Will Uniform Civil Code Affect CBN?

CBN facing UCC headache. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) finds itself in a precarious position regarding the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), particularly due to its alliance with the BJP and Jana Sena in the upcoming polls in Andhra Pradesh. The release of the BJP manifesto, 'Sankalp Patra,' by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which includes a mention of the UCC, has further exacerbated the situation for regional parties like the TDP.

While the issue of the UCC has been a longstanding one, regional parties such as the TDP are apprehensive about its implementation, fearing a backlash from the Muslim community, whose support they do not wish to lose. The TDP leadership is currently maintaining a cautious silence on the matter, with indications of a directive within the party to refrain from expressing independent views on the issue.

TDP spokesperson Pilli Manikyala Rao indicated that the party leadership would take a decision on the UCC soon, but emphasized that no decision would be made until after the elections. The UCC aims to ensure equal treatment for all sections of society, regardless of caste, community, religion, or region, in matters such as adoption, marriage, divorce, maintenance, and inheritance.

The BJP has long advocated for the implementation of the UCC, viewing it as a reflection of its ideology, which prioritizes national unity over religious considerations. State BJP elections coordinator P. Chandra Sekhar emphasized the importance of having 'one nation and one law' for all issues, highlighting the need for a Uniform Civil Code to complement the existing uniform criminal code.

The stance of the TDP on the UCC will be closely watched, as it navigates the delicate balance between its alliance with the BJP and its regional interests, particularly with regard to the upcoming elections in Andhra Pradesh.