Uttarakhand is set to create history today as it becomes the first state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). The landmark legislation will be rolled out at around 12:30 pm on Monday, just ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the state.
Government officials said that the UCC will be implemented throughout Uttarakhand and will also be applicable to the state's residents living outside.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami will lead the event where the UCC portal will be unveiled at the state secretariat. On Sunday, Dhami stated that the UCC would establish the foundations of a harmonious society, free from discrimination based on religion, gender, caste, or community.
"We are fulfilling our commitments. The abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir was an instance of it. The Indian republic stands firmly today under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi," he was quoted as saying by news agency PTI in its report.
Last month, Dhami confirmed that the UCC would be implemented in Uttarakhand in January 2025.
Key Features of UCC
Equal Property Rights for Son and Daughter: The Uniform Civil Code ensures equal rights in property for both sons and daughters, regardless of their category.
Provisions for Marriage: Polygamy will be prohibited while monogamy will be the standard practice under the law.
Elimination of the Distinction Between Legitimate and Illegitimate Children: The law aims to abolish the distinction between legitimate and illegitimate children concerning property rights.
Inclusivity of Adopted and Biologically Born Children: The law would ensure that children adopted, born through surrogacy, or conceived via assisted reproductive technology will be treated equally to biological children.
Equal Property Rights After Death: Following a person's death, the law will grant equal property rights to the spouse and children.
The Uniform Civil Code Bill 2024
The Uniform Civil Code Bill, which became a political flashpoint and a topic of discussion nationwide when it was introduced by Chief Minister Dhami-led government, was passed in the Uttarakhand Assembly in February last year.
The bill, which sought to replace the old personal laws that govern marriage, divorce, succession and live-in relationships, was passed in the Uttarakhand Assembly amid the opposition's demand to refer it to the select committee of the House.
President Droupadi Murmu had accorded her consent to Uttarakhand's UCC Bill in March 2024, making it a law.
