Dehradun, In Uttarakhand, various Muslim organizations have voiced their strong opposition to the proposed introduction of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state’s Assembly, raising concerns over potential exclusion and discrimination.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the bill, which was introduced on Tuesday, has prompted significant apprehension among Muslim leaders and community members. At a press conference held at the Jamia Masjid in Dehradun, Shahr Qazi Muhammad Ahmad Qasmi articulated the community’s objections to the UCC, emphasizing the legislation’s disregard for the Muslim community’s concerns and recommendations. “We vehemently oppose the UCC and will combat this legislation within the bounds of constitutional norms,” Qasmi declared.

Mufti Rais, President of Imam Tanzeem, highlighted that the proposed UCC runs counter to Article 25 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion. Additionally, Naeem Qureshi, president of the Muslim Seva Sangathan, pointed out the lack of Muslim religious leaders in the committee responsible for drafting the bill, questioning the law’s impact on the Muslim faith specifically.

A joint statement from the organizations protesting the bill expressed fears that the Uttarakhand government’s move to introduce the UCC aims to undermine the rights of Muslims and tribals in the state. Mahmood Paracha, a senior advocate at the Indian Supreme Court, along with representatives from various institutions, joined the chorus of voices against what they perceive as a discriminatory and unconstitutional action by the state government.

The protests underscore the deep divisions and ongoing debate surrounding the UCC’s implementation and its implications for religious freedom and minority rights in India.