The salary, allowances and privileges of a person holding office as__ 
(a) the President; 
(b) the Chairman or Deputy Chairman; 
(c) the Speaker or Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly or a Provincial 
Assembly; 
 
1Omitted by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 13, (w. e. f. the 4th May, 1974). 
 
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(d) a Governor; 
(e) the Chief Election Commissioner; or 
(f) the Auditor-General; 
shall not be varied to his disadvantage during his term of office. 
(4) At any time when the Chairman or Speaker is acting as President, he shall be entitled to the 
same salary, allowances and privileges as a President but shall not exercise any of the functions of the 
office of Chairman or Speaker or a member of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or be entitled to salary, 
allowances or privileges as Chairman, Speaker or such a member. 
251. National language. __ (1) The National language of Pakistan is Urdu, and arrangements 
shall be made for its being used for official and other purposes within fifteen years from the 
commencing day. 
(2) Subject to clause (1), the English language may be used for official purposes until 
arrangements are made for its replacement by Urdu. 
(3) Without prejudice to the status of the National language, a Provincial Assembly may by 
law prescribe measures for the teaching, promotion and use of a provincial language in addition to the 
national language. 
252. Special provisions in relation to major ports and aerodromes. __ (1) Notwithstanding 
anything contained in the Constitution or in any law, the President may, by public notification, direct 
that, for a period not exceeding three months from a specified date, a specified law, whether a Federal 
law or a Provincial law, shall not apply to a specified major port or major aerodrome, or shall apply to 
a specified major port or major aerodrome subject to specified exceptions or modifications. 
(2) The giv ing of a direction under this Article in relation to any law shall not affect the 
operation of the law prior to the date specified in the direction. 
253. Maximum limits as to property, etc.__ (1) 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may by law__ 
(a) prescribe the maximum limits as to property or any class thereof which may be 
owned, held, possessed or controlled by any person; and 
(b) declare that any trade, business, industry or service specified in such law shall 
be carried on or owned, to the exclusion, comp lete or partial, of other persons, 
by the Federal Government or a Provincial Government, or by a corporation 
controlled by any such Government. 
(2) Any law which permits a person to own beneficially or possess beneficially an area of land 
greater than that  which, immediately before the commencing day, he could have lawfully owned 
beneficially or possessed beneficially shall be invalid. 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art. 2 and Sch.  
  
 
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254. Failure to comply with requirement as to time does not render an act invalid. When 
any act or thing is required by the Constitution to be done within a particular period and it is not done 
within that period, the doing of the act or thing shall not be invalid or otherwise ineffective by reason 
only that it was not done within that period. 
255. Oath of Office.__ (1) An oath required to be made by a person under the Constitution shall 
1[preferably be made in Urdu or] a language that is understood by that person. 
(2) Where, under the Constitution, an oath is required to be made before a specified person 
and, for any reason, it is impracticable for the oath to be made before that person, it may be made 
before such other person as may be nominated by 2[the Chief Justice of a High Court, in case of a 
Province and by the Chief Justice of Pakistan, in all other cases]. 
(3) Where, under the Constitution, a person is required to make an oath before he enters upon 
an office, he shall be deemed to have entered upon the office on the day on which he makes the oath. 
256. Private armies forbidden.  No private organisation capable of functioning as a military 
organisation shall be formed, and any such organisation shall be illegal. 
257. Provision relating to the State of Jammu and Kashmir. When the people of the State 
of Jammu and Kashmir decide to accede to Pakistan, the relationship between Pakistan and that State 
shall be determined in accordance with the wishes of the people of that State. 
258. Government of territories outside Provinces. Subject to the Constitution, until 1[Majlis-
e-Shoora (Parliament)] by law otherwise provides, the President may, by Order, make provision for 
peace and good government of any part of Pakistan not forming part of a Province. 
259. Awards.__ (1)   No citizen shall accept any title, honour or decoration from any foreign 
State except with the approval of the Federal Government. 
(2) No title, honour or decoration shall be conferred by the Federal Government or any 
Provincial Government on any cit izen, but the President may award decorations in recognition of 
gallantry 3[, meritorious service in the Armed Forces] 4[, academic distinction or distinction in the field 
of sports 2[, science, technology, medicine, arts or public service]], as provided by Federal law. 
(3) All titles, honours and decorations awarded to citizens by any authority in Pakistan before 
the commencing day other wise than in recognition of gallantry 5[, meritorious service in the Armed 
Forces] or academic distinction shall stand annulled. 
CHAPTER 5.__ INTERPRETATION 
260. Definitions.__ (1) In the Constitution, unless the context otherwise requires, the following 
expressions have the meaning hereby respectively assigned to them, that is to say,— 
“Act of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]” means an Act passed by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora 
(Parliament)] or the National Assembly and assented to, or deemed to have been 
assented to, by the President; 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
2Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), ss. 25-26. 
3Ins. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 14, (w. e. f. the 4th May, 1974). 
4Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Order, 1981 (P.O. No. 12 of 1981), Art. 2. 
5Ins. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s.14, and shall be deemed always to have been so inserted. 
 
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“Act of Provincial Assembly” means an Act passed by the Provincial Assembly of a Province 
and assented to, or deemed to have been assented to, by the Governor; 
“agricultural income” means agricultural income as defined for the purposes of the law relating 
to income-tax; 
“Article” means Article of the Constitution; 
“borrow” includes the raising of money by the grant of annuities, and “loans” shall be construed 
accordingly; 
“Chairman” means the Chairman of the Senate and, except in Article 49, includes a person 
acting as Chairman of the Senate; 
1[“Chief Justice”, in relation to the 2[Federal Constitutional Court or the]  Supreme Court or a 
High Court, includes the Judge for the time being acting as Chief Justice of the Court;] 
2[“Chief Justice of Pakistan” means the senior amongst the Chief Justice of the Federal 
Constitutional Court and the Chief Justice of Supreme Court;] 
“citizen” means a citizen of Pakistan as defined by law; 
“clause” means clause of the Article in which it occurs; 
3[* * * * * * *] 
 
“corporation tax” means any tax o n income that is payable by companies and in respect of 
which the following conditions apply:__ 
 
(a) the tax is not chargeable in respect of agricultural income; 
 
(b) no deduction in respect of the tax paid by companies is, by any law which may 
apply to the tax, authorised to be made from dividends payable by the 
companies to individuals; 
 
 
 
(c) no provision exists for taking the tax so paid into account in computing fo r the 
purposes of income-tax the total income of individual receiving such dividends, 
or in computing the income-tax payable by, or refundable to, such individuals; 
 
“debt” includes any liability in respect of any obligation to repay capital sums by way of  
annuities and any liability under any guarantee, and “debt charges” shall be construed 
accordingly; 
 
“estate duty” means a duty assessed on, or by reference to, the value of property passing upon 
death; 
 
 
“existing law” has the same meaning as in clause (7) of Article 268; 
 
 
“Federal law” means a law made by or under the authority of 4[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]; 
 
“financial year” means a year commencing on the first day of July; 
 
 
1Ins. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 15, (w.e.f. the 4th May, 1974). 
2Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 53. 
3Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 92. 
4Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
 
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“goods” includes all materials, commodities and articles; 
“Governor” means the Governor of a Province and includes any person for the time being 
acting as the Governor of a Province; 
“guarantee” includes any obligation undertaken before the commencing day to make payments 
in the event of the profits of an undertaking falling short of a specified amount; 
“House” means the Senate or the National Assembly; 
“Joint sitting” means a joint sitting of the two Houses; 
“Judge” in relation to the 1[Federal Constitutional Court or the] Supreme Court or a High Court, 
includes the Chief Justice of the Court and also includes__ 
1[(a) in relation to the Federal Constitutional Court, a person who is acting as a Judge 
of the Court;] 
1[(b)] in relation to the Supreme Court, a person who is acting as a Judge of the Court; 
and 
1[(c)] in relation to the High Court, a person who is an Additional Judge of the Court; 
“members of the Armed Forces” does not include persons who are not, for the time being, 
subject to any law relating to the members of the Armed Forces; 
“net proceeds” means, in relation to any tax or duty, the proceeds thereof, reduced by the cost 
of collection, as ascertained and certified by the Auditor-General; 
“oath” includes affirmation; 
“Part” means Part of the Constitution; 
“pension” means a pension, whether contributory or not, of any kind whatsoever payable to, or 
in respect of, any person and includes retired pay so payable, a gratuity so payable, and 
any sum or sums so payable by way of the return, with or without interest thereon  or 
any addition thereto, of subscriptions to a provident fund; 
“person” includes any body politic or corporate; 
“President” means the President of Pakistan and includes a person for the time being acting as, 
or performing the functions of, the President of Pakistan and, as respects anything 
required to be done under the Constitution before the commencing day, the President 
under the Interim Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan; 
“Property” includes any right, title or interest in property, movable or immovable, and any 
means and instruments of production; 
“Provincial law” means a law made by or under the authority of the Provincial Assembly; 
“remuneration” includes salary and pension;  
 
1Ins. and re-numbered by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 53. 
 
 
 
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“Schedule” means Schedule to the Constitution; 
 
“security of Pakistan ” includes the safety, welfare, stability and integrity of Pakistan and of 
each part of Pakistan, but shall not include public safety as such; 
 
“service of Pakistan ” means any service, post or office in connection with the affairs of the 
Federation or of a Province, and includes an All-Pakistan Service, service in the Armed 
Forces and any other service declared to be a service of Pakistan by or under Act of 
1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or of a Provincial Assembly, but does not include 
service as 2[President,] Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Chairman, Deputy Chairman, Prime 
Minister, Federal Minister, Minister of State, Chief Minister, Provincial Minister, 3[, 
Attorney-General, 4[Advocate-General,] Parliamentary Secretary] or 5[, Chairman or 
member of a La w Commission, Chairman or member of the Council of Islamic 
Ideology, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, Adviser to the Prime Minister, 
Special Assistant to a Chief Minister, Adviser to a Chief Minister] or member of a 
House or a Provincial Assembly; 
 
“Speaker” means the Speaker of the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly, and includes 
any person acting as the Speaker of the Assembly; 
 
“taxation” includes the imposition of any tax or duty, whether general, local or special, and 
“tax” shall be construed accordingly; 
 
“tax on income” includes a tax in the nature of an excess profits tax or a business profits tax. 
2[“technocract” means a person who has sixteen years of education and fifteen years of 
experience in his field.] 
 
 
(2) In the Constitution “Act of   1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)]” or “Federal law” or “Act of 
Provincial Assembly” or “Provincial law” shall include an Ordinance promulgated by the President 
or, as the case may be, a Governor. 
 
6[(3) In the Constitution and all enactments and other legal instruments, unless there is anything 
repugnant in the subject or context,__ 
 
(a) “Muslim” means a person who believes in the unity and oneness of Almighty 
Allah, in the absolute and unqualified finality of the Prophethood of Muhammad 
(peace be upon him), the last of the prophets, and does not believe in, or 
recognize as a prophet or religious reformer, any person who claimed or claims 
to be a prophet, in any sense of the word or of any description whatsoever, after 
Muhammad (peace be upon him); and 
 
(b) “non-Muslim” means a person who is not a Muslim and includes a person 
belonging to the Christian, Hindu, Sikh, Budhist or Parsi community, a person 
of the Quadiani group or the Lahori group (who call themselves ‘Ahmadis’ or 
by any other name), or a Bahai, and a person belonging to any of the scheduled 
castes.] 
261. Person acting in office not to be regarded as successor to previous occupant of office, 
etc. For the purposes of the Constitution, a person who acts in an office s hall not be regarded as the 
successor to the person who held that office before him or as the predecessor to the person who holds 
that office after him. 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
2Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (ACT No. XXXII of 2025), s. 53. 
3Ins. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 15, (w. e. f. the 4th May, 1974). 
4Ins. by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 16, (w. e. f. the 13th September, 1976). 
5Ins. by the Constitution (Sixth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXXXIV of 1976), s. 5, (w. e. f. the 31st December, 1976). 
6Subs. by the Constitution (Third Amendment) Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 24 of 1985), Art. 6. 
 
