Pakistan Studies MCQ #36739

A student argues that an ordinary Act of Parliament can rename a province and change its representation formula without touching the higher amendment procedure. Under the 1973 Constitution, which rule blocks that shortcut?

Pakistan Studies MCQ #36739

  1. Question 1

    Q1. A student argues that an ordinary Act of Parliament can rename a province and change its representation formula without touching the higher amendment procedure. Under the 1973 Constitution, which rule blocks that shortcut?

    • A) Only a money bill can change a province’s name so the National Assembly alone decides
    • B) Any change that alters federal–provincial legislative distribution needs only a simple majority in the Senate
    • C) A constitutional amendment must follow the special procedure in Article 239 rather than a normal statute
    • D) The cabinet can issue an ordinance to amend the provincial boundaries without involving assemblies

    Answer: A constitutional amendment must follow the special procedure in Article 239 rather than a normal statute

    Explanation: Article 239 of the 1973 Constitution prescribes a special amendment procedure requiring a two-thirds majority in both houses of Parliament, and in some cases provincial assembly consent, making constitutional changes far more demanding than ordinary legislation. An ordinary Act of Parliament cannot override this entrenched procedure to alter fundamental constitutional arrangements like provincial boundaries.