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Pak Studies History IGCSEPDF 121
181 pagesrevision 46928
PDF 121
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During an emergency, fundamental rights and legislative powers
could be suspended.
11. Languages
Both Urdu and Bengali were declared national languages,
maintaining linguistic equality between East and West Pakistan.
Weaknesses and Problems
The President’s dominance made the system authoritarian.
Provincial autonomy was weak, causing dissatisfaction in East
Pakistan.
The Basic Democracies system was seen as undemocratic, as it
limited direct participation.
The Constitution concentrated too much power in the President,
reducing checks and balances.
Political opposition grew, leading to mass protests against Ayub
Khan in the late 1960s.
Significance
Introduced a Presidential system — first of its kind in Pakistan.
Aimed to bring stability and efficiency after years of parliamentary
instability.
Encouraged economic planning and local governance through
Basic Democracies.
However, its centralized and autocratic nature led to strong
opposition and political unrest.
Ultimately abrogated in 1969, when General Yahya Khan imposed
Martial Law and took power.
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