Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reaffirmed the Bharatiya Janata Party’s commitment to implementing a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) across the entire country within the next five years. This announcement comes as a part of a broader vision to ensure a more unified and streamlined governance system. Shah emphasized that the UCC is a responsibility that has been bestowed upon the Parliament and state legislatures since the inception of the Constitution, aimed at eliminating laws based on religion in a secular nation.
In an exclusive interview with PTI, Shah also mentioned the government’s plan to introduce ‘One Nation, One Election,’ a concept that envisions simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly elections across the country. This move is not only expected to bring down costs but also streamline the electoral process. Additionally, Shah highlighted the need for extensive consultations with various stakeholders before implementing these significant reforms.
The Home Minister cited the successful implementation of the UCC in Uttarakhand by the state government, showcasing it as a model that should undergo societal and legal scrutiny. He stressed the importance of engaging religious leaders and initiating a thorough deliberation process to address any potential concerns before enacting the law nationwide. Shah’s comments underline the BJP’s longstanding commitment to social, legal, and religious reforms, with the UCC being a focal point in their ‘sankalp patra.’
Furthermore, Shah expressed confidence that both the UCC and ‘One Nation, One Election’ initiatives can be achieved within the stipulated five-year timeframe. He mentioned the Prime Minister’s committee report on simultaneous elections, indicating a strategic approach towards realizing this ambitious goal. The BJP’s manifesto has reiterated the significance of a UCC in promoting gender equality and protecting the rights of all women, aligning with the best traditions while adapting to modern times.
The BJP’s unwavering stance on these reforms reflects a broader vision of promoting national unity and governance efficiency. As the government steps up its efforts towards implementing these transformative changes, the coming years hold the promise of a more harmonized legal framework and electoral system for the nation.
