New Delhi (Agency): President Droupadi Murmu, during a three-day visit to Goa, extolled the “common civil code” in the state, declaring it a matter of pride and a positive example for the entire country. Speaking at a civic reception at Raj Bhavan, she emphasized the significance of the code, which provides equal rights to women and men of all communities living in Goa.
President Murmu highlighted the unique cosmopolitan culture of Goa, where women are treated with equality. “The number of women students in higher education in Goa is more than 60 per cent, but there is a need to increase the participation of women in the workforce in the state,” she observed.
Goa retains the colonial-era Portuguese Civil Code, which applies to people of all religions. It stands as a remarkable example, contrasting the rest of India where different religious communities are governed by different personal laws. Murmu acknowledged the common civil code’s alignment with the Constitution and hailed it as a good example for the country.
At the national level, the discussion around the proposed Uniform Civil Code has been rekindled recently, as the Law Commission sought the opinions of various stakeholders on the subject. Goa’s common civil code has often been referred to in debates regarding the possible implementation of a Uniform Civil Code across India.
During her visit, President Murmu also praised the ‘Atmanirbhar Goa’ initiative, stating that the concept was appreciated nationwide. She noted that the coastal state had performed well in terms of sustainable development.
Also present at the occasion were Governor P. S. Sreedharan Pillai, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, and Union minister Shripad Naik. The President handed over letters under the Forest Rights Act to six members of tribal communities, granting them the right to their lands.
In his speech, Governor Pillai evoked Mahatma Gandhi’s emphasis on social freedom and his work for people in villages. He said that Gandhi would have been thrilled to see Murmu as the president of the country.
The President’s endorsement of Goa’s common civil code comes at a time when the debate around a Uniform Civil Code is gaining momentum. Her comments reflect a broader recognition of the need for uniformity in civil laws, respecting the diversity and cosmopolitan nature of the country, and ensuring gender equality.