Agartala, 16th September 2026 : Tripura Leader of Opposition and CPI(M) state secretary Jitendra Chaudhury on Wednesday opposed the proposed implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Tripura, arguing that the state’s diverse social, cultural and religious composition must be taken into consideration.
Chaudhury said Union Home Minister Amit Shah had indicated that the UCC would be implemented in BJP-ruled states, including Tripura. He said the CPI(M) had opposed the move from the outset.
“India’s Constitution is based on the principle of unity in diversity. The country has considerable linguistic, cultural, religious and social diversity, which must be respected,” Chaudhury said.
He referred to the implementation of the UCC in Uttarakhand and similar initiatives in other states, claiming that the legislation would have a significant impact on Muslims and other religious minorities.
“If minorities are affected today, there is a possibility that other communities could face similar concerns in the future, including tribals, Dalits and groups with distinct linguistic and cultural identities,” he said.
Chaudhury said the CPI(M) would oppose any move to introduce the UCC in Tripura, citing the state’s diverse population.
He pointed out that Tripura’s tribal and indigenous communities include people following Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism and traditional faiths, while similar social and cultural diversity exists among non-tribal communities.
The Opposition leader also questioned whether a uniform civil law would adequately accommodate the different customs and practices followed by various communities in the state. He specifically referred to differences between areas under the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) and those outside the council’s jurisdiction.
Chaudhury also criticised the ideological positions of the BJP and RSS, alleging that the UCC was linked to a broader political agenda. At the same time, he said his opposition was not directed against Hinduism or Hindus.
“We have no conflict with Hindus or Hinduism. Our opposition is to the use of religious sentiments for political purposes,” he said.
Chaudhury appealed to political parties, social organisations, cultural institutions and people from different sections of society to oppose any move to introduce the UCC in Tripura.
He said preparations should begin now to resist the proposed legislation and reiterated that the CPI(M) would oppose its implementation in the state.
