National Assembly to Discuss Major Constitutional Amendments, Including Increased Balochistan Representation

The National Assembly of Pakistan will present significant constitutional amendments in today’s session, including a proposal to increase seats for Balochistan in the provincial assembly. Over 20 clauses are expected to be revised, impacting key articles such as Articles 51, 63, 175, and 187.

A key amendment seeks to raise Balochistan’s provincial assembly seats from 65 to 81, aiming to improve the province’s representation in legislative matters. Article 63, which pertains to the disqualification of Parliament members, will also undergo notable revisions, including changes on the voting behavior of defecting members.

Read more: NA Session Rescheduled for Constitutional Amendment Consideration

Amendments to Article 181 will introduce broader judicial reforms. One major change involves ending the tenure extension of the Chief Justice of Pakistan, along with a new provision allowing Islamabad High Court judges to be transferred to other provincial courts. The Chief Justice’s appointment will now be determined by a panel of the five senior-most Supreme Court judges, shifting away from the current system.

Further amendments will impact Articles 184, 185, and 186, with the establishment of a Constitutional Court to handle related cases. Additionally, the appointment process for Supreme Court and High Court judges will be streamlined by merging the Judicial Commission and Parliamentary Committee for a more efficient selection process.