Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that a Uniform Civil Code for the entire country will be implemented within the next five years, following extensive consultations with all stakeholders, if the BJP returns to power.
In a wide-ranging interview with PTI, Shah mentioned that the Modi government, in its next term, will also implement ‘One Nation, One Election,’ as the time has come for elections to be held simultaneously across the country.
Shah emphasized that the BJP has not engaged in religion-based campaigning. However, he asserted that if advocating against reservations for Muslims, abrogating Article 370, and implementing a Uniform Civil Code are considered religious issues, the BJP has and will continue these efforts.
Addressing allegations about the Election Commission’s handling of poll data and Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), Shah noted that similar protocols have been used in previous elections, including those in Telangana, West Bengal, and Himachal Pradesh, where the BJP lost. He argued that the opposition’s concerns are baseless and aimed at covering up their failures.
Shah dismissed the Congress’s criticism of the polling process as a tactic to deflect from Rahul Gandhi’s shortcomings. He highlighted that no suggestions were offered by the opposition during the all-party meeting called by the Election Commission. He asserted the integrity of EVMs, stating that the opposition only raises doubts when they lose.
Shah confidently stated that the BJP and its allies will surpass the 400-seat mark in the Lok Sabha, describing it as a well-thought-out goal rather than a mere slogan. He expressed optimism about forming governments in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Arunachal Pradesh.
Shah rejected claims that the BJP is overly dependent on Modi, arguing that the ruling alliance is receiving a positive vote for the central government’s achievements. He highlighted Modi’s popularity and the fulfillment of BJP’s core ideological plans, including welfare for the poor, national security, and significant legislative changes like the abrogation of Article 370 and the Ram temple construction.
In a scathing critique of the Congress, Shah accused the party of misleading people about Muslim reservation and failing to fulfill their populist promises. He projected significant gains for the BJP in West Bengal, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh, and anticipated a maiden majority in the Odisha assembly.