Bihar NDA Divided Over Uniform Civil Code
Differences have emerged within Bihar’s ruling National Democratic Alliance over the possible implementation of a Uniform Civil Code, after Union Home Minister Amit Shah said NDA-governed States would move towards adopting the UCC before the 2029 Lok Sabha election.
JD(U) Opposes UCC Implementation in Bihar
JD(U) MLA and former Bihar Minister Shyam Rajak said the Uniform Civil Code would not be implemented in Bihar, arguing that the State is governed by a coalition and no single party can unilaterally decide the issue.
His remarks reflect the JD(U)’s long-standing caution over the UCC. Nitish Kumar had earlier argued that any such reform should follow broad consultation and consensus among religious and social groups rather than being imposed without agreement.
JD(U) leaders have indicated that the party leadership will discuss the issue with Amit Shah.
HAM Signals Openness to Uniform Civil Code
Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) president Santosh Kumar Suman adopted a more supportive position, saying alliance partners could discuss the proposal and that Bihar could implement the UCC if concerns were resolved.
The BJP has also maintained that the UCC is consistent with Article 44 of the Constitution and is intended to establish common civil rules while strengthening equality, including women’s rights.
Chirag Paswan Calls for Wider Consultation
Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan has sought a more consultative approach. He said India’s social structure includes diverse customs and constitutional protections and called for a draft UCC to be made public before his party takes a final position.
The Rashtriya Janata Dal has opposed the proposal, alleging that it could adversely affect minority communities.
The conflicting positions show that implementation of the UCC in Bihar could require extensive negotiations among NDA partners despite the BJP’s wider national push.
