Congress Criticizes Uttarakhand's UCC Initiative as a Political Strategy
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Synopsis
Uttarakhand is poised to be the first Indian state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), but this move has faced backlash from Congress leaders who claim it serves as a political tool for the BJP. They argue that the UCC distracts from pressing issues like unemployment and corruption.
Key Takeaways
- Uttarakhand to implement UCC
- Congress leaders criticize BJP's motives
- UCC aims for a uniform legal framework
- Concerns over diversity in laws
- Need for consensus before implementation
New Delhi, Jan 27 (NationPress) Uttarakhand is on the verge of making a landmark decision on Monday by becoming the first state in India to enforce the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) throughout its jurisdiction and for its residents residing outside the state. This initiative has faced significant backlash from prominent Congress leaders, who have accused the BJP of leveraging the UCC as a political instrument.
At 12:30 p.m., Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami will launch the UCC portal, a notable legislative achievement ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to the state.
The UCC aims to create a standardized legal framework governing marriage, divorce, property, inheritance, and adoption for all citizens, irrespective of their religion. With this implementation, Uttarakhand will join Goa as the only states in India to adopt a consistent set of civil laws.
Senior Congress figure Kumari Selja described the UCC as part of the BJP's strategy to fragment society.
In comments to IANS, she remarked, "This initiative coincides with elections taking place both locally and across the nation. It reflects the BJP's tactic to create divisions among people, and they are undertaking such measures under this guise."
Uttarakhand Congress leader Ganesh Godiyal compared the UCC to the abrogation of Article 370 in Kashmir, asserting that it serves as a diversion.
"There are numerous unanswered questions from the state government. The UCC parallels the nullification of Article 370 in Kashmir, where claims were made about subsequent prosperity. The state administration is using the UCC to divert attention from its failures and to quell pressing issues," Godiyal told IANS.
He further criticized the government's focus, highlighting concerns regarding unemployment, corruption, and law and order, particularly in light of the recent Ankita Bhandari rape and murder case.
"To distract the public from matters such as unemployment and corruption, the government has introduced this concept. I challenge the Pushkar Singh Dhami-led administration to explain how the youth will thrive in our state. Will he assure their advancement and development?" Godiyal questioned.
Congress leader B.K. Hariprasad voiced doubts regarding the UCC, contending that a single civil code cannot encompass India's vast diversity. "A universal law cannot be applied to such a large and varied population as India," he stated.
Congress leader Avinash Pande underscored the necessity for consensus prior to implementing such legislation.
"Every political faction has provided their viewpoint on the UCC. Laws like this ought not to be enacted unless there is unanimous support," he told IANS.
Meanwhile, the Uttarakhand government asserted that the UCC regulations have been meticulously crafted, steering clear of contentious clauses for resolving personal law disputes.
As Uttarakhand embarks on this groundbreaking initiative, the UCC is anticipated to ignite further discussions regarding its impact on India's diverse social and cultural landscape.
