The Muslims across around 50 districts of Madhya Pradesh held protests against the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and submitted memorandums addressed to President DroupadiMurmu, demanding withdrawal of the law.The protests were organised following a call by Congress MLA Arif Masood. Demonstrators gathered at district headquarters across the state, with women participating at several locations. In Bhopal, a 21-member delegation visited the collector’s office and submitted a memorandum to the President, expressing opposition to the UCC.
Speaking to reporters, Masood described the protests as the first phase of a wider campaign.
Masood pointed to Art. 29 of the Constitution, which provides citizens the right to protect their culture and identity. He argued the Muslim community was seeking protection of rights available under personal laws. “The Constitution gives freedom related to personal laws. We are demanding that the rights available to the Muslim community under its personal laws be protected,” he said.
The MLA made clear the campaign would not stop with the submission of memorandums. He said opposition to the UCC would be taken forward through a phased movement across Madhya Pradesh.
The demonstrations follow the Madhya Pradesh Assembly passing the UCC Bill in July, making the state the fourth to pass such legislation. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said the UCC will be implemented after the required approval process is completed.