What is Uttarakhand’s Uniform Civil Code (UCC)?
The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand is a groundbreaking law that creates one set of rules for everyone in the state, regardless of their religion or community. it covers important life events like marriage, divorce, inheritance, and property rights. Under this law, everyone must be 21 or older to get married, and all marriages must be registered.
If you’re in a live-in relationship, you need to inform the authorities. The law ensures that sons and daughters have equal rights to their parents’ property, and children from live-in relationships are legally recognized. It bans practices like multiple marriages and instant divorce (triple talaq). Uttarakhand is the first state to implement such a comprehensive uniform code, making it a historic move in Indian legal history.
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Salient Features of Uniform Civil Code in Uttarakhand
1. Marriage Laws
- Uniform marriage age of 21 years for all genders
- Mandatory marriage registration
- Prohibition of:
- Child marriage
- Polygamy
- Triple talaq
- Forced religious conversion for marriage
2. Live-in Relationship Regulations
- Mandatory registration with authorities
- Parental consent required for those under 21
- Penalties for non-compliance:
- 3 months jail time + ₹25,000 fine for false information
- ₹10,000 fine for registration delays
- Applies to residents even in relationships outside the state
3. Inheritance Rights
- Equal rights for all children (sons and daughters)
- Gender-neutral terminology used
- Recognition of children from live-in relationships as legitimate
- Equal property rights for all heirs
4. Divorce Provisions
- Uniform grounds for divorce across religions
- Standardized alimony and maintenance rules
- Equal rights in child custody matters
- Simplified divorce procedures
5. Banned Religious Practices
- Prohibition of:
- Nikah halala
- Iddat
- Religious-specific divorce customs
- Multiple marriages
6. Property Rights
- Equal property rights for women
- Uniform inheritance laws
- Protection of property rights for all citizens
Impact of UCC in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand’s Uniform Civil Code (UCC) will bring significant changes to everyday life in the state. The most immediate impact will be felt in marriage and relationship practices, where everyone must wait until age 21 to marry, and live-in couples need to register their relationships officially. Women will experience stronger legal protection through equal property rights and inheritance claims, ending long-standing gender discrimination. Families will see major changes in how property is distributed, with sons and daughters getting equal shares. The law simplifies legal processes, making it easier and faster to resolve family disputes.
However, in the long run, the UCC is expected to create a more equitable society with reduced gender discrimination and stronger legal protection for all citizens. As the first state to implement such comprehensive reforms, Uttarakhand’s experience will likely influence similar changes across India, potentially paving the way for a national UCC.
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