Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s administration is poised to present the Uniform Civil Code Uttarakhand 2024 Bill (UCC) in the state’s legislative assembly this Tuesday during the ongoing four-day special assembly session that commenced on Monday.
The state’s cabinet, led by Chief Minister Dhami, endorsed the final draft of the UCC on Sunday. The proposed legislation advocates for uniform civil laws applicable to all communities within the state. Following assembly approval, the bill will advance to the governor for final endorsement, transforming it into law. Its passage signifies the fulfillment of a significant commitment outlined in the BJP’s 2022 assembly election manifesto.
A Uniform Civil Code encompasses laws governing personal matters such as marriage, divorce, adoption, inheritance, and succession, applying universally regardless of religious affiliation. The UCC aims to replace the existing patchwork of personal laws influenced by diverse religious affiliations.
In 2022, the Uttarakhand government established a panel, led by retired Supreme Court judge Ranjana Prakash Desai, tasked with drafting the UCC. The panel, including retired justice Pramod Kohli, social activist Manu Gaur, former Uttarakhand Chief Secretary Shatrughan Singh, and Doon University’s Vice Chancellor Surekha Dangwal, compiled a comprehensive report spanning over 740 pages in four volumes.
The panel meticulously gathered feedback, both written and online, organized numerous public forums and 43 outreach programs, and engaged with over 60,000 individuals. Chief Minister Dhami asserted that the UCC Bill reflects the outcome of extensive public dialogue, deliberation, and suggestions.
Reportedly, the UCC Uttarakhand 2024 Bill incorporates recommendations such as the complete prohibition of polygamy and child marriage. According to India Today, key provisions include equal property rights for sons and daughters, abolishing the distinction between legitimate and illegitimate children, ensuring equal property rights post-death, and recognizing equal rights for adopted and biological children. The proposed legislation reflects a comprehensive effort to address various aspects of personal laws to promote equality and justice.
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