what is Bureaucratic

Bureaucracy refers to a system of administration in which decisions are made by state officials, rather
than by elected representatives. In a bureaucratic system, tasks are divided among specialized
departments, and these tasks are performed by trained professionals or civil servants. Bureaucracies
are typically hierarchical, with a clear chain of command, and they rely on established rules,
procedures, and regulations to function efficiently.

Key characteristics of bureaucracy include:

1. Specialization: Bureaucracies often consist of specialized departments or divisions, each handling

specific functions or tasks. This division of labor allows individuals to become experts in their
respective fields.
2. Hierarchy: Bureaucracies are structured hierarchically, with clearly defined levels of authority.
Decisions flow from the top down, and there is a clear chain of command.
3. Formal Rules and Procedures: Bureaucracies operate based on formal rules, regulations, and
procedures. These rules guide the behavior of bureaucrats and ensure consistency in decision-
making.
4. Impersonality: Bureaucracies are expected to treat all individuals equally and impartially, without
favoritism or discrimination. Decisions are ideally made based on objective criteria rather than
personal biases.
5. Merit-Based Recruitment: Bureaucracies often have a system of merit-based recruitment, where
individuals are hired and promoted based on their qualifications, skills, and performance rather than
political or social connections.
6. Permanent Employment: Bureaucrats typically have permanent or long-term employment within
the bureaucratic system, providing stability and continuity in governance.
7. Public Interest: Bureaucracies are expected to act in the public interest. Their decisions and actions
are meant to serve the welfare of the citizens and the overall well-being of society.
Section-I Explains all those factors responsible for the ascendancy of the bureaucratic elites in the
politics of Pakistan. Section-II Covers the role of bureaucratic elites in policy making of Pakistan
(1947-54). Section-III Covers the era of bureaucratic ascendancy during (1954-58).
Section I: Factors Responsible for the Ascendancy of Bureaucratic Elites in Pakistani Politics

The ascendancy of bureaucratic elites in Pakistani politics can be attributed to several factors. Firstly,
the legacy of British colonial rule left behind a well-established administrative structure, creating a
foundation for bureaucratic influence. Secondly, the political instability in the early years of Pakistan
encouraged the bureaucratic class to step in as stabilizing forces, assuming roles beyond their
administrative mandates. Additionally, the lack of strong political institutions and leadership
provided bureaucrats with opportunities to exert influence over policymaking. The bureaucratic
system’s continuity and experience, even after political changes, further solidified their influence.

Section II: The Role of Bureaucratic Elites in Policy Making (1947-1954)

During the initial years of Pakistan's independence (1947-1954), bureaucratic elites played a
significant role in policymaking. Given the absence of stable democratic institutions, bureaucrats
often became the architects of policies. They were instrumental in formulating economic, foreign,
and social policies, contributing to the shaping of the nation. Bureaucrats' expertise and
administrative knowledge were relied upon heavily by the political leadership, allowing them to
influence critical decisions.

Section III: Bureaucratic Ascendancy (1954-1958)

The period from 1954 to 1958 marked a distinctive era of bureaucratic ascendancy in Pakistan. The
dismissal of the first Constituent Assembly in 1954 and subsequent political crises created a power
vacuum. In the absence of strong political figures, bureaucrats assumed a central role in governance.
This period saw the implementation of major policies and decisions driven by bureaucratic advice.
However, this ascendancy also faced challenges, including concerns over lack of accountability and
democratic representation.

In summary, the ascendancy of bureaucratic elites in Pakistani politics was a complex interplay of
historical legacies, political instability, and the absence of robust democratic institutions. Bureaucrats'
influence over policymaking and governance during crucial periods shaped the trajectory of the
nation, leaving a lasting impact on Pakistan's political landscape.
 Causes of Bureaucratic Ascendancy in Pakistan Lack of Trained Politicians Lack of Popular support
and power base of Politicians Fragmentation in the rank of Muslim League Our Bureaucracy- A
Colonial Heritage Indoctrination of Elitism in Training Academy Retention of Vice Regal powers by
Jinnah Early problems of Pakistan Unwillingness of Bureaucrats to Curtail their Powers Curtailments
of Political Process by imposition of legal restrictions on Political activities
Causes of Bureaucratic Ascendancy in Pakistan:

