Zia ul Haq martial law Imposed

 Notes Zia ul haq

General Zia-ul-Haq imposed martial law in Pakistan on July 5, 1977, termed "Operation Fair Play," primarily due to intense political instability, violent protests, and a deadlock between the PPP and PNA opposition following the disputed 1977 elections. The military cited a "grave national crisis," a breakdown of law and order, and the need to prevent further chaos as justifications for removing Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. 

Political Crisis and Disputed Elections: The March 1977 general elections were vehemently rejected by the Pakistan National Alliance (PNA) opposition, leading to massive protests, riots, and a total failure of negotiations between the government and opposition caused so much unrest that army had to take up the control. 

Failure of Political Leadership: The ruling Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and PNA were unable to reach a compromise, raising fears of severe civil disorder or a potential civil war.

Breakdown of Law and Order: Widespread violence, strikes, and protests had crippled the country's administration and economic life creating so much chaotic situation that political govt lost control inviting the army to control public which paved their way for martial law. 

Ideological and Personal Motivations: Zia-ul-Haq aimed to implement a strict "Islamization" program, replacing the existing social and political structure. It could be seen in his Islamization reforms in the later years. 

The false promises were made to save the political rights of public by providing them a chance to vote after 90 days but that was long awaited. The military portrayed its intervention as a temporary, necessary measure to restore order and hold fair elections within 90 days, though this evolved into an eleven-year rule. 

The intervention was validated by the Supreme Court under the doctrine of necessity, allowing the military to seize control, suspend the 1973 Constitution, and ban political activities.