A Secular Civil Code is the need of the hour : PM Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement from the Red Fort on Independence Day

New Delhi – “The Supreme Court has consistently held hearings and discussions on the Uniform Civil Code. It is our duty to fulfil the dreams of the creators of the Constitution. There should be a nationwide debate on this issue, and suggestions should be welcomed. I would say that we have spent 75 years under Communal Civil Code. Now, the country needs a Secular Civil Code. Only then can we be free from the discrimination based on religion,” stated Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his speech on the 78^thIndependence Day celebrations at the Red Fort.

A Secular Civil Code is the need of the hour. pic.twitter.com/MF8IiLs4Tt

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 15, 2024

Key highlights of the Prime Minister’s speech

1. Safety of Hindus in Bangladesh should be ensured

As a neighbouring country, I can understand the concern regarding whatever has happened in Bangladesh. I hope that the situation there gets normal at the earliest. 140 crore people of our country feel that the safety of Hindus and minority communities in Bangladesh should be ensured. (We cannot expect this from the current politicians in Bangladesh. India needs to take the initiative, or the Hindus there will not forgive us – Editor). Our country is dedicated to peace, and we hope that Bangladesh will also walk the path of peace and happiness. We wish for the prosperity of Bangladesh, as we believe in promoting the welfare of humanity.

2. Death penalty must for perpetrators of crimes against women

There is public outrage over the atrocities against our mothers and sisters. I feel this outrage. The country, the society, our State Governments need to take this seriously. Crimes against women must be probed as soon as possible, those involved in demonic acts must face strict punishment at the earliest. They should be given the death penalty. It is necessary to instil this fear. (The Union Government should take the initiative to establish special Courts across the country for such atrocities, ensuring that the trials are concluded swiftly within a fixed timeframe – Editor).

3. The hearts of Indian citizens are filled with confidence

In the past, terrorists used to infiltrate India and kill many people. Now, when our armed forces conduct a surgical strike, when the armed forces carry out an air strike, then the youth of the country feel proud. These are the reasons why today the hearts of 140 crore citizens are filled with pride and confidence. (However, in Jammu and Kashmir, terrorists still infiltrate and kill citizens, and our soldiers continue to attain martyrdom. This is a fact – Editor).

4. Everyone should fulfil their duties

Citizens should develop a sense of duty. From the Government to the citizens, everyone has a responsibility. 140 crore citizens of the country also have duties. If we fulfil our duties, our rights are naturally protected, without the need for separate efforts.

5.Write to the Government about your issues

I urge the youth and professors to write to the Government about every problem you face. Tell us about the solutions to these problems. The Government in this country is sensitive.
Whether it is the local body, the State Government, or the Union Government, I believe that the letters you write will be considered. (In reality, the situation is different. The public experience since several years is that the administration and the Police do not take note of the people’s complaints and problems – Editor).