Topic: Indian Constitution—historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.
2. Separate personal laws are a legacy of the British empire, which based its administrative strategies on the classical principle of divide and rule. Do you think introduction of Uniform Civil Code a good idea? Critically analyse. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India
Why the question:
BJP MP Kirodi Lal Meena on Friday introduced a private member’s Bill in Rajya Sabha, seeking the constitution of a committee to prepare and implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the country,
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the debate regarding introduction of the Uniform civil code.
Directive word:
Critically analyze – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a balanced judgment on the topic.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by defining Uniform Civil Code (UCC) as per article 44.
Body:
First, write about how separate personal laws are a legacy of British rule.
Next, explaining the aims and objectives behind UCC in India.
Next, discuss in detail the arguments for UCC in India – Mentioned in DPSP, uniformity of laws, achieving equality, simplification of law, progressive measure etc.
Next, discuss in detail the arguments against the UCC in India – Lack of consensus, against cultural diversity, right of minorities, tribal customs etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude by giving a balanced opinion regarding UCC.