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262. Gregorian calendar to be used.  For the purposes of the Constitution, periods of time 
shall be reckoned according to the Gregorian calendar. 
263. Gender and number. In the Constitution,__ 
(a) words importing the masculine gender shall be taken to include females; and 
(b) words in the singular shall include the plural, and words in the plural shall 
include the singular. 
264. Effect of repeal of laws.  Where a law is repealed, or is deemed to have been repealed, 
by, under, or by virtue of the Constitution, the repeal shall not, except as otherwise provided in the 
Constitution,__ 
(a) revive anything not in force or existing at the time at which the repeal takes 
effect; 
(b) affect the previous operation of the law or anything duly done or suffered under 
the law; 
(c) affect any right, privilege, obligation or liability acquired, accrued or incurred 
under the law; 
(d) affect any penalty, forfeiture or punishment incurred in respect of any offence 
committed against the law; or 
(e) affect any investigation, legal proceeding or remedy in respect of any such right, 
privilege, obligation, liability, penalty, forfeiture or punishment; 
and any such investigation, legal proceeding or remedy may be instituted, continued or enforce d, and 
any such penalty, forfeiture or punishment may be imposed, as if the law had not been repealed. 
CHAPTER 6.__ TITLE, COMMENCEMENT AND REPEAL 
265. Title of Constitution and commencement.__ (1) This Constitution shall be known as the 
Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. 
(2) Subject to clauses (3) and (4), the Constitution shall come into force on the fourteenth day 
of August, one thousand nine hundred and seventy -three or on such earlier day as the President may, 
by notification in the of ficial Gazette, appoint, in the Constitution referred to as the “commencing 
day”. 
(3) The Constitution shall, to the extent necessary__ 
(a) for the constitution of the first Senate; 
(b) for the first meeting of a House or a joint sitting to be held; 
(c) for the election of the President and the Prime Minister to be held; and 
  
 
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(d) to enable any other thing to be done which, for the purposes of the Constitution, 
it is necessary to do before the commencing day, 
come into force upon the enactment of the Constitution, but the person elected as President or Prime 
Minister shall not enter upon his office before the commencing day. 
(4) Where by the Constitution a power is conferred to make rules or to issue orders with respect 
to the enforcement of any provision thereof, or with respect to the establishment of any court or office, 
or the appointment of any Judge or officer there-under, or with respect to the person by whom, or the 
time when, or the place where, or the manner in which, anything is to be done under any such provision, 
then that power may be exercised at any time between the enactment of the Constitution and its 
commencement. 
266. Repeal. The Interim Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, together with the 
Acts and President's Orders making omissions from, additions to, modifications of, or amendments in, 
that Constitution is hereby repealed. 
CHAPTER 7.__ TRANSITIONAL 
267. Power of President to remove difficulties.__ (1) At any time before the commencing day 
or before the expiration of three months from the commencing day, the President may, for the purpose 
of removing any difficulties, or for bringing the provisions of the Constitution into effective operation, 
by Order, direct that the provisions of the Constitution shall, during such period as may be specified 
in the Order, have effect, subject to such adaptations, whether by way of modification, addition or 
omission, as he may deem to be necessary or expedient. 
(2) An Order made under clause (1) shall be laid before both Houses without undue delay, and 
shall remain in force until a resolution disapproving it is passed by each House or, in case of 
disagreement between the two Houses, until such resolution is passed at a joint sitting. 
1[267A. Power to remove difficulties. __ (1) If any difficulty arises in giving effect to the 
provisions of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010, hereinafter in this Article referred 
to as the Act, or for bringing the provisions of the Act into effective operation, the matter shall be laid 
before both Houses in a joint sitting which may by a resolution direct that the provisions of the Act 
shall, during such period as may be specified in the resolution, have effect, subject to such adaptations, 
whether by way of modification, addition or omission, as may be deemed necessary or expedient: 
Provided that this power shall be available for a period of one year  from the commencement 
of the Act. 
267B. Removal of doubt. __ For removal of doubt it is hereby declared that Article 152A 
omitted and Articles 179 and 195 substituted by the Constitution (Seventeenth Amendment) Act, 2003 
(Act No. III of 2003), notwithstanding its repeal, shall be deemed always to have been so omitted and 
substituted.] 
268. Continuance in force, and adaptation of certain laws.__ (1) Except as provided by this 
Article, all existing laws shall, subject to the Constitution, continue in force, so far as applicable and 
with the necessary adaptations, until altered, repealed or amended by the appropriate Legislature. 
 
1Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 93. 
  
 
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1[* * * * * * *] 
(3) For the purpose of bringing the provisions of any existing law into accord with the 
provisions of the Constitution (other than Part II of the Consti tution), the President may by Order, 
within a period of two years from the commencing day, make such adaptations, whether by way of 
modification, addition or omission, as he may deem to be necessary or expedient, and any such Order 
may be made so as to have effect from such day, not being a day earlier than the commencing day, as 
may be specified in the Order. 
(4) The President may 2authorise the Governor of a Province to exercise, in relation to the 
Province, the powers conferred on the President by clause  (3) in respect of laws relating to matters 
with respect to which the Provincial Assembly has power to make laws. 
(5) The powers exercisable under clauses (3) and (4) shall be subject to the provisions of an 
Act of the appropriate Legislature. 
(6) Any court, tribunal or authority required or empowered to enforce an existing law shall, 
notwithstanding that no adaptations have been made in such law by an Order made under clause (3) or 
clause (4), construe the law with all such adaptations as are necessary to bring it into accord with the 
provisions of the Constitution. 
(7) In this Article, “existing laws” means all laws (including Ordinances, Orders -in-Council, 
Orders, rules, bye-laws, regulations and Letters Patent constituting a High Court, and any notifications 
and other legal instruments having the force of law) in force in Pakistan or any part thereof, or having 
extra-territorial validity, immediately before the commencing day. 
Explanation.– In this Article, “in force”, in relation to any law, means having effect as law 
whether or not the law has been brought into operation. 
269. Validation of law, acts, etc. __ (1) All Proclamations, President's Orders, Martial Law 
Regulations, Martial Law Orders and all other laws made between the twentieth day of December, one 
thousand nine hundred and seventy-one and the twentieth day of April, one thousand nine hundred and 
seventy- two (both days inclusive), are hereby declared , notwithstanding any judgment of any court, 
to have been validly made by competent authority and shall not be called in question in any court on 
any ground whatsoever. 
(2) All orders made, proceedings taken and acts done by any authority, or by any person, which 
were made, taken or done, or purported to have been made, taken or done, between the twentieth day 
of December, one thousand nine hundred and seventy -one, and the twentieth day of Ap ril, one 
thousand nine hundred and seventy-two (both days inclusive), in exercise of the powers derived from 
any President's Orders, Martial Law Regulations, Martial Law Orders, enactments, notifications, rules, 
orders or bye -laws, or in execution of any o rders made or sentences passed by any authority in the 
exercise or purported exercise of powers as aforesaid, shall, notwithstanding any judgment of any 
court, be deemed to be and always to have been validly made, taken or done and shall not be called in 
question in any court on any ground whatsoever. 
(3) No suit or other legal proceedings shall lie in any court against any authority or any person 
for or on account of or in respect of any order made, proceedings taken or act done whether in the  
 
1Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 94. 
2For such authorization, see Gaz. of Pak., 1973, Ext., Pt. II, p. 2001. 
 
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exercise or purported exercise of the powers referred to in clause (2) or in execution of or in compliance 
with orders made or sentences passed in exercise or purported exercise of such powers. 
270. Temporary validation of certain laws, etc. __ (1) 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] may 
by law made in the manner prescribed for legislation for a matter in Part I of the Federal Legislative 
List validate all Proclamations, President's Orders, Martial Law Regulations, Martial Law Orders and 
other laws made between the  twenty-fifth day of March, one thousand nine hundred and sixty -nine, 
and the nineteenth day of December, one thousand nine hundred and seventy - one (both days 
inclusive). 
(2) Notwithstanding a judgment of any court, a law made by 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] 
under clause (1) shall not be questioned in any court on any ground, whatsoever. 
 
(3) Notwithstanding the provisions of clause (1), and a judgment of any court to the contrary, 
for a period of two years from the commencing day, the validity of all such instruments as are referred 
to in clause (1) shall not be called in question before any court on any ground whatsoever. 
(4) All orders made, proceedings taken, and acts done by any authority, or any person, which 
were made, taken or done, or purported to hav e been made, taken or done, between the twenty -fifth 
day of March, one thousand nine hundred and sixty -nine and nineteenth day of December, one 
thousand nine hundred and seventy-one (both days inclusive), in exercise of powers derived from any 
President’s Orders, Martial Law Regulations, Martial Law Orders, enactments, notifications, rules, 
orders or bye -laws, or in execution of any order made or sentence passed by any authority in the 
exercise or purported exercise of power as aforesaid shall, notwithstanding any judgment of any court, 
be deemed to be and always to have been validly made, taken or done, so however that any such order, 
proceeding or act may be declared invalid by 1[Majlis-e- Shoora (Parliament)] at any time within a 
period of two years from the commencing day by resolution of both Houses, or in case of disagreement 
between the two Houses, by such resolution passed at a joint sitting and shall not be called in question 
before any court on any ground, whatsoever. 
2[3[270A. Affirmation of President’s Orders, etc. __ (1) The Proclamation of the fifth day of 
July, 1977, all President's Orders, Ordinances,   Martial Law Regulations,   Martial Law Orders, 
including the Referendum Order, 1984 (P.O. No. 11 of 1984), 4[* * * * * *  *] the Revival of the 
Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), the Constitution (Second Amendment) Order, 
1985 (P.O. No. 20 of 1985), the Constitution (Third Amendment) Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 24 of 1985), 
and all other laws made between the fifth day of July, 1977, and the date on which this Article comes 
into force are hereby affirmed, adopted and declared, notwithstanding any judgement of any court, to 
have been validly made by competent aut hority and, notwith standing anything contained in th e 
Constitution, shall not be called in question in any court on any ground whatsoever : 
Provided that a President’ s Order, Martial Law Regulation or Martial Law Order made after 
the thirtieth day of September, 1985, shall be confined only to making such provisions as facilitate, or 
are incidental to, the revocation of the Proclamation of the fifth day of July, 1977. 
(2) All orders made, proceedings taken and acts done by any authority or by any person, which 
were made, taken or done, or purported to have been made, taken or done, between the fifth day of 
July, 1977, and the date on which this Article comes into force, in exercise of the powers derived from  
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
2Ins. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Eighth Amendment) Act. 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985) s. 19, for “Art. 270A” (w. e. f. 30-12-1985) vide S. R. O. No. 1279 
(1)/85, dated 29-12-85 read with Proclamation of Withdrawal of Martial Law, dated 30-12-85, see Gaz. of Pak., 1985, Ext., Pt. 1. pp. 431-432. 
4Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 95. 
 
