New Delhi: Union minister and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan has called for a detailed discussion on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), a day after Union Home Minister Amit Shah said it would be implemented in all NDA-ruled states before 2029.
Paswan said India had many communities with different traditions and customs. He said any decision on the UCC should be taken only after considering the country’s social and cultural diversity.
In a post on X, Paswan referred to constitutional provisions that recognise the special customs and rights of different communities.
“India’s social fabric is diverse. Every class has its own civic traditions and customs. The Constitution itself has acknowledged this – the Fifth-Sixth Schedule, Articles 371A and 371G, and the exemptions granted to Scheduled Tribes in every code so far are proof of this.”
He said his party supported both equality and diversity, as reported by The Statesman.
“Let the draft be made public, let there be an assessment of the interests of all stakeholders, let there be extensive discussions – thereafter, after review, the party will state its position,” he added.
Paswan’s statement came amid differences within the NDA over the proposed law. The BJP has supported Shah’s announcement, but some alliance partners have asked for more discussions before taking a stand.
Jharkhand Minister Cautious
Jharkhand minister Sanjay Prasad Yadav also said the issue should be examined carefully.
“Union Home Minister Amit Shah has also spoken about this, and the Jharkhand government is keeping a close watch on all aspects of the matter. In politics, there should be no need to rush to conclusions. We will carefully examine every aspect before taking any further decision,” Yadav told reporters at Patna airport.
Shah had said a day earlier that the UCC would be implemented in the 21 states ruled by the BJP-led NDA before 2029. His announcement has led to a fresh debate among the alliance partners.
