PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) on Friday strongly opposed the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Gujarat after its enactment in Uttarakhand, terming it unconstitutional and unacceptable under any circumstances.
AIMPLB spokesman Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas stated that the UCC laws passed by the two States violate fundamental rights guaranteed under Part III of the Constitution, including equality, personal liberty and freedom of religion. He argued that the UCC falls under the Directive Principles of State Policy and is not legally enforceable like fundamental rights.Ilyas questioned the “uniform” nature of the law, pointing out that certain groups, such as the Scheduled Tribes, have been excluded. He also cited the 21st Law Commission’s earlier observations terming the UCC unnecessary, while noting that the 22nd Law Commission is yet to submit its final report. Raising concerns over transparency, Ilyas alleged that despite seeking public opinion, the State governments did not make consultation reports public. Apart from the UCC, Ilyas also expressed concern over alleged government interference in Madarsa education in Uttarakhand, opposing provisions that require official approval for their functioning. He also flagged issues such as reported demolitions of religious structures, incidents of hate speech and alleged inaction by law enforcement agencies.
