POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Barrister Gauhar Warns 27th Constitutional Amendment Could Deepen Provincial Tensions

PTI Chairman Barrister Gauhar calls the proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment “risky”, warning it could fuel provincial tensions and undermine unity.“It’s wrong to create another court over the court,” he said outside Adiala Jail.
2025-11-04
Barrister Gauhar Warns 27th Constitutional Amendment Could Deepen Provincial Tensions

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gauhar Ali Khan on Tuesday voiced strong opposition to the proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment, calling it a “risky step” that could inflame provincial sensitivities and disrupt the constitutional balance.

Speaking to the media outside Adiala Jail, Barrister Gauhar said the proposed amendment — which includes provisions for establishing constitutional courts and redefining certain powers between the federation and provinces — should not be pursued under any circumstances.

“This is a dangerous move. It’s wrong to create another court on top of the existing judicial system,” he said, urging the government to avoid tampering with provisions that could “increase tensions among provinces.”

He reminded that the Constitution of Pakistan explicitly guarantees that “no province’s share shall be reduced,” adding that federal initiatives must uphold the spirit of provincial autonomy.

Referring to PTI’s tenure, Barrister Gauhar said that the 10th NFC Award was developed in 2020 under the PTI government, and that “all provinces are still waiting for the 11th Award.” He further noted that it was agreed at the Council of Common Interests (CCI) not to dig new canals or alter water distribution without provincial consensus.

“At this critical time, every patriot is saying that all stakeholders should keep their swords in their sheaths, take one step back, and put Pakistan and its people first,” the PTI chairman added.

He also mentioned that the party’s founder has not yet issued any instructions to move towards Islamabad. “We will see when he gives the order,” Gauhar stated.

The remarks come amid growing political debate over the 27th Constitutional Amendment, which seeks to formally recognise the post of Field Marshal, create constitutional courts, and review the distribution of powers between the federation and provinces — triggering opposition concerns over potential rollbacks of the 18th Amendment.