New Delhi

Former minority affairs minister and senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Wednesday reiterated support for a Uniform Civil Code, saying the principle of “one country, one law” is necessary to reinforce the constitutional spirit. He stressed that the UCC is meant for the entire nation and not targeted at any particular community.

Speaking at a Constitution Day programme at Bharat Mandapam, Naqvi said India’s secular character is rooted in the majority community’s belief in coexistence and tolerance. He contrasted India’s democratic journey with Pakistan’s constitutional instability, stating that while India has remained committed to its Constitution adopted in 1949, Pakistan has experienced repeated constitutional disruptions.

Calling the present time the “Amrit Kaal” of Independence, Naqvi said this phase should inspire the country to realise the Constitution’s Directive Principles, including the call for a uniform civil code. He asserted that the constitutional ideals remain strong and safeguarded in India.

Naqvi criticised some political groups for what he described as spreading confusion over constitutional matters while claiming to protect the document. Freedom of expression, he said, must not be misused to fuel unrest or mislead people.

According to him, reforms under Prime Minister Narendra Modi have strengthened governance across economic, cultural, social, educational, administrative and agricultural sectors, raising India's global credibility. He alleged that certain opposition groups are attempting to obstruct constitutional reforms and create communal divisions.

He urged public vigilance against attempts to undermine democracy and said that a common civil code is vital to uphold unity, equality and constitutional values.

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Former cabinet minister Dr Satya Narayan Jatiya, VHP Delhi president Kapil Khanna and Delhi minister Kapil Mishra were among those present at the event.