New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party on Friday released its manifesto, titled “Sankalp Patra”, for the West Bengal Assembly elections and promised to bring in a Uniform Civil Code within six months if it forms the government.
Union home minister Amit Shah made the announcement while unveiling the manifesto in Kolkata. The Uniform Civil Code proposes a single set of personal laws for all citizens. It covers marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption. The aim is to replace religion-based laws with a uniform legal framework.
UCC takes centre stage in campaign
Speaking at the event, Shah said the BJP has already implemented the UCC in some states. “Several BJP-ruled states have implemented the Uniform Civil Code. Within six months, we will implement the UCC in Bengal and ensure that a single, uniform set of laws applies to all citizens across the state,” he was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.
The proposal faces strong opposition from chief minister Mamata Banerjee. The issue is expected to influence voting in the state.
Focus on borders and security
Shah also spoke about border control and illegal activities. “We will not only seal Bengal’s borders against infiltrators but also ensure that not a single cow is smuggled out of India through Bengal,” Shah said.
He added that the manifesto presents a plan for development. “This manifesto is a path to bring every section of Bengal out of despair. It will show a new way out for farmers surrounded by various kinds of fears. This manifesto will also place before the people of Bengal the roadmap for the developed India envisioned by Prime Minister Modi,” he said.
Panel on violence, governance promises
The Union minister said people in the state are seeking change. “The people are frightened and disillusioned. The people want change from the heart. Today we are working as the main opposition party in the Bengal Assembly,” he said.
He added that a commission headed by a retired Supreme Court judge will probe political violence. “We will constitute a commission headed by a retired Supreme Court judge to investigate all instances of political violence–regardless of which party was targeted–and ensure that every case is brought to its logical conclusion. Three White Papers will be introduced to address corruption, political violence, and the restoration of law and order,” said Shah.
The manifesto, based on the “Sonar Bangla” vision, includes promises on governance, youth employment, women’s safety, and national security. Polling for the 294-member Assembly will be held on April 23 and April 29. Counting of votes will take place on May 4.