پاکستان میں سماجی انصاف کی عصری معنویت:حالاتِ حاضرہ کی روشنی میں تحقیقی وتنقیدی جائزہ

Contemporary Significance of Social Justice in Pakistan: Research and Critical Review in the Light of Current Situation

Abstract

Social justice is a fundamental principle of equitable governance, but it remains a critical challenge in Pakistan. Despite constitutional guarantees and the nation’s rich Islamic heritage advocating fairness and inclusivity, systemic barriers continue to hinder the realization of social justice. This study critically examines contemporary practices in governance, socio-economic policies and institutional frameworks, identifying key areas of concern, including income inequality, gender disparities and unequal access to education and healthcare. The research highlights the role of governance deficiencies, such as corruption and weak institutional capacity, in exacerbating these issues. While initiatives like the Ehsaas Program and the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) have made strides toward addressing poverty, their impact remains constrained by resource limitations and administrative inefficiencies. Furthermore, the study underscores the entrenched patriarchal norms that perpetuate gender inequality and the judiciary’s inaccessibility to marginalized groups due to systemic delays and elite biases. Drawing on Islamic principles of justice and modern social theories, the paper provides a framework for addressing these challenges. It emphasizes the need for structural reforms, enhanced resource allocation in education and healthcare and the establishment of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. Additionally, promoting gender equality and leveraging technology for transparent implementation of welfare programs are identified as pivotal strategies. This critical analysis offers a comprehensive understanding of the state of social justice in Pakistan and proposes actionable recommendations to foster inclusivity and equity aligning with both constitutional mandates and global development goals.