Revised: "Secularism, along with two other existing principles, should be removed, while four new principles should be incorporated into the constitution"

The Constitution Reform Commission has recommended the removal of secularism and two other key principles from the constitution, while proposing the introduction of four new ones.

Of the existing four principles—nationalism, socialism, democracy, and secularism—only democracy is proposed to remain unchanged.

These principles were originally enshrined in the 1972 constitution, which was drafted following the country’s independence after the 1971 Liberation War. The five new principles recommended by the reform commission are equality, human dignity, social justice, pluralism, and democracy. The commission argues that these principles reflect both the spirit of the Liberation War and the aspirations of the people following the 2024 popular uprising.

In its report, the commission stated that it is proposing the removal of secularism, socialism, and nationalism as constitutional principles, along with the relevant provisions—Articles 8, 9, 10, and 12. The commission, chaired by Professor Ali Riaz, submitted the report to the chief adviser on Wednesday, alongside reports from three other reform commissions.

During the presentation of the recommendations, Ali Riaz also mentioned the proposal for a referendum to amend the constitution, as well as the establishment of a bicameral parliament.

The interim government is expected to engage in discussions with political parties in February to reach a consensus on the reform proposals before proceeding with their implementation.