Naga customary laws
Joining the chorus of protest against the proposed Uniform Civil Code, the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) has urged the Law Commission of India to “thoroughly clarify and check the intentions of the UCC, to take a firm stand if the intention is to hinder the diversity of our country.”
In a press statement, S Supongmeren Jamir, President of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee, expressed apprehension regarding the potential implications of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) on Naga Customary Laws and cultural autonomy. Highlighting the historical context of Nagaland’s incorporation into the Indian Union, the state Congress president stated, “We as Nagas know the history and the bloodshed under which we as a state agreed to come under the Constitution of India” and emphasized the significance of Article 371A in safeguarding Naga traditions and practices.
“The agreement of incorporating Article 371A into the Constitution to safeguard Naga Customary Laws; Cultural, Social and Religious practices, finalized for the signing of the agreement between the Nagas and The Government of India,” the NPCC president said.
Jamir voiced concerns over the Central Government’s stance stating that “the foundation of trust that was built on the promise of protecting the unique traditional customary laws and cultural autonomy of our state” is clearly being challenged by the Central Government through the talks on introducing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) without any consideration and forceful acceptance even though the last Law Commission Report clearly stated, “The law needs to be deliberated further.”
Drawing attention to India’s reputation as a diverse nation, known for its multitude of cultures and religions, NPCC president Jamir cautioned that the passage of the UCC would undermine “the concept of Unity in Diversity, the notion of a secular state, a democratic country would be just mere words as the country would be forced to function at the whims of the majority.”
“Would India be considered a democratic, secular country when one’s religious practices and faith are governed by a specific set of laws?” he questioned.
Emphasizing the significance of Naga Customary Laws as an integral part of Naga identity, Jamir asserted that “if any alterations or encroachment is made upon our religious, societal, cultural practices it will directly mean going against the very agreements that made us a part of this majestic country.”
The Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) urged the 22nd Law Commission of India to thoroughly assess the intentions behind the UCC and take a firm stand to protect the diversity of the nation. Jamir emphasized that the Indian Constitution was built on the premise of “Unity in Diversity,” and a failure to uphold and safeguard this diversity would signify the downfall of the Constitution itself.