Prime Minister Modi Renews Call for Uniform Civil Code in Independence Day Address

In his 11th consecutive Independence Day address from the historic Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a strong case for the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in India, presenting it as a cornerstone of secularism and equality enshrined in the Indian Constitution.

The Prime Minister's call for a UCC, which aims to replace the current religion-based personal laws with a common set of rules governing marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption, was a significant highlight of his speech. Modi criticized the existing civil laws as "communal" and outdated, suggesting they contribute to division within the country.

"The Supreme Court has repeatedly discussed the need for a Uniform Civil Code," Modi stated. "A large section of the country believes, and it is true, that what we currently have is a communal civil code. The need of the hour is a secular civil code that eliminates discrimination based on religion. It is our duty to fulfill the vision of our Constitution makers."

Modi's comments appeared to be a direct challenge to opposition parties, which have frequently voiced concerns about the BJP's agenda. He suggested that while some critics accuse the government of subverting the Constitution, they simultaneously oppose the implementation of the UCC, which is advocated by the Directive Principles of State Policy.

The Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of broad public discourse on the issue, calling on citizens to share their opinions. "There should be widespread discussions on the Uniform Civil Code," he said. "The present civil code appears to be 'communal.' India needs a 'secular' civil code. It is the need of the hour to move beyond discriminatory, communal civil codes."

Modi's renewed push for a UCC aligns with the BJP's long-standing commitment to this reform, as reflected in its manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections. Several BJP-led state governments have already taken steps toward implementing a UCC at the state level, with Uttarakhand passing such a code earlier this year. This move by the BJP-led government in Uttarakhand is viewed as a test case for broader national implementation.

However, the proposal remains highly contentious, with concerns about potential backlash from non-Hindu communities, who currently have the right to follow their own religious laws in personal matters. Introducing a UCC in the current parliament may face resistance from some of Modi's key regional allies.

The Prime Minister's Independence Day address has once again brought the debate over the UCC to the forefront of Indian politics, setting the stage for what could be a defining issue in the lead-up to the next general elections.