In a landmark Independence Day address from the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and outlined a vision for electoral reforms. Addressing the nation, Modi underscored the need for a secular civil code, stressing that laws dividing citizens based on religion should be abolished.
Uniform Civil Code: A Step Towards Equality
Prime Minister Modi highlighted the current civil code as communal and outdated, advocating for a uniform legal framework applicable to all Indian citizens irrespective of their religion. He defined the UCC as a set of laws that would standardize matters such as marriage, divorce, adoption, and property distribution across all communities. Modi emphasized that such a code is crucial for ensuring equality and modernizing legal standards in India.
Call for Citizen Responsibility
In his speech, Modi emphasized the role of every Indian citizen in upholding their duties and engaging in discussions about discriminatory laws. He urged that laws which foster division and discrimination have no place in a progressive society, reinforcing the necessity for a secular civil code.
Commitment to Progress and Safety
Modi’s address also covered a broad spectrum of issues, including disaster management and governance reforms. He reflected on India’s journey since independence and reiterated his commitment to transforming the country into a developed nation by 2047. On the issue of women’s safety, Modi called for stringent punishments for those committing heinous crimes against women. He stressed the importance of ensuring that the punishment phase receives as much attention as the crime itself, to instill fear and deter potential offenders.
One Nation, One Election
Addressing the challenges posed by frequent elections, Modi proposed the ‘One Nation, One Election’ initiative. He argued that frequent elections disrupt progress and hinder effective governance. Modi urged political parties to support this reform to enhance efficiency and maximize resource utilization for the betterment of the nation.
Looking Forward
Prime Minister Modi’s speech on Independence Day was a call for legal and electoral reforms aimed at unifying the nation and driving progress. His vision for a secular civil code and streamlined electoral process reflects a commitment to modernizing India’s governance and legal systems in line with contemporary needs and values.