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any Proclamation, President’ s Orders, Ordinances, Martial Law Regulations, Martial Law Orders, 
enactments, notifications, rules, orders or bye-laws, or in execution of or in compliance with any order 
made or sentence passed by any authority in the exercise or purported exercise of powers as aforesaid, 
shall, notwithstanding any judgement of any court, be deemed to be and always to have been validly 
made, taken or done and shall not be called in question in any court on any ground whatsoever. 
(3) All President’ s Orders, Ordinances, Martial Law Regulations, Martial Law Orders, 
enactments, notifications, rules, orders, or bye -laws, in force immediately before the date * on which 
this Article comes into force shall continue in force until altered, repealed or amended  by competent 
authority. 
Explanation.__ In this clause, “competent authority” means,__ 
(a) in respect of President’s Order’s, Ordinances, Martial Law Regulations, Martial 
Law Orders and enactments, the appropriate Legislature; and 
(b) in respect of notifications, rules, orders and bye-laws, the authority in which the 
power to make, alter, repeal or amend the same vests under the law. 
(4) No suit, prosecution or other legal proceedings shall lie in any court against any authority 
or any person, for or  on account of or in respect of any order made, proceedings taken or act done 
whether in the exercise or purported exercise of the powers referred to in clause (2) or in execution of 
or in compliance with orders made or sentences passed in exercise or purp orted exercise of such 
powers. 
(5) For the purposes of clauses (1), (2) and (4), all orders made, proceedings taken, acts done 
or purporting to be made, taken or done by any authority or person shall be deemed to have been made, 
taken or done in good faith and for the purpose intended to be served thereby. 
 
1[(6) The laws referred to in clause (1) may be amended by the appropriate Legislature in the 
manner provided for amendment of such laws. 
 
Explanation.__ In this Article, “President’s Orders” includes “President and Chief Martial Law 
Administrator’s Order” and “Chief Martial Law Administrator’s Orders.] 
1[270AA. Declaration and continuance of laws etc.__ (1) The Proclamation of Emergency of 
the fourteenth day of October, 1999, the Provisional Constituti on Order No. 1 of 1999, the Oath of 
Office (Judges) Order, 2000 ( No. 1 of 2000), Chief Executive’ s Order No. 12 of 2002, C hief 
Executive’s Order No. 19 of 2002, the amendment s made in the Constitution through the Legal 
Framework Order, 2002 (Chief Executive’s Order No. 24 of 2002), the Legal Framework 
(Amendment) Order, 2002 (Chief Executive’ s Order No. 29 of 2002) and the Legal Framework 
(Second Amendment) Order, 2002 (Chief E xecutive’s Order No. 32 of 2002), notwithstanding any 
judgement of any court including the Supreme Court or a High Court, are hereby declared as having 
been made without lawful authority and of no legal effect. 
(2) Except as provided in clause (1) and subject to the provisions of the Constitution 
(Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 201 0, all laws including President’s Orders, Acts, Ordinances, Chief 
Executive’s Orders, regulations, enactments, notifications, rules, orders or bye-laws made between the 
twelfth day of October, one thousand nine hundred and ninety -nine and the thirty -first day of 
December, two thousand and three (both days inclusive) and still in force shall, continue to be in force 
until altered, repealed or amended by the competent authority. 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010, (Act No. X of 2010), ss. 95-96. 
*Article. 270A subs. by the Constitution (Eight Amendment) Act, 1985 (Act No. XVIII of 1985), which received President’s assent on 09-11-1985, 
came into force on 09-11-1985. 
 
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Explanation.__ For the purposes of clause (2) and clause (6), “competent authority” means,__ 
(a) in respect of Presidents’ Orders, Ordinances, Chief Executive’s Orders and all 
other laws, the appropriate Legislature; and 
(b) in respect of notification, rules, orders and bye-laws, the authority in which the 
power to make, alter, repeal or amend the same vests under the law. 
(3) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution or clause (1), or judgement of any 
court including the Supreme Court or a High Court,__ 
(a) Judges of the Supreme Court, High Courts and Federal Shariat Court who were 
holding the office of a Judge or were appointed as such, and had taken oath 
under the Oath of Office (Judges) Order, 2000, (1 of 2000), shall be deemed to 
have continued to hold the office as a Judge or to have been appointed as such, 
as the case may be, under the Constitution, and such continuance or 
appointment, shall have effect accordingly. 
(b) Judges of the Supreme Court, High Courts and Federal Shariat Court who not 
having been given or taken oath under the Oath of Office of (Judges) Order, 
2000 (1 of 2000), and ceased to hold the office of a Judge shall, for the purposes 
of pensionary benefits only, be deemed to have continued to hold office under 
the Constitution till their date of superannuation. 
 
(4) All orders made, proceedings taken, appointments made, including secondments and 
deputations, and acts done by a ny authority, or by any person which were made, taken or done, or 
purported to have been made, taken or done, betwe en the twelfth day of October, one thousan d nine 
hundred and ninety -nine and the thirty first day of December, two thousand and three (both days 
inclusive), in exercise of the powers derived from any authority or laws mentioned in clause (2), or in 
execution of or in compliance with any orders made or sentences passed by any authority in the 
exercise or purported exercise of powers as aforesaid, shall, notwithstanding anything contained in 
clause (1), be deemed to be valid and shall not be called in questio n in any court or forum on any 
ground whatsoever. 
(5) No suit, prosecution or other legal proceedings , including writ petitions, shall lie in any 
court or forum against any authority or any person, for or on account of or in respect of any order 
made, Proc eedings taken or act done whether in the exercise or purported exercise of the powers 
referred to in clause (2) or clause (4) or in execution of or in compliance with orders made or sentences 
passed in exercise or purported exercise of such powers. 
(6) Notwithstanding omission of the Concurrent Legislative List by the Constitution 
(Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010, all laws with respect to any of the matters enumerated in the said 
List (including Ordinances, Orders, rules, bye -laws, regulations and notificat ions and  other legal 
instruments having the force of law) in force in Pakistan or any part thereof, or having extra-territorial 
operation, immediately before the commencement of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act , 
2010, shall continue to remain in force until altered, repealed or amended by the competent authority. 
(7) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, all taxes and fees levied under any 
law in force immediately before the commencement of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 
2010, shall continue to be levied until they are varied or abolished by an Act of the appropriate 
 
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legislature. 
(8) On the omission of the Concurrent Legislative List, the process of devolution of the matters 
mentioned in the said List to the Provinces shall be completed by the thirtieth day of June, two thousand 
and eleven. 
 
(9) For purposes of the devolution process under clause (8), the Federal Government shall 
constitute an Implementation Commission as it may deem fit within fifteen days of the commencement 
of the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010.] 
 
270AAA. 1[Validation and affirmation of laws etc.] 
 
270B. Elections to be deemed to be held under Constitution.  Notwithstanding anything 
contained in the Constitution, the elections held under the Houses of (Parliament) and Provincial 
Assemblies (Elections) Order, 1977, 2[and the Conduct of General Elections Order, 2002 (Chief 
Executive's Order No. 7 of 2002),] to t he Houses and the Provincial Assemblies shall be deemed to 
have been held under the Constitution and shall have effect accordingly.] 
3[270BB. General Elections 2008.__ Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution 
or any other law for the time being in force, the General Elections 2008, to the National Assembly and 
the Provincial Assemblies held on the eighteenth day of February, two thousand and eight shall be 
deemed to have been held under the Constitution and shall have effect accordingly.] 
270C. 4[* * * * * * *] 
5[271. First National Assembly.__ (1) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution 
but subject to 6[Article 63,] Article 64 and Article 223,__ 
6[(a) the first National Assembly shall consist of__ 
(i) persons who have taken oath in the National Assembly of Pakistan 
existing immediately before the commencing day, and 
(ii) the persons to be elected in accordance with law by the members of the 
Assembly to fill the seats referred to in clause (2A) of Article 51, 
and, unless sooner dissolved, shall continue until the fourteenth day of August, one thousand 
nine hundred and seventy-seven; and reference to ‘total membership’ of the National Assembly 
in the Constitution shall be construed accordingly;] 
(b)  the qualifications and disqualifications for being elected and being a member of 
the first National Assembly shall, except in case of members filling casual 
vacancies 6[, or to be elected to the additional seats referred to in clause (2A) of 
Article 51,] after the commencing day, be the same as under the Interim 
Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan: 
 
1Article 270AAA has been inserted w. e. f the 20th Nov,2007, vide A.6 of the constitution (Amendment) Order, 2007, (P.O. 2007), which was declared 
unlawful, without authority and void ab initio by the Supreme Court of Pakistan.  
2Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 97, and shall be deemed always to have been so, ins. with affec t 
from the 21st day of August 2002. 
3Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 98. 
4Omitted as a consequence of the (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), see section 2 and Article 270AA. 
5Art. 271 shall, during the period of five years from the 27th October, 1973, have effect as if,__ 
(a)after clause (2) thereof, the following new clause was ins., namely:__ “(2A) A person referred to in clause (2) shall resign one of his seats at any time 
on or before the 10th day of November, 1973, and, if he does not so resign, the seat to which he was elected first shall become vacant.”; and 
(b)in clause (3) thereof, after the words “election petition”, the words “or other-wise” were inserted, see 
the Removal of Difficulties (Bar against Double Membership) Order, 1973 (P. O. No. 22 of 1973). 
6Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Act, 1975 (Act No. LXXI of 1975), s. 9, (w. e. f. the 21st November, 1975).  
 
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Provided that no person holding an office of profit in the service of Pakistan shall continue to 
be a member of the first National Assembly after the expiration of three months from the commencing 
day. 
(2) If a person referred to in paragraph (a) of clause (1) is, immediately before the commencing 
day, also a member of a Provincial Assembly, he shall not take a seat in the National Assembly or the 
Provincial Assembly until he resigns one of his seats. 
(3) A casual vacancy in a seat in the first National Assembly, including a vacancy in a sea t in 
the National Assembly of Pakistan existing before the commencing day which was not filled before 
that day, caused by reason of death or resignation of a member or consequent upon his incurring a 
disqualification or ceasing to be a member as a result of the final decision of an election petition may 
be filled in the same manner in which it would have been filled before the commencing day. 
(4) A person referred to in paragraph (a) of clause (1) shall not sit or vote in the National 
Assembly until he has made the oath prescribed by Article 65 and, if, without the leave of the Speaker 
of the National Assembly granted on reasonable cause shown, he fails to make the oath within twenty 
one days from the day of the first meeting of the Assembly, his seat shall become vacant at the 
expiration of that period. 
1272. First 2[constitution of] Senate.  3[*]Notwithstanding anything contained in the 
Constitution, but subject to 3[Article 63 and] Article 223,__ 
(a)  the Senate shall, until the first National Assembly under the Constitution 
continues in existence , consist of forty -five members and the provisions of 
Article 59 shall have effect as if, in paragraph (a) of clause (1) thereof, for the 
word "fourteen" the word "ten" and in paragraph (b) of that clause for the word 
"five" the word "three", were substituted, and reference to "total membership" 
of the Senate in the Constitution shall be construed accordingly; 
(b) the members elected or chosen as members of the  Senate shall be divided into 
two groups by drawing of lots, the first group consisting of five members from 
each Province, two members from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas and 
one member from the Federal Capital and the second group consisting of five 
members from each Province, one member from the said Areas and one member 
from the Federal Capital; 
(c) the term of office of members of the first group and of the second group shall 
respectively be two years and four years; 
(d) the term of office of persons elected or chosen to succeed the members of the 
Senate at the expiration of their respective terms shall be four years; 
 
1Article 272 had, between the 9th June, 1973, and the 14th August, 1974, effect subject to the following modifications made by the Election to the 
Senate Order, 1973 (P.O.No.8 OF 1973), namely:__ 
In the said Article, after clause (1), the following new clause shall be added, namely:__ 
“(2) Until Parliament by law makes provision in that behalf, the President may, for the purpose of the due constitution of, and election to, the Senate, by 
Order, make provision for any of the matters referred to in__ 
(a)Paragraphs (d) and (e) of clause (1) of Article 63; 
(b)Paragraphs (d), (e) and (f) of Article 222; and 
(c)Article 225.". 
2Ins. by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1974 (Act No. XXXIII of 1974), s. 16, (w. e. f. the 4th May, 1974). 
3Omitted and ins. by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Act. ,1975 (Act No. LXXI of 1975), s. 10, (w. e. f. 21st November, 1975). 
 
