In his Independence Day address from the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi advocated for the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC), describing the existing civil code as “communal” and calling for a secular alternative.
Modi criticized the current system as divisive and argued that a secular civil code is necessary to eliminate religious discrimination and ensure equality for all citizens.
The Uniform Civil Code is designed to replace the diverse personal laws governing various communities with a single set of laws applicable to everyone, regardless of religion, he said.
Ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP has pledged to implement the UCC if it secures a third term. Currently, Uttarakhand is the only state in India with a UCC law.
However, the UCC faces significant criticism. Opposition parties and various stakeholders argue that it may undermine the diverse cultural and religious practices of different communities, especially among Muslims, living across India.
The opposition parties, who stand as a roadblock to the implementation of this law, have expressed concerns that a uniform set of laws might erode the unique traditions and identities of various groups.
They have also argued that the UCC could be driven by political motives and may not fully address the complexities of India’s diverse society.
Moreover, the toughest challenge that the Modi-led NDA government faces in the implementation of the UCC is it’s coalition partners; JDU and TDS, who have been open critics of the law.