Islamization under General Zia Al-Haq (1977-1988) : An Analysis

As a result of the political crisis in Pakistan, the Martial Law regime of General Zia Al-Haq came into power on July 5, 1977. The process of Islamization was given a new boost during the period of Zia Al-Haq 1977- 1988. He launched a comprehensive scheme to eradicate non-Islamic practices in Pakistani state and society. His Islamization program contemplated significant reforms in the legal-constitutional, socioeconomic and educational institutions of Pakistan. The principles of Zakāt -‘Ushr ordinance, Islamic Ḥudūd and Penal code were introduced in the country. To Islamizing the economy Ribā abandoning and Profit and Loss sharing accounts in banks were initiated. Besides, he renamed parliament as Majlis Al-Shūrā; the Federal Sharī‘at Court, Sharī‘at Appellate Benches and Sharī‘ah Council were established in the country. Under the umbrella of Nizām-e-Muṣṭafā, social reforms were introduced, through the stressing of sanctity of the Holy month of Ramaḍān, enforcement of the bans on gambling and encouragement of chadar for women. Un-Islamic programs were banned on television and radio and news in Arabic was made compulsory. The stated objectives of President Zia’s Islamization policies were to lead Pakistan in the direction of truly Islamic state. However, the critics of his polices considered it a tool for legitimizing and enhancing his political powers in the country.

Dehumanization of Pakistani Society Through Media: An Analytical Study In The Light of Islamic Teachings

Media is the most influencing agency of 21st century which has been greatly utilized to bring change and revolution in the world, especially, since the advent of social and electronic media forms. It is serving as the weapon of present era, thus, demands Muslims to master its use owing to Divine duty. Pakistani Society has also witnessed massive change; more particularly the way people think and behave. Pakistan is an Islamic Republic, majorly populated with Muslims and representing Muslim culture. However, media practices seem to have diluted the essence of Muslim culture practiced in Pakistan. The current study aims to identify the gap of how the role of media becomes detrimental to the norms and customs of Pakistani culture and how far dehumanization through media has affected the ethical system. Moreover, the study also intends to explore the IslÉmic teachings regarding such practices and their application for the formation of a better society. For this, survey has been conducted from the general public across Pakistan regarding role of media and its impact on their lives by using questionnaire as a tool. The study revealed that media is inclined more towards negativity. It has damaging impact on the values of Pakistani Society and most of the values propagated through media are against Islamic ethical values system. Media content needs to be regulated by the concerned bodies through the application of Islamic ethical values so the real heritage of Pakistani culture being a Muslim culture could be preserved.