UCC risks erasing cultural identity of Gujarat communities: PUCL writes to panel chairperson

The letter states that “customary laws” are followed by various communities in the state, including nomadic and denotified tribes.

The letter states, “Hindu communities like Patidars, Kolis, and Dalits, alongside Muslim groups such as the Shias and Sunnis, have long followed unique customs in marriage, inheritance, and religious observances. Gujarat’s tribals, including Bhils and Gamits, follow customary laws that govern social and familial structures, distinct from mainstream legal frameworks. The Jains and Christians also have specific religious and legal traditions that shape their identities.” “Many NTDNT (Nomadic and Denotified Tribes) communities follow oral traditions and customary dispute resolution mechanisms that are deeply rooted in their social structures. Their marriage customs often differ from mainstream legal frameworks, allowing for community-specific arrangements that respect individual choices,” states the letter.

Citing the “widely varied” geographical and cultural landscape of Gujarat, the letter states that the implementation of UCC could create legal alienation and deepen social tensions. “Geographically, the cultural landscape of Gujarat varies widely — from the tribal traditions in Dang to the coastal heritage of Kharwas and the pastoral lifestyles of Rabaris in Saurashtra. Imposing a uniform code disregards these diverse lived realities and threatens the autonomy of communities in maintaining their heritage. A UCC, rather than emphasizing equality, risks erasing cultural identities, creating legal alienation, and deepening social tensions,” it states.

The letter also states that UCC is against Dr BR Ambedkar’s vision of caste annihilation as Ambedkar also advocated for “voluntary adoption” of uniform law and “not an imposed one”. The letter also raises concern over the UCC draft not having been shared for a public review and states that it “does not guarantee equality”. The letter states that it can “lead to majoritarian dominance” and “suppress the rights of minority communities”.