 Page 141 of 176   
 
 
 (e) the term of office of a person elected or chosen to fill a casual vacancy shall be 
the unexpired term of the member whose vacancy he is elected or chosen to fill; 
(f) as soon as the first general election to the National Assembly is held, there shall 
be elected to the  Senate four additional members from each Province and two 
additional members from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas; and 
(g) the term of office of such half of the members elected under paragraph (f) as 
may be determined by drawing of lots shall be the unexpired term of office of 
the members of the first group and the term of office of the other half shall be 
the unexpired term of the members of the second group. 
1273. First Provincial Assembly. __ (1) Notwithstanding anything contained in the 
Constitution, but subject to 2[Article 63,] Article 64 and Article 223,__ 
2[(a) the first Assembly of a Province under the Constitution shall consist of__ 
(i) the members of the Assembly of that Province in existence immediately 
before the commencing day, and 
(ii) the additional members to be elected in accordance with law by the 
members of the Assembly to fill the seats referred to in clause (3) of 
Article 106, 
and, unless sooner dissolved, shall continue until the fourteenth day of August, 
one thousand nine hundred and seventy -seven; and reference  to “total 
membership” of the Assembly of a Province in the Constitution shall be 
construed accordingly;] 
(b)     the qualifications and disqualifications for member-ship of the first Assembly of 
a Province shall, except in case of members filling casual vacancies 2[, or to be 
elected to the additional seats referred to in clause (3) of Article 106,] after the 
commencing day, be the same as were provided in the Interim Constitution of 
the Islamic Republic of Pakistan: 
Provided that no person holding an office of profit in the service of Pakistan shall continue to 
be a member of the Assembly after the expiration of three months from the commencing day. 
(2) A casual vacancy in a seat in the first Assembly of a Province, including a vacancy in a seat 
in the Assembly of that Province in existence immediately before the commencing day which was not 
filled before that d ay, caused by reason of death or resignation of a member or consequent upon his 
incurring a disqualification or ceasing to be a member as a result of the final decision of an election 
petition may be filled in the same manner in which it would have been fi lled before the commencing 
day. 
(3) A member referred to in paragraph (a) of clause (1) shall not sit or vote in the Provincial 
Assembly until he has made the oath prescribed by Article 65 read with Article 127 and, if, without 
leave of the Speaker of the Provincial Assembly granted on reasonable cause shown, he fails to make 
 
1Article 273 shall, during the period of five years from the 27th October, 1973, have effect as if, in clause (2) thereof, after the words “elections petitions”, 
the words “or otherwise” were ins., see. the Removal of Difficulties (Bar against Double Membership) Order, 1973 (P.O. No.22 of 1973). 
2Ins. and subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Act, 1975 (Act No. LXXI of 1975), s. 11, (w. e. f. the 21st November, 1975). 
 
 Page 142 of 176   
 
 
the oath within twenty-one days from the day of the first meeting of the Provincial Assembly, his 
seat shall become vacant at the expiration of that period. 
274. Vesting of property, assets, rights, liabilities and obligations. __ (1) All property and 
assets which, immediately before the  commencing day, were vested in the President or the Federal 
Government shall, as from that day, vest in the Federal Government unless they were used for purposes 
which, on that day, became purposes of the Government of a Pro vince, in which case they shall, as 
from that day, vest in the Government of the Province. 
(2) All property and assets which, immediately before the commencing day, were vested in the 
Government of a Province, shall, as from that day, continue to be vested  in the Government of that 
Province, unless they were used for purposes, which on that day, became purposes of the Federal 
Government in which case they shall, as from that day, vest in the Federal Government. 
(3) All rights, liabilities and obligations of the Federal Government or of the Government of a 
Province, whether arising out of contract or otherwise, shall as from the commencing day, continue to 
be respectively the rights, liabilities and obligations of the Federal Government or of the Government 
of the Province, except that__ 
(a) all rights, liabilities and obligations relating to any matter which, immediately 
before that day, was the responsibility of the Federal Government, but which 
under the Constitution, has become the responsibility of the Go vernment of a 
Province, shall devolve upon the Government of that Province; and 
(b) all rights, liabilities and obligations relating to any matter which, immediately 
before that day, was the responsibility of the Government of a Province, but 
which under t he Constitution, has become the responsibility of the Federal 
Government, shall devolve upon the Federal Government. 
275. Continuance in office of persons in service of Pakistan, etc. __ (1) Subject to the 
Constitution and until law is made under Article 240 any person who, immediately before the 
commencing day, was in the service of Pakistan shall, as from that day, continue in the service of 
Pakistan on the same terms and conditions as were applicable to him under the Interim Constitution of 
the Islamic Republic of Pakistan immediately before that day. 
(2) Clause (1) shall also apply in relation to a person holding office immediately before the 
commencing day as__ 
(a) Chief Justice of Pakistan or other Judge of the Supreme Court, or Chief Justice 
or other Judge of a High Court; 
(b) Governor of a Province; 
(c) Chief Minister of a Province; 
(d) Speaker or Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly; 
(e) Chief Election Commissioner; 
(f) Attorney-General for Pakistan or Advocate-General for a Province; and 
(g) Auditor-General of Pakistan. 
 
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(3) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, for a period of six months from 
the commencing day, a Federal Minister or a Minister of State or the Chief Minister of a Province or 
a Provincial Minister may be a person who is not a member of 1[Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] or, as 
the case may be, the Provincial Assembly of that Province; and such Chief Minister and Provincial 
Minister shall have the right to speak and otherwise take part in th e proceedings of the Provincial 
Assembly or any committee thereof of which he may be named a member, but shall not by virtue of 
this clause be entitled to vote. 
(4) Any person who, under this Article, is continued in an office in respect of which a form of 
oath is set out in the Third Schedule shall, as soon as is practicable after the commencing day , make 
before the appropriate person oath in that form. 
(5) Subject to the Constitution and law__ 
(a) all civil, criminal and revenue courts exercising jurisdiction and functions 
immediately before the commencing day shall, as from that day, continue to 
exercise their respective jurisdictions and functions; and 
(b) all authorities and all office rs (whether judicial, executive, revenue or 
ministerial) throughout Pakistan exercising functions immediately before the 
commencing day shall, as from that day, continue to exercise their respective 
functions. 
276. Oath of first President. Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, the first 
President may, in the absence of the Chief Justice of Pakistan, make the oath referred to in Article 42 
before the Speaker of the National Assembly. 
277. Transitional financial  provisions.__ (1) The schedule of  authorized expenditure 
authenticated by the President for the financial year ending on the thirtieth day of June, one thousand 
nine hundred and seventy -four, shall continue to remain a valid authority for expenditure from the 
Federal Consolidated Fund for that year. 
(2) The President may, in respect of expe nditure of the Federal Government for any financial 
year preceding the financial year commencing on the first day of July, one thousand nine hundred and 
seventy-three (being expenditure in excess of the authorized expenditure for that year), authorize the 
withdrawal of moneys from the Federal Consolidated Fund. 
(3) The provisions of clauses (1) and (2) shall apply to and in relation to a Province, and for 
that purpose__ 
(a) any reference in those provisions to the President shall be read as a reference to 
the Governor of the Province; 
(b) any reference in those provisions to the Federal Government shall be read as a 
reference to the Government of the Province; and 
(c) any reference in those provisions to the Federal Consolidated Fund shall be read 
as a reference to the Provincial Consolidated Fund of the Province. 
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
 
 
 Page 144 of 176   
 
 
278. Accounts not audited before commencing day. The Auditor-General shall perform the 
same functions and exercise the same powers in relation to accounts which have not been completed 
or audited before the commencing day as,  by virtue of the Constitution, he is empowered to perform 
or exercise in relation to other accounts, and Article 171 shall, with the necessary modifications, apply 
accordingly. 
279. Continuance of taxes. Notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, all taxes 
and fees levied under any law in force immediately before the commencing day shall continue to be 
levied until they are varied or abolished by Act of the appropriate Legislature. 
280. Continuance of Proclamation of Emergency.  The Proclamation of Emergency issued 
on the twenty-third day of November, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-one, shall be deemed to 
be a Proclamation of Emergency issued under Article 232, and for the purposes of clause (7) and clause 
(8) thereof to have been issued on the commencing day, and any law, rule or order made or purporting 
to have been made in pursuance of that Proclamation shall be deemed to have been validly made 1[and 
shall not be called in question in any Court on the ground of inconsiste ncy with any of the rights 
conferred by Chapter I of Part II. ] 
 
 
 
________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Added by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 17 and shall be deemed always to have been so added. 
  
 
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1[ANNEX 
(Article 2A) 
The Objectives Resolution 
In the name of Allah, the Beneficient, the Merciful: 
Whereas sovereignty over the entire universe belongs to Allah Almighty alone and the 
authority which He has delegated to the State of Pakistan, through its people for being exercised within 
the limits prescribed by Him is a sacred trust; 
This Constituent Assembly representing the people of Pakistan resolves to frame a constitution 
for the sovereign independent State of Pakistan; 
Wherein the State shall exercise its powers and authority through the chosen representatives of 
the people; 
Wherein the principles of democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance and social justice as 
enunciated by Islam shall be fully observed; 
Wherein the Muslims shall be enabled to order their lives in t he individual and collective 
spheres in accordance with the teachings and requirements of Islam as set -out in the Holy Quran and 
the Sunnah; 
Wherein adequate provision shal l be made for the minorities to 2[freely] profess and practise 
their religions and develop their cultures; 
Wherein the territories now included in or in accession with Pakistan and such other territories 
as may hereafter be included in or accede to Pakistan shall form a Federation wherein the units will be 
autonomous with such boundaries and limitations on their powers and authority as may be prescribed; 
Wherein shall be guaranteed fundamental rights including equality of status, of opportunity 
and before law, social, economic and political justice, and freedom of thought, expression, belief, faith, 
worship and association, subject to law and public morality; 
Wherein adequate provision shall be made to safeguard the legitimate interests of minorities 
and backward and depressed classes; 
Wherein the independence of the Judiciary shall be fully secured; 
Wherein the integrity of the territories of the Federation, its independence and all its rights 
including its sovereign rights on land, sea and air shall be safeguarded; 
So that the people of Pakistan may prosper and attain their rightful and honoured place amongst 
the nations of the World and make their full contribution towards international peace and progress and 
happiness of humanity.] 
 
1Ins. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
2Ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 99. 

