Study of constitutionalism |
I hold two books in my hands, and before me is the serious, composed face of Dr. Ikram-ul-Haq Yasin, marked by a faint smile, quiet hope and a deep sense of courtesy.
This is an occasion to speak about A Study of Constitutionalism in Pakistan, yet my attention is drawn to the author himself—and for a good reason. Setting aside certain personal considerations best left unspoken, I come directly to what connects me to this book. That connection is simple: the first two volumes of Dr. Sahib’s series remained with me for so long that they grew old and eventually went astray. A decent man may or may not keep a promise, but he does feel embarrassed when he fails to do so. I was embarrassed. The reasons for this embarrassment are many; recounting them would open an entire ledger. One incident, however, will suffice.
Some time ago, at an international conference on communication studies at the University of Karachi, a professor from another university was present. At every serious discussion, he would rise and remark that “very ilm-naak (knowledge-heavy) matters” were being discussed. One must admire his wit in coining ilm-naak from alam-naak (tragic). Yet this joke also draws attention........