Laws are one of the basic pillars of a civilized society, and they separate us from the chaos that would erupt if these laws were not made and enforced. All modern states have laws, and lawmaking is a serious matter of the state, consisting of various steps to ensure the process is swift and free from bias.
But creating a law in any country is a long and arduous process, and it can take a long time for a proposed bill to see the light of day as an enforced law. Various steps are taken to ensure that a bill is in accordance with the country's constitution and its socio-cultural boundaries.
In Pakistan, a notice is given by a member of the Parliament (subject to the approval of the speaker), which is then published in the gazette. Once the bill has been approved by the standing committee, all the members have read the proposal, they all put forth a motion under article 124. If according to any of the legislators, the bill seems repugnant to Islam, the bill is referred to the Council of Islamic Ideology for its approval. This is an important step, as Pakistan’s constitution is rooted in Islamic law.
Once the bill has passed the initial stage, a first sitting is called, in which all the members discuss the principles of the proposed bill in detail, and the bill is considered. Any amendments that the committee members feel necessary are also discussed at this stage.
A lengthy process of further sittings and amendments follows and after authentication of the bill, the president gives his assent. Finally, the bill is transmitted to the Senate and becomes an official law of the country.
