Muslim organizations protest introduction of UCC in Uttarakhand
Dehradun: Muslim organisations registered their strong opposition against the introduction of Uniform Civil Code (UCC) bill in the state Assembly of the Indian state of Uttarakhand.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the Muslim organisations cited apprehensions of exclusion and discrimination as the bill was introduced in the Assembly on Tuesday.
The Muslim leader, Shahr Qazi Muhammad Ahmad Qasmi, in a press conference at the Jamia Masjid in Dehradun expressed grave concerns, asserting that the UCC dismisses objections from the Muslim community and neglects their suggestions. “We vehemently oppose the UCC and will combat this legislation within the bounds of constitutional norms,” he said.
President of Imam Tanzeem, Mufti Rais, underscored that the proposed bill contradicts Article 25, which safeguards freedom of religion.
Naeem Qureshi, president of Muslim Seva Sangathan, accentuated the absence of Muslim religious leaders in the bill’s drafting committee. He questioned the law’s validity, particularly given its predominant impact on the Muslim religion.
A joint statement released by protesting organisations said the state government was endeavouring to deprive the Muslims and tribals of their rights through the introduction of the UCC.
Senior Advocate of the Indian Supreme Court, Mahmood Paracha, and representatives from various institutions also protested against the discriminatory and unconstitutional measure by the state government.
