New Delhi: The All India Muslim Personal Law Board has raised strong objections to the proposed Uniform Civil Code in Gujarat and its implementation in Uttarakhand, calling the measures constitutionally flawed and politically driven.
At a press conference, senior board members said the Gujarat bill, awaiting the governor’s assent, raises serious legal concerns. They argued that the law fails to meet the standard of a uniform code. According to the board, it neither applies across the country nor ensures equal application within the state, pointing to exemptions for Scheduled Tribes and other protected groups.
The board stated that the legislation infringes on fundamental rights, including religious freedom, equality, and personal liberty. It noted that Article 44 of the Constitution places the Uniform Civil Code under Directive Principles, which are not enforceable like fundamental rights.
Concerns were also raised about transparency. The board said a committee formed to gather public opinion has not released its report. It questioned whether the consultation process held any real value.
Leaders warned that the law risks imposing majority practices on minority communities. They stressed that matters such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance form part of Islamic jurisprudence and religious practice. Any legal interference, they said, violates constitutional protections.
The board also referred to ongoing legal challenges against the Uttarakhand law. It alleged that the timing of these measures suggests political intent.
The AIMPLB has called for an immediate halt to implementation and demanded a broader constitutional review. It urged that any reform must involve consultation with all stakeholders and follow due legal process.
