Synopsis
On February 6, 2023, in New Delhi, Parliamentarians from Uttar Pradesh expressed their support for the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) following Gujarat's government initiative to form a committee for its implementation. They emphasized the need for a uniform legal framework to ensure equality among citizens.Key Takeaways
- Uttar Pradesh lawmakers rally for UCC after Gujarat's initiative.
- Union Minister SP Singh Baghel champions the cause.
- BJP MPs assert UCC will promote equality and justice.
- Uttarakhand leads the way as the first state to implement UCC.
- Goa follows a Uniform Civil Code inherited from Portuguese laws.
New Delhi, Feb 6 (NationPress) Following the Gujarat government’s initiative to establish a committee focused on formulating and enacting a law regarding the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), a wave of support has emerged from Parliamentarians in Uttar Pradesh. They are advocating for similar legislation within their state.
SP Singh Baghel, the Union Minister of State (MoS) representing Agra LS constituency, has positioned himself as a key supporter of this initiative.
“This was part of our manifesto, and we are committed to implementing it. Our nation cannot thrive on tribal customs; it must operate under the Constitution and laws enacted by Parliament. A genuinely equal society is only possible with the implementation of UCC,” the Union Minister stated emphatically.
A number of BJP MPs from the state echoed similar sentiments regarding this law, which has faced significant opposition from various parties, who accuse the Centre and BJP-led states of undermining minority rights with such legislative measures.
BJP MP Rajkumar Chahar expressed optimism that Uttar Pradesh would soon emulate Gujarat's actions.
“UCC will also be implemented in UP. States governed by nationalist and patriotic parties, which are working to fulfill the Prime Minister’s vision of a Viksit Bharat, will see this through,” he told IANS.
In support of the UCC, BJP MP Dinesh Sharma and former UP CM remarked, “This is a positive beginning, and states should adopt it as soon as practicable.”
Numerous UP lawmakers contended that a uniform legal framework is vital for fostering a “truly equal society.”
In agreement, UP BJP MP Asim Arun highlighted that the concept of a Uniform Civil Code was envisioned by B. R. Ambedkar and is embedded in the Constitution.
“Baba Saheb Ambedkar advocated this; it is not merely a BJP resolution but part of the Constitution. The previous party viewed it as appeasement and feared it would be detrimental,” he stated.
“Everyone must have equal rights, regardless of gender. I appreciate the double-engine government of Uttarakhand for taking the initial step. The UP government is also working towards this,” he added.
Speaking with IANS, Ravi Kishan, the BJP Parliamentarian from the Gorakhpur LS seat, reaffirmed the party’s dedication to fulfilling its commitments, including the UCC.
“There is no disparity between BJP and PM Modi’s words and actions. Wherever there is a need and a demand, it will surely be implemented,” he affirmed.
The UCC seeks to replace religion-based personal laws with a unified legal framework governing marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption, and maintenance for all citizens.
The aim is to realize “one nation, one law,” ensuring legal uniformity irrespective of religious affiliations. Article 44 of the Indian Constitution urges the state to strive towards achieving a Uniform Civil Code nationwide.
Currently, Goa stands as the sole Indian state that adheres to a Uniform Civil Code, having adopted it from the Portuguese Civil Code of 1867. In Goa, personal laws are uniform across religions, with all citizens following a common civil framework.
In 2024, Uttarakhand became the first Indian state to implement the UCC, setting a benchmark for others to follow. The Uttarakhand UCC Bill encompasses marriage, divorce, live-in relationships, and property rights while prohibiting polygamy and promoting gender equality. Following Uttarakhand’s example, Gujarat is now on track to become the second state in India to enforce the UCC.
