Excerpt: This post answers the questions “Who was the first Chief Minister of Balochistan? What is the name of first Chief Minister of Balochistan? Who was the first CM of Balochistan?”
Balochistan, the largest province of Pakistan in terms of land area, has a rich and diverse history. It is known for its unique culture, geography, and political landscape. The province has faced many challenges, but it has also made significant strides in political representation and governance. One of the key milestones in Balochistan’s political history was the appointment of its first Chief Minister. This blog post will delve into the history and significance of this position and introduce the prominent figure who first held this office.
Who was the first Chief Minister of Balochistan?
The first Chief Minister of Balochistan was appointed shortly after the province was granted provincial status in 1970. This was a historic moment for the people of Balochistan, as it marked the beginning of a new era of political representation and self-governance. The first Chief Minister played a crucial role in shaping the initial policies and direction of the province. This leader was none other than Attaullah Mengal.
Who was Attaullah Mengal?
Attaullah Mengal was a prominent Baloch nationalist and political leader who served as the first Chief Minister of Balochistan from May 1, 1972, to February 13, 1973. Born on March 16, 1929, in Wadh, Balochistan, Mengal was an influential figure in the province’s political landscape. He was known for his strong stance on Baloch rights and autonomy and was a key advocate for the socio-economic development of the region.
Mengal’s tenure as Chief Minister was marked by several challenges, including political unrest and opposition from the central government. Despite these challenges, he remained committed to his vision of a prosperous and autonomous Balochistan. His leadership and dedication to the cause of Baloch rights left a lasting impact on the province and its people.
The Balochistan Assembly
The Formation of the Balochistan Assembly
The Balochistan Assembly, also known as the Provincial Assembly of Balochistan, was established in 1970 following the granting of provincial status to Balochistan. The assembly serves as the legislative body of the province, responsible for making laws and overseeing the provincial government. The formation of the Balochistan Assembly was a significant step towards political representation and governance for the people of Balochistan.
The first meeting of the Balochistan Assembly, made up of 21 members, took place on May 2, 1972, at the historic Shahi Jirga Hall (Town Hall) in Quetta. Mr. Muhammad Khan Barozai was chosen as the Speaker, and Molvi Shams-ud-Din as the Deputy Speaker. Sardar Attaullah Mengal became the first House Leader, while Mr. Ghous Bakhsh Raisani was the Leader of the Opposition. Since then, the Balochistan Provincial Assembly has held 11 general elections, growing to its current size of 65 members, with 51 general seats, 11 reserved for women, and 3 for minorities.
Structure and Functioning of the Balochistan Assembly
The Balochistan Assembly is a unicameral legislative body, consisting of elected members who represent various constituencies within the province. The assembly is responsible for passing laws, approving the provincial budget, and overseeing the activities of the provincial government. The members of the assembly are elected through general elections, and the assembly operates under the framework of the Constitution of Pakistan.
Key Functions and Responsibilities
- Legislation: The primary function of the Balochistan Assembly is to make laws that address the needs and concerns of the province. This includes laws related to education, health, infrastructure, and economic development.
- Budget Approval: The assembly plays a crucial role in approving the provincial budget, which outlines the allocation of funds for various projects and initiatives.
- Government Oversight: The assembly is responsible for holding the provincial government accountable for its actions and decisions. This includes questioning government officials, conducting inquiries, and ensuring transparency in governance.
Challenges and Achievements
The Balochistan Assembly has faced several challenges over the years, including political instability, security concerns, and socio-economic disparities. However, it has also achieved significant milestones in promoting the rights and welfare of the people of Balochistan. The assembly has played a key role in advocating for development projects, improving infrastructure, and addressing the needs of marginalized communities.
The appointment of the first Chief Minister of Balochistan was a landmark event in the province’s history. Attaullah Mengal’s leadership and dedication to the cause of Baloch rights laid the foundation for political representation and governance in Balochistan. The Balochistan Assembly, established in 1970, continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of the province. Despite the challenges it faces, the assembly remains committed to the development and prosperity of Balochistan and its people.
Sources: The above answer is based on information from
- Balochistan – Britannica
- Provincial Assembly of Balochistan – Offical Web Porta
- Provincial Assembly of Balochistan – Wikipedia
- Attaullah Mengal: A Profile of the First Chief Minister of Balochistan
- The End Of an Era – Dawn Newspaper
- The Role and Functions of the Balochistan Assembly
- Political History of Pakistan: Key Milestones and Events
