Meghalaya CM Sees Relief in Tribal Exemptions Within UCC Frameworks

Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma stated that the exclusion of tribal customary laws from the Uniform Civil Code in states like Uttarakhand and Assam has provided him some reassurance. While he expressed relief that these frameworks have protected tribal rights on paper, he maintained that the state government will still conduct a thorough review of any future proposals before reaching a final decision.

Sangma previously voiced concerns that a national civil code might interfere with Meghalaya's unique matrilineal system and traditional tribal practices. He noted that the term Uniform Civil Code remains broad, making it difficult to form a definitive stance without understanding the specific provisions involved. The chief minister clarified that his initial opposition was rooted in protecting the local cultural framework, which he feared a universal law might disrupt.