Every Pakistani citizen is entitled to a set of fundamental rights that are protected by the country’s constitution. A just and equitable society is built on these rights, which guarantee that each person is treated equally and fairly in accordance with the law. Every citizen must be aware of these rights in order to protect their liberty and properly navigate the judicial system. The purpose of this essay is to give readers a thorough understanding of Pakistani citizens’ legal rights so they may make informed decisions and stand up for what’s right..
The State’s side of the social contract found in this supreme law of the land is centered on the fundamental rights guaranteed by Chapter I of Part II of the 1973 Constitution, which states that any law, custom, or usage with legal force that conflicts with these rights will be void to the extent of the inconsistency and that the State will not pass any legislation that restricts or eliminates these rights. As well, any law that violates these rights will be void to the extent that it does so.
Furthermore, the Federal Government is referred to as “the State” throughout Part II of the Constitution, which lays forth fundamental rights and policy concepts.
Following are the fundamental rights available to citizens in this respect are
- Right to Equality: The Constitution of Pakistan preserves the theory of equality before the law. Every citizen, regardless of their race, religion, class, or gender, is eligible to equivalent protection and dealing under the law. Bias on any ground is forbidden, and the state is directed to guarantee equality of opportunity for all citizens.
- Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression: Freedom of speech and expression is a basic right ensured to every citizen in Pakistan. Persons have the right to express their sentiments, opinions, and beliefs liberally, subject to sensible restrictions levied by law in the interest of the power, honesty, and security of Pakistan, friendly relations with foreign states, public order, decency, or morality.
- Right to Freedom of Religion: Pakistan is a country with varied religious groups, and the Constitution pledges the right to freedom of religion to all citizens. Every person has the right to recognize, practice, and propagate their religion freely, subject to the law and public order.
- Right to Due Process and Fair Trial: The right to due process and fair trial is a foundation of justice in Pakistan. Every citizen suspect of a crime is entitled to a fair and balanced trial before a competent court of law. This consist of the right to legal representation, the premise of innocence till proven guilty, and protection against arbitrary arrest and imprisonment.
- Right to Privacy: Privacy is a primary human right agreed and protected by the Constitution of Pakistan 1973. Every citizen has the right to privacy of their person, home, connection, and communications. Any violation upon this right must be aligned by law and crucial in a democratic society.
- Right to Education: Education is also a fundamental right necessary for the growth and progress of individuals and society. The Constitution of Pakistan ensures free and mandatory education to all children among the periods of five and sixteen years. The state is liable for guaranteeing the provision of quality education and eliminating disparities in access to education.
- Right to Property: The right to property is protected by law in Pakistan. Every citizen has the right to acquire, possess, and dispose of property freely, subject to reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the public interest.
- Right to Access to Justice: Access to justice is a fundamental right essential for the protection and enforcement of all other rights. Every citizen has the right to access to justice and legal remedies through a fair, transparent, and efficient judicial system.
These are the unfettered fundamental rights upon which the 1973 Constitution neither imposes qualifications or restrictions by itself, nor calls upon any qualifications or restrictions to be imposed by ordinary statute law. They are discussed by example through certain parts of the relevant constitutional provisions
Pakistani citizens’ legal rights are protected by the judiciary and the Constitution. These rights guarantee that each person is treated with equality before the law, dignity, and respect, and they form the cornerstone of a democratic and just society. These rights must be upheld and protected by the government as well as by the populace in order to promote justice, equity, and inclusivity in Pakistani culture. Citizens can actively participate in the democratic process and develop a society founded on rights by being aware of and assertive about their legal rights.
