Arjun Ram Meghwal Discusses UCC and 'One Nation, One Election' Initiatives

By A Staff Reporter

Delhi: Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal addressed the media on December 30, 2024, elaborating on the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) initiatives concerning the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and the 'One Nation, One Election' proposal.

Meghwal emphasized that the UCC has been a longstanding component of the BJP's manifesto, reflecting the party's commitment to uniform personal laws across the nation. He noted that certain states have proactively worked towards this goal. "The UCC was a part of BJP's manifesto... It was already implemented in Goa, and Uttarakhand passed the act," he stated. The minister also mentioned that the matter is currently under review by the Law Commission of India, indicating ongoing deliberations at the national level.

Regarding the 'One Nation, One Election' initiative, Meghwal underscored its significance in streamlining the electoral process across the country. He informed that a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) has been constituted to examine the proposal, with the first meeting scheduled for January 8, 2025. "It was introduced in the Lok Sabha on December 17, and now it is with the JPC. We have taken a lot of steps in this regard," Meghwal remarked. He assured that the proposal is practical and would not undermine the federal structure or the rights of voters and states. "The process will be carried out according to Article 368 of the Constitution," he added, referencing the constitutional provision for amendments.

Meghwal also highlighted that the opposition parties have shown interest in synchronizing Lok Sabha and state assembly elections, indicating a potential bipartisan consensus on the matter.