SHILLONG, Nov 6: Senior BJP leader and Cabinet Minister AL Hek on Wednesday said that the BJP has demonstrated its pro-people stance and respect for tribal sentiments by deciding to exempt tribals from the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) “wherever it is implemented in India.” He added that this move could be a game changer for the party in tribal states, including Meghalaya.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently announced that tribals would be exempted from the UCC “wherever it is implemented in India,” stressing that there is “no confusion about it.” Hek remarked that this decision is pivotal for the party, as it may encourage people to consider the BJP’s future role in tribal states. “The BJP is listening to the people of the state and to the tribals, which is why it has decided not to introduce the UCC in tribal states like Meghalaya,” he said.
He emphasised that this decision illustrates the BJP’s pro-people approach and its respect for tribal and minority sentiments, contrary to the various forms of propaganda circulated against the party.
Asked if this development could lead to greater acceptance of the BJP and potentially more MLAs in the state, he responded, “It seems to be moving in that direction and could help the BJP win elections in Meghalaya.”
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has also voiced his concerns about the UCC, stating that it goes against the spirit of the nation’s diversity. He called for a nuanced and inclusive approach, especially in Northeast. “We had already stated that we don’t want the UCC introduced in Meghalaya, and the central government is prepared to work with the state on this,” Hek said, referring to Shah’s statement.
Hek further commented, “When the BJP cooperates with the state government, people will gradually recognise that the BJP respects the will of the people, and this will help us gain more MLAs in the 2028 Assembly polls.”
When asked why the BJP has not yet secured more MLAs in the state, he replied, “Until people support the BJP, we won’t have more MLAs. But in the future, we will see growth due to development and, now, the decision on the UCC.”
