THERE are different types of laws in the country, but for better understanding, three main categories exist in Pakistan that influence our daily lives: general law, which applies to all citizens; special law, which applies to specific subjects; and local law, which applies only to particular regions within the country.
The First Amendment to the US Constitution (1917) established a separation between church and state, ensuring there is no government endorsement or interference in religious matters.
Article 6 of the US Constitution further states that no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification for holding public office.
In contrast, Article 2 of Pakistan’s 1973 Constitution declares Islam as the state religion.
Like other countries founded on religious ideology—such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, the UAE, the UK, Denmark, Thailand, Bhutan and Israel—Pakistan faces the challenge of interpreting religious principles in practice.
But does Islam permit burning people alive, disrespecting women or denying them education?
Article 35 of Pakistan’s Constitution mandates the State to protect marriage, the family, the mother and the child.
According to Section 82 of the Pakistan Penal Code (1860), nothing is considered an offence if committed by a child under ten years of age.
The term “tender age” is used in Article 3 of the Qanun-e-Shahadat Order (formerly the Indian Evidence Act, 1872), referring to children aged seven to fourteen.
Such children may testify if they can understand and respond rationally.
A person with mental illness is not automatically disqualified from testifying unless their condition prevents them from understanding and answering questions rationally.
According to Islamic jurisprudence, the age of puberty (Baligh) varies according to different schools of thought.
Food insecurity and climate change affect nutrition and overall health, impacting growth and puberty.
Pakistan’s life expectancy for 2024–25 remains below global averages—65.4 years for males and 69.2 for females, according to the WHO.
Water scarcity and poor sanitation increase the risk of waterborne diseases, which affect nutrient absorption, growth and development.
According to various sources, Pakistan’s poverty index stands at 38.9 percent.
Article 51(2A) of the 1973 Constitution grants voting rights to citizens aged eighteen and above.
In the case of Muhammad Latif vs National Insurance Co.
(PLD 2009 SC 349), the Supreme Court addressed issues of life expectancy, dependents and compensation.
There is a need for stronger public health legislation to ensure clean air and water.
Section 310-A, Badal-i-Sulh, reflects another tragic reality in our society, where girls are still used to settle civil and criminal disputes—particularly in areas like Sanghar, where private arbitrators employ this practice even in the 21st century.
These arbitrators often accept bribes, take sides in property and criminal cases and include government employees who act as land grabbers.
I recall an incident during my university life when a classmate was targeted by his neighbour in his hometown.
After refusing to engage in unnatural carnal relations, he was threatened with dire consequences, including the threat of honour killing involving his wife.
The government must introduce stronger legislation to reduce male dominance in every sphere of life—including family, politics and the economy.
—The writer is contributing columnist, based in Sanghar, Sindh. (advaddero@gmail.com)
