In a historic move, Uttarakhand has become the first state in India to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) after receiving the assent of President Droupadi Murmu on March 13. The landmark legislation, aimed at establishing uniform personal laws for citizens regardless of religion, gender, or sexual orientation, marks a significant step in the state’s legal and social landscape.
The UCC bill was introduced by the government led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on February 6, showcasing the state’s commitment to ensuring equality before the law for all its residents. Chief Minister Dhami had previously emphasized the careful consideration of various factors before the implementation of the UCC Bill in Uttarakhand.
The Uniform Civil Code seeks to replace personal laws based on the scriptures and customs of each major religious community in the state with a common set of rules governing every citizen. These laws cover a range of personal matters, including marriage, divorce, inheritance, and property rights, and aim to provide equal rights to all citizens, reinforcing the directive principles of state policy enshrined in the Constitution.
