NEW DELHI, Jan 27: Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Monday expressed his concerns regarding the opposition to a uniform civil code, stating that it is only a matter of time before such a code is embraced nationwide, emphasizing its role in promoting gender equality.
Speaking to a new group of participants in the Rajya Sabha Internship Programme, Dhankhar referred to Uttarakhand’s recent implementation of a uniform civil code as a “very auspicious sign.”
On Monday, Uttarakhand became the first state to enact a uniform civil code, fulfilling a significant promise made by the ruling BJP ahead of the 2022 assembly elections.
The Vice-President reminded everyone that Article 44 of the Constitution requires the state to strive for a uniform civil code across the entirety of India.
“I am confident that it is only a matter of time before the whole country adopts similar legislation,” he remarked.
Addressing the criticism surrounding the common code, Dhankhar—who also serves as the Rajya Sabha chairman—stated, “Some individuals, I would suggest due to ignorance, oppose it. How can we critique something that is mandated by the Constitution? It is a directive from our founding fathers that aims to instigate gender equality. Why resist it?”
An official statement indicated that Dhankhar believes politics has become so entrenched in public perception that it has turned into “poison.”
“For political advantage, individuals do not hesitate to abandon nationalism, showing no concern even momentarily. How can anyone oppose the establishment of a uniform civil code?” he questioned.
In essence, a uniform civil code denotes a common legal framework applicable to all citizens, irrespective of religion. It is expected to encompass personal laws, as well as regulations related to inheritance, adoption, and succession. (PTI)