 
 Page 146 of 176   
 
 
1[FIRST SCHEDULE 
[Article 8(3) (b) and (4)] 
Laws exempted from the operation of Article 8 (1) and (2). 
PART I 
I. PRESIDENT’S ORDERS 
1. The Acceding State (Property) Order, 1961 (P. O. No. 12 of 1961). 
2.  The Economic Reforms Order, 1972 (P. O. No. 1 of 1972). 
II. REGULATIONS 
1. The Land Reforms Regulation, 1972. 
2. The Land Reforms (Baluchistan Pat Feeder Canal) Regulation, 1972. 
3. The Economic Reforms (Protection of Industries) Regulation, 1972. 
4. The Distribution of Property (Chitral) Regulation, 1974 (II of 1974). 
5. The Settlement of Disputes of Immovable Property (Chitral) Regulation, 1974 (III of 1974). 
6. The Dir and Swat (Devolution and Distribution of Prop erty and Settlement of Disputes of 
Immovable Property) (Amendment) Regulation, 1975 (II of 1975). 
2[7. The Settlement of Disputes of Immovable Property (Chitral) (Amendment) Regulation, 1976 
(XII of 1976).] 
III. FEDERAL ACTS 
1. The Land Reforms (Amendment) Act, 1974 (XXX of 1974). 
2. The Land Reforms (Amendment) Act, 1975 (XXXIX of 1975). 
2[3. The Flour Milling Control and Development Act, 1976 (LVII of 1976). 
4. The Rice Milling Control and Development Act, 1976 (LVIII of 1976). 
5. The Cotton Ginning Control and Development Act, 1976 (LIX of 1976).] 
3[* * * * * * *] 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Fourth Amendment) Act, 1975 (Act No. LXXI of 1975), s. 12, (w. e. f. the 21st November, 1975). 
2Added by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 18, (w. e. f. the 13th September, 1976). 
3Added by the Constitution (Twenty-first Amendment) Act, 2015 (Act No. I of 2015) and stood cease to form part of the Constitution and stood stand 
repealed on the expiration of two years. 
 
 
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6. 1[* * * * * * *] 
7.  1[* * * * * * *] 
8.  2[* * * * * * *] 
9.  2[* * * * * * *] 
IV. ORDINANCES PROMULGATED BY THE PRESIDENT 
The Land Reforms (Amendment) Ordinance, 1975 (XXI of 1975), and the Federal Act enacted to 
replace the said Ordinance. 
V. PROVINCIAL ACTS 
1. The Land Reforms (Baluchistan Amendment) Act, 1974 (Baluchistan Act XI of 1974). 
2. The Land Reforms (Pat Feeder Canal Regulat ion) (Amendment) Act, 1975 (Balu chistan Act 
VII of 1975). 
3[VI. PROVINCIAL ORDINANCE 
The Land Reforms (Pat Feeder Canal) (Amendment) Ordinance, 1976.] 
PART II 
I. PRESIDENT’S ORDERS 
1. The Minerals (Acquisition and Transfer) Order, 1961 (P. O. No. 8 of 1961). 
2. The Companies (Managing Agency and Election of Directors) Order, 1972 (P. O. No. 2 of 
1972). 
3. The Co-operative Societies (Reforms) Order, 1972 (P. O. No. 9 of 1972). 
4. The Life Insurance (Nationalization) Order, 1972 (P. O. No. 10 of 1972). 
5. The Martial Law (Pending Proceedings) Order, 1972 (P. O. No. 14 of 1972). 
6. The Rulers of Acceding States (Abolition of P rivy Purses and Privileges) Order, 1972 (P. O. 
No. 15 of 1972). 
7. The Industrial Sanctions and Licences (Cancellation) Order, 1972 (P. O. No. 16 of 1972). 
8. The Criminal Law Amendment (Special Court) Order, 1972 (P. O. No. 20 of 1972). 
II. REGULATIONS 
1. Rawalpindi (Requisition of Property) Regulation, 1959. 
2. The Pakistan Capital Regulation, 1960. 
 
1The entries 6 and 7 stood repealed by the Constitution (Twenty-third Amendment) Act, 2017 (Act No. XII of 2017)), s. 3, after the expiry of two years 
on 6th January, 2019.  
2The entries 8 and 9 stood repealed by the Constitution (Twenty-first Amendment) Act, 2015 (Act No. I of 2015)), s.1, after the expiry of two years on 
6th January, 2017.  
3Added by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 18 (w.e.f. the 13th September, 1976). 
 
 Page 148 of 176   
 
 
3. The Scrutiny of Claims (Evacuee Property) Regulation, 1961. 
4. The Income Tax (Correction of Returns and False Declaration) Regulation, 1969. 
5. The Improper Acquisition of Property Regulation, 1969. 
6. The Removal from Service (Special Provisions) Regulation, 1969. 
7. The Living Beyond Ostensible Means (Punishment) Regulation, 1969. 
8. The Government Agricultural Land (Recovery of Illegal Possession) Regulation, 1969. 
9. The Enemy Property (Payment of Money Due to Enemy) Regulation, 1970. 
10. The Withdrawal of Currency Notes (High Denomination) Regulation, 1971. 
11. The Price of Evacuee Property and Public Dues (Recovery) Regulation, 1971. 
12. The Peshawar District and Tribal Areas (Settlement of Disputes) Regulation, 1971. 
13. The Convention Muslim League and Awami League (Scrutiny of Funds) Regulation, 1971. 
14. The Foreign Exchange Repatriation Regulation, 1972. 
15. The Foreign Assets (Declaration) Regulation, 1972. 
16. The Removal from Service (Review Petition) Regulation, 1972. 
17. The privately Managed Schools and Colleges (Taking Over) Regulation, 1972. 
18. The Enemy Property (Revocation of Sales) Regulation, 1972. 
19. The Dir and Swat (Devolution and Distribution of Property) Regulation, 1972. 
20. The Dir and Swat (Settlement of Disputes of Immovable Property) Regulation, 1972. 
21. The West Pakistan Industrial Development Corporation (Revocation of Sale or Transfer) 
Regulation, 1972. 
22. The National Press Trust (Suspension of Board of Trustees and Directors) Regulation, 1972. 
23. The Co-operative Banks (Repayment  of Loans) (Punjab) Regulation, 1972. 
24. The Co-operative Societies (Repayment of Loans) (Sindh) Regulation, 1972. 
 
III. ORDINANCES PROMULGATED BY THE PRESIDENT 
1. The Control of Shipping Ordinance, 1959 (XIII of 1959). 
2. The Jammu and Kashmir (Administration of Property) Ordinance, 1961 (III of 1961). 
3. The Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, 1961 (VIII of 1961). 
 
 Page 149 of 176   
 
 
4. The Security of Pakistan (Amendment) Ordinance, 1961 (XIV of 1961). 
5. The Associated Press of Pakistan (Taking Over) Ordinance, 1961 (XX of 1961). 
6. The Trade Organisations Ordinance, 1961 (XLV of 1961). 
IV. FEDERAL ACTS 
The Censorship of Films Act, 1963 (XVIII of 1963). 
V. ORDINANCES PROMULGATED BY THE GOVERNOR OF FORMER PROVINCE OF 
WEST PAKISTAN 
1. The West Pakistan Government Educational and Training Institutions Ordinance, 1960 (W.P. 
Ordinance No. XI of 1960). 
2. The West Pakistan Wakf Properties Ordinance, 1961 (W.P. Ordinance No. XXVIII of 1961). 
3. The Societies Registration (West Pakistan Amendment) Ordinance, 1962 (W.P. Ordinance No. 
IX of 1962). 
4. The West Pakistan Industries (Control on Establishment and Enlargement) Ordinance, 1963 
(W.P. Ordinance No. IV of 1963). 
VI. ORDINANCES PROMULGATED BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE NORTH-WEST 
FRONTIER PROVINCE 
1. The North -West Frontier Province Government Educational and Training Institutions 
Ordinance, 1971 (N.W.F.P. Ordinance No. III of 1971). 
2. The North-West Frontier Province Chashma Right Bank Canal Project (Control and Prevention 
of Speculation in Land) Ordinance, 1971 (N.W.F.P. Ordinance No. V of 1971). 
3. The North-West Frontier Province Gomal Zam Project (Control and Prevention of Speculation 
in Land) Ordinance, 1971 (N.W.F.P. Ordinance No. VIII of 1971).] 
 
_____ 
  
 
 Page 150 of 176   
 
 
1[SECOND SCHEDULE 
[Article 41 (3)] 
Election Of President 
1. The 2[Election Commission of Pakistan] shall hold and conduct election to the office of 
President, and 2[Chief Election Commissioner] shall be the Returning Officer for such election. 
2. The 2[Election Commission of Pakistan] shall appoint Presiding Officers to preside at the 
meeting of the members of Majlis -e-Shoora (Parliament) and at the meetings of the members of the 
Provincial Assemblies. 
3. The Chief Election Commissioner shall by public notifi cation fix the time and place for 
depositing nomination papers, holding a scrutiny, making withdrawals, if any, and holding the poll, if 
necessary. 
4. At any time before noon on the day fixed for nomination any member of the Majlis -e-Shoora 
(Parliament) or of a Provincial Assembly may nominate for election as President a person qualified 
for election as President by delivering to the Presiding Officer a nomination paper, signed by himself 
as proposer and by another member of the Majlis -e- Shoora (Parliament ) or, as the case may be 
Assembly as seconder, together with a statement signed by t he person nominated that he cons ents to 
the nomination: 
Provided that no person shall subscribe, whether as proposer or as seconder, more than one 
nomination paper at any one election. 
5. The scrutiny shall be held by the Chief Election Commissioner at the time and place fixed by 
him, and if after scrutiny only one person remains validly nominated, the Chief Election Commissioner 
shall declare that person to be elected, or if more than one person remains validly nominated, he shall 
announce, by public notification, the names of the persons validly nominated, to be hereinafter called 
the candidates. 
6. A candidate may withdraw his candidature at any time before noon on the day fixed for this 
purpose by delivering a notice in writing under his hand to the Presiding Officer with whom his 
nomination paper has been deposited, and a candidate who has given a notice of withdrawal of his 
candidature under this paragraph shall not be allowed to cancel that notice. 
7. If all but one of the candidates have withdrawn, that one shall be declared by the Chief Election 
Commissioner to be elected. 
8. If there is no withdrawal, or if, after withdrawals have taken place, two or more candidates are 
left, the Chief Election Commissioner shall announce by Public notification the names of the 
candidates, and their proposers and seconders, and shall proceed to hold a poll by secret ballot in 
accordance with the provisions of the succeeding paragraphs. 
9. If a candidate whose nomination has been found to be in order dies after the time fixed for 
nomination, and a report of his death is received by the Presiding Officer before the commencement  
 
1Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
2Subs. and ins. by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012), s. 10. 
 
 Page 151 of 176   
 
 
of the poll, the Presiding Officer shall, upon being satisfied of the fact of the death of the candidate, 
countermand the poll and report the fact to the Chief Election Commissioner, and all proceedings with 
reference to the election shall be commenced a new in all respects as if for a new election: 
Provided that no further nomination shall be necessary in the  case of a candidate whose 
nomination was valid at the time of the countermanding of the poll: 
Provided further that no person who has under paragraph 6 of this Schedule given notice of 
withdrawal of his candidature before the countermanding of the poll sh all be ineligible for being 
nominated as a candidate for the election after such countermanding. 
10. The poll shall be taken at the meetings of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) and of each Provincial 
Assembly, and the respective Presiding Officers shall conduc t the poll with the assistance of such 
officers as they may, with the approval of the Chief Election Commissioner, respectively appoint. 
11. A ballot paper shall be issued to every member of Majlis -e-Shoora (Parliament), and of each 
Provincial Assembly, who presents himself for voting at the meeting of the members of the Majlis -e-
Shoora (Parliament) or, as the case may be of the Provincial Assembly of which he is a member 
(hereinafter referred to as a person voting), and he shall exercise his vote personall y by marking the 
paper in accordance with the provisions of the succeeding paragraphs. 
12. The poll shall be by secret ballot by means of ballot papers containing the names of all the 
candidates in alphabetical order who have not withdrawn, and a person voting shall vote by placing a 
mark against the name of the person for whom he wishes to vote. 
13. Ballot papers shall be issued from a book of ballot papers with counterfoils, each counterfoil 
being numbered; and when a ballot paper is issued to a person voting his name shall be entered on the 
counterfoil, and the ballot paper shall be authenticated by the initials of the Presiding Officer. 
14. A ballot paper having been marked by the person voting shall be deposited by that person in a 
ballot box to be placed in front of the Presiding Officer. 
15. If a ballot paper is spoiled by a person voting he may return it to the Presiding Officer, who 
shall issue a second ballot paper, cancelling the first ballot paper and marking the cancellation on the 
appropriate counterfoil. 
16. A ballot paper shall be invalid if__ 
(i) there is upon it any name, word or mark, by which the person voting may be 
identified; or 
(ii) it does not contain the initials of the Presiding Officer; or  
(iii) it does not contain mark; or 
(iv) a mark is placed against the names of two or more candidates; or 
(v) there is any uncertainty as to the identity of the candidate against whose name 
the mark is placed. 
17. After the close of the poll each Presiding Officer shall, in the presence of such of the candidates 
or their authorized representatives as may desire to be present, open and empty the ballot boxes and 
 
