Implementing a uniform code without considering the socioeconomic disparities that exist in our society can have adverse consequences, says Tamil Nadu chief minister
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — Arguing against a “one-size-fits-all approach,” Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Thursday expressed his state’s “strong” opposition to the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC).
Flagging his concerns in a detailed letter to the Law Commission, he said “UCC poses a serious threat and challenges the diverse social structure of our society.”
The Law Commission, in a notification issued on June 14, had sought views from all quarters to the UCC and given one-month time for the responses.
“I am writing to express the Government of Tamil Nadu’s strong opposition to the idea of implementation of the Uniform Civil Code in India that is known for its multicultural social fabric. While I understand the need for certain reforms, I believe that the UCC poses a serious threat and challenges the diverse social structure of our society,” media reports quoted Stalin’s letter as saying.
It said the country prides itself on being a secular nation that respects and protects the rights of minorities through Article 29 of the Constitution. The Sixth Schedule of the Constitution also ensures that the tribal areas of States preserve their customs and practices through District and Regional Councils.
“The UCC, by its very nature, has the potential to disproportionately affect such tribal communities and undermine their right to practice and preserve their traditional practices, customs and identities,” the letter said.
Further, implementing a uniform code without considering the socioeconomic disparities that exist in our society can have adverse consequences, he said.
“Different communities have varying levels of development, education, and awareness, and a one-size-fits-all approach may exacerbate existing inequalities,” the letter added.
UCC, it said, also has the potential to create deep divisions and social unrest among religious communities. Further, “any attempt to impose a uniform code may be perceived as an overreach by the State into religious matters, setting a worrisome precedent for future encroachments on personal liberties,” the letter argued.
