Federalism and Provincial Autonomy in Pakistan: A Case of Balochistan

Abstract

The present study intends to explore the various aspects of the issue of provincial autonomy in the entire federation of Pakistan in general and in Baluchistan in particular and prescribes their possible resolution. Although federal system of government remains essential for diverse societies like Pakistan, it has not been able to lessen the grievances of its various units, particularly Baluchistan, over the period of time due to poor implementation of the policies. The 18th amendment in the constitution discourages the centralization of power and demands political and economic autonomy of the smaller provinces like Baluchistan, but the authoritarian trend of our political system has never permitted it to happen. The study suggests that deprivation of the people of Baluchistan can be ended by strengthening the federation of Pakistan with the help of a few viable steps like Decentralization of power and restoration of democratic values.