Uttarakhand will become the first Indian state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) on Monday (January 27), a move that has stirred political debates and national attention. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated that the law will bring uniformity in society while ensuring equal rights and responsibilities for all citizens.
All preparations for the implementation of UCC, including obtaining approval of the rules and training of officials, have been completed. The UCC Act was notified on March 12, 2024, after receiving approval from President Droupadi Murmu.
However, the opposition Congress has criticized the move, calling it a pilot project without proper consensus. The UCC aims to provide one law applicable to all religious communities in matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption, and maintenance.
What Is The Uniform Civil Code?
The UCC refers to a single law applicable to all religious communities in various personal matters. It aims to bring uniformity and equality among citizens, excluding tribals and certain customs related to marriage and divorce in Muslim Personal Law.
The UCC in Uttarakhand has 392 sections under seven schedules, based on a 750-page draft prepared by an expert committee. The law was passed after thorough examination and consultation with legal experts.
Key Provisions of UCC in Uttarakhand
The Uttarakhand UCC Act, 2024, provides a streamlined framework for creating and cancelling wills and supplementary documents. It establishes legal provisions for marital conditions and protection of individual rights, promoting social harmony.
Marriage under the UCC can only take place between parties without living spouses, mentally capable of consent, and meeting age requirements. Registration of marriages within 60 days of solemnization is mandatory, with prompt acknowledgment and acceptance from authorities.
Implementation and Impact
The implementation of the UCC was a major commitment of the BJP in Uttarakhand, reflecting its focus on legal reforms and social equality. The law applies to all residents of Uttarakhand, except Scheduled Tribes and certain protected communities.
Overall, the UCC aims to simplify legal processes related to personal matters, ensuring clarity and protection of individual rights. It represents a significant step towards a more harmonious and organized society.
