Guwahati: Hundreds of Muslims in Assam’s Cachar district gathered in a peaceful protest against the recently enacted Uniform Civil Code (UCC), arguing that the law interferes with religious practices and personal laws followed by the community.
The demonstration took place in Berenga after Friday congregational prayers. Residents assembled outside a local mosque and raised slogans calling for the withdrawal of the legislation. Protesters expressed concern over what they described as an intrusion into matters closely linked to their faith, identity and long-standing traditions.
Participants said the UCC affects religious freedom and seeks to alter personal laws observed by Muslims for generations. Many attendees viewed the legislation as a measure directed at the Muslim community and urged authorities to reconsider its implementation.
Former MLA Ataur Rahman Mazarbhuiya addressed the gathering and criticised the law. He argued that the UCC threatens religious liberty and Assam’s diverse social structure. Speaking to reporters, he claimed that the legislation places particular focus on Islamic personal laws and has created concern among many Muslims.
Mazarbhuiya also questioned the exemption granted to Scheduled Tribes under the law. He argued that a legal framework presented as uniform should apply equally to all communities. He asked how equality could be achieved if certain groups remain outside its scope.
The former legislator also commented on the issue of polygamy, which frequently appears in discussions surrounding the UCC. He argued that public debate often focuses on Muslims despite data showing the practice exists across communities.
During the protest, speakers and participants called on the government to engage with affected communities before moving ahead with implementation. They warned that the law could weaken religious and cultural traditions protected and followed for generations.
