Nagaland Assembly Stands Firm Against Uniform Civil Code, Citing Unique Constitutional Protections
On Monday, the Nagaland Assembly expressed its unanimous opposition to the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and the implementation of the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act.
The Assembly adopted a resolution to exempt the state from the UCC, with Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio expressing confidence that the Central government would respect the state’s stance.
Highlighting Nagaland’s unique position, Chief Minister Rio stated that Nagaland is the sole state to have integrated with the Indian Union through the signing of a political agreement, known as the 16 Point Agreement. This agreement led to the inclusion of Article 371A in the Constitution of India.
“Article 371A clearly states that no act of Parliament shall apply to the State of Nagaland in respect of the religious or social practices of the Nagas, its customary laws and procedure, administration of civil and criminal justice involving decisions according to Naga customary laws and ownership and transfer of land and its resources unless the state assembly so decides,”
Rio elaborated.
Rio further informed that the state government had already communicated its stance to the 22nd Law Commission, requesting Nagaland’s exemption from the UCC. This commission, appointed by the Central government on February 21, 2020, had its term extended to August 31, 2024. On June 14, the Law Commission sought views from stakeholders on the UCC.
In response, the Nagaland government, following a Cabinet decision, conveyed its opposition to the UCC on July 4, citing Nagaland’s distinctive history and the protections guaranteed under Article 371(A).
During a consultative meeting on September 1, organized by the state government, representatives from various Tribal Hohos and organizations voiced their strong objections to the UCC. The prevailing sentiment is that the UCC could endanger the state’s customary laws, as well as its unique social and religious practices.
Members from various parties, including the Nagaland BJP President, Minister Temjen Imna, supported the state’s position on both the UCC and the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act. Nagaland’s opposition to the UCC echoes sentiments from other northeastern states, such as Meghalaya, where there are concerns about potential threats to regional ethnic cultures and values.
