Recently, Uttarakhand government appointed an expert panel to examine the possibility of implementing the Uniform Civil Code in the state. In light of this, discuss the idea of Uniform Civil Code from a sociological perspective.

Arguments in favour of UCC

• Most of the world religions are patriarchal, perpetuating lower status of women. Unequal inheritance rights in Hinduism, discriminatory divorce (e.g. Triple Talaq) practices in Islam are few examples.
• Misuse of difference in personal laws: for example, a case of man converting to Islam solely for the purpose of polygamy.
• It can foster national unity and communal harmony. Similar personal laws will promote similar practices across religions and each religion will have better understanding of other, building tolerance.
• It has potential to promote inter-faith marriages further strengthening solidarity.

Arguments against UCC

• Indian society is based on cultural diversity. Different personal laws promote diverse view points.
• Wide scale difference between different religions' practices makes it difficult to reconcile. e.g. → marriage as a sacrament in Hinduism while a contract in Islam.
• Apart from major religions, there are several unique tribal practices. They can't be absorbed in mainstream leading to acculturation.
• Imposition of UCC can be perceived by minorities as a threat to their religious freedom.