DEHRADUN: President Droupadi Murmu has approved the Uniform Civil Code Uttarakhand Bill, 2024. Following which, the Uttarakhand government would now issue a notification, making it a law in the Himalayan state. Uttarakhand is all set to become the first state in the country to implement the UCC Act.
Confirming the development, Shailesh Bagauli, Secretary to CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, stated, The President has given her approval to the bill, and it will soon become a law after the state government notifies it. The Bill will be sent for printing shortly.
The UCC Bill, comprising seven schedules and 392 sections, addresses crucial areas such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and live-in relationships. It aims to eradicate harmful practices and promote equality and self-reliance, especially among women.
Chief Minister Dhami highlighted the transformative impact the UCC will have on society by protecting the rights of women and children. Committed to implementing the UCC as part of his election promise, CM Dhami’s government engaged in extensive consultations with the public to finalize the draft.
Among the key features of the UCC are equal marriageable age for girls, compulsory registration of marriage and divorce, and ensuring sons and daughters’ equal inheritance rights. The act seeks to put an end to practices like polygamy, polyandry, and ensure property rights for both girl and boy children.
The UCC in Uttarakhand includes stringent provisions, with penalties for failing to register live-in relationships and consequences for neglecting marriage and divorce registration guidelines. The act empowers women by providing maintenance and alimony rights, enhancing legal protection for individuals in various relationship dynamics.
With Uttarakhand all set to implement the UCC Act, the state government aims to set a precedent for gender equality and social reform. The comprehensive provisions in the UCC Bill signify a significant step towards ensuring justice, equality, and protection for all residents of the state.
