In a recent media statement, J. Sangappa, a spokesperson for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), emphasized the urgent need for India to adopt a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in order to maintain a healthy and robust democracy. Sangappa highlighted that the Law Commission has initiated discussions regarding the implementation of the UCC, and he called upon all supporters of a thriving democracy to favor this measure.
Referring to Article 44 of the Indian Constitution, which stipulates that the State should strive to establish a Uniform Civil Code throughout the country, Sangappa pointed out that the Supreme Court of India has also directed the Parliament to enact laws related to the UCC. He argued that by enacting the UCC, overlapping provisions of various laws would be eliminated, ensuring equal status for all individuals and eradicating discrimination. Moreover, Sangappa emphasized that the nation would unite, speaking with a newfound force and power.
Sangappa further contended that the implementation of the UCC would simplify the Indian legal system and alleviate the burden on the judiciary, ultimately leading to speedy justice. Currently, different communities being governed by different laws create an additional workload for the judiciary, causing delays in the delivery of justice. The introduction of a Uniform Civil Code would help expedite cases and ensure justice while simplifying the complexities associated with the present legal framework.
Highlighting the benefits of the UCC, Sangappa underscored that it promotes secularism and grants more rights to women, particularly in religions where women face discrimination. The UCC would ensure equal treatment for all citizens, eliminate loopholes in personal laws, deter vote bank politics, and foster national unity.
Sangappa acknowledged that while India is a democratic country that grants equal rights to all, personal laws pertaining to different religions have undermined this principle. Particularly, personal laws have been used to suppress women in certain religious communities. He stressed that in India, no religion holds higher status than others, and all religions are considered equal under the Constitution. Every individual is equal before the law, and no one should claim special privileges based on religion or caste. Sangappa urged all Indians, irrespective of their religious affiliations, to support the Uniform Civil Code in order to uphold the principles of the Indian Constitution.
In conclusion, Sangappa’s call for the adoption of the Uniform Civil Code as an essential requirement for a healthy and robust democracy in India reflects the BJP’s stance on the issue. The implementation of the UCC is seen as a means to establish equality, justice, and national unity, while streamlining the legal system and eliminating discriminatory practices.
