Uniform Civil Code back in spotlight as 22nd Law Commission seeks suggestions

The 22nd Law Commission of India has called for fresh suggestions from different stakeholders, including public and religious organizations regarding the Uniform Civil Code (UCC).

This move is an effort to gather as many insights as possible before formulating any recommendations on the issue.

The 21st Law Commission previously looked into the UCC and had also appealed to stakeholders to share their perspectives on the matter. The commission also released a consultation paper in August 2018 on “Reforms of Family Law.”

According to the panel, it has been more than three years since the issuance of the consultation paper on the matter. Considering the significance and importance of the subject, and various court orders related to it, the commission has deemed it necessary to re-examine the issue.

Individuals interested in sharing their views and suggestions on the UCC can send their input to the commission. They can use the member-secretary's email or the commission's website to communicate their thoughts.

In a 185-page consultation paper, the commission underscored that secularism and cultural diversity could not contradict the plurality prevailing in the country.

If implemented, the Uniform Civil Code would replace personal laws based on religion or region with a set of unified laws that would govern every citizen of India.

The subject of a Uniform Civil Code has long been a controversial issue in India, with proponents advocating for a common law, while opponents say it would be against the country's leftist secular ethos.