Uttarakhand implements Uniform Civil Code today: Key details
Uttarakhand will implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) today, making it the first state in independent India to enforce such a law. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated that the government had finalized all preparations, including rule approvals and official training. He emphasized that the UCC aims to ensure equal rights and responsibilities for all citizens, promoting societal uniformity.
The BJP promised to introduce the UCC during the 2022 assembly polls, which saw the party return to power with a historic mandate. Dhami credited the victory to this commitment, calling the UCC a step toward building a harmonious and self-reliant nation.
The Journey of Uttarakhand’s UCC
The process began in March 2022 when the state cabinet formed an expert panel to draft the UCC under retired Supreme Court Judge Ranjana Prakash Desai. Over 18 months, the panel held dialogues with various communities and submitted a four-volume draft in February 2024. Within weeks, the state assembly passed the UCC bill, and President Droupadi Murmu gave her assent in March 2024.
Later, a second committee led by former chief secretary Shatrughna Singh worked on the implementation rules. The cabinet approved the final framework in late 2024, and Dhami announced January 27, 2025, as the enforcement date, aligning it with the country’s Republic Day celebrations.
Key Provisions of the UCC
The UCC covers marriage, divorce, succession, and live-in relationships. It sets a uniform marriageable age for men and women, bans polygamy, and eliminates ‘halala’. Gender parity is a core focus, with laws ensuring equal rights across all religions.
Provisions also simplify will preparation, regulate live-in relationships, and mandate the registration of marriages and live-in arrangements. The law treats all children, including those from void or voidable marriages, as legitimate. Online facilities have been set up to streamline marriage registration.
A unique feature is the “privileged will” provision for defense personnel. Soldiers, air force members, or mariners can create wills during expeditions or warfare through flexible rules, either in writing or verbally.
Experts Speak on the UCC
Doon University Vice Chancellor Surekha Dangwal, who contributed to the draft, highlighted gender parity as the spirit of the UCC. She praised its provisions for marriage, divorce, and succession, noting the removal of the term “illegitimate” for children.
As Uttarakhand leads with this groundbreaking law, it sets the stage for potential national discussions on uniformity in personal laws, aiming for a more inclusive and equitable society.
