Full Breakdown
West Bengal Chief Minister Promises Uniform Civil Code and Anti-Conversion Laws Within Six Months
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Core Announcement
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that his government will implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state and enact “stringent” legislation against “love jihad,” “land jihad,” and forced religious conversions within six months. The pledge was made at a gathering commemorating the birth centenary of former Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) president Ashok Singhal.
Background & Context
The BJP has highlighted UCC implementation as a key promise in the 2026 West Bengal assembly elections. Adhikari cited the examples of Uttarakhand and Gujarat, both BJP-ruled states that have moved toward adopting a UCC, to argue that West Bengal will follow suit. The announcement was delivered at a VHP-organized event in Kolkata, reflecting the party’s alignment with Hindu nationalist groups.
Legislative Preparations
The state government has already formed a high-level committee chaired by former Supreme Court judge Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai to examine a draft UCC. The draft seeks to create uniform civil laws covering marriage, divorce, inheritance and adoption across all religious communities in West Bengal.
Official Statements & Responses
He linked the UCC to a broader agenda of curbing what he described as “divisive forces,” including alleged “love jihad,” “land jihad,” and forced conversions.
He also announced a religious tourism circuit to be completed within two years, with INR1,000 crore earmarked for the project.
Financial & Development Plans
The INR1,000 crore allocation is intended to develop infrastructure for religious tourism, a component of the government’s cultural-heritage strategy. The plan is presented as part of a broader effort to promote “unity and organisation” in the state.
Verbatim Quotes
- “After Uttarakhand and Gujarat, the UCC will be implemented in West Bengal as well. I promise you, give me six months,” — Suvendu Adhikari, west bengal chief
- “The previous administration had divided us,” — Suvendu Adhikari, west bengal chief
Timeline
- Six-month pledge: Implementation of the UCC and anti-conversion laws promised within six months of the announcement (future timeline).
- November 17 (scheduled): A Hanuman Chalisa recitation is scheduled in Kolkata.
- December 29 (scheduled): A Gita recitation is scheduled at Kolkata’s Brigade Parade Ground.
What’s Next
The scheduled religious recitations on November 17 and December 29 signal the government’s immediate cultural initiatives. Beyond these events, the next steps will involve the high-level committee’s review of the UCC draft, drafting of anti-conversion legislation, and allocation of funds for the tourism circuit, all expected to progress within the six-month timeframe outlined by the chief minister.