 Page 152 of 176   
 
 
examine the ballot papers therein, rejecting any which are invalid, count the number of votes recorded 
for each candidate on the valid ballot papers, and communicate the number of the votes so recorded to 
the Chief Election Commissioner. 
18. (1) The Chief Election Commissioner shall determine the result of the election in the following 
manner, namely:__ 
(a) the number of votes cast in the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) in favour of each 
candidate shall be counted; 
(b) the number of votes cast in a Provincial Assembly in favour of each candidate 
shall be multiplied by the total number of seats in the Provincial Assembly for 
the time being havi ng the smallest number of seats and divided by the total 
number of seats in the Provincial Assembly in which the votes have been cast; 
and 
(c) the number of votes calculated in the manner referred to in clause (b) shall be 
added to the number of votes counted under clause (a). 
Explanation.__ In this paragraph, “total number of seats ” includes seats reserved for non -
Muslims and women. 
(2) A fraction shall be rounded off to the nearest whole. 
19. The candidate who has obtained the largest number of votes compiled in the manner specified 
in paragraph 18 shall be declared by the Chief Election Commissioner to be elected. 
20. Where at any poll any two or more candidates obtain an equal number of votes, the selection 
of the candidate to be elected shall be by drawing of lots. 
21. When, after any poll, the counting of the votes has been completed, and the result of the voting 
determined, the Chief Election Commissioner shall forthwith announce the result to those present, and 
shall report the result to the Federal G overnment, who shall forthwith cause the result to be declared 
by a public notification. 
22. The 1[Election Commission of Pakistan] may, by public notification, with the approval of the 
President, make rules for carrying out the purposes of this Schedule.] 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012) s.10. 
  
 
 Page 153 of 176   
 
 
THIRD SCHEDULE 
Oaths of Office 
PRESIDENT 
[Article 42] 
 
(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) 
I,____________________________________________, do solemnly swear that I am a Muslim and believe in 
the Unity and Oneness of Almighty Allah, the Books of Allah, the Holy Quran being the last of them, 
the Prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the last  of the Prophets and that there can be 
no Prophet after him, the Day of Judgement, and all the requirements and teachings of the Holy Quran 
and Sunnah: 
That I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan: 
That, as President of Pakistan, I will discharge my duties, and perform my functions, honestly, 
to the best of my ability, faithfully in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of 
Pakistan and the law, and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being and 
prosperity of Pakistan: 
 That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan: 
That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official 
decisions: 
That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan: 
That, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people, according to law, without 
fear or favour, affection or ill-will: 
And that I will not directly or indirectly communicate or reveal to any person any matter which 
shall be brought under my consideration or shall become known to me as President of Pakistan, except 
as may be required for the due discharge of my duties as President. 
1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).] 
 
 
 
 
1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
 
 
 
 

 
 Page 154 of 176   
 
 
PRIME MINISTER 
[Article 91 1[(5)]] 
(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) 
I, ____________________________________, do solemnly swear that I am a Muslim and 
believe in the Unity and Oneness of Almighty Allah, the Books of Allah, the Holy Quran being the 
last of them, the Prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the last of th e Prophets and that 
there can be no Prophet after him, the Day of Judgement, and all the requirements and teachings of the 
Holy Quran and Sunnah. 
That I will bear true faith and allegiance to Pakistan: 
That, as Prime Minister of Pakistan, I will discharge my duties, and perform my functions, 
honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic 
Republic of Pakistan and the law, and always in the interest of th e sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, 
well-being and prosperity of Pakistan : 
That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan: 
That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct o r my official 
decisions : 
That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan: 
That, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people, according to law, without 
fear or favour, affection or ill-will: 
And that I will not directly or indirectly communicate or reveal to any person any matter which 
shall be brought under my consideration or shall become known to me as Prime Minister, except as 
may be required for the due discharge of my duties as Prime Minister. 
2[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).] 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 100. 
2Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
  

 
 Page 155 of 176   
 
 
FEDERAL MINISTER OR MINISTER OF STATE 
[Article 92 (2)] 
(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) 
I, _____________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and 
allegiance to Pakistan: 
That, as Federal Minister (or Minister of State); I will discharge my duties, and perform my 
functions, honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully in accordance with the Constitution of the 
Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the law, and always in the i nterest of the sovereignty, integrity, 
solidarity, well-being and prosperity of Pakistan : 
That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan: 
That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my offic ial conduct or my official 
decisions: 
That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan: 
That, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people, according to law, without 
fear or favour, affection or ill-will: 
And that I will not directly or indirectly communicate or reveal to any person any matter which 
shall be brought under my consideration or shall become known to me as Federal Minister (or Minister 
of State), except as may be required for the due discharge of my duties as Federal Minister (or Minister 
of State), or as may be specially permitted by the Prime Minister. 
1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).] 
 
 
___________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
 

 
 Page 156 of 176   
 
 
SPEAKER OF NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OR CHAIRMAN OF SENATE 
[Articles 53(2) and 61] 
(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) 
I, __________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance 
to Pakistan: 
That, as Speaker of the National Assembly (or Chairman of the Senate) and whenever I am 
called upon to act as President of Pakistan, I will discharge my duties, and perform my functions 
honestly, to the best of my ability, faith fully, in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic 
Republic of Pakistan, the law and as Speaker of the National Assembly in accordance with the rules 
of the Assembly (or as Chairman of the Senate in accordance with the rules of the Senate), and always 
in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperity of Pakistan : 
That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan: 
That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official 
decisions: 
That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan: 
And that, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people, according to law, without 
fear or favour, affection or ill-will. 
1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).] 
 
_________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
  

 
 Page 157 of 176   
 
 
DEPUTY SPEAKER OF NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OR DEPUTY CHAIRMAN  
[Articles 53 (2) and 61] 
(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) 
I, ______________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and 
allegiance to Pakistan: 
That, whenever I am called upon to act as Speaker of the National Assembly (or Chairman of 
the Senate), I will discharge my duties, and perform my functions honestly, to the best of my ability, 
faithfully, in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the law and the 
rules of the Assembly (or Senate), and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, 
well-being and prosperity of Pakistan: 
That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan: 
That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official 
decisions: 
That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan: 
And that, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people, according to law, without 
fear or favour, affection or ill-will. 
1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).] 
 
 
__________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
 
  

 
 Page 158 of 176   
 
 
MEMBER OF NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OR MEMBER OF SENATE 
[Article 65] 
(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) 
I, ____________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and 
allegiance to Pakistan: 
That, as a member of the National Assembly (or Senate), I will perform my functions honestly, 
to the best of my ability, faithfully, in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of 
Pakistan, and the law, and the rules of the Assemb ly (or Senate), and always in the interest of the 
sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperity of Pakistan: 
That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan: 
And that I will preserve, prot ect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of 
Pakistan. 
1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).] 
 
 
________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 

 
 Page 159 of 176   
 
 
GOVERNOR OF PROVINCE 
[Article 102] 
(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) 
I, ____________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and 
allegiance to Pakistan: 
That, as the Governor of the Province of I will discharge my duties, and perform my functions, 
honestly, to the  best of my ability, faithfully  in accordance with the Constitution of th e Islamic 
Republic of Pakistan and the law, and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, 
well-being and prosperity of Pakistan: 
That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan: 
That I will not allow my personal interest to  influence my official conduct or my official 
decisions: 
That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan: 
That, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people, according to law, without 
fear or favour, affection or ill-will : 
And that I will not directly or indirectly communicate or reveal to any person any matter which 
shall be brought under my consideration or shall become known to me as Governor of the Province of 
……………except as may be required for the due discharge of my duties as Governor. 
 1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).] 
 
 
_________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 

 
 Page 160 of 176   
 
 
CHIEF MINISTER OR PROVINCIAL MINISTER 
[Articles 1[130 (5)] and 132 (2)] 
(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) 
I, _______________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to 
Pakistan: 
That, as a Chief Minister (or Minister) of the Government of the Province of  I will 
discharge my duties  and perform my functions  honestly, to the  best of my ability, faithfully  in 
accordance with the Constitution of t he Islamic Republic of Pakistan  and the law, and always in the 
interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity well-being and prosperity of Pakistan : 
That I will strive to preserve the Islamic ideology which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan: 
That I will not allow my persona l interest to influence my official conduct or my official 
decisions : 
That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan : 
That, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people, according to law, wi thout 
fear or favour, affection or ill-will : 
And that I will not directly or indirectly communicate or reveal to any person any matter which 
shall be brought under my consideration or shall become known to me as Chief Minister (or Minister) 
except as may be required for the due discharge of my duties as Chief Minister (or Minister or as may 
be specially permitted by the Chief Minister). 
2[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).] 
 
 
__________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 100. 
2Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
  

 
 Page 161 of 176   
 
 
SPEAKER OF A PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLY 
[Articles 53(2) and 127] 
(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) 
I, __________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance 
to Pakistan: 
 
That, as Speaker of the Provincial Assembly of the Province 
of……………………………………, 1[and whenever I am called upon to act as Governor, I will 
discharge] my duties, and perform my functions, honestly, to the  best of my ability, faithfully  in 
accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the law and the rules of the 
Assembly, and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperity 
of Pakistan: 
That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan: 
That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official 
decisions: 
That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan: 
And that, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people, according to law, without 
fear or favour, affection or ill-will. 
2[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).] 
 
_________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 100. 
2Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
 

 
 Page 162 of 176   
 
 
DEPUTY SPEAKER OF A PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLY 
[Articles 53 (2) and 127] 
(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) 
I, __________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance 
to Pakistan: 
That, whenever I am called upon to act as Speaker of the Provincial Assembly of the Province 
of……………………….…, I will discharge my duties, and perform my functions, honestly, to the 
best of my ability, faithfully in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 
the law and the rules of the Assembly, and always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, 
well-being and prosperity of Pakistan: 
That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan: 
That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official 
decisions: 
That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan: 
And that, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people, according to law, without 
fear or favour, affection or ill-will. 
1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).] 
 
 
_______ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 

 
 Page 163 of 176   
 
 
MEMBER OF A PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLY 
[Articles 65 and 127] 
(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) 
 
I, __________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance 
to Pakistan: 
That, as a member of the Provincial  Assembly of… ……………………………….., I will 
perform my functions honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully in accordance with the Constitution 
of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the law and the rules of the Assembly, and always in the interest 
of the sovereignty, integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperity of Pakistan: 
That I will strive to preserve the Islamic Ideology which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan: 
And that I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Isla mic Republic of 
Pakistan. 
1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).] 
 
 
_________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
. 

 
 Page 164 of 176   
 
 
AUDITOR-GENERAL OF PAKISTAN 
[Article 168 (2)] 
(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) 
I, ___________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance 
to Pakistan: 
That, as Auditor -General of Pakis tan, I will discharge my duties and perform my functions 
honestly, faithfully in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the 
law and to the best of my knowledge, ability and judgement, without fear or favour, affection or ill -
will, and that I will not allow my personal interest to influenc e my official conduct or my official 
decisions. 
1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).] 
 
