NEW DELHI: As the Narendra Modi government considers introducing a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) bill in the upcoming monsoon session of Parliament, Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Meenakshi Lekhi on Monday emphasized that the law is essential for ensuring justice and equality for women.

“I am delighted to see the introduction of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) as a welcome step during our tenure in the government. These issues have been deeply rooted in our cultural heritage for generations, and witnessing progress being made in this area brings me great satisfaction,” Minister Meenakshi Lekhi expressed while interacting with the media at the Āshaḍha Pūrṇima celebration organized by The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture.

“On this auspicious occasion, it is important for us to contemplate the ultimate truth – Sat chit Anand, which represents blissful living attained through truth and the right consciousness,” she added.

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Lekhi acknowledged the ongoing deliberations and expressed her belief in the necessity of the Uniform Civil Code. She emphasized that the UCC provides a framework to ensure equality, justice, and fundamental rights for women across all religious communities. Minister Lekhi highlighted the government’s commitment to upholding the values of equality and fairness and stressed the importance of implementing a uniform set of laws that promote inclusivity and protect the rights of women.

Lekhi continued by saying, “I firmly believe that our nation deserves to adopt the right consciousness and uphold the universal truth that women, irrespective of their religious background, deserve equality and justice.”

“The Uniform Civil Code provides a framework that ensures equality, justice, and fundamental rights for women across all religious communities,” she added.

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The Āshaḍha Pūrṇima, also known as Esala Poya or Asanha Bucha, holds great importance for Buddhists as it commemorates Buddha’s First Sermon, Dharma Chakra Parvartan, delivered to the five ascetics at the ‘Deer Park’ in Sarnath, near Varanasi. This historic event marked the formation of the first Buddhist Sangha. Additionally, both Buddhists and Hindus celebrate this day as Guru Poornima.

Traditionally, the Āshaḍha Pūrṇima celebration was hosted at the Rashtrapati Bhawan, with the Honorable President of India as the Chief Guest. However, this year witnessed a change in venue, with the event taking place at the National Museum auditorium.

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