Uttarakhand’s Manual for Uniform Civil Code

January 21, 2025

Recently, Uttarakhand’s government approved a comprehensive manual for its Uniform Civil Code (UCC), aiming to standardise personal laws across the state. This initiative marks Uttarakhand as the first state of India to implement the UCC, with preparations underway for training officials and launching online services. The UCC seeks to streamline processes related to marriage, divorce, inheritance, and other personal matters, amid ongoing discussions about its broader implications for Indian society.

Key Provisions of UCC

The UCC introduces several provisions, including Tatkal registration for expedited services and simplified processes for live-in relationships. It allows online registration of wills and provides a platform for various civil services through a dedicated portal.

Training and Implementation Timeline

Training for officials is in its final stages, with a state-wide mock drill scheduled for January 21, 2025. The government aims to train 10,000 Village Development Officers (VDOs) by January 24, 2025, to facilitate local registration services.

Online Services and Accessibility

The UCC portal features Aadhaar-based verification and AI translation in 22 languages. It aims to improve access to registration services, especially in remote areas through Common Service Centres (CSCs) and local officials.

Historical Context of UCC in India

The UCC concept is rooted in Article 44 of the Constitution of India, which calls for a uniform set of laws governing personal matters for all citizens. Historical debates have shaped its evolution, with judicial pronouncements advocating for its necessity.

Arguments Supporting UCC

Proponents argue that UCC promotes equality, simplifies legal processes, and empowers women. It aims to eliminate discriminatory practices and encourage national integration by treating all citizens equally under the law.

Arguments Against UCC

Critics raise concerns about cultural preservation and the potential infringement on religious freedoms. They argue that a UCC might marginalise minority communities and face practical implementation challenges in India’s diverse society.

Future Considerations for UCC

The path forward for UCC may involve inclusive dialogue with stakeholders and phased implementation. Safeguards for minority rights could be essential to address concerns while ensuring legal uniformity across the state.

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