NEW DELHI: Uniform Civil Code is the need of the hour, blared PM Modi from the podium in Bhopal. The statement had all the needed ingredients to kickstart BJPs unofficial start to 2024 election campaigning. Minding the development and not having much time to lose, the Muslim League and opposition have come to the forefront in their cynical best opposing UCC. However, there was also some shocking volte-face, as AAP; a crucial force to reckon with during upcoming elections, sided more with rival BJP giving tacit approval to UCC putting the opposition in disarray. AAP cited Article-44 to support their stance on UCC, which has appalled much in the opposition camp.

The Prime Minister's statement came after the National Law Commission sought the opinions and suggestions of people and religious organizations regarding the Uniform Civil Code. It is indicated that the law will be introduced in the parliament after considering the report of the commission.

CPM, DMK, and a slew of Muslim parties have opposed the UCC vocally. However, Congress is waiting for the right time to act. The silence among the congress leaders is provoking the Muslim League and other such Muslim parties. Congress awaits a big test in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan in the coming months. If prematurely taken a stance, the section-wide votes from Hindus may splinter and reach BJP. It will be a shame to lose an anti-incumbency-laced Madhya Pradesh and the lone congress fortress of Rajasthan.

P Chidambaram from the congress was the lone voice of protest against UCC and he said it is not necessarily UCC but the constitution that should cohere all people together. Meanwhile, the government has received an 8.5 lakh response from the public regarding implementing UCC. The Marriage, divorce, and succession ACT will turn common and one for all people in the country if UCC comes into force. It is expected that the UCC issue will be brought to parliament during the July session.