The recent tabling of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) bill in the Uttarakhand assembly has reignited the ongoing debate surrounding its implications, particularly within the context of religious beliefs. Samajwadi Party MP ST Hasan, echoing sentiments shared by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), has raised concerns about the UCC being perceived as conflicting with the tenets of the Quran, the holy book of Muslims.
The Uniform Civil Code aims to establish a common set of laws governing personal matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption for all citizens, irrespective of their religious affiliations. While proponents argue that it promotes equality and justice, critics, including Hasan and the AIMPLB, express apprehensions about its alignment with religious teachings.
Hasan emphasized, “We won’t abide by it (UCC Bill) if it is against the ‘hidayat’ (instructions) given to Muslims in the Quran. We don’t have any issue if it is as per ‘hidayat’.” This sentiment highlights the delicate balance that policymakers must strike when formulating laws that respect religious values while upholding constitutional principles of equality and justice.
The Quran serves as a foundational guide for Muslims, providing moral and legal principles that shape their way of life. Consequently, any legislation perceived as contradictory to these principles raises concerns within the Muslim community. The challenge lies in finding a harmonious intersection between religious beliefs and the broader legal framework.
In democratic societies like India, where diversity is a defining characteristic, the challenge becomes even more pronounced. The UCC, intended to streamline personal laws and promote a sense of uniformity, encounters resistance from those who fear it may dilute the distinctiveness of personal laws based on religious customs.
About Uniform Civil Code Debate:
As the debate unfolds, it is crucial for lawmakers to engage in constructive dialogue with religious leaders and communities to address concerns and ensure that any legislation respects constitutional values without infringing on religious freedoms. Striking a balance that acknowledges and accommodates religious diversity while fostering a sense of equality is essential for the successful implementation of a Uniform Civil Code.
The journey towards a Uniform Civil Code requires a nuanced understanding of the diverse cultural and religious fabric of the nation. As the UCC bill progresses through the legislative process, it is likely to undergo scrutiny and amendments to address the apprehensions expressed by various communities, including those like Hasan and the AIMPLB.
Ultimately, the goal should be to foster a legal framework that is both inclusive and respects the constitutional values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity – principles that form the bedrock of a democratic and diverse society like India.
