The Role of the Judiciary in Constitutional Interpretation in Pakistan

Abstract

This study examines the evolving role of the judiciary in Pakistan in interpreting the Constitution, exploring how the courts have come to terms with their position as the primary interpreters of the Constitution. The problem with Pakistan is that the judiciary has a two-fold role in a democracy: protecting constitutional supremacy, Basic rights, and preserving the balance of power between the various centres of state. The paper provides a historical overview, starting with the historical context that initially justified the use of a military coup under the doctrine of necessity, and continuing to the contemporary history of judicial activism, as evident in major court cases such as the Panama Papers Case, 2017. It presents a critical analysis of the conflict between judicial review and parliamentary supremacy, highlighting the main cases, including the Maulvi Tamizuddin Khan Case,1955 and Asma Jilani v. The Government of Punjab (1972), which influenced judicial attitudes towards executive activities. Judicial problems, such as political and military interventions, slow justice delivery, and increasing judicial activism, are also addressed in the study. The analysis has shown that the consequences of judicial activism on the enhancement of constitutional governance have been accompanied by concerns about judicial intrusion, particularly in policy areas. The appropriate balance is needed, and judicial independence is to be saved without cancelling democracy and parliamentary sovereignty. The study concludes that the constitutional stability and democratic integrity of Pakistan rely on judicial restraints, as well as greater judicial independence.

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