Nagaland Legislative Assembly on September 12 has unanimously resolved for exemption from the proposed enactment of Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in its application to the state of Nagaland.
Earlier, Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio moved the resolution on Uniform Civil Code (UCC) for consideration and adoption. He stated that the Government of India appointed the 22nd Law Commission of India on February 21, 2020, with its terms having been extended up to August 31, 2024.
The 22nd Law Commission of India issued a public notice on June 14 inviting views and ideas from all stakeholders on the subject matter. Rio informed that the Government of Nagaland, through a Cabinet decision, had submitted its views on the subject to the 22nd Law Commission on July 4, conveying its opposition to UCC on the grounds of the unique history of Nagaland and the constitutional guarantee given under Article 371 (A).
The chief minister stated that in the consultative meeting with various stakeholders on the subject of UCC etc. organized by the state government on September 1, the representatives of the various tribal hohos/organizations have expressed their strong resentment and objection to the idea of having a Uniform Civil Code.
The state government’s view is that UCC will pose a threat to the customary laws, social practices and the religious practices, which will be in danger of encroachment in the event of imposition of Uniform Civil Code, Rio said.
He further stated that Article 371(A) provides for the protection of the religious and social practices of the Nagas and Naga customary law and procedures unless the Legislative Assembly of Nagaland by a resolution, so decides.
