uniform civil code
Article by former Vice President of India M. Venkaiah Naidu (Editorial page, “India needs a Uniform Civil Code”, July 7) lacks supporting data to corroborate his argument that “the absence of the UCC.. .. perpetuate inequalities…” Another argument, that the lack of UCC has been “hindering the country’s progress towards social harmony, economic and gender justice”, is equally controversial. Hindus are governed by a common civil law. Has it helped in bringing about greater social harmony between Dalits and the upper sections of the majority community? Economic inequalities should be addressed by affirmative action of the state. Law alone does not act as a leveller. Shri Naidu’s proposals are deeply flawed and clearly aimed at diverting the country’s attention from more serious issues that need to be addressed.
TR Bhatt,
Mangaluru
defamation case
I am writing this letter as a senior advocate and former Union Law Minister. The Gujarat High Court judgment in the Rahul Gandhi defamation case is open to a serious legal challenge in the Supreme Court of India on several grounds. There is hope that the country’s highest court will see merit in the appeal, especially on the grounds of the harsh consequences and disparity of the sentence, and reverse the High Court’s decision.
The public objective of the law is best served through its benign application which furthers justice by holistically appreciating the matter before the court and is in tune with the felt sensibilities of the nation. On the question of Rahul Gandhi’s disqualification as a Lok Sabha member, overwhelming national sentiment favors his reinstatement. It is expected that the apex court will do justice in this matter, so that not only it happens but also it is seen to happen.
Ashwani Kumar,
New Delhi