In his Independence Day address on August 15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the need for discussions on India’s Uniform Civil Code, calling for it to be ‘secular’ and free from discrimination.
Modi stated, “The Uniform Civil Code should be subject to discussion as it currently appears ‘communal’. India requires a ‘secular’ civil code to replace the existing one, which is discriminatory.”
He continued, “The Supreme Court has repeatedly addressed the Uniform Civil Code and issued directives on it. A significant portion of the country believes that our current civil code, in practice, is communal. It is essential to establish a secular civil code to eliminate religious discrimination.”
Modi highlighted the recurring discussions and judgments by the Supreme Court regarding the UCC, asserting that the current civil code is perceived by many as discriminatory and communal. “There should be discussions on the Uniform Civil Code,” Modi stated. “The present civil code appears to be ‘communal’. India needs a ‘secular’ civil code. It is the need of the hour to have a secular civil code and do away with discriminatory communal civil code.”
The Uniform Civil Code has been a topic of debate in India for decades. The concept envisions a single set of secular laws governing personal matters such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance for all citizens, irrespective of their religion. Currently, India’s personal laws are governed by different religious communities, which many argue leads to discrepancies and unequal treatment.
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Modi’s call for a UCC aligns with his government’s broader agenda of promoting national integration and reducing religious disparities. The Prime Minister noted that the Supreme Court has repeatedly addressed the issue, reflecting a significant portion of public sentiment that the current system fosters communal divisions. “A large section of the country believes — and it is true — that the Civil Code that we are living with is actually a Communal Civil Code in a way,” he asserted. “I would say that it is the need of the hour to ensure there is a Secular Civil Code in the country…only then would we be free of the discrimination on the basis of religion.”
The push for a UCC has been met with varied reactions across India. Proponents argue that a uniform legal framework would foster national unity and equal treatment under the law. Critics, however, caution that such a move could be seen as an encroachment on religious freedoms and traditions, and may face substantial opposition from communities accustomed to their own personal laws.
As discussions on this pivotal issue continue, Modi’s speech reflects his administration’s resolve to address longstanding legal and social challenges. The Prime Minister’s emphasis on secularism and equality underscores his vision of a unified legal framework that transcends religious divides, aiming to bring about a more inclusive and equitable society.
The future of the Uniform Civil Code will likely be shaped by ongoing debates, legislative processes, and judicial reviews. Modi’s address serves as a significant marker in this evolving discourse, highlighting the government’s commitment to what it views as essential legal and social reform.
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