Senior politician and President of the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP), Abdul Aleem Khan, has once again brought the long-standing issue of administrative reorganization to the forefront of national discourse. He has emphatically reiterated the demand for the creation of new provinces within Pakistan, arguing that such a move is essential for better governance and public service delivery.
The Core Argument for Administrative Reorganization
Aleem Khan, addressing a public gathering, stated that the current provincial structure is outdated and inefficient for a country of Pakistan's size and population. He believes that carving out new, smaller provinces would bring the government closer to the people. "The creation of new provinces is not a matter of choice but a necessity," he asserted. The primary goal, according to him, is to streamline administration, accelerate development work, and ensure that resources and attention are distributed more equitably across all regions.
While not specifying exact boundaries in this address, the historical context of this demand often points towards the division of the largest province, Punjab. Proponents have long argued that South Punjab or other regions possess distinct socio-cultural identities and face unique developmental challenges that warrant a separate provincial status for more focused attention.
Political Context and Strategic Positioning
This renewed call places the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party in a distinct position on a significant constitutional and political issue. By championing the cause of new provinces, Aleem Khan is tapping into regional sentiments and positioning his party as an advocate for structural reform. The demand transcends simple administrative change; it is deeply intertwined with political representation, resource allocation, and regional identity.
The issue has been a part of political manifestos and debates for decades but has seen limited concrete progress due to the complex constitutional amendments and political consensus required. Aleem Khan's statement is seen as an attempt to keep the issue alive and pressure major political players to take a definitive stance.
Challenges and the Path Forward
The road to creating new provinces is fraught with challenges. It requires a two-thirds majority in both houses of Parliament and the consent of the concerned provincial assembly, a high bar for any political initiative. Furthermore, debates over capital cities, division of assets and liabilities, and demarcation of boundaries can become highly contentious.
Despite these hurdles, advocates like Aleem Khan argue that the benefits outweigh the difficulties. They envision new provinces as engines of localized growth, with tailored policies for agriculture, industry, and human development. The call is framed as a step towards strengthening the federation by addressing grievances of neglect and ensuring that all citizens feel an equal stake in the country's future.
As the political landscape evolves, the demand for new provinces is likely to remain a potent talking point. Aleem Khan's reiteration ensures that the conversation on administrative decentralization and effective governance continues, pushing other political entities to clarify their positions on this transformative issue.
