BJP pushes for early adoption; JD(U) strongly opposes, citing constitutional concerns
Mohammad bin Ismail | Clarion India
NEW DELHI — The debate over implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) has ignited a political storm in Bihar. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) demands its adoption, while the ruling Janata Dal-United (JD-U) has vehemently opposed it, citing constitutional concerns and the potential for social division.
The BJP, buoyed by the recent passage of the UCC in Uttarakhand, is now calling for its implementation in Bihar. Senior BJP leader and spokesperson Ranjan Patel has strongly advocated for the law’s adoption, asserting that it would bring much-needed uniformity to the country’s legal system. “Uttarakhand has set a historic precedent by being the first state to implement the UCC. Now, it is time for Bihar to follow suit,” Patel said. “A single law for all religions is necessary to eliminate discrimination based on religion, caste, gender, or community. Issues such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and property rights should be governed by one unified law. There is no reason for any community, including Muslims, to fear the UCC. When the law is the same for everyone, why should there be apprehension?”
Patel’s remarks have stoked tensions in the state, as the JD(U), a key ally of the BJP in the past, has strongly opposed the proposal. The party argues that such a law could disrupt the secular fabric of India and infringe upon the personal laws of religious minorities, especially Muslims.
Khalid Anwar, a senior JD(U) MLC, condemned the implementation of the UCC in Uttarakhand, calling it “a forced imposition on Muslims.” Anwar stressed that the Indian Constitution does not support such a uniform law. “We will never allow the UCC to be implemented in Bihar,” Anwar declared. “This law was brought in Uttarakhand to disturb Muslims, and the BJP is using it to intimidate them. We will not support this agenda, and we are committed to upholding the secular values of our Constitution.”
The disagreement over the UCC has significant political implications, as Bihar is set to hold assembly elections later this year. The issue is likely to become a major point of contention between the BJP and JD(U). The BJP hopes to galvanise support by presenting itself as a proponent of national unity and equality, while the JD(U) seeks to defend its secular principles and protect the rights of religious minorities.
In addition to the BJP’s and JD(U)’s differing views, the controversy has sparked wider concerns among religious communities in Bihar, particularly Muslims, who fear that the UCC could undermine their personal laws and cultural practices. Social activist Meena Sharma weighed in on the issue, calling for a nationwide dialogue on the UCC. “This is not just a political issue; it is a matter of social justice and equality. All stakeholders, including religious and community leaders, must be involved in the discussion to ensure that no one feels marginalized,” she said.
While the BJP champions the UCC as a means to ensure equality under the law, critics argue that it could be a tool for political manipulation and division. As the debate intensifies, political analysts suggest that the UCC could become a central issue in Bihar’s upcoming elections, with the BJP and JD(U) at odds over the future of religious identity in the state’s legal framework.
The controversy surrounding the UCC in Bihar is reflective of broader national debates over secularism, personal rights, and the intersection of religion and politics. As the issue continues to gain traction, it is clear that the outcome of this political clash will not only shape the future of Bihar but could have far-reaching implications for India’s governance and social cohesion.
