Albertina Almeida: The Uniform Civil Code
Albertina Almeida, Civil Rights Lawyer speaks how the so called Uniform Civil Code in Goa, does not address the issue of gender justice.
Tag: Uniform Civil Code
Law Commissions of India and Goa Law Commissions: Framing the Absences of Regional Difference with Special Reference to Goa
By ALBERTINA ALMEIDA
This article examines how law reform processes in India have been unsuccessful in taking into account intersectionality, particularly in the context of Goa. It analyses how the existence of a Uniform Civil Code, a relic of the era of Portuguese colonialism, has been utilized by law reform processes to absolve themselves of responsibility for modernizing civil laws, particularly for women. The article breaks down the idea of an “Indian” identity, highlighting its failure to account for diversity in gender, caste, wealth and the unique challenges faced by a community that is at once isolated from India but also subsumed by this identity. Accounting for the failings of even institutional mechanisms such as the Law Commission of India to take cognizance of the needs of Goa and the lack of incentive for politicians to do so suo motu, this article calls for a relook at the identity through which laws are reviewed, as well as a more participative and inclusive look at the legislative changes required in Goa.
Reflections on Republic Day
By ALBERTINA ALMEIDA
Come Republic Day and an apparent prevailing disregard for the Constitution becomes an occasion to stock take and introspect.
Five Striking Moments of 2016
By ALBERTINA ALMEIDA
2016 has seen many striking moments – moments that demand reflection and change.
Goa’s Civil Code Shows That Uniformity Does Not Always Mean Equality
By ALBERTINA ALMEIDA
For probably the umpteenth time, there are whispers in the air that a uniform civil code (UCC) is in the offing. Occasionally, Goa’s UCC is brought up during these discussions.