ABSTRACT
The purpose of this chapter is to examine the concept of the RTD in Pakistan from the perspective of Islamic law (the Shari ah). The chapter mainly examines the role of the Shari ah in the promotion of the RTD and the implications of the struggles for Islamization on the promotion of the RTD in Pakistan. Islam is the state religion of Pakistan. The 1973 constitution of Pakistan has many clear provisions, which provide for the establishment of an Islamic society. The Objectives Resolution proclaims: ‘the principles of democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance and social justice, as enunciated by Islam, shall be fully observed in Pakistan.’ This clause indicates that Islam shall be the guiding principle for the whole political system of Pakistan. The role of Islam in the political system, however, remains the most challenging task. The military regime of General Zia-ul-Haq (1977-1988) launched a widespread Islamization movement, which led to concerns being raised at home and abroad, particularly by human rights activists.
