Modi calls for an end to India’s religion-based laws, faces minority opposition

Speaking at the Independence Day ceremony, Modi said that a uniform secular civil code is vital for India's unity.

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has once again advocated for the implementation of a uniform civil code, replacing India's religion-based laws.

Speaking at the Independence Day ceremony at Red Fort in New Delhi, PM Modi said that a secular civil code is essential for national unity, but acknowledged that the move has faced opposition from some minority groups.

PM Modi stated that a comprehensive discussion on the matter is necessary, highlighting that the current system, which governs personal matters like marriage, divorce, adoption, and inheritance through multiple religious laws, promotes division and inequality.

He described the existing civil code as “communal” and called for the nation to unite under one common legal framework.

The implementation of a uniform civil code has been a long-standing goal of Indian PM’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), featuring prominently in its election manifestos.

However, PM Modi stopped short of detailing any specific legislative actions, particularly in light of the BJP's recent loss of its parliamentary majority.

The government now relies on the support of regional allies, whose backing would be crucial for any potential rollout of this contentious measure.

During his nearly 100-minute speech, the Indian Premier also addressed other key issues, including the need for simultaneous state and national elections and his government's ongoing efforts to reform and modernise the country's infrastructure.