Waris Pathan Criticizes UCC as Unconstitutional Attack on Muslim Rights

Mumbai, September 14 (Daily Kiran) : Waris Pathan, the national spokesperson for AIMIM, launched a strong critique of Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s comments regarding the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) during a press conference on September 14 in Mumbai. Pathan asserted that the government’s intention behind the UCC is not to promote uniformity and equality but rather to infringe upon the rights of Muslims, labeling it as entirely unconstitutional.

He addressed the recent FIR registered by the CBI in the Disha Salian case, stating, “This has been a father’s battle for six years to prove that his daughter was murdered and did not commit suicide. The CBI will investigate, and those found guilty will be arrested, with the court following due legal processes.” Pathan emphasized that the investigation is proceeding according to court orders and urged the media to avoid sensationalism. He insisted that the facts should be presented to the court, and the judicial verdict should be respected.

Pathan highlighted his father’s belief that his daughter’s death was not a suicide. He remarked that whether or not arrests are made is at the discretion of the CBI, urging against politicizing the matter. He reiterated that the father’s fight has been legitimate, guided by the court’s directives.

In response to comments made by West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh regarding madrasas, Pathan advised that a thorough understanding of madrasa history is necessary, urging an investigation into who has studied there and their contributions to the nation.

Regarding the meeting between DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, Pathan remarked that it remains to be seen what outcomes arise from this encounter.

Returning to the UCC, Pathan reiterated that its implementation is not aimed at achieving equality or uniformity but rather at stripping Muslims of their rights. He argued that this move is unconstitutional, violating Article 25, which guarantees religious freedom, as well as Article 14, which ensures the right to equality. He also pointed out that it infringes upon Articles 26 and 29. Pathan underscored that diversity is the essence of the nation, and pluralism is enshrined in the constitution. He criticized the BJP for establishing the 21st Law Commission, which he claimed indicated that the UCC is neither necessary nor warranted.