UCC Push Sparks NDA Rift as JD(U), LJP Seek Wider Consultations
The Centre’s UCC push has exposed differences within the NDA, with JD(U) and LJP seeking wider consultations and disclosure of the draft.
The Centre’s reported push to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) across 21 NDA-ruled states by 2029 has exposed differences within the ruling alliance, with key Bihar allies seeking greater consultation before taking a final position.
Janata Dal (United) and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) leaders have called for the proposed draft to be made public and discussed more widely. They have stressed that the views of different communities should be considered and that no section of society should feel targeted or excluded by the proposed reforms.
The issue has also given the opposition an opportunity to put pressure on NDA partners. Bihar opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav has asked alliance leaders to make their positions on the UCC clear.
The proposed framework seeks to establish common personal laws across communities and includes provisions such as a ban on polygamy, a uniform minimum marriage age, mandatory registration of live-in relationships and equal inheritance rights for men and women. Scheduled Tribes are proposed to remain outside the UCC’s scope.
The emerging differences highlight the political challenges facing the Centre as it seeks to build consensus among its allies and across communities. While the BJP has maintained its long-standing support for a common civil code, the demand for wider consultations from NDA partners could become an important factor in determining how the proposal moves forward.
