Uttarakhand makes history: passes Uniform Civil Code Bill, pioneers nationwide change

In a landmark move, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami introduced the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill, which was swiftly passed by the state Assembly. This makes Uttarakhand the first state in India to implement such a code, streamlining laws regarding marriage, divorce, inheritance, and more.

Uniform Laws for all

The UCC Bill, now set to become law, is based on recommendations from a committee chaired by retired Supreme Court Justice Ranjana P Desai. It aims to establish uniformity in civil laws across religious communities, replacing diverse personal laws that previously governed matters like marriage and inheritance.

The timing of this implementation is noteworthy, as it precedes the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Reports suggest that the central government is contemplating a similar nationwide law. States like Gujarat and Assam, both governed by the BJP, are already working towards enacting their own UCC laws.

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Key provisions and exceptions

The Uniform Civil Code prohibits practices like bigamy and polygamy, ensuring that individuals cannot marry multiple partners simultaneously or while already being legally married. However, it exempts members of Scheduled Tribes (ST), preserving their customary rights under the Constitution. This ensures that certain communities retain their unique legal frameworks.

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The adoption of the Uniform Civil Code in Uttarakhand marks a significant step towards legal uniformity and secular governance in India. While it aligns with the BJP's longstanding agenda, its implications and implementation could shape the country's legal landscape for years to come.