India accelerates push for uniform civil code across states

India's federal government is accelerating plans to expand a uniform civil code across more states, marking a significant shift in how personal matters including marriage, inheritance and divorce are governed. The initiative seeks to replace state-specific laws with a standardized legal framework applicable to all citizens regardless of religion. The move has proven contentious, with minority Muslim groups expressing concern that such measures could erode long-standing protections under Islamic personal law. Several Indian states have already adopted variations of a civil code, though implementation remains patchy and contested. The broader rollout reflects the government's commitment to what it describes as legal modernization, though critics argue the move risks marginalizing religious minorities and undermining their autonomy in matters of faith and family. The proposal is expected to reignite debate over the balance between uniform governance and religious community rights in India's pluralistic democracy.