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
41
The 'Reko Diq' case involved judicial intervention in which sector?
Answer:
Mining and International Investment
The Supreme Court's 2013 decision to void the Reko Diq mining contract with international firms led to a massive $6 billion penalty against Pakistan by an international tribunal (ICSID). This case is often used as a critique of judicial activism in complex commercial and international treaty matters.
42
What is the legal term for a situation where a court takes up a case on its own motion without a formal petition?
Answer:
Suo Motu
Suo Motu is a Latin term meaning 'on its own motion.' In Pakistan, the Supreme Court uses this under Article 184(3) to address issues of public interest where it perceives a violation of fundamental rights, even if no victim has approached the court.
43
The 'Steel Mills Case' (2006) is often cited as the first major clash between the judiciary and the executive because it:
Answer:
Struck down the privatization of the Pakistan Steel Mills
In 2006, a bench led by Iftikhar Chaudhry annulled the privatization of the Pakistan Steel Mills, citing irregularities. This was a landmark case of economic judicial activism that signaled the court's willingness to intervene in major government policy decisions.
44
The '26th Constitutional Amendment' (2024) significantly impacted judicial activism by establishing:
Answer:
Constitutional Benches
The 26th Amendment introduced Constitutional Benches in the Supreme Court and High Courts to hear matters involving the interpretation of the Constitution. This was seen as a way to separate 'political' constitutional cases from regular litigation and reduce the individual influence of the CJP.
45
Which Chief Justice was known for his 'Dam Fund' campaign and frequent visits to hospitals and markets in 2018?
Answer:
Justice Mian Saqib Nisar
Justice Saqib Nisar's tenure was highly controversial due to his proactive role in executive domains. He initiated the Diamer-Bhasha Dam Fund, conducted surprise raids on hospitals, and took Suo Motu notices on water prices and the quality of milk, often bypassing traditional administrative channels.
46
The 'Panama Papers' case (2017) led to the disqualification of Nawaz Sharif under which article of the Constitution?
Answer:
Article 62(1)(f)
Nawaz Sharif was disqualified under Article 62(1)(f), which requires a member of Parliament to be 'Sadiq' and 'Ameen' (truthful and trustworthy). The court used its activist jurisdiction to investigate his assets and ultimately ruled him unfit for office for failing to disclose a receivable salary.
47
In 2012, which Prime Minister was disqualified by the Supreme Court for contempt of court, an act seen as a peak of judicial activism?
Answer:
Yousaf Raza Gillani
Yousaf Raza Gillani was disqualified after he refused to comply with the court's order to write a letter to Swiss authorities to reopen corruption cases against President Asif Ali Zardari. This marked a significant moment where the judiciary exercised its power to remove the head of the executive.
48
The 'Practice and Procedure Act 2023' was passed by Parliament primarily to:
Answer:
Regulate the Suo Motu powers and the formation of benches by the CJP
The Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Act 2023 was designed to institutionalize the office of the Chief Justice by requiring a committee of three senior-most judges to decide on Suo Motu notices and bench formations, thereby curbing the 'discretionary' power of a single individual.
49
Who is often considered the pioneer of aggressive judicial activism in Pakistan during his tenure as Chief Justice (2005–2013)?
Answer:
Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry
Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry's tenure was marked by unprecedented judicial intervention in executive matters. Following the 2007 Lawyers' Movement and his restoration, the court frequently used Suo Motu powers to scrutinize government contracts, appointments, and human rights issues.
50
Which article of the 1973 Constitution of Pakistan provides the Supreme Court with 'Original Jurisdiction' to take Suo Motu notice?
Answer:
Article 184(3)
Article 184(3) allows the Supreme Court to make an order if it considers that a question of public importance with reference to the enforcement of any of the Fundamental Rights is involved. This article is the primary tool used by the judiciary for Suo Motu actions and Public Interest Litigation (PIL).