Legislation

Adopted on April 10, 1973

Article 28

Subject to Article 251, any section of citizens having a distinct language, script or culture shall have the right to preserve and promote the same and, subject to law, establish institutions for that purpose.

Article 251

1. The national language of Pakistan is Urdu, and arrangements shall be made for its being used for official and other purposes within fifteen years from the commencing day.

2. Subject to clause 1, the English language may be used for official purposes until arrangements are made for its replacement by Urdu.

3. Without prejudice to the status of the national language, a provincial assembly may by law prescribe measures for the teaching, promotion and use of a provincial language in addition to the national language.

Article 255

1. An oath required to be made by a person under the Constitution shall be made in a language that is understood by that person.