UCC To Be Implemented In Uttarakhand Today, First State To Do So Far

In a groundbreaking move, Uttarakhand has become the first state in India to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), setting a new standard for legal uniformity and social equality. At around 12:30 pm today, the state rolled out this landmark legislation, coinciding with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit, highlighting the national significance of this event.

The UCC, aimed at creating a society devoid of discrimination based on religion, gender, caste, or community, was introduced with much fanfare at the state secretariat by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. The UCC portal was officially unveiled, marking a pivotal moment in India’s legal history.

This legislation assures equal property rights for both sons and daughters, a significant step towards gender equality. It also prohibits polygamy, making monogamy the legal standard, with marriage registration becoming mandatory for all, regardless of how the marriage is solemnized according to religious customs. The law also eliminates the archaic distinction between legitimate and illegitimate children in property matters, ensuring all children have equal rights.

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Moreover, the UCC brings inclusivity by treating adopted children, those born via surrogacy, or through assisted reproductive technology on par with biological children in terms of inheritance rights. Posthumously, it ensures equal property rights for spouses, children, and parents, further fostering an equitable society.

The UCC was initially passed by the Uttarakhand Assembly in February of the previous year, despite some opposition. It received presidential assent from President Droupadi Murmu in March 2024, turning the bill into law. CM Dhami emphasized that this code would particularly benefit women by removing various forms of discrimination.

This initiative aligns with PM Modi’s vision of a harmonious India, where the law treats every citizen equally. The implementation of the UCC in Uttarakhand not only fulfills an electoral promise but also sets a precedent for other states to follow in redefining personal laws to be more inclusive and fair.

As Uttarakhand leads the way, the implications of this Uniform Civil Code will be closely watched, potentially influencing national policy and societal norms towards a more unified legal framework across India.