Leading Muslim bodies have come out in opposition to the proposed Uniform Civil Code. Calling the Law Commission’s move to seek suggestions from all stakeholders for a common code “against the spirit of the Constitution” and “contrary to religious freedom enjoyed by all citizens”, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) urged the government to think over the proposal again. “It is an attempt at polarisation and a diversionary tactic by the government,” the Board said.
In separate developments, the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind and Jamaat-e-Islami Hind also came out strongly against the proposal to examine afresh the desirability of a common civil law. The general body meeting of the Jamiat called the Uniform Civil Code questionnaire an exercise “against the Fundamental Rights enshrined in the Constitution”.
“It is unacceptable and detrimental to the integrity of the country,” Arshad Madani, president of the Jamiat, said. “The proposal is totally against the religious freedom and Fundamental Rights given to the citizens under Articles 25 and 26 of the Constitution. Ours is a secular Constitution. There is no official religion of the state. In a pluralist society like India, where citizens of all faiths enjoy the right to follow the teachings of their faith, the idea of a Uniform Civil Code is not only surprising but is also used as a guise keeping a particular community in mind,” Mr. Madani said.
