1 November, 2024; In recent statements from Gaya, Bihar, Jan Suraj chief Prashant Kishore has shared his views on the ongoing debate over the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in India. According to Kishore, any attempt to introduce changes to the country’s civil laws, including the UCC, must be done in a manner that engages and includes all affected communities—particularly India’s Muslim population, which comprises around 20% of the country’s total population.
Kishore stressed that reforms of this nature require consensus-building and respect for diverse cultural and religious practices. Referring to recent instances like the protests following the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC), he highlighted the potential for nationwide dissent when communities feel excluded from critical legislative decisions.
“The country witnessed widespread protests during the CAA-NRC movement because there was a sense that the affected communities were not adequately consulted,” Kishore stated. Drawing parallels to the UCC debate, he argued that without an inclusive approach, similar resistance could arise. According to him, it is essential for the government to take affected groups into confidence, ensuring they understand and support the intended benefits of such laws.
Prashant Kishore’s comments come at a time when the UCC has been widely discussed, with advocates calling for a single set of laws governing personal matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption for all Indian citizens, regardless of religion. However, opponents argue that it risks undermining cultural diversity by replacing established religious laws with a uniform code.
Kishore’s stance underscores the importance of participatory governance, particularly when sensitive issues around identity, culture, and religion are involved. “Unless the government takes into confidence the people who will be affected by the law, the law cannot be implemented,” he asserted, emphasizing that the long-term success of any reform hinges on inclusive dialogue and mutual trust.
As debates around the UCC continue, Kishore’s remarks call for a patient and consultative approach to bridge differences, aiming for a legal framework that honors India’s diversity while promoting equality and justice for all citizens.
