The Islamization of Pakistan’s First Constitution: The Role of Jamaat-e-Islami

Abstract

This paper examines Jamaat-e-Islami’s struggle for the Islamization of the first constitution of Pakistan. Islamization remains the dominant ideology of the state, for only the Islamists, led by the Jamaat-e-Islami, can provide the intellectual backdrop for Islamization of first constitution of Pakistan. JI originated, in pre-portioned India as representative of Islamic revivalist movement in the sub-continent. It wanted to unite the Muslims of the sub-continent. It wanted to practice, present and preach Islam with peaceful, logical and with modern approach in the dramatically changing international political order. The time was crucial for Muslims, and the resources were scarce but the organized and persistent efforts of the members of the movement, it had a considerable following in the sub-continent. With the creation of Pakistan, Muslim League realized the dream of Pakistan but after the departure of Quaid it remained unable to set new ideals and goals. JI demonstrated resilience and emerged within an ideological vacant society.