Haldwani violence not linked to Uttarakhand Uniform Civil Code: RSS leader

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Indresh Kumar on Sunday ruled out that the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) that is proposed to be implemented in Uttarakhand had any connection with the violence in Haldwani that killed six rioters and injured 60 others.

Addressing a 'Let's Connect with the Roots' workshop organised by RSS-linked Muslim Rashtriya Manch, Indresh Kumar said the UCC did not violate the freedom of people, irrespective of any religion, and accused political parties of instigating Muslims.

"The UCC has nothing to do with the riots and violence that occurred in Haldwani. The UCC law is now being made. There is no restriction on any caste related to this. If someone wants to celebrate a birthday or get married, there is no hindrance. Their security is guaranteed by the UCC," he said.

"...This is vote bank politics in which Muslims are targeted. Political parties should stop instigating them," he said during the workshop that was attended by Muslims who visited the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

"The support for UCC, one flag, one country and one Constitution was underscored for national cohesion," he stated.

Indresh Kumar advocated knowing about genealogy (sijre) to understand the roots and help unite the country. He highlighted the global impact of terrorism, asserting that both the government and Muslims believed that religious and fundamentalist views breed hostility.

The RSS leader also praised the government's humanitarian efforts, citing assistance to Gaza amid the Israel-Hamas war and its successful hosting of the G20 Summit in Delhi last year.

Shahid Akhtar, the national convenor of Muslim Rashtriya Manch, said that "joining the roots" did not imply religious conversion, but called for individuals to connect with their traditions and ancestors.

Stressing the importance of conflict management courses in universities, Akhtar emphasised the initiative's role in fostering understanding and dismantling fanaticism and communalism.

During the workshop, it was unanimously decided that everyone should follow one's own religion, respect other religions and create a country free from wars, riots and untouchability.