SHILLONG, June 24: The KHADC on Saturday unanimously passed a resolution to oppose the implementation of the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the Sixth Schedule areas falling under the Council’s jurisdiction.
The UCC refers to a unified set of personal laws that shall apply to all citizens irrespective of one’s religious affiliations. It covers personal subjects like marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption, and succession.
While moving the resolution, KHADC Chief Executive Member, Pyniaid Sing Syiem said the executive committee has decided to bring the resolution after learning that there is a move by the central government to implement UCC throughout the country.
“…Whereas the intention of the central government to implement the Uniform Civil Code in the country will affect and do away with our customs, traditions, practices, inheritance, marriage and religious freedom…,” Syiem said, while reading out the resolution.
He said the House unanimously resolved to urge the Government of India not to implement the UCC in areas within the jurisdiction of the KHADC in order to safeguard and protect the interests of the Khasis as provided under the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution.
He said the members expressed concern over this move saying it might have a bearing on the special status granted to the Khasi community.
Participating in the discussion to support the resolution moved by the EC, Leader of Opposition Titosstarwell Chyne recalled a meeting of the three autonomous district councils where they had decided to oppose implementation of the UCC in the state.
Chyne recalled that the three ADCs had decided to pass resolutions in the respective Councils to oppose this move of the central government.
The opposition leader also suggested that the KHADC should write to the Law Commission of India (LCI) clearly expressing the Council’s stand to oppose the implementation of the UCC and the reasons behind the opposition.
Others who participated in the discussion included Deputy CEM PN Syiem and senior member Bindo M. Lanong.
