UCC is threat to tribal identity in MP, alleges Congress

The Congress on Saturday expressed concern over the ruling BJP’s plan to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Madhya Pradesh, saying it could pose a serious threat to the identity, traditions and constitutional rights of the tribal community.

Umang Singhar, the Leader of the Opposition in the State Assembly and the Congress’s tribal face in MP, also accused the Government of trying to impose the UCC in haste, without holding any dialogue and without following the democratic process, which reflects the BJP’s “intolerant mindset”.

India is a country of diversity where tribal communities have lived for centuries with their distinct cultural heritage, traditions and social systems, he said.

“Imposing a uniform law in such a context would not only disrespect their traditions but also violate their rights,” he said in a statement.

During a Cabinet meeting held on Tuesday, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav asked ministers to study the UCC before its implementation in the State.

The MP home department has since initiated the process, as it is responsible for preparing the UCC bill, sources said.

If the Government has its way, it might bring the bill before Diwali, they added.

According to them, a high-level committee will soon be constituted at the State level.

The BJP Government in Uttarakhand has already enforced the UCC in that State on January 27. The Gujarat Assembly passed it last month. One of the BJP’s poll promises in the West Bengal elections is rolling out the UCC within six months after forming the Government.