Uttarakhand has made history as the first Indian state to adopt the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). On Monday, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami unveiled the groundbreaking initiative, which includes an official internet portal and represents a key legal milestone for the country.
Speaking at the launch, CM Dhami referred to the UCC as a “new era of equality and harmony,” emphasising its significance in delivering the ruling BJP’s 2022 election promise. He thanked the people of Uttarakhand for their assistance, saying, “This stream of equality emanating from Devbhoomi will irrigate the entire nation.”
The UCC aims to unite personal laws from all religions, focussing on fundamental issues such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and succession. It abolishes customs such as halala, iddat, and triple talaq from Muslim Personal Law and ensures equal rights for women throughout cultures. The law does not apply to Scheduled Tribes or Uttarakhand locals who have migrated beyond the state.
Marriage, divorce, and live-in relationship registrations are required by law, and marriages after March 26, 2010, must be recorded within six months. Pregnancies that result from live-in partnerships must be reported within 30 days of birth.