Tura, July 10: The Council of Nokmas (CoN) has voiced its apprehensions regarding the upcoming Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill, set to be presented by the Government of India in the next Lok Sabha Session.

In an exclusive interview with Hub News, the President, Vice President, and other members of the CoN highlighted several reasons why they believe the UCC should not be enforced in the 6th Schedule areas and tribal regions.

President of CoN, Skylance G. Momin, expressed deep concern, asserting that the Garo culture and beliefs would be jeopardized if the UCC were to be implemented. “We strongly oppose it because the UCC will undermine our customary laws and the institution of Nokmaship,” he stated, adding, “If this law is exempted from the 6th Schedule areas, even if the bill is passed, we have nothing to object to.”

Momin, however, emphasized that if there is no other recourse available, they would challenge the UCC legally in court. He further stated, “Although we haven’t seen the draft, staying silent is not an option. We must demonstrate our dissent.”

Danny Ch. Marak, the Secretary of CoN, mentioned that they could not comment extensively at this stage since they had not seen the draft, but they were aware that the UCC was based on Article 44.

A meeting was convened on June 30, 2023, by the Council of Nokma, with approximately 200 nokmas (village chiefs) participating. During the meeting, a resolution was passed to oppose the UCC bill.

Sailendra R Sangma, President of West Garo Hills District, voiced concerns about the UCC’s impact on marriage customs. He said, “Currently, we have marriages conducted according to the Songsarek tradition or Christian way. If the UCC is implemented, it will affect this entire process.”

Kriten R. Marak, Chairman of the Grievances Committee, expressed worries about the impact on Christian worship, as many Nokmas adhere to Christianity.

Linda B Marak, Complaint Secretary of CoN, remarked, “Although we haven’t seen the draft yet, our concern is whether this bill will affect us. Therefore, the Council of Nokma strongly opposes this bill.”

The Council has also decided to write to the Parliamentary Committee to formally communicate their concerns and objections.

Vice President Wenison Ch. Marak was also present during the proceedings.

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