UCC - views of Jawaharlal Nehru

UCC - views of Jawaharlal Nehru

Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime Minister and a key figure in the Indian independence movement, held nuanced views on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). His stance on the UCC can be understood through various statements and writings. Here are some key points that elaborate on Nehru's views:

Secularism and Uniform Civil Code: Nehru was a staunch supporter of secularism. He believed that the UCC was essential to promote secular principles and to establish a uniform legal framework that would apply to all citizens regardless of their religious affiliations. He argued that personal laws based on religion created divisions and hindered the development of a unified, modern nation.

"I am convinced that the only way to give this country the real unity that it wants, the real strength that it wants, the real purposefulness that it wants, is one law for all people." — Jawaharlal Nehru

Gender Equality: Nehru was an advocate for gender equality and women's rights. He believed that personal laws often discriminated against women, particularly in matters of marriage, divorce, and inheritance. He saw the UCC as a means to ensure equal rights and opportunities for women.

"A modern state must try to establish a uniform civil code for its citizens, irrespective of their religion, which will give them equal rights in all matters relating to marriage, divorce, succession, and adoption." — Jawaharlal Nehru

Respect for Religious Diversity: While Nehru supported the UCC, he also recognized the religious diversity in India. He emphasized the need to approach the issue with sensitivity and take into account the concerns of various religious communities. He believed that the UCC should be implemented gradually, with consensus and without causing social unrest.

"This matter is not as simple as it looks. We have made some progress in the matter of the Hindu Code Bill. We have not been able to make much progress in the other codes." — Jawaharlal Nehru

Political Pragmatism: Nehru, being a pragmatic politician, understood the challenges of implementing the UCC in a diverse and multi-religious society like India. He recognized the need for political consensus and was cautious about pushing too aggressively for its immediate implementation.

"I do not think that any government could take up this matter unless it is approached by general agreement."

In summary, Jawaharlal Nehru supported the idea of a Uniform Civil Code in India to promote secularism, gender equality, and social justice. He believed that it was essential for building a modern, unified nation. However, he also acknowledged the complexities and the need for gradual implementation, considering India's religious diversity and the importance of political consensus. His views reflect the balance between the ideals of a uniform legal system and the practical challenges of implementing it in a diverse society.

A Uniform Civil Code means that all sections of the society irrespective of their religion shall be treated equally according to a national civil code, which shall be applicable to all uniformly. They cover areas like- Marriage, divorce, maintenance, inheritance, adoption and succession of the property.