Assam Government Step towards Uniform Civil Code
In the midst of the ongoing nationwide discussions surrounding the proposal for a uniform civil code (UCC), the Assam government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is making preparations to introduce a bill in the assembly to ban polygamy. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced this development on Thursday, stating their intention to address the issue of polygamy in Assam promptly while awaiting a decision on the UCC.
The UCC aims to replace multiple personal laws concerning property, marriage, divorce, inheritance, and succession for both Hindus and Muslims. As a preliminary step towards this objective, the Assam government established a four-member expert committee in May. The committee, led by retired Gauhati High Court judge Rumi Phukan, has been entrusted with the task of examining the feasibility of banning polygamy through state legislation. Their report is expected to be submitted within 60 days.
Chief Minister Sarma expressed the government's plan to introduce the bill for banning polygamy in the upcoming assembly session in September if the state expert committee provides their report prior to a decision on the UCC. However, Sarma also mentioned that implementing the UCC would automatically include the ban on polygamy, eliminating the need for separate action by the state.
This move by the Assam government signifies their commitment to legal reforms and sets the stage for discussions on the UCC. By taking steps to address polygamy, the government aims to foster equality and ensure uniformity in personal laws.
Assam CM Slams Opposition
Assam Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, Criticizes Opposition for Ignoring Muslim Women's Issues
Amidst the ongoing debate over the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has firmly dismissed opposition to the proposed code, particularly targeting Congress leaders. Sarma contends that Congress fails to comprehend the struggles faced by Muslim women, alleging that they merely seek their votes without offering any substantial support or reforms in return.
Furthermore, Sarma directed his criticism towards Badruddin Ajmal of the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), accusing him of advocating solely for the interests of Muslim men and disregarding the concerns of Muslim women. These remarks highlight Sarma's determination to shed light on the opposition's disregard for the well-being and rights of Muslim women, emphasizing the need for their empowerment and equal treatment.
In making these statements, Sarma aims to shift the narrative and bring attention to the challenges faced by Muslim women, urging the opposition to prioritize their needs over political gain.
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