Union Home Minister Amit Shah made sweeping announcements Sunday in Mumbai, declaring that the Uniform Civil Code will be implemented across all 21 NDA-ruled states by 2029 while vowing to deport "every illegal immigrant" from the country. The statements came during a wide-ranging press conference that touched on everything from Gen Z protests to regional language tensions.

Key facts

  • UCC implementation deadline: 2029
  • States affected: 21 NDA-ruled states
  • NRC baseline under discussion: 1951
  • Maharashtra bank scam allegations: ₹25,000 crore

On democracy and dissent

When asked about recent youth protests, Shah struck a conciliatory tone. He emphasized that everyone must express opinions in a democracy, adding that the BJP doesn't want to run the country in "an Emergency-like situation." The contrast with Congress's approach was unmistakable—he made sure everyone understood that.

"We want to communicate with everyone. We don’t want to run the country in an Emergency-like situation. Congress culture was different. Our culture is different."

Controversies and evasions

Shah faced tough questions about the Maharashtra State Co-operative Bank Limited scandal, where allegations of ₹25,000 crore in financial irregularities have created tension between state and central agencies. When pressed about presenting a white paper, Shah deflected, saying agencies would simply file their charge sheets in court.

Maharashtra Congress president Harshawardhan Sapkal didn't mince words afterward, accusing Shah of running away from the press conference without answering questions about the "multi-crore scam."

Language and migration tensions

With Mumbai simmering over debates about making functional Marathi compulsory for cab drivers, Shah addressed the delicate balance between migration and regional identity. He acknowledged the government's policy of prioritizing mother tongues while expressing confidence that states would resolve tensions.

The political calculus was clear—the BJP enjoys significant support from migrant populations in financial hubs like Mumbai and Pune.

Beyond politics

Shah's visit wasn't all policy and controversy. At the 52nd India Gem and Jewellery Awards, he urged the diamond industry to seize control of the lab-grown diamond market, highlighting an opportunity that could grow 50 times larger than the current diamond trade.

The Home Minister's two-day Maharashtra visit culminated in preparations for the 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyaan,' a month-long drive celebrating Prime Minister Modi's 25 years in public service—a reminder that politics never stops moving, even during policy announcements.