This refers to the editorial, “Time for common code” (October 16). Union law Minister DV Sadananda Gowda is hopeful that the uniform civil code will see the light of the day soon. However, this issue is complicated in India. In a country like ours, where there are umpteen number of religions, ushering in a uniform civil code, by replacing personal laws governing each religion, is like scanning a desert in search of pristine water.
Also, tampering with Article 44 of the Constitution under the Directive Principles, is fraught with obstacles. The present laws governing marriage, divorce, adoption, succession and inheritance are offshoots of the British rule. No Government, post-independence, made serious attempts to have a re-look at these laws. Many distinguished personalities, including former President APJ Abdul Kalam, supported the uniform civil code. The Supreme Court has correctly directed the NDA Government to clear the confusion on its stand on uniform civil code. This was also a part of the BJP election manifesto.