PM Modi Advocates for Secular Civil Code in Independence Day Address

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for the implementation of a secular civil code, replacing the existing communal civil code, during his Independence Day speech. He emphasized that the current civil code discriminates among people and highlighted the need for change as encouraged by the Constitution and the Supreme Court.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday advocated for the implementation of a secular civil code, describing it as a necessity for modern India. Speaking from the Red Fort on Independence Day, Modi asserted that the existing set of laws function as a 'communal civil code' and are discriminatory.

Modi emphasized that a large portion of the country perceives the current civil code as inherently dividing people and generating inequality. 'Laws that segregate the nation along communal lines have no place in a progressive society,' he stated. According to Modi, the move towards a secular civil code would eliminate religion-based discrimination and bridge the disconnect felt by the populace.

He pointed out that the Supreme Court and the Indian Constitution advocate for such a code, particularly citing Article 44. Modi also highlighted that Uttarakhand has recently implemented its uniform civil code. He called for a serious national discussion on the subject, emphasizing that it has been a longstanding agenda in BJP manifestos and is currently under public consultation by the Law Commission.

(With inputs from agencies.)