Uttarakhand Finalizes UCC Rules, Aims for Republic Day Rollout

Uttarakhand : Uttarakhand is set to become the first state in India to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) after the state Cabinet approved the rules needed for its enforcement. The UCC, which was passed by the Uttarakhand Assembly ten months ago, mandates the compulsory registration of marriages and live-in relationships, alongside bans on polygamy, polyandry, and practices like nikah halala.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami confirmed that the training process for implementing the UCC law is nearly complete, and the official rollout date will be announced soon, with expectations to launch the law on Republic Day this year. The state government is awaiting the conclusion of municipal elections, which are scheduled for January 23 with results announced on January 25, before making the official announcement.

The UCC aims to create uniformity in personal laws related to marriage, divorce, and inheritance across all religions. It also provides legal protection to children in live-in relationships and grants women deserted by live-in partners the right to maintenance. The law covers all residents of Uttarakhand, with an exemption for Scheduled Tribes.

The approved rules lay down detailed procedures for the registration of live-in relationships, documents required, and timeframes for submission. Family courts handling personal law disputes will also be provided guidelines on how to proceed with such cases.

In a significant provision, the UCC law stipulates that any couple in a live-in relationship must register their relationship with the local registrar within a month of beginning their cohabitation. Failure to do so can lead to imprisonment for up to three months or a fine of up to Rs 10,000.

The UCC legislation spans 392 sections and 172 pages and makes a historic attempt to regulate live-in relationships in India. However, it does not address the issue of same-sex marriages or adoption matters, though it includes provisions for child custody and maintenance arising from marital disputes.

The law aims to standardize personal laws across all communities in the state, ensuring equal rights and protection for all, regardless of their faith.