IUML demands repeal of Art 44, says it is against secularism

The IUML Saturday welcomed the Law Commission's view that a uniform civil code was not necessary and batted for the repeal of Article 44 of the Constitution, which tasks the government to strive for such a common code.

Appreciating the law panel's view as "timely and most necessary," Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) national president K M Kader Mohideen said in a statement here that the commission should recommend repeal of Article 44.

Referring to Article 44 which says "the states shall endeavour to secure for the citizens a uniform civil code throughout the territory of India", Mohideen said, "It is a dagger and against genuine secularism".

A uniform civil code is "neither necessary nor desirable" at this stage, the 21st Law Commission led by Justice B S Chauhan (retd) said Friday, the last day of its three year term, in a consultation paper.

The panel suggested changes in laws relating to marriage, divorce, alimony, and marriageable age for men and women.