02/06/2026
Senate Sub-Committee Stresses Complete Implementation of Article 38(g) and Article 172(3), Seeks Greater Provincial Representation in Federal Services and SOE Boards
The Sub-Committee of the Senate Functional Committee on Devolution met today under the convenorship of Senator Zamir Hussain Ghumro to review laws, rules, and the ESTA Code relating to the implementation of Article 38(g) of the Constitution and to examine mechanisms for ensuring its effective enforcement in true letter and spirit. The Committee also reviewed the representation of provinces on the Boards of Directors of natural gas, oil, and other public entities to ensure equal and joint control by the Federal Government and the provinces in accordance with constitutional provisions as mentioned in Article 172(3) of the Constitution.
The meeting was attended by Senator Poojo Bheel, while Senator Jan Muhammad participated as a special invitee.
The Committee expressed displeasure over the absence of the Federal Minister and Federal Secretary, Establishment Division, and emphasized that ministers and senior government officials must attend parliamentary committee meetings, as the Federal Government and its representatives are accountable to both Parliament and the people of Pakistan.
Senator Zamir Hussain Ghumro questioned the Federal Government’s seriousness regarding the implementation of the 18th Constitutional Amendment, stating that delays and shortcomings undermine the spirit of federalism and the Constitution. He observed that inadequate implementation of constitutional provisions creates disparities and fosters resentment among the federating units. Referring specifically to Article 38(g), he noted that the Federal Government is constitutionally obligated not only to ensure equitable provincial representation in federal services but also to address and rectify past omissions in this regard.
The Committee was briefed on measures taken to improve provincial representation through the Special CSS Examination wherein the carry forward vacant posts of provinces mainly Balochistan and Sindh were filled. Officials informed the Committee that provincial share for direct recruitment are currently determined by the Federal Government. However, members questioned the criteria used for allocating provincial shares in All Pakistan Services, including whether the formula is based on population or other considerations. The Committee also sought clarification on the rationale behind the division of Sindh’s share into urban and rural categories.
The Convenor directed the Establishment Division to submit, within two weeks, comprehensive details regarding provincial representation across all federal ministries, divisions, and departments, along with the criteria and basis used for determining existing provincial shares in federal services. He further instructed the Division to review past omissions and submit proposals for corrective measures in line with Article 38(g).
The Committee also received a briefing from the Petroleum Division on the composition of the Boards of Directors of oil and gas companies and corporations. Officials informed members that the boards are constituted under the State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) Act and include provincial representation in accordance with constitutional requirements. However, the Committee raised concerns regarding the process for nominating provincial representatives and emphasized the need for meaningful consultation with the respective provincial governments to ensure the legal and constitutional validity of board appointments.
Members reiterated that the Constitution is the supreme law of the land and prevails over any conflicting legislation. The Convenor directed the Petroleum Division to institutionalize effective consultation with provincial governments in the constitution of all Boards of Directors. He further instructed the Division to undertake ex-post facto consultations with provinces regarding existing boards and to provide details and profiles of board members particularly belonging to Balochistan. Special Secretary Petroleum Division assured the committee for meaningful consultation with provinces as instructed.
The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening federal-provincial harmony and ensuring full compliance with constitutional provisions governing equitable representation and shared governance.

02/06/2026
02/06/2026
01/06/2026
01/06/2026
01/06/2026
30/05/2026
29/05/2026
28/05/2026