CCI’s reconstitution unfair to Balochistan and KP
The Prime Minister’s decision to add another two members to Punjab’s representation in the eight- member Council of Common Interests (CCI) by denuding one each from Balochistan and KP defies all reason, logic and common sense. It will provide ammunition to elements who, not without some justification, resent the overwhelming sway of Punjab in national affairs and in matters involving inter-provincial or Centre-province relations and disputes. And the timing of the unexpected change, with the country facing political uncertainty and acrimony on a national level, and could do without more of the same with the provinces, couldn’t be worse. That the relative notification emanated from the Prime Minister’s Office instead of the President’s, of course under the advice of the former as set forth in the Constitution, only highlights the hurried and unthinking manner in which the CCI revision was rushed through. Now, as compared to the previous even-handed and rational arrangement of two representatives from each province, the asymmetrical CCI score –card stands thus: Punjab 4 members, Sindh 2 (unchanged), KP 1 and Balochistan 1. And the real significance of this realignment becomes clear from the Constitutional requirement that ‘the decisions of the Council shall be expressed in terms of the opinion of the majority’.
It must be admitted that the PM was legally within his rights in the matter, as he can appoint three federal ministers to the CCI, and there is no mandatory provision for two members from each province. Still, in the interest of strengthening the Federation, and appeasing provincial aspirations, it was desirable that the arrangement of equal representation be retained.
The immense value and contribution of the CCI in promoting amity by just resolution of national disputes cannot be over-emphasised. Such diverse matters as sharing of gas, electricity and water resources, LNG policy, natural resources, energy and hydel projects and national census fall within its purview. It is imperative that this pivotal institution meets regularly in the constitutionally laid-down 90 days for its maximum utilisation, and provincial demands are given preference.