1. Lack of Trained Politicians: The dearth of trained politicians in the early years of Pakistan meant
that bureaucrats, with their administrative expertise, took on a prominent role in governance and
policy-making.
2. Lack of Popular Support and Power Base of Politicians: Political leaders often lacked a mass
following or a stable power base, making it easier for bureaucrats to step in and fill the leadership
vacuum.
3. Fragmentation in the Rank of Muslim League: The Muslim League, the party at the helm during
Pakistan's early years, experienced internal divisions and factionalism, weakening its ability to provide
unified political leadership.
4. Our Bureaucracy - A Colonial Heritage: The bureaucratic structure inherited from the British
colonial era continued to function in a similar manner, with bureaucrats accustomed to wielding
significant power and influence.
5. Indoctrination of Elitism in Training Academy: Training academies instilled a sense of elitism
among bureaucrats, fostering a belief in their superior ability to govern effectively, leading them to
dominate the political landscape.
6. Retention of Vice Regal Powers by Jinnah: The retention of vice regal powers by Muhammad Ali
Jinnah, Pakistan's founder, contributed to a centralized authority, allowing bureaucrats to exert
influence without democratic checks and balances.
7. Early Problems of Pakistan: Pakistan faced numerous challenges after independence, including
economic instability, refugee crises, and territorial disputes, prompting bureaucrats to assume a
more active role in crisis management and decision-making.
8. Unwillingness of Bureaucrats to Curtail Their Powers: Bureaucrats, enjoying the privileges of
power, were often reluctant to curtail their own authority, leading to their continued involvement in
politics and policymaking.
9. Curtailment of Political Process by Imposition of Legal Restrictions on Political Activities: The
imposition of legal restrictions on political activities limited the scope for genuine political
participation, enabling bureaucrats to maintain control over key aspects of governance.

These factors collectively contributed to the bureaucratic ascendancy in Pakistan, shaping the
nation's early political landscape and influencing the trajectory of its development.
Bureaucratic elites and policy making in Pakistan (1947-51) Jinnah’s personal decision to become
Governor General instead of Prime Minister of Pakistan He had appointed British Bureaucrats as
governors of provinces, believing that their experience and bureaucratic acumen were necessary for
Pakistan survival in its early stages. During (1947-54) nine provincial governments were dismissed.
After Jinnah’s death shifted the focus of powers to the prime minister’s office. For the survival of
newly born state he depended on the bureaucracy. Liaqat government call the opposition parties
“the traitors” and passed the first act PRODA in 1949.
Bureaucratic Elites and Policy Making in Pakistan (1947-1951):

During the initial years of Pakistan's independence (1947-1951), bureaucratic elites played a crucial
role in the policy-making process. Several key events and decisions shaped the relationship between
the government and the bureaucracy during this period:

**1. Jinnah’s Decision to Become Governor General: Muhammad Ali Jinnah's personal decision to
become the Governor-General instead of the Prime Minister significantly influenced the power
dynamics. This choice emphasized the need for a stable and experienced hand to lead the newly
independent nation, setting the tone for a strong role of bureaucratic elites in policy-making.

**2. Appointment of British Bureaucrats as Provincial Governors: Jinnah appointed British

bureaucrats as governors of provinces, believing that their experience and bureaucratic acumen were
necessary for Pakistan's survival in its early stages. This decision highlighted the reliance on
administrative expertise to navigate the challenges of nation-building.

**3. Dismissal of Provincial Governments (1947-1954): During this period, nine provincial
governments were dismissed. The dismissals underscored the political instability in the early years of
Pakistan and the challenges faced by elected governments, leading to increased influence of
bureaucratic elites in decision-making processes.

**4. Shift of Power to Prime Minister’s Office After Jinnah’s Death: Following Jinnah's death in
1948, the focus of power shifted to the Prime Minister's office. Bureaucratic elites continued to play a
significant role as advisors and implementers of policies, supporting the government in ensuring
stability and governance.

**5. Dependence on Bureaucracy for the Survival of the State: The government, especially in the
absence of stable political institutions, heavily depended on the bureaucracy for the survival of the
newly born state. Bureaucratic expertise was crucial in formulating policies, implementing reforms,
and managing administrative affairs.

