Public consultations on UCC kick off in Madhya Pradesh
A high-level committee constituted by the Madhya Pradesh Government to explore the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the State formally began seeking public opinion on Saturday.
It began with a public consultation meeting held in Indore. Most participants at the meeting supported the UCC idea, while a representative of the Muslim community opposed the proposal, arguing that the concept of the code was against Sharia law.
Committee member and retired IAS officer Shatrughan Singh told reporters that the panel would hold meetings across the state to gather views from different sections of society before submitting its recommendations to the Government.
He said the UCC has a wide scope, including subjects such as marriage, divorce, live-in relationships and inheritance.
“The committee will hear views from all sections of society. It will then study the existing legal framework and submit recommendations to the State Government on implementing a UCC. We will try to finalise our recommendations by July,” Singh said.
He said the State Government had also launched an online portal to seek suggestions from citizens, and people could submit their views till June 15.
“Young people in particular should actively share their opinions on the portal,” he said.
Participants supporting the UCC said it would ensure a uniform legal system for all citizens.
However, a representative of the Muslim community said implementing the UCC would violate Sharia law and could affect the community’s religious rights. Indore Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargav, local MLAs Malini Laxman Singh Gaur and Madhu Verma, along with several other public representatives, also attended the meeting and shared their suggestions.
The UCC proposes a common set of personal laws for all citizens, irrespective of religion, in matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance and adoption. Supporters call it a step towards equality, while critics see it as interference in religious practices.
