Assam Congress President and Lok Sabha MP Gaurav Gogoi criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for using the Uniform Civil Code issue for political polarization instead of promoting equality and justice. Gogoi questioned the BJP’s commitment to equal rights and treatment for citizens, stating that the party does not uphold uniformity in governance or social justice. He accused the BJP of misusing the constitutional concept of the Uniform Civil Code for divisive political motives, rather than ensuring justice.
Referring to the Directive Principles of State Policy that mention the Uniform Civil Code, Gogoi alleged that the BJP was exploiting this constitutional idea to deepen societal divisions and political polarization. He highlighted that the BJP’s discourse on the Uniform Civil Code in various states aims at creating social discord and political fault lines, rather than fostering harmony and equal opportunities. The Congress MP’s comments come amidst discussions on the Uniform Civil Code’s implementation in BJP-ruled states, including Assam, where the state government has initiated preliminary work on the issue.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the Assam Legislative Assembly session will commence on May 21, with the introduction of the Uniform Civil Code Bill slated for May 26. Sarma clarified that tribal communities in the state would be excluded from the proposed legislation. The BJP has consistently advocated for the Uniform Civil Code to ensure equal laws for all citizens regardless of religion, aligning with the constitutional principles of equality and justice. However, opposition parties have accused the ruling party of exploiting the issue for electoral gains and targeting minority communities.
