DIMAPUR — Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) has strongly urged the 22nd Law Commission of India to thoroughly clarify the intentions of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and to take a firm stand if the intention was to hinder the diversity of the country.
A press release issued by NPCC president, S Supongmeren Jamir, stated that the Constitution of India was built on the concept of ‘Unity in diversity’ and opined that failure to protect the diversities would directly mean the downfall of the Constitution.
He has highlighted the circumstances for incorporating Article 371A into the Constitution to safeguard Naga customary law, cultural, social and religious practices through signing of an agreement between the Nagas and the government of India.
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=1]Jamir alleged that the foundation of trust that was built on the promise of protecting the unique traditional customary laws and cultural autonomy of the state is clearly being challenged by the central government through the talks on introducing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) without any consideration and forceful acceptance even though the last Law Commission report has clearly stated that ‘The law need to be deliberated further.’
“We are a country known for its numerous diverse culture and religion, admired and respected but if the law passes, we have nothing to stand on. The concept of unity in diversity, the notion of a secular state, a democratic country would be just mere words as the country would be forced to function at the whims of the majority. Would India be considered a democratic, secular country when one’s religious practices and faith be governed by a specific set of laws?” Jamir questioned.
Pointing out that the unique Naga customary laws formed the core of their identity, he stated that any alterations or encroachments made upon the religious, societal, cultural practices would directly meant going against the very agreements that made them a part of this majestic country.
NPCC, therefore, urged the 22nd Law Commission of India to clarify the intentions of the UCC and to take a firm stand if the intention was to hinder the diversity of the country.
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