CURRENT AFFAIRS

Uniform Civil Code UCC–Debate and Developments

Introduction

The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is one of the most debated and sensitive topics in modern Indian policy and law. Rooted in Article 44 of the Directive Principles of State Policy, the UCC proposes a single law for all citizens of India that governs marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption, and succession, irrespective of religion, caste, or community.

While some hail it as a step toward equality and national integration, others see it as a threat to religious freedom and cultural diversity. In this article, we explore the meaning, arguments for and against UCC, recent developments, and its potential impact on Indian society.

What Is the Uniform Civil Code?

The Uniform Civil Code aims to replace personal laws based on the scriptures and customs of each major religious community in India with a common set of laws applicable to all citizens.

Currently, different personal laws exist for:

Hindus (including Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists) – governed by the Hindu Code Bills.
Muslims – governed by Sharia-based personal laws.
Christians and Parsis – governed by their respective customs and legislation.

A UCC would ensure uniformity in civil matters for all Indian citizens, thereby upholding the spirit of equality and secularism.

Arguments in Favor of UCC

1. Equality Before Law

A uniform code will ensure that all citizens are treated equally under the law, regardless of religion or gender. It aims to eliminate discriminatory practices like triple talaq, polygamy, or unequal inheritance rights.

2. Gender Justice

Women from many communities have been victims of unjust personal laws. A UCC will help secure equal rights for women in matters of marriage, divorce, and property.

3. National Integration

A single civil code promotes unity and coherence by reducing the legal divisions between communities. It strengthens the idea of “One Nation, One Law”.

4. Modernization of Laws

Personal laws are often outdated and based on centuries-old customs. A UCC would bring Indian civil law in line with modern values and constitutional principles.

Arguments Against UCC

1. Threat to Religious Freedom

Many minority groups believe the UCC would interfere with their personal and religious beliefs, violating the constitutional right to practice one's religion.

2. Cultural Sensitivity

India is home to numerous ethnic, cultural, and religious identities. Critics argue that imposing a single code could erode India’s pluralistic traditions.

3. Political Motive Allegations

Some view the UCC push as being politically driven, especially by right-wing parties, and targeted at specific religious communities, especially Muslims.

4. Practical Challenges

Implementing a UCC is a legal and administrative challenge, requiring widespread consensus and sensitivity. Resistance from conservative religious bodies adds to the complexity.

Recent Developments (2023–2025)

Law Commission’s Role (2023)

The 22nd Law Commission of India invited public opinion on UCC in 2023 and received over 8 lakh suggestions, showing high public engagement. It acknowledged that reforms in personal laws are necessary, but also emphasized the need for consensus and sensitivity.

Uttarakhand UCC Bill (2024)

In a landmark move, Uttarakhand became the first Indian state to pass a Uniform Civil Code in 2024. Key features include:

Equal property rights for women.
Ban on polygamy and child marriage.
Compulsory marriage registration for all communities.

This move could become a model for other states, especially BJP-ruled ones like Gujarat and Assam, which have shown interest in similar legislation.

Political Context (2024-2025)

The BJP’s 2024 election manifesto prominently featured UCC as a national priority. However, national-level implementation would require constitutional amendments and broad-based political support, which remains a challenge.

Supreme Court and UCC

Over the years, the Supreme Court of India has strongly advocated for UCC in several judgments:

Shah Bano Case (1985): Called for a uniform law to protect Muslim women.
Sarla Mudgal Case (1995): Criticized the misuse of personal laws to perform second marriages.
Jose Paulo Coutinho Case (2019): Reiterated the importance of UCC in ensuring equality and justice.

These rulings underline the judiciary’s position in favor of harmonizing personal laws with constitutional principles.

Global Examples

Many countries with diverse populations have adopted civil codes:

France, Germany, and Japan: Uniform civil codes for all citizens.
Muslim-majority countries like Turkey and Tunisia have modernized their personal laws.
India remains an outlier among secular democracies by not having a unified civil law.

Post Date: 09-09-2025