Author: Raghav Shetty

India’s debate on a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) centres on balancing religious freedom with legal equality. Articles 25–26 protect religious practices, while Article 44 encourages uniform civil laws. Personal laws govern marriage, inheritance, and more, but can conflict with equality under Article 14, especially regarding gender rights. Supporters say a UCC promotes gender justice, legal uniformity, and secularism. Opponents fear erosion of religious autonomy and cultural diversity. Courts back reform but urge sensitivity and gradual change. Scholars recommend an inclusive, phased approach that respects pluralism while advancing equality, reflecting India’s unique constitutional and social fabric.

The Karnataka High Court quashed an FIR against three men accused of distributing Islamic pamphlets near a temple, ruling that it did not amount to a criminal offence. Justice Venkatesh Naik T held that the complainant had no legal standing under Section 4 of the state’s anti-conversion law and that no elements of forced or fraudulent conversion under Section 3 were met. The court also found no evidence of incitement under BNS provisions. It reaffirmed Article 25 rights, stating that peacefully sharing religious views is protected, provided there is no unlawful conversion attempt.

The Karnataka High Court witnessed a dramatic moment when Solicitor General Tushar Mehta demonstrated how easily fake verified social media accounts can be created, exposing digital vulnerabilities. The hearing stems from X Corp’s challenge to government takedown orders under Section 79(3)(b) of the IT Act. Mehta argued that anonymity enables misinformation and cited AI-generated content to show regulatory gaps beyond Section 69A’s scope. The court acknowledged the risks of anonymous misuse, referencing the Proton Mail case. The matter, balancing free speech and online accountability, will continue on July 25 and could reshape India’s digital regulation framework.