المستخلص: |
The issue of incorporation of Islamic provisions in the constitutional, legal, economic, socio-political order as well as policy structures of the Government of Pakistan emerged on the policy agenda in the last years of Pakistan movement and immediately after independence. This issue, commonly known as ‘Islamization’, however, remained a hotly debated topic. Undoubtedly, Islam, as a way of life and the embodiment of universal human values of social justice, tolerance, and equity was the most motivating and inspiring factor in the struggle for creation of Pakistan. It was believed that the enormity of the task of re-construction of Islamic thought notwithstanding, it would not be beyond the resources of Pakistan to convert itself into model Islamic welfare state, where all citizens, irrespective of their caste, colour, language or creed, would live in an atmosphere of tolerance and harmony. It was unfortunate that Pakistan, despite the lapse of 67 years, could not promote an enlightened and tolerant society. The policy debate in connection with the issue of Islamization should, therefore, be directed towards the promotion of a society which should be more tolerant, just, equitable and prosperous. It would, in turn, require the evolution of a balanced and uniform system of education, in which the existing religious stream of education i.e. ‘Madaris’ should also be integrated. The paper in hand aims at analyzing the dynamics of Islamization, as a policy perspective, with a view to identifying the direction of policy debate that should take place in the policy-making institutions about this issue.
|