Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a strong pitch for the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) on Thursday as he addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of the 78th Independence Day. Calling for a ‘secular civil code’, the prime minister said it was the “only way” to end religious discrimination.
“The Supreme Court has held discussions regarding Uniform Civil Code again and again, it has given orders several times. 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…I would say that it is the need of the hour to that there be a Secular Civil Code in the country…only then would we be free of the discrimination on the basis of religion…”
He added: “There must be widespread discussions, everyone should come forward with their opinions and laws that divide the country on religious lines must be done away with.”
The prime minister’s assertion, which comes just two months after he kick-started his third term, underlines the government’s commitment to bringing in UCC despite protests from some sections, including the Opposition.
The manifesto of the BJP for the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls had said the party considers a uniform civil code in the interest of the nation. Several BJP-led state governments have already moved to implement UCC.
Recently, Home Minister Amit Shah had said the Centre would implement UCC in the country as it is a guarantee of PM Modi, and accused the Congress of advocating personal laws.
He had also raised the issue in an exclusive interview with CNN-News18 where he asked if the country would run on the basis of Sharia. “Tell me, in this era, can any political party talk of personal laws? Will the country run on the basis of Sharia? On the one hand, in our manifesto, in our Sankalp Patra, we talk about bringing a Uniform Civil Code. Meanwhile, Congress is saying that it will promote personal laws.”
During his address, the prime minister also spoke on attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh, saying: “As a neighbouring country, I can understand the concern regarding whatever has happened in Bangladesh. I hope that the situation there gets normal at the earliest. The concerns of 140 crore countrymen to ensure the safety of Hindus and minorities there.”
The Prime Minister added that India always wants its neighbouring countries to walk the path of prosperity and peace. “We are committed to peace…In the days to come, we will continue to wish well for Bangladesh in its ‘Vikas Yatra’ because we think about the welfare of humankind.”
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