Uttarakhand Becomes First State in India to Implement Uniform Civil Code Post-Independence
Dehradun, January 27: Uttarakhand has scripted history by becoming the first state in India to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) after independence. The landmark move aims to promote equality, justice, and inclusivity across all communities by ensuring uniform laws related to marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption, and other personal matters.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami officially announced the implementation of the UCC during a press conference on Saturday. He hailed the decision as a step toward fulfilling the vision of a progressive and harmonious society envisioned by the framers of the Indian Constitution.
The Uniform Civil Code of Uttarakhand Act, 2024 is a piece of legislation designed to establish a unified set of personal laws governing matters such as marriage, divorce, adoption, inheritance, and maintenance for all citizens of Uttarakhand, irrespective of their religion, gender, caste, or sex.
To ensure smooth implementation and public awareness of the Uniform Civil Code, the Chief Minister also launched a dedicated website. The portal will provide detailed information about the UCC, its implications, and procedures, while also inviting feedback and suggestions from citizens. The move underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity.
“The Uniform Civil Code is a promise of equality and justice for all, irrespective of religion, caste, or gender. Uttarakhand has taken the lead in realizing this dream, setting an example for the entire nation,” said CM Dhami during the launch event.
The implementation of the UCC in Uttarakhand follows extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including legal experts, social organizations, and representatives from different communities. The state government had earlier formed a committee to draft the UCC, which submitted its report after months of deliberations.
The move has drawn widespread praise for upholding the principles of secularism and equality, though some groups have expressed reservations and called for broader consensus before nationwide implementation.
The Uniform Civil Code has long been a topic of debate in India, as enshrined in Article 44 of the Directive Principles of State Policy in the Constitution, which urges the state to strive toward securing a uniform set of laws for all citizens. Uttarakhand’s initiative marks a significant milestone in turning this constitutional vision into reality.
As the state begins its journey under the UCC, the nation is watching closely, with hopes that this bold step will pave the way for other states to follow suit in fostering a more unified and equitable India.
