Principles and Practices of Federalism in Pakistan: A Critical Appraisal of the Emergence of Baloch Nationalism and Conflict in Balochistan

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to investigate the problems of Pakistani federation vis-à-vis its basic principles, theotrical foundations, and to explore various ways that causes nationalism and conflict within its geographical units/provinces. It also examines the factors which are responsible for the emergence of Baloch nationalism and conflict(s) within the Pakistani federation. The main argument of this paper revolves around the principles and practices of Pakistani federation and opines that there are weaknesses in the federation of Pakistan which could be held responsible for the emergence of Baloch nationalism and conflict in Balochistan. However, it also suggests ways in which the smaller ethno-national groups could easily be accommodated in Pakistani federation through democratic dispensation.