Islamic Constitution or secular state - A confused Pakistani

Our survey of the Islamic State in Pakistan would be incomplete if we failed to consider the views of a significant group of Pakistani Muslims who dissent from the 'Islamic State' ideology and those of the non-Muslims, particularly Hindus, who vehemently object to the concept of an 'Islamic State'. The first group is small in number but includes some powerful figures. They are not always vocal. They know very well how strong are the feelings for an Islamic State among the Muslims of Pakistan. Their model is a secular democratic westernized State; they would probably accept Turkey as an example. Their apprehension is that if Pakistan accepts an Islamic Constitution the Mullah will control the State; they hold Shariah cannot be adequate for a modern complex society. Their argument is that States whose laws are based on religion become incapable after a short lapse of time of satisfying the needs of the country and the nations. They point out that religions express unchanging precepts while life goes ahead and needs change rapidly. Religious laws, in their opinion, are no more than words void of sense and forms without value; changeless is a dogmatic religious necessity. They further argue that laws which derive their inspiration from religions fetter societies and they constitute invincible factors which prevent progress. The purpose of laws is not to maintain old customs or beliefs which have their source in religion but rather to assure the economic and social progress of the nation. When religion has sought to rule human Shariah it has been the arbitrary instrument of sovereigns, despots, and strong men. In short, they believe that religious precepts cannot be brought to conform with the needs of civilization. It may be added here that like the ulema(religious scholar) they look upon liberal advocates of an Islamic State that it may be given a dynamic interpretation. They say it is a mistake to adhere to concepts which are outworn and irrelevant to present conditions of life. They expect that religiosity, the emotion on which Pakistan was based, will soon disappear and wish for a Kamal Ataturk in Pakistan to found a secular State.