Uniform Civil Code Debate Heats Up: Where Political Parties Stand Before the 2024 General Elections

As India approaches the 2024 General Elections, the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) has emerged once again as a deeply polarizing issue. The debate—long enshrined in Article 44 of the Indian Constitution as a Directive Principle—has evolved from being a theoretical legal construct to a potent political weapon. With increasing polarization and shifting voter demographics, the UCC is no longer just a constitutional aspiration—it’s a campaign battleground.

What is the Uniform Civil Code?

The UCC seeks to replace personal laws based on the scriptures and customs of each major religious community in India with a common set of rules governing every citizen. These laws cover matters like marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption, and maintenance.

While the Indian Constitution envisions a Uniform Civil Code, successive governments have largely treaded cautiously, balancing constitutional idealism with political pragmatism.

To understand the legal and social framework of the UCC, PRS Legislative Research offers detailed reports and discussions.

BJP’s Push for the UCC: Fulfillment of a Longstanding Agenda

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has consistently advocated for the UCC, branding it as a move towards "true secularism" and equality under law. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during recent public speeches, reignited the call, linking it to women's rights and national integration.

In states like Uttarakhand, the BJP government has already set up a committee to explore implementation. This move is widely seen as a precursor to broader national adoption.

For a comprehensive breakdown of BJP’s historical stance on UCC, visit The Hindu's political archive.

Why it matters:
The BJP is leveraging the UCC as a core campaign promise. The move is expected to consolidate its Hindu vote base while projecting a progressive front for urban voters.

Congress: Advocating Dialogue Over Direct Implementation

The Indian National Congress has taken a nuanced position. While not opposed to the concept of a UCC, the party insists that any such legislation must be introduced only after broad consultations with stakeholders, especially minority groups.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh stated that “uniformity should not come at the cost of diversity”, highlighting the need for a pluralistic framework that respects India’s cultural and religious diversity.

The Congress fears that pushing the UCC in its current form could marginalize minorities, especially Muslims and Christians, and potentially violate constitutional protections under Articles 25 to 28.

Regional Parties: Strong Opposition or Strategic Silence?

Trinamool Congress (TMC):

TMC has vocally opposed the UCC, with Mamata Banerjee stating that it is a tool for “electoral polarization.” The party claims that the UCC is being used to divert attention from real economic issues like inflation and unemployment.

Samajwadi Party (SP) & Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD):

These parties, with deep roots in Muslim-dominated constituencies, have openly opposed any hasty UCC implementation. SP chief Akhilesh Yadav described it as “divisive and redundant.”

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP):

Interestingly, AAP has chosen a more calculated approach. While not explicitly opposing the UCC, the party insists on a comprehensive public consultation process before any national rollout.

Learn more about regional party manifestos and policy positions from Election Commission of India.

Legal Experts and Civil Society: Divided Opinions

The legal community is split. Some experts argue that a UCC would bring much-needed clarity and uniformity to India’s complex personal laws, especially benefiting women in patriarchal family structures.

Others argue that it could be used as a majoritarian imposition on minority practices, unless crafted with sensitivity and inclusion.

Notable Voice:
Senior advocate Indira Jaising cautioned that “a rushed UCC can undermine constitutional protections and damage India’s secular fabric.”

For a scholarly analysis on legal implications, refer to Observer Research Foundation's detailed policy brief.

Electoral Implications: A Tipping Point or a Diversion?

With growing polarization, the UCC is poised to become a litmus test for voter alignment. In urban centers and Tier-2 cities, where the educated middle class demands modernization, the idea may resonate. But in rural belts and minority-heavy constituencies, it could spark resistance.

Political analysts suggest that BJP’s aggressive UCC push could backfire if not accompanied by economic deliverables. For the Opposition, the UCC offers an opportunity to rally secular and minority votes, provided they unify under a cohesive narrative.

Track ongoing voter sentiment and polling insights via Lokniti-CSDS.

Conclusion: The UCC Debate is Far From Settled

As the nation moves toward the 2024 General Elections, the Uniform Civil Code has reemerged as more than a legal ideal—it’s now a defining electoral issue. While the BJP frames it as progressive reform, opposition parties argue it’s a dangerous gamble with India’s pluralism.

Ultimately, whether the UCC becomes law or not, it has already succeeded in reframing the national political discourse.