Sarma: UCC for protection of minority-community women

Guwahati: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday defended the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the assembly, asserting that the legislation is aimed at ensuring greater protection and justice for women belonging to minority communities.Taking part in the discussion on the “Motion of Thanks to the Governor’s Address” in the assembly, the chief minister said that the BJP-led NDA govt has prioritised social justice over political considerations. He added that the UCC was introduced in the very first session with the aim of safeguarding the rights of women from religious minority communities.“We are not here merely to appease vote-bank politics. Before doing anything for our supporters or political interests, we brought the Uniform Civil Code Bill for social justice,” he added.The CM said the proposed legislation would provide the “highest level of protection to women from minority communities and strengthen their rights in matters related to marriage, inheritance and social security.” He accused the opposition of misleading the people over the intent of the Bill.Recalling an earlier debate in the previous assembly, the CM referred to a previous exchange with a legislator from Raijor Dal. “I remember, during one of my earlier speeches in this House, when a Raijor Dal MLA criticised us, I had clearly stated from the floor of the assembly that this govt would move ahead with reforms aimed at ensuring justice and equality,” Sarma said.He added that the UCC is not aimed at any specific religion or community, but seeks to ensure equal rights and uniform legal protections for all citizens, particularly women who have often remained vulnerable under personal laws.The CM said tabling the UCC Bill proves the govt’s commitment to work for the rights of women belonging to the minority community.