Implementation of Uniform Civil Code state’s duty: Govt

The State has a “duty” to implement the Uniform Civil Code in the country, but since the matter is sensitive and requires an in-depth study it has been sent to the Law Commission for recommendations, the government informed the Rajya Sabha on Friday.

The government’s written response came on questions asked by Vishambhar Nishad (SP), Prabhat Jha (BJP), Shantaram Naik (Congress) and D Raja (CPI). Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad was to respond orally, but due to a din in the House by lawmakers, seeking action against Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Bhagwant Mann for allegedly compromising the security of the Parliament by videographing the complex and putting it on social media, the Question Hour could not take place. In their written response, Prasad and his junior minister PP Chaudhary gave almost identical replies.

“Article 44 of the Directive Principles of the Constitution sets implementation of the Uniform Civil Code as duty of the state...” Chaudhary said.

“Having regard to the importance of the subject matter and sensitivity involved, and requiring in-depth study of the provisions of various personal laws governing different communities, the same has been referred to the Law Commission for a detailed examination of various issues relating to the Uniform Civil Code and to make recommendations thereof,” he added.

Prasad, instead of mentioning the implementation of a common code as the “duty of the State”, said Article 44 “provides that states shall endeavour to secure for the citizens a Uniform Civil Code throughout the territory of India.”