Zulfikar Ali Bhutto had directly come out against
the oppressive ways of the sardars when he planned to build roads, schools and
hospitals in the area, which was resented by the sardars because they knew that
it will weaken their hold on the people. To neutralize their reactions the
National Assembly passed the ‘System of Sardari (Abolition) Act in 1976— which
prescribed punishment of three years imprisonment for any one exercising any
right of sardari, or being in possession of, or derive any benefit from any
land belonging to the tribe.
The law stated that sardari system is the worst
remnant of the oppressive feudal and tribal system which apart from being
derogatory to human dignity and freedom is also repugnant to the spirit of
democracy and equality as annunciated by Islam and enshrined in the
Constitution of the Republic of Pakistan. It was also opposed to the economic
advancement of the people. The Marri and Mengal sardars revolted against the
federal government. The military coup staged by General Zia-ul-Haq came to
their rescue. They applauded the change and put entire weight of their power
and influence in favour of Zia. Their vested interests were further served by
the non-party elections in which the sardars manipulated to make people vote
for ethnic and tribal considerations.
In Balochistan Zia’s policies gave a boost to the
sardari system that was dying a slow and natural death. This is how The law was
violated that gave a new lease of life to the sardars who tightened their hold
on the resources of the province and the people firmer than ever. They became
chief ministers, ministers and governors. The sardars of Mengal, Bugti, Mart-i,
Raisani; Brohi and Jams of lusbela wielded unusual powers under the pro-sardari
policy of Zia. His appeasement policy proved counterproductive. Instead of
feeling grateful the sardars became hardened anti-Pakistan, provocatively
rebellious and felt encouraged to step up their unpatriotic activities against
the state.