Gujarat High Court Upholds Committee for Uniform Civil Code Review

The Gujarat High Court has rejected a petition questioning the make-up of a committee established by the state to examine the necessity of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC). The petition, filed by Surat resident Abdul Vahab Sopariwala, claimed the absence of representatives from minority communities infringed on constitutional rights.

The court's bench, led by Justice Niral S Mehta, dismissed the plea, underscoring a significant court decision in the ongoing UCC debate in Gujarat. A detailed ruling on the matter is still pending. The committee, announced by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in February, is tasked with evaluating the need for a UCC and drafting related legislation.

The committee's current composition includes esteemed figures such as retired Supreme Court Judge Ranjana Desai and retired IAS officer C L Meena. Critics argue that excluding minority voices could undermine the constitutional principles of equality and freedom of religion. Nevertheless, the court has stood by the committee's framework, maintaining confidence in its impartial proceedings.

(With inputs from agencies.)