The Military and Democracy in Pakistan| Class 12 Political Science Notes
Last Updated :
23 Apr, 2024
Class 12 Political Science Notes Chapter 3: These notes for Class 12 Political Science on “The Military and Democracy in Pakistan” are really important for Board Examination. They help students understand how the military and democracy interact in Pakistan. The chapter talks about Pakistan’s history of military rule and coups, and how they affect democracy.
It also looks at the challenges democracy faces in Pakistan because of the military’s involvement. Studying these notes will give students a good understanding of Pakistan’s political history and the ongoing struggle for democracy in the country.
The Military and Democracy in Pakistan
After Pakistan adopted its first constitution, General Ayub Khan assumed control of the administration and was soon elected. However, public dissatisfaction with his rule led to his resignation.
Following Ayub Khan’s tenure, there was another military takeover, this time under General Yahya Khan. During Yahya’s rule, Pakistan faced the Bangladesh crisis, leading to the emergence of Bangladesh as an independent country after a war with India in 1971.
From 1971 to 1977, Pakistan was governed by an elected government led by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. However, General Zia-ul-Haq removed Bhutto’s government in 1977, marking the beginning of his regime.
General Zia faced a pro-democracy movement from 1982 onwards, leading to the restoration of democracy under Benazir Bhutto’s leadership in 1988. Pakistani politics then revolved around the competition between Bhutto’s Pakistan People’s Party and the Muslim League.
Democracy persisted until 1999 when the army intervened again, and General Pervez Musharraf removed Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. In 2001, General Musharraf assumed the presidency.
Pakistan has witnessed a failure in building a stable democracy due to various factors. The social dominance of the military, clergy, and landowning aristocracy has led to the frequent overthrow of elected governments and the establishment of military rule.
The country’s conflict with India has strengthened pro-military groups, who argue that political parties and democracy are flawed and that the army’s rule is necessary for Pakistan’s security.
Despite these challenges, there is a strong pro-democracy sentiment in Pakistan, supported by a courageous and relatively free press and a robust human rights movement.
However, the lack of genuine international support for democratic rule has encouraged the military to maintain its dominance. Western countries, particularly the United States, have historically supported military regimes for their own interests, fearing the threat of global terrorism and the security of Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal.
Conclusion – Class 12 Political Science Notes Chapter 3 The Military and Democracy in Pakistan
Pakistan has faced a tug-of-war between military rule and democracy. While there have been elected governments, military interventions have frequently disrupted the democratic process.
The military’s dominance and other powerful social influences have made it hard to establish a stable democracy. However, many Pakistanis still support democracy, backed by a free press and strong human rights advocacy.
The lack of genuine international backing for democracy adds to the challenge, as Western interests often side with military regimes. Pakistan needs to balance these internal and external pressures to strengthen its democratic institutions and protect the rights of its people.
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The Military and Democracy in Pakistan- FAQs
What are the implications of military involvement in Pakistani politics?
The military’s intervention in politics has influenced governance structures, democratic processes, and political stability in Pakistan. Understanding these implications is crucial for analyzing Pakistan’s political landscape.
What are some of the challenges faced by democracy in Pakistan due to military involvement?
Challenges include frequent disruptions to democratic processes, restrictions on civil liberties, and an imbalance of power between civilian institutions and the military.
Is democracy fully established in Pakistan?
Pakistan has faced challenges in establishing stable democratic governance due to military interventions and political instability.
How has international support influenced Pakistan’s military and democracy?
International support, particularly from Western countries, has sometimes bolstered military regimes in Pakistan, affecting the country’s democratic development.
What are some key factors contributing to the complex relationship between the military and democracy in Pakistan?
Factors include historical legacies, geopolitical considerations, internal power dynamics, and the role of external actors.
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