Pakistan Employment Law

National Labour Law

Historical Background

The United Kingdom estsablished its presence in South Asia in the early part of the 17th century. By the 1850’s, the British had expanded their influence and controlled most of the Indian sub-continent, which included present-day Pakistan and Bangladesh. In 1857, the administration of the country was handed over to the British government.

Opposition to British rule began at the turn of the 20th century. Although vigorous efforts were made to include Muslims in the Indian nationalist movement, concern for Muslim political rights led to the formation of the Muslim League in 1906.

The concept of Pakistan, a Muslim nation distinct from Hindu India, was introduced in the 1930s, as fear grew among Indian Muslims of becoming a minority in Hindu India. In 1940, the Muslim League, led by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, called for the creation of a separate Muslim state, in the regions that housed a majority of Muslims.

The Indian Independence Act, which came into effect on 15 August 1947, provided for the partition of British India, and the establishment of a separate self-governing dominion within the Commonwealth, Pakistan. Under this arrangement, the various princely states could freely join either India or Pakistan. This resulted in a bisected Muslim nation separated by Indian territory, composed of an East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh) and West Pakistan.

Problems rose in Kashmir, where a Hindu Maharaja ruled over a Muslim majority. He signed over Kashmir to India, but Pakistan refused to recognize the accession. The status of Kashmir has remained in dispute.

Muhammad Ali Jinnah became the first governor-general of Pakistan, and Liaquat Ali Khan its first Prime Minister. In March 1956, Pakistan finally produced a constitution and formally became an Islamic republic within the Commonwealth. General Iskander Mirza became its first president. In October 1958, President Mirza abrogated the Constitution, banned political parties, declared martial law and granted power to General Muhammad Ayub Khan. In 1960 he was elected to the presidency and abolished the office of prime minister.

East Pakistan declared its independence as Bangladesh on 26 March 1971, which was recognized by Pakistan’s President, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, in February 1974.

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Employment Law

Employment Regulations
Work Permits
The Employment Market
Engagement and Dismissal
Employees' Rights and Remuneration
Working Hours
Termination of Employment
Wages and Benefits
Employment of Foreigners

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LABOUR UNITY- DOCUMNETS

Labour Laws Pakistan -- Child Labour Laws