Meghalaya Seeks Clarity on UCC Amid Tribal Law Exemptions in Assam and Uttarakhand

The exclusion of tribal customary laws in Assam and Uttarakhand from the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) offers a measure of relief for Meghalaya, according to Chief Minister Conrad Sangma. He stresses the need for clarity on the UCC's provisions before Meghalaya decides its stance.

Sangma, formerly opposed to the UCC due to potential impacts on tribal customs and Meghalaya's matrilineal system, acknowledges recent developments in other states. He noted that these have eased some of his concerns, as they do not interfere with tribal laws. Meghalaya, however, will study any future propositions carefully.

Expressing apprehension about the UCC, he underscored the importance of safeguarding tribal rights, particularly the state's matrilineal traditions. Sangma acknowledged the anxiety over changes to the traditional system but noted that other regions have explicitly protected tribal rights within the UCC framework.

(With inputs from agencies.)