'18th Amendment vital avenue to get Seraiki province'.

DERA GHAZI KHAN -- The 18th Amendment has not only restored the Constitution of 1973 to its original shape but also has paved parliamentary avenues for the creation of a Seraiki province.

The underlying link between the amendment and the long awaited-demand for the Seraiki province consequently has led to the creation of a parliamentary commission for creation of new provinces in Punjab.

This was stated in a statement by the Wasaibi Council of Seraiki Lok Sanjh.

The statement expressed concerns over a recent debate against the 18th amendment. It said that Seraiki Lok Sanjh strongly believed in federalism and devolution of power 'because a centralized form of government cannot keep a multicultural country united'.

The landmark amendment in its essence entertains the diversity and multiculturalism.

The statement says the 18th Amendment gives provincial autonomy to federating units which have long been demanding their legitimate rights.

More importantly, the 18th Amendment is a constitutional package for (federating units) which provides strong legislative powers and financial autonomy to provinces. This amendment strengthens the federation.

Today, 18th Amendment is under threat. Seraikis need to stand by federating units to win their support for the new Seraiki province in Punjab. Without the support of neighbours (provinces), the creation of the Seraiki province seems impossible.

Pakistan is in the phase of democratic transition and it has a history of...

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