The Uttarakhand government made a historic move on Tuesday by introducing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) 2024 Bill in the Assembly, potentially paving the way for significant legal reforms in the state. If approved, Uttarakhand will stand as the pioneer among BJP-ruled states to implement the UCC. It aims to standardize laws concerning marriage, divorce, inheritance, and live-in relationships for all citizens, regardless of religious affiliations.The bills introduction comes as a fulfillment of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhamis pre-election commitment, underscoring the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) agenda, particularly ahead of the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections.#WATCH | Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami tables the Uniform Civil Code Uttarakhand 2024 Bill in State Assembly, in Dehradun. pic.twitter.com/B1LRzfoC09— ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2024Key Provisions of the BillMarriage Regulations: The proposed UCC sets the minimum age for marriage at 21 for boys and 18 for girls, with provisions barring individuals with living spouses from remarrying to prevent bigamy or polygamy. Mandatory registration of marriages is prescribed, regardless of existing laws or customs, ensuring legal recognition and rights protection.Divorce and Nullity: The Bill outlines grounds for divorce, ensuring equality between men and women while addressing void or voidable marriages. Notably, practices like halala, iddat, and triple talaq are deemed punishable offenses, aligning with a broader reform agenda.Inheritance Rights: It proposes equal property rights for sons and daughters, regardless of social class, and recognizes the rights of illegitimate and adopted children. It also emphasizes intestate succession, ensuring equitable distribution of property among heirs.Live-in Relationships: Recognizing the growing significance of live-in relationships, the Bill mandates their registration, with provisions for termination and maintenance rights, mirroring the legal framework for marriages.Exemptions and Tribal ConsiderationsWhile advocating for uniformity, the Bill extends exemptions to tribal communities and upholds their distinct customs and traditions. With enthusiastic backing from the ruling benches, the Bill is expected to pass swiftly through the Assembly, underscoring its significance and alignment with the state governments priorities.Response and ReactionsIn its statement, the government emphasized the preservation of religious beliefs while ensuring uniformity in legal matters, emphasizing clarity on marital processes and protection of childrens rights. While, the move has drawn criticism from certain quarters, particularly from groups opposing uniform civil laws, who argue for the preservation of religious diversity.The introduction of the UCC Bill in Uttarakhand marks a significant step towards legal uniformity and equality, reflecting evolving societal norms and the governments commitment to reform. If enacted, the legislation is poised to serve as a model for other states, heralding a new era of legal standardization and social progress.
