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INTRODUCTION:
Islamic law, also known as Sharia, plays a significant role in Pakistan’s legal system. Pakistan
is an Islamic republic, and its legal system incorporates elements of Islamic law alongside
common law and statutory law. The Constitution of Pakistan designates Islam as the state
religion and mandates that all laws be brought into conformity with Islamic principles.
Additionally, Pakistan has a separate system of Islamic courts known as the Sharia courts or
the Federal Shariat Court, which adjudicates matters pertaining to Islamic law. These courts
primarily deal with issues such as family law, inheritance, and other matters governed by
Islamic principles.
The Implementation of Islamic law in Pakistan is primarily governed by the country’s legal
system, which operates on a dual-track system comprising both secular and Islamic legal
principles. Here are some key aspects of how Islamic law is implemented in Pakistan:
Islamizing the legal system. Article 2 states that Islam is the state religion, while Article 227
requires that all laws be brought into conformity with the injunctions of Islam as laid down in
Islamic Legislation: The Pakistani parliament has passed various laws aimed at incorporating
Islamic principles into the legal framework. These include laws related to family matters,
such as the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, which governs marriage, divorce, and
Sharia Courts: Pakistan has a separate system of Sharia courts, which operate alongside the
regular civil and criminal courts. The Sharia courts, also known as the Federal Shariat Court,
have the authority to review and determine the compatibility of laws with Islamic principles.
They primarily deal with cases related to family law and other matters governed by Islamic
jurisprudence.
Application of Islamic Principles: In cases where Islamic principles are applicable, such as
family law matters involving Muslims, courts in Pakistan often refer to Islamic jurisprudence
to resolve disputes. Judges may interpret and apply Islamic law based on Quranic injunctions,
Hadith (sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad), and scholarly consensus.
Legal Education and Training: Law schools in Pakistan often include courses on Islamic
law as part of their curriculum. Aspiring lawyers and judges may study Islamic jurisprudence
Public Opinion and Social Influence: Islamic law also influences public opinion and
societal norms in Pakistan. Religious scholars and leaders often play a significant role in
shaping public discourse on legal and social issues, including matters related to Islamic law.
Overall, the implementation of Islamic law in Pakistan is a complex and evolving process,
societal factors.