Emerging the Concept of Islamic Socialism in Pakistan: Historical Analysis on Political Debates of 1970-1971 Election Campaign

Abstract

Islamic Socialism was the concept propounded by Mr. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto during the 1970-71 general election campaign. This ideology was new to Pakistani state as the country was founded on the concept of the Two Nation Theory. Mr. Bhutto's ideology in Pakistan was viewed as against the basic concept of the religion (Islam) by the Islamists parties. The Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) was the main political opponent of his ideology. Mr. Bhutto believed that the socio-economic condition of the country was deteriorated and this new ideology will infuse a better life for everyone in the country. On the other hand, the Amir (chief) of the JI, Maulana Maudoodi, believed it as an atheist ideology and would diminish Islam from Pakistan. This paper is designed to investigate why political elites envisaged such ideology i.e. Islamic Socialism, in 1970 election? Whether this new ideology changed economic conditions of the common man as was envisaged or further worsened the political situation in the country? Further, the paper will investigate what role religious parties played particularly the JI, in countering the Islamic Socialism ideology which it was believed as atheist ideology?

Green Book and Islamic Socialism

“…Rejecting either pure traditionalism or uncritical imitation of the West, he began what has become a continuing trend among Muslim modernists emphasizing pragmatic values needed for life in modern world (Tariq, 2011). Jamal al-Din Afghani in late 19th century moral sentiments of Islam is quite similar socialism in case of social justice, prohibition of interest instrument of zakat (Sanghro, 2019). Islamic belief is much more suitable to socialism than capitalism.…”

“…So that, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto who had worked as the Foreign Minister in General Ayoob's cabinet propounded new ideology i.e. Islamic Socialism as the remedy for Pakistan (Sanghro, 2019).…”

Leftist Activism in Challenging Times: A Journey of Resistance in Pakistan (1947-1988)

“…Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party (PPP) initially gained popularity by promising land redistribution and improved conditions for workers. Bhutto's 'Roti, Kapra aur Makan' slogan was reminiscent of the socialist ideals of 'Peace, Land, and Bread' championed by communist leader V.I Lenin (Sanghro & Chandio, 2019).…”

«Islamic Socialism» in Pakistan: Evolution, Implementation and Legacy in Domestic and Foreign Policy

“…З.А. Бхутто в свою очередь обвинял клерикалов в отсутствии поддержки идеи образования Пакистана в процессе национальноосвободительного движения, а также в отказе объявить борьбу за Кашмир джихадом (Sanghro, Chandio 2019).…”