Language Policies in Pakistan: A Chronological Analysis

Abstract

This review article provides a chronological analysis of language policy development in Pakistan, focusing on language-in-education policies and the orientations of political and military leaders toward English, Urdu, and indigenous languages.  By categorizing the development into four phases, the study highlights significant milestones and their socio-political implications.  The first phase (1947-1977) discusses the selection of Urdu as the national language and the tensions surrounding Bengali. The second phase (1978-1988) examines Urdu's promotion as a symbol of Muslim identity under Zia-ul-Haq.  The third phase (1989-1999) reflects the adoption of English in public sector schools under Benazir Bhutto's government, with limited implementation strategies.  The fourth phase (1999-present) explores the pro-English stance during Musharraf's era and subsequent policies emphasizing English in education.  The findings underline the challenges of balancing linguistic diversity with practical needs, offering insights into the complex dynamics of Pakistan's language policies.