Uniform Civil Code

Introduction
The need for a Uniform Civil Code in the country has been an issue of contention for a long time now. A Uniform Civil Code essentially means unifying all personal laws to have one set of secular laws dealing with aspects applicable to every citizen of India, irrespective of the community they belong to. It should incorporate the most modern and progressive aspects of all existing personal laws, discarding those which are conservative

What is Uniform Civil Code?

Originates from the concept of a Civil Law Code. Same set of secular civil laws to govern all people, even if they belong to different religions and regions under different personal laws. The common areas covered by a civil code include rights related to acquisition and administration of property, marriage, divorce and adoption

What does the constitution say?

It sets out a uniform civil code for its citizens in its Directive Principles Under Articles 15 and 44, there is a mention of the uniform code. Article 44: the State shall endeavour to secure for the citizens a Uniform Civil Code throughout the territory of India.

Benefit of Uniform Civil Code

Issues like Unemployment Shortage of food Population increase Bridging social disparity

When do we normally hear about the issue of Uniform Civil Code?

Personal laws
Laws are determined by the religion of the parties concerned. Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists -Hindu law Muslim law is based on the Sharia. Laws of other religious communities were codified by an Act of the Indian parliament.

Why was the uniform civil code not imposed by initial law makers?

Difficulties for uniform civil code

Reformation of various tribal and religious laws. Complicated inheritance system of Muslims based on Quran.

What can be done to bring UCC?

Twin strategy needs to be adopted An optional uniform civil law should be promoted by the state. All religious communities must be encouraged to debate and support codification and reform of personal laws.

Controversies
Uniform civil code gives women more rights. If Muslims are exempted. Subsidies for Muslims.