The debate over the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) has intensified in Madhya Pradesh, with the opposition raising concerns about its impact on tribal rights and constitutional protections
Leader of Opposition in the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Umang Singhar, has questioned the government over whether tribals will be included under the proposed law or given exemptions
He asked why there is no clear legal guarantee if the government claims tribals will be kept out of its scope
Concerns over tribal identity and rights
Singhar alleged that uncertainty around the UCC has been deliberately created, leading to fear among tribal communities
He said tribal society has its own cultural traditions, social systems, and customary practices, and argued that a uniform law could undermine their identity and constitutional protections
He warned that imposing such a law without clarity would violate the rights of tribal communities who have preserved distinct lifestyles for generations
Reference to Article 44 and constitutional framework
Citing Article 44 of the Constitution of India, Singhar said the UCC is a Directive Principle and not an immediately enforceable right
He said the Constituent Assembly placed it within the Directive Principles to allow gradual consensus in a diverse country
He argued that implementing it without dialogue would go against democratic and constitutional processes
Fifth and Sixth Schedule protections cited
Singhar also referred to the Fifth and Sixth Schedule provisions of the Constitution, which provide special protections and autonomy to tribal communities
He said these safeguards exist to protect cultural and administrative rights, and any uniform law without exemptions would conflict with the constitutional spirit
Opposition to “uniformity equals equality” argument
Rejecting the government’s justification of equality, Singhar said equality does not mean uniformity
He argued that justice must respect diversity and the uniqueness of each community
He also alleged that the government did not consult tribal organisations, Panchayats, or social groups before advancing the proposal
Political controversy over implementation timeline
Meanwhile, the Madhya Pradesh government led by Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav is reportedly moving ahead with preparations to implement the UCC
According to sources, the proposal was discussed in a cabinet meeting where ministers were instructed to study the law and prepare for rollout, possibly before Diwali