**6. PRODA Act and Labeling of Opposition: The Liaqat government, facing political challenges,
passed the Public Safety Act, also known as PRODA, in 1949, granting extensive powers to detain
individuals deemed threats to public safety. Additionally, the government labeled opposition parties
as "traitors," reflecting the intense political climate of the time.]
During these years, bureaucratic elites in Pakistan played a vital role in providing stability and
expertise, ensuring the newly formed state's survival and addressing the challenges of nation-
building in a politically tumultuous environment. Their influence in policy-making processes
remained significant, shaping the early trajectory of the country.

Bureaucratic elites and policy making in Pakistan during (1951-54) Bureaucratic elites took strong
hold over decision making and it was enjoyed by the cabinet secretariat which was manned by the
bureaucrats. After Liaqat’s death resulted in the conversion of the office of governor General into an
instrument of bureaucratic intervention. Under Ghulam Muhammad the bureaucratic elites
established a paternalistic relationship with the politicians and thus aborted the process of party
politics. Section 92 A .
Bureaucratic Elites and Policy Making in Pakistan (1951-1954):

During the years 1951-1954 in Pakistan, bureaucratic elites continued to wield significant influence
over policy-making. Several key events and decisions reflected the extent of their involvement:

**1. Strong Bureaucratic Hold Over Decision Making: Bureaucratic elites consolidated their power
and influence, particularly within the cabinet secretariat. Decision-making processes were
increasingly controlled by bureaucrats, highlighting their central role in shaping policies and
governance.

**2. Conversion of the Office of Governor General: After the death of Prime Minister Liaqat Ali
Khan, the office of the Governor General was transformed into a tool of bureaucratic intervention.
Bureaucratic elites used this position strategically to exert their influence over political decisions and
maintain stability.

**3. Paternalistic Relationship with Politicians: Under Ghulam Muhammad, who served as the
Governor General during this period, bureaucratic elites established a paternalistic relationship with
politicians. This relationship often involved bureaucrats guiding and intervening in political matters,
leading to a situation where genuine party politics struggled to flourish.

**4. Abortion of the Process of Party Politics: The strong influence of bureaucratic elites, coupled
with their paternalistic approach, resulted in the suppression of genuine party politics. Political
processes were hindered, and the democratic development of the country was affected, as
bureaucratic intervention curtailed the natural evolution of political parties.

**5. Section 92 A: Unfortunately, the mention of "Section 92 A" in your query is unclear. If you are
referring to a specific provision or event related to Section 92 A during this period, please provide
more context, and I would be happy to elaborate further.
 In summary, during the years 1951-1954, bureaucratic elites continued to dominate policy-making in
Pakistan. Their control over decision-making processes, manipulation of political positions, and
paternalistic relationships with politicians shaped the political landscape, leading to a challenging
environment for the growth of genuine democratic processes.

Major Steps Dismissal of Khwaja Nazimmudin as a Prime Minister of Pakistan Appointment of

Mohammad Ali Bogra as the Prime Minister of Pakistan Dismissal of Fazl-ul-Haq The Chief Minister
of East Pakistan and the imposition of Governor rule in the province. Bogra efforts for the
reformation of the Bureaucracy Dissolution of the constitution assembly of Pakistan
Major Steps in Political Changes and Bureaucratic Reforms in Pakistan (1953-1955):

1. Dismissal of Khwaja Nazimuddin:

 In April 1953, Prime Minister Khwaja Nazimuddin was dismissed from his position by
Governor-General Ghulam Muhammad due to his inability to control civil unrest, specifically
the Lahore riots of 1953.
2. Appointment of Mohammad Ali Bogra:
 Following Khwaja Nazimuddin's dismissal, Mohammad Ali Bogra was appointed as the new
Prime Minister of Pakistan in April 1953. He aimed to stabilize the political situation and
address the issues faced by the country.
3. Dismissal of Fazl-ul-Haq and Imposition of Governor Rule in East Pakistan:
 Fazl-ul-Haq, the Chief Minister of East Pakistan, was dismissed, and Governor's rule was
imposed in the province in 1954. This move was made to suppress political tensions and
maintain order in the region.
4. Bogra's Efforts for Bureaucratic Reformation:
 Prime Minister Mohammad Ali Bogra made efforts to reform the bureaucracy. He aimed to
improve the efficiency and functioning of the bureaucratic system, implementing measures
to enhance governance and administrative processes.
5. Dissolution of the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan:
 In 1954, the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan was dissolved by Governor-General Ghulam
Muhammad. This decision was made due to political instability and disagreements within the
assembly, leading to a temporary suspension of the democratic process in the country.

