Abstract
Since independence, the process of democratisation, institutional strengthening and national integration had but marginally succeeded in Pakistan. It was mainly due to the two conflicting goals, a strong centralised government and the demand for provincial autonomy. To consolidate their own power, any criticism on the policies of federal government by the nationalists and smaller provinces was treated as a gesture of treason by the incumbent regime. The paper focuses on the political and constitutional development during Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) rule in 1970s especially in view of the government-opposition as well as centreprovince relations. The paper highlights the status of provincial autonomy accorded to the provinces in the 1973 Constitution. It further dwells on as to what circumstances forced the opposition platforms to accept a constitution which was too short of their demands. It also analyses as to how an opportunity was missed by the political forces to develop a constitution which could ensure the sustainability of democracy in Pakistan.