PM Modi Advocates for Uniform Civil Code: Calls Current Code “Communal”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Independence Day speech from the Red Fort, made a compelling case for the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in India. He described the current civil code as “communal,” stressing the need for a secular alternative that would apply equally to all citizens regardless of their religion.

“The Supreme Court has repeatedly discussed the Uniform Civil Code, and it has issued orders multiple times,” PM Modi stated during his address. He highlighted the divisive nature of the existing civil code, noting that “a large section of the country believes—and it is true—that the Civil Code we currently have is actually a communal civil code in a way.”

The Prime Minister pointed out that for 75 years, the people of India have lived under a communal civil code. He emphasized the urgent need for a secular civil code to eliminate religious discrimination and ensure equality among all citizens.

“I believe it is the need of the hour that there be a Secular Civil Code in the country,” he asserted, adding that only through such a code can India truly be free of discrimination based on religion.

The Uniform Civil Code, as proposed, aims to replace the diverse personal laws that govern various communities with a single set of laws applicable to all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs. The goal of the UCC is to promote equality and non-discrimination by ensuring uniformity in laws related to marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption.

Article 44 of the Indian Constitution envisions the UCC as part of the Directive Principles of State Policy. This article encourages the state to work towards securing a uniform set of laws for all citizens in matters of personal law.

The Supreme Court of India has periodically reaffirmed the need for a UCC, citing its potential to promote national integration and equality. However, the implementation of the UCC has been delayed due to political and social sensitivities.

In the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) included the implementation of the UCC in its manifesto, pledging to enact it if the party secures a third term in power. As of now, Uttarakhand remains the only state in India to have enacted a UCC law.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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