 
__________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 

 
 Page 165 of 176   
 
 
1[CHIEF JUSTICE OF THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTIONAL COURT OF PAKISTAN OR CHIEF 
JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT OF PAKISTAN OR OF A HIGH COURT OR JUDGE OF 
THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTIONAL COURT OR OF THE SUPREME COURT OR OF A HIGH 
COURT. 
[Articles 175D, 178 and 194]] 
(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) 
I, ___________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance 
to Pakistan: 
That, as 1[Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court of Pakistan (or a Judge of the 
Federal Constitutional Court of Pakistan) or Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Pakistan (or a Judge 
of the Supreme Court of Pakistan) or Chief Justice (or a Judge) of the High Court for the Province or 
Islamabad Capital Territory or Provinces of……………………………..] I will discharge my duties, 
and perform my functions, hone stly, to the best of my ability and faithfully  in accordance with the 
Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the law: 
That I will abide by the code of conduct issued by the Supreme Judicial Council: 
That I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official 
decisions: 
That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan: 
And that, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people, according to law, without 
fear or favour, affection or ill-will. 
2[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).] 
 
 
___________ 
 
 
 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 54. 
2Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 
 
 
 
 

 
 Page 166 of 176   
 
 
1[CHIEF JUSTICE OR JUDGE OF THE FEDERAL SHARIAT COURT 
“[Article 203C (7)] 
(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) 
 
I, __________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance 
to Pakistan: 
That, as Chief Justice of the Federal Shariat Court (or a Judge of the Federal Shariat  Court), I 
will discharge my duties, and perform my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability, and faithfully, 
in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the law: 
That I will not allow my personal interest to influence  my official conduct or my official 
decisions: 
That I will abide by the code of conduct issued by the Supreme Judicial Council: 
That I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan: 
And that, in all circumstances, I will do right to all manner of people, according to law, without 
fear or favour, affection or ill-will. 
May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).] 
 
 
_________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 100. 

 
 Page 167 of 176   
 
 
CHIEF ELECTION COMMISSIONER 1[OR A MEMBER OF THE ELECTION COMMISSION 
OF PAKISTAN] 
[Article 214] 
(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) 
I, ________________________, do solemnly swear that as Chief Election Commissioner 1[or, 
as the case may be, member of the Election Commission of Pakistan] I will discharge my duties, and 
perform my functions, honestly, to the best of my ability, faithfully in accordance with the Constitution 
of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the la w, and without fear or favour, affection or ill -will, and 
that I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official decisions. 
2[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).] 
 
 
_________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Added & inserted by the Constitution (Twentieth Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. V of 2012), s.11. 
2Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 

 
 Page 168 of 176   
 
 
MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES 
[Article 244] 
(In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.) 
I, ____________________________, do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and 
allegiance to Pakistan and uphold the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan which embodies 
the will of the people, that I will not engage myself in any political activities whatsoever and that I will 
honestly and faithfully serve Pakistan in the Pakistan Army (or Navy or Air Force) as required by and 
under the law. 
1[May Allah Almighty help and guide me (A’meen).] 
 
 
__________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1Added by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch. 

 
 Page 169 of 176   
 
 
FOURTH SCHEDULE 
[Article 70 (4)] 
LEGISLATIVE LISTS 
FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE LIST 
PART I 
 
1. The defence of the Federation or any part thereof in peace or war; the military, naval and air 
forces of the Federation and any other armed forces raised or maintained by the Federation ; any armed 
forces which are not forces of the Federation but are attached to or operating with any of the Armed 
Forces of the Federation including civil armed f orces; Federal Intelligence Bureau; preventive 
detention for reasons of State connected with defence, external affairs, or the security of Pakistan or 
any part thereof ; person s subjected to such detention; industries declared by Federal law to be 
necessary for the purpose of defence or for the prosecution of war. 
2. Military, naval and air force works; local self -government in cantonment areas, 1[local taxes, 
fees, cess, charges, tolls in such areas,] the constitution and powers within such areas of cantonment 
authorities, the regulation of house accommodation in such areas, and the delimitation of such areas. 
3. External affairs; the implementing of treaties and agreements, including educational and 
cultural pacts and agreements, with other countries; extradition, including the surrender of criminals 
and accused persons to Governments outside Pakistan. 
4. Nationality, citizenship and naturalisation. 
5. Migration from or into, or settlement in, a Province or the Federal Capital. 
6. Admission into, and emigration and expulsion from, Pakistan, including in relation thereto the 
regulation of the movements in Pakistan of pe rsons not domiciled in Pakistan;  pilgrimages to places 
beyond Pakistan. 
7. Posts and telegraphs, including telephones, wireless, broadcasting and other like forms of 
communications; Post Office Saving Bank. 
8. Currency, coinage and legal tender. 
9. Foreign exchange; cheques, bills of exchange, promissory notes and other like instruments. 
10. Public debt of the Federation, including the borrowing of money on the security of the Federal 
Consolidated Fund ; foreign loans and foreign aid. 
11. Federal Public Services and Federal Public Service Commission. 
12. Federal pe nsions, that is to say, pensions payable by the Federation or out of the Federal 
Consolidated Fund. 
13. Federal Ombudsman. 
14. Administrative Courts and Tribunals for Federal subjects. 
 
1Ins. by the Constitution (Twenty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2024 (Act No. XXVI of 2024), s. 27. 
 
 Page 170 of 176   
 
 
15. Libraries, museums, and similar institutions controlled or financed by the Federation. 
16. Federal agencies and institutes for the following purposes, that is to say, for research, for 
professional or technical training, or for the promotion of special studies. 
17. Education as respects Pakistani students in foreign countries and foreign students in Pakistan. 
18. Nuclear energy, including__ 
(a) mineral resources necessary for the generation of nuclear energy; 
(b) the production of nuclear fuels and the generation and use of nuclear energy;  
and 
(c) ionizing radiations 1[; and] 
1[(d) boilers.] 
19. Port quarantine, seamen’s and marine hospitals and hospitals connected with port quarantine. 
20. Maritime shipping and navigation, including shipping and navigation on tidal waters; 
Admiralty jurisdiction. 
1[21. * * * * * * *] 
22. Aircraft and air navigation; the provision of aerodromes; regulation and organisation of air 
traffic and of aerodromes. 
23. Lighthouses, including lightships, beacons and other provisions for the safety of shipping and 
aircraft. 
24. Carriage of passengers and goods by sea or by air. 
25. Copyright, inventions, designs, trade-marks and merchandise marks. 
26. Opium so far as regards sale for export. 
27. Import and export across customs frontiers as defined by the Federal Government, inter -
provincial trade and commerce, trade and commerce with foreign countries; standard of quality of 
goods to be exported out of Pakistan. 
28. State Bank of Pakistan; banking, that is to say, the conduct of banking business by corporations 
other than corporations owned or controlled by a Province and carrying on business only within that 
Province. 
29. The law of insurance, except as respects insurance undertaken by a Province, and the regulation 
of the conduct of insurance business, except as respects business undertaken by a Province; 
Government insurance, except so far as undertaken by a Province by virtue of any matter within the 
legislative competence of the Provincial Assembly. 
 
1Subs., added and omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 101. 
 
 
 Page 171 of 176   
 
 
30. Stock exchanges and futures markets with objects and business not confined to one Province. 
31. Corporations, that is to say, the incorporation, regulation and winding -up of trading 
corporations, including banking, insurance and financial corporations, but not including corporations 
owned or controlled by a Province and carrying on business only within that Province, or cooperative 
societies, and of corporations, whether trading or not, with objects not confined to a Province, but not 
including universities. 
1[32. International treaties, conventions and agreements and International arbitration.] 
1[33. * * *          * * * *] 
34. National highways and strategic roads. 
35. Federal surveys including geological surveys and Federal meteorological organisations. 
36. Fishing and fisheries beyond territorial waters. 
37. Works, lands and buildings vested in, or in the possession of Government for the purposes of 
the Federation (not being military, naval or air force works), but, as regards property situate in a 
Province, subject always to Provincial legislation, save in so far as Federal law otherwise provides. 
1[38. * * * * * * *] 
39.     Establishment of standards of weights and measures. 
1[40. * * * * * * *] 
41. Elections to the office of President, to the National Assembly, the Senate and the Provincial 
Assemblies; Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissions. 
42. The salaries, allowances and privileges of the President, Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the 
National Assembly, Chairman and Deputy Chairman of the Senate, Prime Minister, Federal Ministers, 
Ministers of State, the salaries, allowances and privileges of the members  of the Senate and the 
National Assembly; and the punishment of persons who refuse to give evidence or produce documents 
before committees thereof. 
43. Duties of customs, including export duties. 
44. Duties of excise, including duties on salt, but not including duties on alcoholic liquors, opium 
and other narcotics. 
1[45. * * * * * * *] 
1[46. * * * * * * *] 
47. Taxes on income other than agricultural income. 
48. Taxes on corporations. 
 
1Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 101. 
 
 
 Page 172 of 176   
 
 
1[49. Taxes on the sales and purchases of goods imported, exported, produced, manufactured or 
consumed 2[, except sales tax on services.]] 
50. Taxes on the capital value of the assets, not including taxes 2[* * *] on immovable property. 
51. Taxes on mineral oil, natural gas and minerals for use in generation of nuclear energy. 
52. Taxes and duties on the production capacity of any plant, machinery, undertaking, 
establishment or installation in lieu of the taxes and duties specified in entries 44, 47, 48 and 49 or in 
lieu of any one or more of them. 
53. Terminal taxes on goods or passengers carried by railway, sea or air; taxes on their fares and 
freights. 
54. Fees in respect of any of the matters in this Part, but not including fees taken in any court. 
55. Jurisdiction and p owers of all courts, except the 3[Federal Constitutional Court and the 
Supreme Court], with respect to any of the matters in this List and, to such extent as is expressly 
authorised by or under th e Constitution, the enlargement of the jurisdiction of the 3[Federal 
Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court], and the conferring thereon of supplemental powers. 
56. Offences against laws with respect to any of the matters in this Part. 
57. Inquiries and statistics for the purposes of any of the matters in this Part. 
58. Matters which under the Constitution are within the legislative competence of 4[Majlis-e-
Shoora (Parliament)] or relate to the Federation. 
59. Matters incidental or ancillary to any matter enumerate in this Part. 
________ 
PART II 
1. Railways. 
2. Mineral oil and natural gas; liquids and substances declared by Federal law to be dangerously 
inflammable. 
3. Development of industries, where development under Federal control is declared by Federal 
law to be expedient in the public interest; institutions, establishments, bodies and corporations 
administered or managed by the Federal Government immediately before the Commencing  day, 
including the 1[Pakistan Water and Power Development Authorit y and the Pakistan Industrial 
Development Corporation]; all undertakings, projects and schemes of such institutions, 
establishments, bodies and corporations, industries, projects and undertakings owned wholly or 
partially by the Federation or by a corporation set up by the Federation. 
 
 
1Subs. by the Constitution (Fifth Amendment) Act, 1976 (Act No. LXII of 1976), s. 19. (w. e. f. the 13th September,1976). 
2Added and omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act. 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 101. 
3Subs. by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 55. 
4Subs. by the Revival of the Constitution of 1973 Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 14 of 1985), Art.2 and Sch.  
 
