'Give Me Six Months': Suvendu Adhikari Vows UCC Implementation in West Bengal
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari vows to implement UCC and strict laws against love jihad and religious conversion within six months.
In a major policy announcement, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has pledged to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) across the state within a six-month timeframe. Speaking at a significant event, the Chief Minister promised that West Bengal would follow the footsteps of Uttarakhand and Gujarat in adopting a unified legal framework.
Addressing a gathering organised by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) to commemorate the birth centenary of the late leader Ashok Singhal, Adhikari made it clear that his administration's agenda extends beyond legal codes to include stringent measures against specific social issues.
Crackdown on 'Love Jihad' and Religious Conversion
The Chief Minister did not mince words regarding his administration's upcoming legislative priorities. He stated that once the UCC is in place, the government will focus on introducing tough laws to combat what he termed as "love jihad," "land jihad," and illegal religious conversions.
"I am giving you my word. Very soon, after Uttarakhand and Gujarat, UCC will be implemented in West Bengal. I am giving you my word, give me six months," Adhikari declared. He added that strict and rigorous laws would be brought in to ensure these practices are effectively stopped.
Protection of Sanatan Traditions and Cultural Heritage
Adhikari emphasised that while his government would operate strictly within the framework of the Constitution, it would act as a shield for India's cultural and religious identity. He highlighted several key promises regarding the preservation of Sanatan traditions:
- Religious Freedom: He assured citizens that they could openly distribute the Bhagavad Gita and revive the study of the Vedas without fear.
- Temple and Heritage Protection: The government pledged to protect temples, maths, and India's broader cultural heritage from any perceived attacks.
- Cow Protection: He stated that the government would take steps to protect cows.
- Ritual Integrity: Adhikari noted that puja rituals would be conducted according to the timings prescribed in the panchang and scriptures.
He further touched upon religious observances, mentioning that no Durga Puja inaugurations would take place during Pitru Paksha and that alcohol consumption would be completely prohibited in the state on Ashtami.
Criticism of Previous Administration and Vision for Gangasagar Mela
The Chief Minister launched a scathing attack on the previous administration, accusing them of attempting to fracture society by playing on various identities, including Rajbanshi, Matua, Kurmi, tribal, Bengali, and non-Bengali groups. He called for unity and organization among the people to prevent such divisive tactics in the future.
Looking toward tourism and religious gatherings, Adhikari announced ambitious plans to elevate the Gangasagar Mela to an international standard. He revealed that work on this project has already commenced and invited the Vishwa Hindu Parishad to participate as volunteers and advisors to help achieve this global scale.