Owaisi calls Maharashtra's proposed UCC a Hindu Civil Code
AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi alleged the move aims to target Muslims and impose a Hindu Civil Code on non-Hindu communities.
AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi criticised the Maharashtra government's proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) on Tuesday, alleging the move seeks to target Muslims and impose a "Hindu Civil Code" on non-Hindu communities. Speaking at a press conference in Mumbai, Owaisi claimed the Mahayuti government's consultation process shows it has already decided to implement the code, according to reports by Times of India and ANI.
Owaisi questioned the government's questionnaire, which was released to invite public suggestions. He alleged the document contains leading questions on polygamy and extra-judicial divorce but lacks any questions regarding the Hindu Undivided Family (HUF). He also noted that most questions are framed in a 'yes or no' format.
The AIMIM leader compared the initiative to UCC efforts by BJP governments in Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Assam, and Madhya Pradesh. He stated that these are attempts to impose a Hindu Civil Code under the guise of a UCC. Owaisi also linked the resignation of retired Bombay High Court judge RC Chavan to the exercise, noting Chavan cited the absence of a minority community member as a reason for stepping down.
Owaisi argued the UCC would restrict Muslim religious practices, specifically regarding marriage and divorce. He stated that in Islam, marriage is a contract known as nikah and is not a religious ritual. He further claimed the code would grant legal rights to children born from live-in relationships, which he said is not permitted under Islamic practices.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis defended the decision to draft a UCC, stating the Constitution directs states to work towards its implementation. Fadnavis said the UCC is rooted in the Directive Principles of State Policy.