SC seeks implementation report about enforcement of Urdu as official language

ISLAMABAD (Staff Report) -  The Supreme Court Thursday sought implementation report from the provinces over enforcement of Urdu as official language.

Hearing the case, a three-member bench noted that three months were given for the promotion and adoption of Urdu as official languages.

Earlier on September 8, 2015; the Supreme Court of Pakistan ordered federal government to take steps to implement Urdu language as the official language in government offices.

The order was issued by a three-member bench led by Chief Justice Jawad S Khawaja in petitions seeking to make Urdu as official language of country as per the constitution of Pakistan promises.

The order was made effective immediately while federal government was subjected to submit a report in this regard after three months, according to verdict.

The apex court also ordered federal government to translate all of the key documents into Urdu. The court further asked President and Prime Minister to make their speeches in Urdu language.

In the light of Supreme Court’s order the Prime Minister’s office ordered all departments to ensure implementation with in three months.

As per Article 251 of the Constitution of Pakistan, Urdu is the national language of Pakistan, and government is responsible to make arrangements for it being used for official and other purposes.

Constitution’s 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.