These steps reflect a period of significant political upheaval and bureaucratic reforms in Pakistan
during the mid-1950s. The changes in leadership, imposition of Governor's rule, and dissolution of
the constituent assembly were all key events that influenced the political landscape and
administrative structure of the country during this time.

Bureaucratic Elites and Policy Making in Pakistan (1954-58) Governor General Iskandar Mirza
Decentralized autonomous tendencies in the provinces To control the politician with the help of
divide and rule policy
 Bureaucratic Elites and Policy Making in Pakistan (1954-1958):

During the period of 1954-1958 in Pakistan, bureaucratic elites continued to exert significant
influence on policy-making, particularly under the leadership of Governor General Iskandar Mirza.
Several key developments shaped the relationship between bureaucratic elites and policy-making
during this time:

**1. Governor General Iskandar Mirza's Leadership: Iskandar Mirza, serving as the Governor
General of Pakistan, held a prominent position during this period. His role in the political landscape
allowed bureaucratic elites to maintain a strong influence on decision-making processes.

**2. Decentralized Autonomous Tendencies in Provinces: There was a trend toward decentralized
autonomous governance in the provinces. This trend allowed provinces to have more control over
their own affairs, leading to diverse policy implementations across regions.

**3. Control through Divide and Rule Policy: Bureaucratic elites, especially under Iskandar Mirza's
leadership, employed a divide and rule policy to control politicians. By exploiting regional and
political differences, bureaucratic elites were able to manage political factions and assert influence
over various political groups.

**4. Strengthening Bureaucratic Power: Bureaucratic elites continued to strengthen their own
positions within the government. Through strategic alliances and political maneuvering, they secured
key positions that allowed them to shape policies, influence decision-making, and maintain stability
in the face of political challenges.

**5. Economic and Administrative Policies: Bureaucratic elites were instrumental in the formulation
and implementation of economic and administrative policies. They played a central role in economic
planning, industrial development, and administrative reforms, contributing significantly to the
nation's development agenda.

**6. Management of Political Instability: Political instability was a prominent feature of this period.
Bureaucratic elites managed political crises and transitions, often working behind the scenes to
ensure the continuity of governance and stability in the country.

During this time, bureaucratic elites in Pakistan utilized their influence, strategic alliances, and
administrative expertise to navigate the complex political landscape. Their ability to adapt to
changing circumstances, manage regional differences, and implement policies contributed
significantly to the stability and governance of the nation.

Major Steps One Unit Scheme Formation of the Republican Party Constitution of 1956
Major Steps in Pakistan's Political Landscape (1955-1956):

1. One Unit Scheme (1955):

  In 1955, the One Unit Scheme was introduced in Pakistan, merging the four provinces of
West Pakistan (Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan) into a single
administrative unit. This move was aimed at promoting national unity and reducing regional
disparities by treating all regions of West Pakistan as equals. However, it led to controversies
and political tensions, especially in East Pakistan, where it was perceived as an attempt to
suppress the Bengali-majority province.
2. Formation of the Republican Party (1956):
 The Republican Party was founded in 1956 as a political party in Pakistan. It represented a
liberal and secular political ideology, advocating for democratic principles, civil rights, and
social justice. The party aimed to provide an alternative to existing political forces and played
a role in shaping the political discourse of the time.
3. Constitution of 1956:
 The Constitution of 1956 was promulgated, marking Pakistan's first formal constitution as an
Islamic republic. It established Pakistan as a federal parliamentary democracy, defining the
powers and responsibilities of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the
government. The constitution emphasized the principles of equality, justice, and democratic
governance.

These major steps in Pakistan's political landscape during 1955-1956 represented significant
developments in the country's constitutional and administrative framework. The One Unit Scheme
aimed at national integration, the formation of the Republican Party introduced a new political force,
and the Constitution of 1956 laid the foundation for the country's democratic governance structure.

Conclusion:
 During 1947-58 bureaucracy performed the twin functions of policy making and policy
implementation.

 Bureaucratic structure based on colonial pattern

 The politicization of the bureaucracy was by default as well, because the politicians belonged to
the landowning class, thus lack of political experience and unity among their rank.

 From 1947-54, the bureaucratic elites did not create political crises by themselves rather they
took benefits from the already prevailing crises.

 Government of India Act 1935 which empower Governor General