Principle of policy
These articles guide the Government of Pakistan in framing laws and policies. Though they
are non-justiciable (cannot be enforced by courts), they reflect the ideological and moral
obligations of the state.
🔰 Purpose of Principles of Policy
The objective is to establish a welfare Islamic state, where:
Justice prevails
Fundamental rights are protected
Economic equality is ensured
Islam is promoted as a way of life
Detailed Explanation of Articles 29–40
✅ Article 29: Principles of Policy
This article declares that Islamic principles must guide the State's conduct and
policymaking. It obligates the government to act according to these guidelines.
Example: Any new education policy should reflect Islamic values and avoid
anything against Islam.
Article 30: Responsibility with Respect to Principles of Policy
The state is responsible for observing the principles.
But the courts cannot force the government to implement them.
Citizens cannot challenge the government in court for not implementing them.
Example: If the government fails to promote social justice, it’s morally wrong, but legally not
challengeable in court.
✅ Article 31: Islamic Way of Life
The state shall:
Enable Muslims to live according to Islam
Provide facilities for teaching the Qur’an and Sunnah
Promote Islamic values and character
Example: Introduction of Islamiat as a compulsory subject in schools.
✅ Article 32: Promotion of Local Government Institutions
The State must promote decentralization by:
Creating local bodies at district, tehsil, and union levels.
Ensuring public participation.
Example: Elections of union councils and mayors in cities.
✅ Article 33: Parochialism, Provincialism, Nepotism, and Racial Prejudice to be Discouraged
The state should:
Discourage ethnic, racial, and sectarian discrimination
Promote national unity and brotherhood
Example: Banning hate speech based on language, caste, or sect.
✅ Article 34: Full Participation of Women in National Life
The state shall ensure:
Equal opportunities for women
Protection against discrimination
Encouragement for women in all spheres of life
Example: Reserved seats for women in parliament and jobs.
✅ Article 35: Protection of Family, Mother, and Child
The state must:
Safeguard family as a unit
Protect mothers and children from exploitation and abuse
Example: Laws against domestic violence and maternity leave policies.
✅ Article 36: Protection of Minorities
The state must:
Protect religious and cultural rights of minorities
Ensure their full participation in national life
Example: Allowing non-Muslims to worship freely and celebrate their religious festivals.
✅ Article 37: Promotion of Social Justice and Eradication of Social Evils
The state is required to:
Ensure affordable education and eliminate illiteracy
Promote morality and stop prostitution, gambling, and drugs
Provide justice, equal opportunities, and fair wages
Example: Establishing free primary education and banning gambling centers.
✅ Article 38: Promotion of Social and Economic Well-Being
The state must:
Ensure basic necessities (food, housing, healthcare)
Eliminate riba (interest)
Provide employment, old-age benefits, and social security
Example: Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) for poor families.
✅ Article 39: Participation of People in Armed Forces
The state should encourage citizens from all backgrounds to join the armed forces.
Example: Cadet colleges for youth from tribal and underprivileged areas.
✅ Article 40: Strengthening Bonds with Muslim World and International Peace
The state must:
Strengthen ties with Muslim countries
Promote peace, human rights, and cooperation
Example: Pakistan’s active participation in OIC and support for the Palestinian cause.
🧠 Conclusion
The Principles of Policy (Articles 29–40) reflect the vision of Pakistan as an Islamic welfare
state. While they are not enforceable by law, they serve as a moral and political compass for
governments to ensure justice, equality, Islamic values, and welfare for all citizens.
