Historic Moment: Uttarakhand Passes Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill
In a significant milestone, the state government led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has successfully presented and passed the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) bill in the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly. With the unanimous approval of the bill, Uttarakhand becomes the first state in India to implement the Uniform Civil Code.
The Need for Uniform Civil Code: Pushkar Singh Dhami’s Vision
Addressing the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized the necessity of a Uniform Civil Code, stating that it aligns with the principles of the constitution. He urged the need to transcend the politics of vote banks and personal gains, aiming to build a society that is equal and prosperous, devoid of any discrimination.
Uttarakhand Makes History
Expressing his gratitude, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami acknowledged that implementing the Uniform Civil Code is a momentous occasion for the state. He highlighted the unique opportunity bestowed upon Uttarakhand to contribute significantly to shaping the nation’s direction from the spiritual land.
Opposition’s Demand for Referral to Committee
During the discussions on the UCC bill in the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly, members of opposition parties demanded that the bill be referred to the House’s procedural committee. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) member Mohammad Shahzad emphasized the importance of allowing freedom for people of all religions to follow their customs and traditions. He suggested sending the bill to the procedural committee to include provisions ensuring a woman’s right to property in her marital home.
Key Provisions of UCC: A Unique Legislation
The UCC bill presented in Uttarakhand includes groundbreaking provisions:
– Ban on Polygamy: The bill prohibits polygamy, stating that a citizen cannot marry another while their spouse is alive.
– Restrictions on Triple Talaq: Special provisions in the bill require any divorce application to be presented to the court only after completing one year of marriage, except under specific circumstances.
– Criminalization of Live-In Relationships’ Non-disclosure: The legislation mandates official disclosure of live-in relationships within one month. Failure to do so may result in three months’ imprisonment or a fine of ten thousand rupees.
Empowering Women: A Paradigm Shift
The UCC bill also introduces provisions to empower women in various ways:
– Livelihood Allowance for Women in Live-In Relationships: In cases where a woman in a live-in relationship is abandoned, she has the right to claim a livelihood allowance from her former partner.
– Inclusion of Women’s Rights in Property: The bill acknowledges the rights of children born out of live-in relationships, granting them the same inheritance rights as biological children.
Exclusion of Scheduled Tribes from UCC Jurisdiction
A notable aspect of the UCC bill is the exclusion of scheduled tribes residing in the state from its jurisdiction, indicating a careful consideration of diverse cultural contexts.
In this historic move, Uttarakhand has taken a bold step towards fostering equality, justice, and empowerment, setting a precedent for other states to follow.
