Highlights of Uttarakhand Uniform Civil Code

Proposal

From registration of live-in relationship to polygamy ban the recently implemented Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand has been proposed on February 6, 2024.

Gender equality

The UCC reportedly advocates for equal rights in inheritance for men and women, potentially addressing existing disparities found in some personal laws.

Marriage and divorce

It proposes banning polygamy and practices like triple talaq, which have been criticized for being discriminatory towards women.

Live-in relationships

The legislation reportedly considers recognizing and registering live-in relationships, offering legal protection to couples who choose this path.

Minimum marriage age

Raising the minimum marriage age for women to 21 aligns with national recommendations and promotes womens education and empowerment.

Religious neutrality

The potential impact on specific religious customs and traditions surrounding marriage, inheritance, and other personal matters is a point of contention.

Tribal exclusion

The draft reportedly excludes tribal communities from the ambit of the UCC, raising concerns about differential treatment and potential marginalization.

Current status

The UCC bill was recently tabled in the Uttarakhand Assembly on February 6 for discussion. Its important to note that the final version of the UCC may differ from the initial draft, as amendments and modifications are possible during the legislative process.