Bhopal, August 30: In a significant political statement, Umang Singhar, the Leader of the Opposition in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly, declared on Sunday that the Congress party would abolish the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) if it comes to power in 2028. He referred to the UCC as a “black law.”
Speaking at the ‘Jang-e-Azaadi-Ulema Ki Qurbani’ event organized by MLA Arif Masood in Bhopal, Singhar emphasized that the UCC would be revoked upon Congress’s return to power. His remarks have once again brought the UCC issue to the forefront of Madhya Pradesh politics.
The political controversy surrounding the UCC intensified after the Madhya Pradesh government approved the Uniform Civil Code Bill 2026 during a special cabinet meeting on July 20. The bill was passed in the assembly the following day, July 21.
Congress legislators had demanded that the bill be sent to the Select Committee, leading to chaos in the assembly.
Key provisions of this law include a ban on polygamy, mandatory registration of marriages, and compulsory registration for couples in live-in relationships. However, Scheduled Tribes (ST) are exempt from its purview.
The UCC aims to replace religion-based personal laws with a uniform legal framework. It encompasses matters related to marriage, divorce, inheritance, maintenance, adoption, and other family-related issues.
Article 44 of the Constitution directs the state to implement a Uniform Civil Code for all citizens, but it remains part of the Directive Principles of State Policy.
Several opposition parties, including Congress, have raised objections to the UCC. They argue that a uniform law could impact the religious and traditional practices of various communities. Concerns have also been raised regarding its effects on tribal traditions and their constitutional protections.
On the other hand, the state government asserts that the UCC will ensure equal rights for all citizens and provide greater legal protection for women in matters of marriage, divorce, and property.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has also supported the UCC, linking it to equality and social harmony.
Leave a Comment