Phek, December 13 (MTNews): Leader of the Naga People’s Front (NPF) Legislature Party, Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu today vehemently rejected the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) stating that it should be withdrawn from passing in the parliament if the Government is to protect the nation.
Addressing the Golden Jubilee of the Thuvopisumi Youth Association Games & Sports meet, the NPF leader lamented that despite earlier oppositions against the introduction of the bill twice (November 2019 and March 2020) and subsequent withdrawal of the same, the UCC is being introduced again by BJP MP Kirodi Lal Meena in Rajya Sabha last Friday.
He said that a Bill like UCC which disregards the sentiments, beliefs and values of the minority communities of the country should not live to see the light of the day.
Azo Nienu said that the UCC will “purely go against the spirit of Indian federalism and also the very foundation upon which Nagaland state was created,” adding that, it also seeks to undermine the fundamental rights and the freedom of religion guaranteed by the constitution of India.
He was also of the view that once the bill is introduced and implemented, it will destroy the cultural ethos and practices of tribal communities of the country, especially the NE tribes. And a state like Nagaland, which has diverse tribes, each priding in their unique customary laws to regulate their lives, will face unbearable consequences, he added.
Therefore, the NPF leader said, “the introduction of a law that seeks to address personal and other core values of a community without any understanding of their cultural beliefs and values is nothing but will only repeat the ugly face of colonial imperialism in the post-independent era.” He went on to say that it will only amount to do away with tribal identities and consequently, the very idea of “unity in diversity” itself.
The NPF leader urged the Central leadership that a true parliamentarian should take into consideration the aspirations and struggles of the weaker section of the society before legislating any law.
Azo Nienu expressed regret that the people and the lawmakers representing different communities and their interests have not been consulted regarding the Bill. He stated that passing such a Bill will only divide the people and that it threatens the integrity, peace and unity of the country.
While condemning the proposed UCC bill, the NPF Leader has also called upon all right thinking citizens to oppose and reject it.