Controversy Erupts as Indian Army's Involvement in Uniform Civil Code Seminar in Kashmir Sparks Outcry
Questions Raised Over Army's Role in Sensitive Legal Discussions
It appears that the army in Kashmir has assumed responsibility for laying the groundwork for the Uniform Civil Code's implementation.
Invitations to attend a seminar titled "Navigating Legal Frontiers: Understanding Indian Penal Code 2023 & the Quest for Uniform Civil Code," which is set for March 26 at the Kashmir University Auditorium, are allegedly being given out by the army.
The seminar held by the attorneys' association Kashmir Jurist was canceled "due to implementation of Model Code of Conduct," the army announced in response to public uproar. Why the army called off the legal association's seminar remains a mystery. Although its office-bearers are mentioned as the speakers, the army "invitation" makes no reference of Kashmir Jurist as the organizer.
Omar Abdullah, a former chief minister and vice president of the National Conference (NC), brought attention to the matter by disseminating an alleged invitation for the "legal awareness seminar" from Major General P.B.S. Lamba, the general officer commanding of the Valley-based 31 Sub Area headquarters.
Is it right for the Indian Army to intervene in the contentious uniform civil code debate, especially in a sensitive region like Kashmir? The Indian Army has stayed nonreligious and apolitical for a reason. Both of these fundamental principles are at danger because of this foolish UCC course, Omar wrote on X. "Making this move could expose the army to accusations of meddling in religious affairs and entering the murky world of politics."
The NC asked the Election Commission to step in and evaluate whether it was suitable for the army to address a topic that was included in the BJP manifesto.
The seminar's organizer, according to Kashmir Jurist President Altaf Ganderbali, is his organization. "There was a typo in the invitation from the army," he explained.
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