The Kerala assembly, in a unanimous decision, has adopted a resolution urging the BJP-led Central government to refrain from implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) across the nation. The resolution was introduced by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who labeled the proposed UCC as a "unilateral and hasty" step taken by the Central government. Vijayan asserted that the version of the UCC envisioned by the Sangh Parivar did not align with the principles of the Constitution.
Instead, he argued that it was derived from the Hindu legal text 'Manusmriti'. He clarified, "The Sangh Parivar has explicitly indicated this previously. Their intention is not to enforce a provision within the Constitution.
It's essential not to misinterpret it in that manner." Vijayan criticized the BJP government for focusing on criminalizing divorce laws within the Muslim personal law, rather than ensuring the safety of women and marginalized individuals. He questioned whether the UCC would genuinely address the under-representation of tribals, dalits, minorities, and the backward classes in education and employment. The Chief Minister highlighted concerns regarding religious freedom, wondering if individuals from marginalized communities would be granted access to places of worship and the freedom to practice their own rituals.
The resolution underwent modifications following suggestions from the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF), including the removal of references to B R Ambedkar and the notion that UCC could be implemented after comprehensive discussions with all stakeholders. The UDF held the stance that discussions wouldn't necessarily lead to successful implementation of the UCC. Ultimately, the Chief Minister read out the
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