Open Letter to CM & Former CM Requesting to Oppose the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha

 Open Letter to:

Sri YS Jagan Mohana Reddy garu

Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh

President, YSR Congress Party (YCP)

And

Sri Nara Chandra Babu Naidu garu

Former Chief Minister and Major Opposition Leader (AP)

National President, Telugu Desam Party (TDP)

Subject: Request to Oppose the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha

Respected Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohana Reddy agru and Former Chief Minister Nara Chandra Babu Naidu garu,

We hope this open letter finds you in good health and high spirits. We, the Muslim Thinkers Forum (MTF), represented by AM Khan Yazdani (Danny) as the Convener, write to express our concerns regarding the proposed Uniform Civil Code Bill by the Central Government.

We understand that as leaders with significant influence and political stature, you are committed to upholding the principles of justice, equality, and inclusivity for all citizens. We appreciate the efforts you have made in the past to protect the interests of minority communities, including the Muslim community, in our state.

However, we firmly believe that the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code across all religious communities would not only undermine the fundamental rights enshrined in our Constitution but also endanger the unique cultural and religious identities of minority communities, including Muslims.

It is with deep conviction that we request your esteemed leadership and opposition role to actively oppose the Uniform Civil Code Bill during its deliberation in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. We urge you to consider the following points:

Upholding Constitutional Values: The diversity of our nation is one of its greatest strengths, and our Constitution recognizes and respects the personal laws and traditions of various religious communities. The Uniform Civil Code must not infringe upon the freedom of religion and the right to practice one's faith.

Protecting Minority Rights: Minority communities, including Muslims, have their unique personal laws and customs that have been shaped by centuries of tradition and belief. Imposing a uniform set of laws disregards the rich cultural heritage and undermines the rights of these communities.

Preserving Cultural Diversity: India is a mosaic of various cultures and religions, and this vibrant diversity is what defines us as a nation. The Uniform Civil Code can potentially homogenize our society, eroding the rich tapestry of traditions and customs that contribute to our national fabric.

Ensuring Social Harmony: The implementation of the Uniform Civil Code without adequate consultations and consensus-building can lead to social discord and unrest. It is crucial to engage in a dialogue with all stakeholders, especially minority communities, to understand their concerns and arrive at a mutually acceptable solution.

We, the Muslim Thinkers Forum (MTF), believe that your influential positions and political experience can make a significant difference in safeguarding the rights and interests of minority communities, fostering religious harmony, and upholding the principles of a pluralistic and inclusive democracy.

We earnestly request both of you to:

Utilize your political influence and leadership positions to voice our concerns to the Central Government and advocate for the preservation of personal laws of minority communities.

Unite across party lines and seek support from like-minded political parties and leaders who share our concerns about the Uniform Civil Code Bill.

Utilize your platform as the leaders of major political parties and engage in rigorous debates within the state legislature to raise awareness about the potential implications of the proposed legislation.

Seek legal opinions, consult with experts, academicians, and representatives of minority communities to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the wide-ranging impact of the Uniform Civil Code on our society.

We firmly believe that by opposing the Uniform Civil Code Bill, you will be safeguarding the principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity that our great nation upholds.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. We eagerly anticipate your support and look forward to your resolute stand against the Uniform Civil Code Bill.

Yours sincerely,

AM Khan Yazdani (Danny)

Convener, Muslim Thinkers Forum (MTF)

Vijayawada , 18 July 2023