POLITICAL RESISTANCE TO SOCIAL REFORMS: THE CASE OF THE UNIFORM CIVIL CODE IN INDIA
Avinash Sharma , PhD Scholar, Department of Political Science, University of Delhi, New Delhi, IndiaAbstract
This article investigates the phenomenon of political resistance encountered by social reforms, with a specific focus on the case of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in India. The UCC aims to replace personal laws based on religious traditions with a uniform set of civil laws applicable to all citizens, thereby ensuring equality and justice. However, the implementation of the UCC has faced significant opposition from various political and religious groups. This article analyzes the underlying causes of political resistance, explores its implications for social reforms, and offers potential strategies for addressing and overcoming these challenges. By understanding the dynamics of political resistance to the UCC, policymakers and stakeholders can make informed decisions to advance social reforms and foster a more inclusive and equitable society.
Keywords
Political resistance, social reforms, Uniform Civil Code
References
Ahmad S, Ahmad S. Uniform Civil Code (Article 44 of the Constitution): A Dead Letter. The Indian Journal of Political Science 2006;67(3):545-552.
Bhargava R. Constitutional or Party-Political Secularism? 2017. Retrieved from The Hindu: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/constitutional-or-party-political- secularism/article19436067.ece
Mahajan Gurpreet. Contextualizing Secularism: The Relationship between State and Religion in India. In Peter Losonczi and Walter Van Herck, Secularism, Religion and Politics: India and Europe. New Delhi: Routledge 2015.
Manooja DC. Uniform Civil Code: A Suggestion. Journal of the Indian Law Institute, 2000, 448-457.
Mohpatra BN. Minorities and Politics. In N. G. Jayal, & P. B. Mehta, The Oxrford Compaion to Politics in India. New Delhi: Oxford University Press 2016, 219-237.
Seth L. A Uniform Civil Code: Towards gender justice. India International Centre Quarterly 2005;31(4):40-54.
Smith DE. India as a Secular State. New Jersey: Princeton University Press 1967.