News & Media

6.2.2024

Back ground of UCC getting momentum

"The need for uniform civil code has been felt for more than a century. The country has already suffered a lot in the absence of a uniform code for all.

Back ground of UCC getting momentum

Case Title: Firoz Bakht v. Union of India & Others

On 20 January 2022 the Chancellor of Maulana Azad National Urdu University Firoz Bakht has approached the Supreme Court seeking issuance of directions to Centre for constitution of a Judicial Commission or High-Level Expert committee for preparing a Uniform Civil Code ("UCC") for securing gender justice, gender equality and dignity of women. The petitioner has sought the transfer of his PIL from the Delhi High Court to the Supreme Court saying that it is needed to avoid multiplicity of proceedings and for an authoritative pronouncement on an issue of substantial general importance.

"The need for uniform civil code has been felt for more than a century. The country has already suffered a lot in the absence of a uniform code for all. It is rather a pity that the longest and most elaborately written constitution in the history of mankind, the Indian constitution is responsible for creation of erosion in society. The society has been fragmented in the name of religions, sects and sex. Even at present, in India, there are different laws governing rights related to personal matters or laws like marriage, divorce, maintenance, adoption and inheritance for different communities

It is further elaborated

"UCC aims to provide protection to vulnerable sections as envisaged by Ambedkar including women and religious minorities, while also promoting nationalistic fervour through unity. When enacted the code will work to simplify laws that are segregated at present on the basis of religious beliefs like the Hindu code bill, Shariat law, and others. The code will simplify the complex laws around marriage ceremonies, inheritance, succession, adoptions making them one for all. The same civil law will then be applicable to all citizens irrespective of their faith,"

By Dr Prem Lata