New Delhi: The Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind(M) today sharply criticised implementation of Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand, calling it a violation of the constitutional right to religious freedom.
In a statement, Jamiat chief Maulana Mahmood Madani described the BJP government’s move as completely unacceptable to Muslims, asserting that it infringes upon fundamental rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution.
Maulana Madani emphasised that enforcing such a law without adequately considering the perspectives of key stakeholders, particularly the Muslims, demonstrates a blatant disregard for justice. He noted that during public consultations held by the Law Commission of India, it became evident that the majority of citizens opposed introduction of UCC. Subsequently, the Law Commission advised the government that the UCC was neither desirable nor necessary. Despite this, the government has disregarded public opinion and the Commission’s recommendations, imposing the law in an authoritarian manner, thereby undermining democratic values.
The Jamiat leader reiterated that the framers of the Constitution had guaranteed the protection of religious rights, a commitment the government now appears to be reneging on. He warned that Muslims would resist such measures through all democratic means. Highlighting India’s unique strength as a nation built on “unity in diversity,” Maulana Madani warned that any legislation undermining this principle could threaten the country’s unity and integrity, providing a compelling reason to oppose the UCC.
He reaffirmed the Muslim community’s commitment to Islamic Shariah and its determination to continue practising its religious beliefs, undeterred by laws that seek to restrict these practices.
