Lucknow: AIMIM chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi on Sunday reiterated his opposition to the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), arguing that its implementation must not undermine constitutional protections relating to religious freedom, cultural rights and equality.
Speaking to IANS in Lucknow, Owaisi said Articles 25, 26, 29 and 14 of the Constitution could not be disregarded in the name of implementing a Uniform Civil Code. He said these constitutional provisions were part of the framework drafted under the leadership of Dr B.R. Ambedkar.
Owaisi alleged that the UCC could effectively result in the application of provisions based on Hindu personal laws to non-Hindu communities.
“In the name of the UCC, how can you apply the Hindu Marriage Act, Hindu Divorce Act and Hindu Succession Act to non-Hindus?” he asked.
Questions exemption for tribal communities
Owaisi also questioned the differential treatment of tribal communities in discussions surrounding the UCC. He pointed out that tribal communities are being excluded in view of their distinct religious practices, culture and family traditions.
“If tribals are being exempted because their religion, culture and family life are different, why are Muslims not being exempted?” he asked.
Criticism of Uttar Pradesh government
The AIMIM chief also criticised the Uttar Pradesh government over alleged demolitions of mosques and other properties.
Referring to a reported demolition of a graveyard in Kanpur, Owaisi questioned the legal basis and due process followed in the action. He also raised the issue of the legal status of “waqf by user” and alleged that due process was not being followed.
He questioned the state government’s approach to law and order, asking, “You are demolishing mosques—what kind of governance is this?”
Raises unemployment issue
Owaisi also questioned the Uttar Pradesh government’s employment initiatives ahead of the elections. Referring to a programme aimed at providing jobs to one lakh young people, he argued that the government should first fill existing vacancies in the state administration and police departments.
He questioned why vacancies running into lakhs had remained unfilled over the past 11 years, according to his claim.
Comments on Rahul Gandhi and Mayawati
Asked about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s “chhatron ki goonj” programme and BJP allegations that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s late mother was insulted during the programme, Owaisi said the Congress party had capable people who would respond to the allegations.
On BSP chief Mayawati assigning a new responsibility to Ishan Anand, Owaisi described Mayawati as a prominent political leader and said the matter concerned the BSP and would be decided by her.
Owaisi also remained non-committal on AIMIM’s electoral strategy, including whether the party would contest independently or enter into an alliance with other parties.
“It’s too early to say, but you will know soon,” he said.
