Pakistan Studies/Affairs MCQs
Topic Notes: Pakistan Studies/Affairs
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
31
The 'Niazi vs. ECP' and other digital rights cases in the Islamabad High Court in 2024 were overseen by which judge known for his focus on civil liberties?
Answer:
Justice Babar Sattar
Justice Babar Sattar of the Islamabad High Court has been at the forefront of digital rights cases in 2024. He has repeatedly questioned the state's authority to conduct mass surveillance and install web-filtering systems without a clear legislative framework.
32
In 2024, the ECP and the government faced criticism from civil society for 'internet shutdowns' during which specific day?
Answer:
The Election Day (Feb 8, 2024)
On February 8, 2024, mobile and internet services were shut down across Pakistan. The government cited security concerns, but civil society and international observers criticized the move for hindering voters' access to polling information and the transmission of results.
33
The 'Aurat March', held annually on March 8, represents which segment of Pakistani civil society?
Answer:
Feminist movements and women's rights advocates
The Aurat March is an annual demonstration held in major Pakistani cities since 2018. It advocates for women's rights, bodily autonomy, and an end to gender-based violence. It has become a focal point for debates on social norms and civil liberties in Pakistan.
34
Which of the following describes the 'INGO' policy implemented in Pakistan post-2015?
Answer:
Strict registration and monitoring by the Ministry of Interior
In 2015, Pakistan introduced a new policy for International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs), requiring them to re-register with the Ministry of Interior. This policy led to the closure of several international groups as the state sought tighter control over foreign funding and activities in sensitive areas.
35
The 'Lawyers' Movement' of 2007 is a prime example of which segment of civil society asserting its power?
Answer:
Professional Bar Associations
The 2007 movement for the restoration of the judiciary was led by the Bar Councils and Bar Associations. This was a pivotal moment in Pakistan's civil society history, where the legal community mobilized the public to challenge a military dictator and restore constitutional order.
36
Which province was the first to pass a provincial-level 'Right to Information' (RTI) law in 2013, which is often cited as the most robust in the country?
Answer:
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa passed the KP RTI Act in 2013. It set a high standard for transparency, including the creation of a strong Information Commission and allowing citizens to access government data with minimal hurdles, outperforming the federal and other provincial laws at the time.
37
In the context of Pakistani media, what does the term 'Vloggers' refer to in the post-2020 landscape?
Answer:
Independent digital journalists/content creators on YouTube/social media
With the rise of internet penetration, many mainstream journalists and independent creators moved to 'Vlogging.' By 2024-2025, these digital platforms became significant alternatives to traditional TV, often carrying content that PEMRA-regulated channels were hesitant to broadcast.
38
The 'Press and Publications Ordinance' (PPO) of 1962, often called a 'Black Law,' was promulgated by:
Answer:
Ayub Khan
Ayub Khan introduced the PPO in 1962 to strictly control the print media. It gave the government powers to seize printing presses and ban any publication it deemed 'prejudicial' to national interests, serving as a template for censorship in Pakistan for decades.
39
Which law was enacted in 2021 to ensure the safety and security of media workers in Pakistan?
Answer:
Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act
The Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act was passed in 2021. It was a significant win for civil society, as it mandated the state to protect journalists from harassment, violence, and intimidation, and proposed a commission to investigate crimes against journalists.
40
The 'Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists' (PFUJ) is historically significant for its struggle against which military ruler?
Answer:
Zia-ul-Haq
During General Zia-ul-Haq's martial law in the late 1970s, the PFUJ led a heroic struggle against censorship. Journalists faced floggings and imprisonment for protesting against the 'Press and Publications Ordinance' and the banning of several progressive newspapers.