পাতা:বাংলাদেশের স্বাধীনতা যুদ্ধ দলিলপত্র (সপ্তম খণ্ড).pdf/৩৩০

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বাংলাদেশের স্বাধীনতা যুদ্ধ দলিলপত্র : সপ্তম খণ্ড
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 I may mention too in relation to elections that provisions have been made in the Constitution to discourage multiplicity of political parties or their growth on narrow regional basis. I consider this reform necessary for the healthy growth of the parliamentary system and for the encouragement and growth of national outlook. These provisions would naturally apply to these elections.

 The Islamic institutions which existed under previous constitution are being maintained and it is also provided that branches of the Islamic Research Institution may be established in each province if requested by the Provincial Government. In the principles of policy, at many places, the Islamic provisions have been strengthened.

 At the end, I may mention that the Constitution provides that the Republic shall have two capitals at Islamabad and Dacca. The description 'Second Capital' in respect of Dacca has been abolished, and it has been provided that an adequate establishment shall be maintained at each capital for the discharge of the functions of the Central Government. The principal seat of parliament will be located at Dacca.

 These are the main features of the Constitution, and its printed copies will be available on the 20th. I have attempted to synthesize the demands for maximum provincial autonomy with the imperatives of national unity. I have given fullest weight to the desire for decentralization of functions and have accommodated this genuine desire up to the point beyond which I feared that the system would become unworkable. Decentralization is required and has been provided but it obviously cannot be carried beyond a point which would become the starting point of disintegration I feel that this Constitution is a bold measure in advance of almost any other constitution. But then our problems are unique and we have to find unique and bold solutions for the problems which this country faces. I earnestly hope and pray that this Constitution will help remove mistrust and bitterness which led us to the brink of a precipice and will herald a new era strengthening the unifying forces currently lying dormant in the national life.

 Pakistan paindabad