The All India Muslim Personal Law Board expressed strong opposition towards the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill in the Uttarakhand assembly. They argue that it constitutes interference in religious affairs, particularly highlighting exemptions for certain communities.
Khalid Rashid Farangi Mahali, an executive committee member of the board, pointed out the lack of uniformity in the bill due to exemptions for specific communities. He said, “UCC means that the same laws should be implemented on each and every citizen of the state.”
He further highlighted the constitutional right of citizens to practice their religion freely under Article 25, questioning the need for interference in religious matters, which personal laws constitute.
The bill, set to be the first of its kind after independence if passed, is part of the BJP’s agenda for a common law on various aspects like marriage, divorce, property, and inheritance. It exempts the tribal population of the state and mandates registration of live-in relationships.
This move by the BJP-majority House in Uttarakhand could pave the way for similar legislation in other BJP-run states, marking a significant ideological stance ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
