Trinamool Congress MLA Departs Assam Assembly Over UCC Bill Dispute

Trinamool Congress MLA Sherman Ali Ahmed exits the Assam Assembly, protesting the UCC Bill, which he criticizes for alleged malicious intent and constitutional violations. He expresses concerns about the Bill's impact on fundamental rights and questions its selective exclusions.

Sherman Ali Ahmed, the sole Trinamool Congress representative in the Assam Assembly, made a dramatic exit on Wednesday, voicing strong opposition to parts of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill. Ahmed accused the ruling BJP-led NDA of introducing the Bill with harmful intent.

During a discussion, Ahmed argued that parts of the proposed legislation infringe upon basic constitutional rights. While he approved of certain measures, such as setting minimum marriageable ages and regulating live-in relationships, Ahmed stressed that broad-based dialogue was necessary for contentious issues.

The government presented the UCC Bill to establish uniform personal laws across religions on marriage, divorce, succession, and relationships, excluding Scheduled Tribes in Assam. Despite support for certain provisions, Ahmed remained adamant that the Quran's teachings were being misinterpreted, and the law clashed with the nation's fundamental rights.

Opposition members in the Assembly echoed Ahmed's concerns, labeling the Bill as a tool for political maneuvering by the BJP. Critics demanded more comprehensive stakeholder consultations to ensure inclusive discussions.