Modi's UCC Push In Independence Day Speech: CJI Chandrachud's Reaction Goes Viral On Social Media!

The announcement did not go unnoticed by the media. A particularly telling moment was captured by Doordarshan's camera operator, who immediately focused on Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud's face following Modi's remarks.

The CJI's reaction seemed less than enthusiastic, reflecting the complex and often contentious nature of judicial responses to such high-profile political statements.

Photo Credit: PTI

Interestingly, while CJI Chandrachud appeared reserved, his wife's reaction was notably more positive. This contrast in responses highlights the personal and professional dimensions of the debate surrounding the Uniform Civil Code.

Independence Day 2024 - PM Modi on UCC

In his Independence Day address from the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a strong case for the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in India, with the current civil code being described as "communal" and a secular alternative advocated.

"The Supreme Court has held that discussions regarding the Uniform Civil Code have been conducted repeatedly, and orders have been given several times," it was stated by PM Modi, as reported by India Today.

He argued that the existing civil code is divisive, with a large section of the country believing-and it being true that the Civil Code currently in use is essentially a communal civil code.

According to the prime minister, a communal civil code has been in place for 75 years. The urgency of adopting a secular civil code to eliminate religious discrimination was stressed.

"It would be said that a Secular Civil Code is the need of the hour in the country...only then would discrimination on the basis of religion be eradicated," he asserted, as per media reports.

A proposed set of laws intended to replace the diverse personal laws governing various communities with a single set of laws applicable to all citizens, irrespective of religion, is the Uniform Civil Code. The UCC aims to promote equality and non-discrimination by ensuring that all citizens are governed by the same set of laws in matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption.

The Constitution, under Article 44, envisions the UCC as part of the Directive Principles of State Policy, encouraging the state to secure a uniform set of laws governing personal matters for all citizens.

The Supreme Court of India has periodically reiterated the need for a UCC, citing its potential to promote national integration and equality. Despite this, delays in implementation have been caused by political and social sensitivities.

In the BJP's manifesto for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, a pledge to implement the UCC if a third term in power is secured has been made. Currently, Uttarakhand is the first and only state in India to have enacted a UCC law.

Internet Reax On Chandrachud's facial expression

After the speech, the clip of PM Modi and CJI Chandrachud's reaction has been circulating on the social media platform. In the video, the emphasis is more on the facial expressions of CJI and his wife while PM Modi was speaking at the UCC.

Taking to the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, one of the X users wrote, " O damn!!! Modi just announced the need to move to a Uniform Civil Code, calling the current multiple codes "communal". The very smart Doordarshan camera operator immediately focussed on CJI Chandrachud's face! He didn't seem very happy but his wife was thrilled!"

Another X User wrote, "Perfect timing of the cameraman to show CJI Chandrachud!!"