Omar Abdullah questions Army's involvement in Uniform Civil Code seminar in Kashmir

Srinagar, Mar 23: National Conference (NC) Vice-President Omar Abdullah on Saturday raised concerns over the Indian Army's involvement in a seminar discussing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Kashmir, labeling it as a "divisive" issue for the sensitive region.

The seminar, titled "Navigating legal frontiers: Understanding Indian Penal Code 2023 and the quest for Uniform Civil Code," is scheduled to take place on March 26 at the Kashmir University Auditorium.

Abdullah took to social media to express his apprehensions, questioning the appropriateness of the Indian Army's engagement in a matter as contentious as the UCC, particularly in a region as delicate as Kashmir.

"Is it appropriate for the Indian Army to get involved in the divisive issue of the uniform civil code & that too in a sensitive area like Kashmir? There is a reason the Indian Army has remained apolitical & areligious. This ill-advised UCC seminar is a threat to both these basic tenets," Abdullah said in a post on X.

Furthermore, Abdullah warned that proceeding with the seminar could subject the army to accusations of entering the realm of politics and interfering in religious affairs, potentially tarnishing its reputation.

The invitations for the event were reportedly dispatched by the Srinagar-based PRO Defence on behalf of Major General PBS Lamba, the General Officer Commanding HQ 31 Sub Area.

Meanwhile Srinagar based Defense Spokesperson informed that the said seminar has been cancelled due to implementation of Model Code of Conduct.

"The Legal Awareness Seminar scheduled on 26 Mar 24 by "Kashmir Jurist" in Kashmir University has been cancelled due to implementation of Model Code of Conduct," the spokesperson said.