Amit Shah Pledges UCC in Assam, Assures Exemption for Tribal Communities

New Delhi: Just before the Assam Assembly elections, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has once again made a big promise to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). Addressing an election rally in Goalpara, he said that if the BJP government is formed again, UCC will be brought in the entire state, but tribal communities will be kept out of its purview. After his statement the political heat has increased further.

Did Amit Shah make UCC an election issue?

Amit Shah clearly said in his speech that if BJP government is formed, Uniform Civil Code will be implemented in Assam. He stressed that this law will be equal for everyone, but keeping in mind the traditions and rights of tribal communities, they will be kept out of its scope. “We know who to enforce and who not to enforce,” he said.

Has BJP already implemented UCC?

Giving the example of Uttarakhand, Shah said that the BJP government has implemented UCC there. He indicated that the same model can be adopted in Assam also so that there is equality and transparency in the society. He also said that under UCC no one will be able to perform quadruple marriages, especially this route will be closed for infiltrators.

Has a different approach been adopted towards tribal communities?

BJP has made it clear that while implementing UCC, tribal areas and communities will be kept out of its purview. Shah assured that the government respects tribal traditions and their rights will not be harmed. He said that the culture and autonomy of tribal communities will be protected.

Were any announcements made for tribal welfare?

Shah promised that if the BJP government is formed, a big dairy project will be started in every district and every tribal family will be given one cow and one buffalo. He described it as a big initiative for the economic empowerment of tribals. Also announced additional assistance for farmers.

Is the government's stand clear on illegal infiltration?

Amit Shah also raised the issue of illegal infiltration and said that if BJP comes to power again, infiltrators will be completely driven out from Assam. He called it an issue related to the security and identity of Assam. Shah claimed that the infiltrators have been identified and they will be deported in the next five years.

Did Congress respond to these allegations?

Congress rejected Shah's allegations, saying it had given constitutional rights and autonomy to tribal communities. The party says that BJP is only making election promises, whereas the real development work of Assam happened during the Congress rule. Congress termed Shah's statements as vote bank politics.