UCC: Law Commission of India Seeks Public and Religious Organizations’ Opinions on Uniform Civil Code

New Delhi, 15th June 2023: The Law Commission of India has taken a significant step by inviting fresh opinions from the public and recognized religious organizations regarding the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) within the next month. In a public notice issued on June 14, individuals and organizations are encouraged to provide their comments online through a designated link or via email.

This move holds great importance as sources indicate that the UCC is a key agenda for the Narendra Modi government leading up to the 2024 general elections. It follows the government’s recent actions, such as the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, scheduled to be completed by January next year before the elections.

The Uniform Civil Code refers to a unified set of laws governing personal matters, including marriage, divorce, adoption, inheritance, and succession, for all citizens regardless of their religion. Currently, different personal laws regulate these aspects for individuals of different faiths, and the UCC aims to eliminate such disparities.

Several states under Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rule, including Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Madhya Pradesh, have already established their own commissions to examine the feasibility of implementing the UCC. The BJP has consistently promised the UCC as part of their election manifesto during recent state elections.

The public notice states that the 22nd Law Commission of India is examining the matter of the Uniform Civil Code based on a reference from the Ministry of Law & Justice dated June 17, 2016. It further mentions that the 21st Law Commission had previously studied the subject and sought input from stakeholders through various appeals and questionnaires.

Considering the significant responses received during that time, the 21st Law Commission released a consultation paper titled “Reforms of Family Law” on August 31, 2018. However, as a considerable time has passed since the issuance of the consultation paper, and in light of the subject’s relevance and court orders related to it, the 22nd Law Commission has decided to reexamine the matter.

Therefore, the 22nd Law Commission of India has now invited the general public and recognized religious organizations to express their views and ideas on the Uniform Civil Code within a period of 30 days from the date of the notice. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit their opinions through the provided online platform or by email. Additionally, the notice states that the Commission may conduct personal hearings or discussions with individuals or organizations if necessary.

This step taken by the Law Commission of India signifies an important move toward soliciting public and religious input on the Uniform Civil Code, reflecting the government’s commitment to addressing this crucial issue.