The Constitutional Charter of Pakistan in the year 1962

Introduction

In the February of 1960, Ayub Khan assembled a decemvir constitution commission for the formulation of constitution. The former Chief Justice, Shahab Ud Din presided over this commission. It tendered its counsel to the then President of Pakistan on May 06, 1961. Subsequently, the President established a constitution committee, helmed by the then Foreign Minister, Manzoor Qadir. This committee comprised seven cabinet members. The Committee disregarded the recommendations proffered by the Commission and synthesized constitutional suggestions of its own preference, which were sanctioned in the Convocation of Governors. Thus, the Constitution was consummated. By a Presidential Edict, the Then President Muhammad Ayoub Khan promulgated this Constitution in the Country on June 08, 1962.

Following are the salient features of 1962 Constitution

1. The Constituent of 1962 was a written document. It consisted of 250 articles, five schedules and 31 Martial Law regulations. It was divided into 12 parts.
2. Pakistan was a federation with two provinces. i.e. East Pakistan and West Pakistan. Both were given equal representations in National Assembly.
3. The Original constitution did not contain a list of fundamental rights but later on a list of fundamental rights was included in the constitution.
4. Presidential system was introduced in the country under the constitution.
5. Election to the office of the President will be for five years terms
6. Both Urdu and Bengali were declared the National languages of Pakistan. While English was given the status of official language .
7. Independence and autonomy of Judiciary was guaranteed.
8. A uni-cameral legislature was provided i.e. National Assembly of Pakistan. Total members of Assembly were 156, equally distributed among East and West Pakistan. Out of these 06 seats were specified for females.
9. Election of the office of the President as well as members of National Assembly and Provincial assemblies will be made by Electoral College of B.D members.
10. 2/3 majority of the parliament could amend the constitution but the authentication by the President was compulsory.

FAQs:

i)       What do you know about constitution of 1962?

ii)      When 2nd Constitution was enforced in country?

iii)     According to your idea, what is difference between the constitution of 1956 & 1962.