UCC Implemented In Uttarakhand:-All About It 91-8877001993

This 27th January, 2025, in a historic move, Uttarakhand has now become first Indian state which has implemented the Uniform Civil Code (UCC).

Uttarakhand has carved his name in history by becoming the first state in India to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). 

This landmark decision was one of the key promise in the election manifesto of the BJP during the 2022 Uttarakhand Assembly elections, again aligning with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi of “One Nation, One Law.”

The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand Sh. Pushkar Singh Dhami made the announcement regarding the implementation of the UCC with an objective of bringing uniformity in such personal civil matters, which previously were dealt with in accordance to one’s religion. It was assured by the Chief Minister that all necessary preparations have been completed, which includes the approval of the rules of the Act as well as the training of the relevant officials.

Replying in an interview, CM Dhami expressed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)  fulfilled the promise made by it during the assembly elections held in 2022. He mentioned the Article 44 of the Indian Constitution, according to which a Uniform Civil Code shall be adopted throughout the country. 

The Uttarakhand Uniform Civil Code Act, 2024

• The new legislation would deal with numerous personal laws, involving subject matter of marriage, divorce, succession, and inheritance. 
• The Act applies to all residents of Uttarakhand, including those residing outside the state, but excludes Scheduled Tribes and certain protected communities.
• According to the UCC, marriages in Uttarakhand shall be solemnised between individuals who fall under a certain legal criteria, such as the bride and the groom must be mentally competent as well as should have achieved the legal age of 18 and 21 years respectively. 
• Also, it has been deemed mandatory to register the live-in relationships. 
• Also, it will be mandatory to register such marriages which have been solemnised after the Act has been implemented within a period of 60 days. 
• The Act provides for a simple procedure for registration of marriage through online medium.
• The Act also provides for the legitimacy of all children irrespective of the circumstances of their birth. 
• Also, a special provision has been added for defence personnel allowing an oral or written execution. 

General Reactions Over the Act-

In support-

• The new Act ensures the elimination of discriminatory practices of polygamy, unequal inheritance laws.
• A single Act would help eliminate legal complexities and confusions for numerous laws and customs.
• The Act would help encourage inclusivity in the society composed of diverse communities. 

Critics’ viewpoint:-

• Its argued that the cultural and religious freedom of certain communities would be infringed upon by the Act. 
• According to some critics, it would have been better if more community and public involvement was allowed during the drafting process of the Act. 
• It is possible that the Act may face some resistance from the conservative sections of the society, hence creating some hurdles.     

Conclusion

The introduction of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand could be termed as a  historic step towards creating a society where laws are same for everyone. Though the Act has received both praise and criticism, the real test would be a effective execution of the legislation and public acceptance.

As the first Indian state, post independence, which took the first step towards a progressive reform, it could be said that Uttarakhand has put forward a precedent for the rest of the country. And if this step could lead to a nationwide Uniform Civil Code is yet to be seen.

For further developments on this topic and other issues related to uniform civil code, or in case, you wish to seek free legal advice or online legal counsel on any matter related to civil laws, criminals or family laws, etc. you may contact us at Sharks of Law.  

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