Uniform Civil Code.

Why in News?

• Opposition parties resisted the introduction of the Uniform Civil Code in India Bill, 2020 in the Rajya Sabha. The controversial bill has been introduced as a private member bill in the Upper House that envisages a collection of laws to protect the personal rights of all citizens without consideration of religion.
• BJP MP Kirodi Lal Meena introduced the Bill in the Upper House. The private member’s Bill that seeks to provide for a panel to prepare a Uniform Civil Code. The Uniform Civil Code in India Bill, 2020 seeks to provide for the constitution of the national inspection and investigation committee for the preparation of a Uniform Civil Code and its implementation throughout the country and for matters connected therewith during the private member’s business.
• The private member’s Bill was opposed by the members from the Congress, CPI, CPI (M), and Trinamool Congress. The Opposition members said the bill will ‘destroy’ the social fabric and unity in diversity of the country.

What is private member bill?

• A bill introduced by the Member of Parliament (MP) who is not a Minister, i.e., a non-government member is known as the Private Members’ bill. Members of Parliament (MPs) other than ministers are private members. Private Members can also move legislative proposal or bill which he/she thinks is appropriate to be present in the Statute Book. However, it must be noted that a private member can give a maximum of three notices for the introduction of Private Members Bills during a Session.

What is a Uniform Civil Code?

• A Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is one that would provide for one personal civil law for the entire country.
• This would be applicable to all religious communities in their personal matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption etc.

Basis for UCC

• Article 44, one of the Directive Principles of the Constitution lays down that the state shall endeavour to secure a UCC for the citizens throughout the territory of India.
• These, as defined in Article 37, are not justiciable(not enforceable by any court) but the principles laid down therein are fundamental in governance.