 
 Page 173 of 176   
 
 
1[4. Electricity. 
5. Major ports, that is to say, the declaration and delimitation of such ports, and the constitution 
and powers of port authorities therein. 
6. All regulatory authorities established under a Federal law. 
7. National planning and national economic coordination including planning and coordination of 
scientific and technological research. 
8. Supervision and management of public debt. 
9. Census. 
10. Extension of the powers and jurisdiction of members of a police force belonging to any 
Province to any area in another Province, but not so as to enable the police of one Province to 
exercise powers and jurisdiction in another province without the consent of the Government of 
that Province; extension of the powers and jurisdiction of members of a police force belonging 
to any Province to railway areas outside that Province. 
11. Legal, medical and other professions. 
12. Standards in institutions for higher education and research, scientific and technical institutions. 
13. Inter-provincial matters and co-ordination.] 
1[14.]  Council of Common Interests. 
1[15.]  Fees in respect of any of the matters in this Part but not including fees taken in any court. 
1[16.]  Offences against laws with respect to any of the matters in this Part. 
1[17.]  Inquiries and statistics for the purposes of any of the matters in this Part. 
1[18.]  Matters incidental or ancillary to any matter enumerated in this Part. 
1-47. 2[* * * * * * *] 
 
________ 
 
 
 
 
1Re-numebred and ins. by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 101. 
2Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 101. 
  
 
 Page 174 of 176   
 
 
*FIFTH SCHEDULE 
[Article 205] 
REMUNERATION AND TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE OF JUDGES 
1[THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTIONAL COURT AND THE SUPREME COURT] 
1. There shall be paid to the Chief Justice of 1[the Federal Constitutional Court and the Chief 
Justice of the Supreme Court]  a salary of Rs. 2[9,900] per mensem, and to every other Judge of the 
Supreme Court a salary of Rs. 2[9,500] per mensem 2[, or such higher salary as the P resident may, 
from time to time, determine.] 
2. Every Judge of the 1[Federal Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court] shall be entitled to 
such privileges and allowances, and to such rights in respect of leave of absence and pension, as may 
be determined by the President, and until so determined, to the privileges, allowances and rights to 
which, immediately before the commencing day, the Judges of the 1[Federal Constitutional Court and 
the Supreme Court] 1[**] were entitled. 
2[3. The pension payable to a retired Judge of the 1[Federal Constitutional Court and the Supreme 
Court] per mensem shall not be less or more than the amount specified in the table below, depending 
on the length of his service as Judge in that Court or a High Court: 
Provided that the President may, from time to time, raise the minimum or maximum amount 
of pension so specified: __ 
 
Judge Minimum Amount Maximum                            Amount 
Chief Justice Rs. 7,000 Rs. 8,000 
Other Judge Rs. 6,250 Rs. 7,125.] 
3[4. The widow of a Judge of the 1[Federal Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court] shall be 
entitled to a pension at the following rates, namely :__ 
(a) if the Judge dies after retirement–50 per cent of the net pension payable to him; 
or 
(b) if the Judge dies after having rendered not less than three years’ service as Judge 
and while still serving as such –50 per cent of the pension admissible to him at 
the minimum rate. 
5. The pension shall be payable to the widow for life or, if she remarries, until her marriage. 
 
*w. e. f. 1-12-2001, the salary of the Chief Justice of Pakistan and other Judges of the Supreme Court has been determined by the President to be Rs. 
55,000 and Rs. 52,000 respectively vide P.O. No. 2 of 2002, paragraph 2 (1), which was previously amended by P.O. No. 9 of 1991, P.O. No. 3 of 1995 
and P.O. No. 4 of 1995.  
(w. e. f. 27-7-1991, vide P. O. No. 2 of 1997) the Chief Justice and a Judge of the Supreme Court on his retirement or resignation shall be entitled to the 
minimum amount of pension equal to 70% to the Chief Justice of his salary or as the case may be, a Judge plus 5% of salary for each completed year of 
service either as the Chief Justice or as the Judge not exceeding the maximum amount of pension equal to 85% of the said salary. 
1Subs. and omitted by the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXXII of 2025), s. 56. 
2Subs. and added by the Constitution (Twelfth Amendment) Act., 1991 (Act No. XIV of 1991), s. 3. 
3Added by the Constitution (Amendment) Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 6 of 1985), Art.2, (w. e. f. the 1st July, 1981). 
 
 Page 175 of 176   
 
 
6. If the widow dies, the pension shall be payable__ 
(a) to the sons of the J udge who are less than twenty -one years of age, until they 
attain that age; and 
(b) to the unmarried daughters of th e Judge who are less than twenty-one years of 
age, until they attain that age or are married, whichever first occurs.] 
THE HIGH COURT 
1. *There shall be paid to the Chief Justice of a High Court  a salary of Rs. 1[9,400] per mensem, 
and to every other Judge of a High Court a salary of Rs. 1[8,400] per mensem 1[, or such higher salary 
as the President may, from time to time, determine.] 
2. Every Judge of a High Court shall be entitled to such privi leges and allowances, and to such 
rights in respect of leave of absence and pension, as may be determined by the President, and until so 
determined, to the privileges, allowances and rights to which, immediately before the commencing 
day, the Judges of the High Court were entitled. 
1[3. The pension payable per mensem to a Judge of a High Court who retires after having put in not 
less than five years service  as such Judge shall not be less or more than the amount specified in the 
table below, depending on the length of his service as Judge and total service, if any, in the service of 
Pakistan: 
 
Provided that the President may, from time to time, raise the minimum or maximum amount of 
pension so specified:__ 
 
Judge Minimum amount Maximum amount 
Chief Justice Rs. 5,640 Rs. 7,050 
Other Judge Rs. 5,040 Rs. 6,300.] 
2[4. The widow of a Judge of the High Court shall be entitled to a pension at the following rates, 
namely :__ 
(a) if the Judge dies after retirement__50 per cent of the net pension payable to him; 
or 
(b) if the Judge dies after having rendered not less than five years’ service as Judge 
and while still serving as such –50 per cent of the pension admissible to him at 
the minimum rate. 
5. The pension shall be payable to the widow for life or, if she remarries, until her marriage. 
 
*w. e. f. 1-12-2001, the salary of the Chief Justice of High Court and other Judges of a High Court has been determined by the President to be Rs. 51,000 
and Rs. 49.000 respectively vide P. O. No. 2 of 2002, paragraph 2 (2), which was previously amended by P.O. No. 9 of 1991, P. O. No. 3 of 1995 and P. 
O. No. 4 of 1995.  
w. e. f. 27-7-1991, vide P. O. No. 3 of 1997) the Chief Justice and a Judge of the High Court on his retirement or resignation or removal shall be entitled 
to the minimum pension equal to 70% of the salary on the completion of 5 years service for pension as Judge and an extra pension @ 2% of such salary 
for each subsequent completed year of service as Chief Justice or the Judge including his service if any the maximum pension not exceeding 80% of the 
salary. 
1Subs. and added by the Constitution (Twelfth Amendment) Act, 1991 (Act No. XIV of 1991). s. 3. 
2Added by the Constitution (Amendment) Order, 1985 (P.O. No. 6 of 1985), Art.2, (w. e. f. the 1st July, 1981). 
 
 
 Page 176 of 176   
 
 
6. If the widow dies, the pension shall be payable__ 
(a) to the sons of the Judge who are less than twenty -one years of age, until they 
attain that age; and 
(b) to the unmarried daughters of the Judge who are less than twenty -one years of 
age, until they attain that age or are married, whichever first occurs.] 
Sixth Schedule  1[* * * * * * *]     
Seventh Schedule  1[* * * * * * *]    
 
 
_________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
RGN Date: 14-11-2025 
1Omitted by the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act No. X of 2010), s. 102.

Legislation in Context

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Instrument made under this authority

Rules of Business

Provision: Article 99(2) and (3)

The opening recital names the Federal Government as rule-maker. Article 99(2) concerns authentication; Article 99(3) concerns allocation and transaction of Federal Government business.

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Rules of Business

In exercise of the powers conferred by Articles 90 and 99 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Federal Government is pleased to make the following rules:-

Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan

99. Conduct of business of Federal Government.__ (1) All executive actions of the Federal Government shall be expressed to be taken in the name of the President. (2) The 3[Federal Government] shall by rules specify the manner in which orders and other instruments made and executed 3[in the name of the President] shall be authenticated, and the validity of any order or instrument so authenticated shall not be questioned in any court on the ground that it was not made or executed by the President. 3[(3) The Federal Government shall also make rules for the allocation and transaction of its business.]]

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Exact character range: 6057–6250 (end exclusive)

Text version: law:pk-code-30ecabb4a7ed433a:sha256:b4c3398abc155e5d543d326f4cd2167a25f194de0e6b274f64aa5058006f705a
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Instrument citing this constitutional context

Rules of Business

Provision: Article 90

Article 90 provides executive constitutional context. It is distinct from the rule-making provisions identified in Article 99.

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Rules of Business

In exercise of the powers conferred by Articles 90 and 99 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Federal Government is pleased to make the following rules:-

Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan

90. The Federal Government.__ (1) Subject to the Constitution, the executive authority of the Federation shall be exercised in the name of the President by the Federal Government, consisting of the Prime Minister and the Federal Ministers, which shall act through the Prime Minister, who shall be the chief executive of the Federation. (2) In the performance of his functions under the Constitution, the Prime Minister may act either directly or through the Federal Ministers.]

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Exact character range: 6057–6250 (end exclusive)

Text version: law:pk-code-30ecabb4a7ed433a:sha256:b4c3398abc155e5d543d326f4cd2167a25f194de0e6b274f64aa5058006f705a
Exact character range: 116483–116975 (end exclusive)

Instrument made under this authority

Federal Constitutional Court Judges (Leave, Pension and Privileges) Order, 2025

Provision: Fifth Schedule, Federal Constitutional Court and Supreme Court, paragraph 2; Article 205 contextual

Paragraph 2 of the Fifth Schedule is the specific enabling provision identified by this Order. Article 205 supplies supporting constitutional context.

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Federal Constitutional Court Judges (Leave, Pension and Privileges) Order, 2025

[10th December, 2025] PRESIDENT’S ORDER NO. 3 OF 2025 WHEREAS paragraph 2 of the Fifth Schedule to the Constitution of Islamic Republic of Pakistan relating to the Federal Constitutional Court provides that every Judge of the Federal Constitutional Court shall be entitled to such privileges and allowances, and to such rights in respect of leave of absence and pension, as may be determined by the President; NOW THEREFORE, in exercise of the said powers the President is pleased to make the following Order: PART-I PRELIMINARY 1. Short title and commencement.—(1) This order may be called the Federal Constitutional Court Judges (Leave, Pension and Privileges) Order, 2025. (2) It shall come into force at once.

Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan

2. Every Judge of the 1[Federal Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court] shall be entitled to such privileges and allowances, and to such rights in respect of leave of absence and pension, as may be determined by the President, and until so determined, to the privileges, allowances and rights to which, immediately before the commencing day, the Judges of the 1[Federal Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court] 1[**] were entitled.

Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan

205. Remuneration etc., of Judges.__ The remuneration and other ter ms and conditions of service of a Judge of 3[Federal Constitutional Court or] the Supreme Court or of a High Court shall be as provided in the Fifth Schedule.

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Text version: law:pk-code-30ecabb4a7ed433a:sha256:b4c3398abc155e5d543d326f4cd2167a25f194de0e6b274f64aa5058006f705a
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Pakistan Citizenship Act, 1951 · Federal
PAKISTAN CITIZENSHIP ACT, 1951 · Punjab

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or controlled by the Government or in which the Government has a controlling share or interest; or (f) being a citizen of Pakistan by virtue of section 14B of the Pakistan Citizenship Act, 1951 (II of 1951), he is for the time being disqualified under any law in force in Azad Jammu and Kashmir from being elected as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Azad Jammu and Kashmir; or 1Omitted by the Constitutio