Dr Buragadda Srinadh
The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is an urgent necessity for ensuring equality, justice, and national unity in India. Recognizing the importance of this reform, Uttarakhand has become the first state in the country to implement the UCC, setting a remarkable example of progressive governance. \
Goa, too, has had a uniform civil code in place since pre-independence, under Portuguese rule, offering a long-standing example of how such a system can be effective and beneficial for all. Even the Supreme Court has repeatedly urged the central government to introduce the UCC, pointing to the legal complexities that arise from having parallel personal laws. These complexities, particularly in issues like property inheritance and marriage, create unnecessary judicial challenges, delay justice, and perpetuate social inequalities.
The existence of different personal laws for various religious communities often leads to confusion and disparities, complicating the pursuit of justice. For instance, inheritance laws may vary significantly across communities, leaving citizens with unequal access to their legal rights. This situation is not only unfair but also inefficient, as it results in prolonged legal disputes and inconsistent outcomes.
Despite repeated Supreme Court recommendations, successive governments have hesitated to act on the UCC, often due to political considerations. However, the BJP-led National Democratic government prioritized national interest over political expediency. Yet, resistance persists, particularly from the Opposition, including the Congress and its allies, who rely on appeasement politics. With the legal framework now in place, the time has come to ensure uniform rights and obligations for all citizens, regardless of religion, reinforcing equality before the law.
As a responsible citizen, President of Vishwa Hindu Parishad, and a medical professional, I strongly urge the Government of Andhra Pradesh to take the initiative in South India and enact the UCC. This would not only establish Andhra Pradesh as a leader in progressive legal reform but also serve as an inspiration for other southern states to follow. The UCC is not merely a legal reform; it is a crucial step toward fostering true secularism, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their religious background, are treated equally under the law.
Additionally, I appeal to the leadership within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) to prioritize the implementation of the UCC and take decisive action. A united stance in favor of the UCC would reaffirm the NDA’s commitment to justice, social harmony, and the constitutional principle of equality before the law. The principle of secularism enshrined in the Constitution should be reflected in the legal framework of the country, and granting special legal privileges based on religion undermines the very essence of a secular democracy.
Implementing the UCC would ensure that all citizens are governed by the same set of laws, thus eliminating the existing disparities. It would pave the way for a more just, inclusive, and unified society, where the law is a tool of equality and fairness. Andhra Pradesh has the opportunity to lead by example, showing the country that progress is possible when the needs of all citizens are addressed equally.
In conclusion, it is time to move beyond political considerations and focus on what is best for the country as a whole. The UCC is not just a matter of legal reform—it is a commitment to the core values of equality, justice, and national integrity. Politics should not be a constraint in advancing these ideals. It is time to ensure that all citizens enjoy equal rights under a single, just, and progressive legal framework. The Andhra Pradesh government, along with the support of the NDA, can take a bold step toward realizing this vision, setting the stage for a stronger, more unified India.