ISLAMABAD: The Senate on Monday passed a resolution to allow aspirants of Central Superior Services (CSS) to take examinations in Urdu as well alongside with English.
The resolution was passed with majority which was moved by Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Senator Sirajul Haq.
The JI chief in defence of his resolution said Article 251 of the Constitution clearly directed to implement Urdu language as official language, however, the decision could not be implemented even after 45 years.
Quoting an example of developed countries he said that China, Japan, France, Germany, Korea and others achieved success using their own language.
Urdu language is recognition of Pakistan nation and its culture, therefore it is inevitable the language should be given constitutional status, the senator added.
The JI chief said the Supreme Court of Pakistan also stated in its verdict in 2015 to implement Urdu as official language.
State Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Ali Muhammad Khan said the Lahore High Court had directed the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) to translate the English subjects in Urdu following which the FPSC approached the Higher Education Commission (HEC).
However, he said the HEC expressed their compulsion in implementing the directions in letter and spirit.
The minister added that the percentage of drop out in the exam would be increased, if the decision is implemented in haste, however, he assured the Senate that the decision will be implemented but students should be given an option either to attempt the exams in Urdu or English.
Pakistan Peoples Party Senator Sassui Palijo opposed the resolution, saying English is an international language and spoken all over the world.
Countries like China, France and Germany who were so concerned about their languages are also promoting English to prepare their people to compete at international level, she added.
“The world has transformed into a global village and the technological advancements in the field of communication have brought the global nations closer to each other,” Palijo said adding that it will not be wise to “confine our talent to Urdu language only”.
