Very progressive law, it is also mentioned in the Constitution… Former CJI Ranjan Gogoi supported UCC

New Delhi: Former Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi described the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) as a ‘very progressive law’. he/she called for a consensus to implement the UCC, describing it as essential for national unity and social justice. Apart from this, Gogoi also supported ‘one country one election’.

‘UCC is mentioned in the Constitution’

Former CJI had reached Surat Literature Festival in Surat. Supporting the UCC, Gogoi said it would change many old customs which have now become law. he/she stressed that UCC is constitutional as mentioned in Article 44. he/she said that once UCC is implemented, there will be one law for all citizens, irrespective of their religion. This will apply to matters like marriage, divorce, adoption, inheritance and alimony.

‘UCC has nothing to do with religion’

Gogoi said that the UCC has nothing to do with religion and does not violate the right to religious freedom (Articles 25 and 26). he/she cited the example of successful implementation of UCC in Goa and pointed out the need to build consensus and stop misinformation. he/she said that I think this is a very important step towards national integration to achieve social justice.

Appealed to build consensus

Gogoi reminded that the Supreme Court had asked the government to consider UCC in several cases, including the Shah Bano case. The Supreme Court believes that the UCC will unify the country and resolve cases pending due to different personal laws. However, he/she appealed to the government and MPs not to rush into haste and build a consensus. he/she said that people should be given correct information about UCIS. he/she said, ‘When you create a consensus, people will understand. A section of people will never understand, they will pretend not to understand.

Also supported ‘one country one election’

Apart from this, on the issue of ‘one nation, one election’, Gogoi said that former President Ramnath Kovind had sought his/her and some other former CJI’s opinion. he/she supported this idea. he/she said that frequent elections affect governance and put a burden on administration and finance. Therefore ‘one nation, one election’ system is necessary.