Balochistan Assembly Rejects Resolution Seeking Abolition of Sardari System

The Balochistan Assembly rejected a resolution on Friday that sought the abolition of the Sardari, or tribal chieftaincy, system and the effective enforcement of a 1976 law designed to end the practice. Six lawmakers voted against the resolution while five supported it during the provincial assembly session.

The resolution was tabled by provincial assembly member Maulana Hidayat ur Rehman. It argued that although legislation abolishing the Sardari system was passed in 1976, unlawful exercise of authority, forced labour and exploitation have continued under the system in various forms.

According to the resolution, the Sardari system runs contrary to human freedom, dignity and fundamental rights, and remnants of the practice still exist in some parts of Balochistan. It further claimed that the system has made it difficult for citizens to access justice, education, healthcare and other basic facilities.

The resolution urged the provincial government to ensure the effective implementation of the 1976 law and to set up a proper monitoring mechanism to oversee its enforcement. It also called for practical steps in line with the spirit of the legislation to free the people of Balochistan from feudal and exploitative practices.

The System of Sardari (Abolition) Act, 1976, was introduced to end the traditional Sardari system and prevent tribal chiefs from exercising unlawful authority over local communities. The law was passed on May 19, 1976, and published in the Gazette of Pakistan on June 4, 1976, applying throughout the country and overriding customs and traditions that supported the practice. The Act also replaced an earlier ordinance on the abolition of the Sardari system issued the same year.

The vote highlights continuing debate within Balochistan's legislature over how far the 1976 law has been implemented and what role tribal structures should play in the province's social and administrative affairs.