UCC in Uttarakhand: Opposition from Muslim Community

Dehradun- Uttarakhand marked a significant milestone this week by implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), becoming the first state to do so under Article 44 of the Constitution. The new law establishes uniform rules for personal and family matters across all religious communities.

In an exclusive interview, Shatrughan Singh, who headed the Rules and Implementation Committee, shared insights into this groundbreaking legislation. Singh, who led the drafting of the 400-page manual that has now become law, emphasized that while Goa already had UCC provisions, Uttarakhand is the first to specifically fulfill constitutional expectations.

The implementation process spanned over three years and involved extensive community engagement. Committee members traveled throughout the state, consulting with various religious groups and studying traditional laws to create a unified framework. Singh noted that despite Uttarakhand's diverse demographic makeup, the fundamental principles of UCC would remain applicable across different states.

Addressing concerns about personal laws, Singh clarified that they haven't been abolished entirely. Instead, the code includes specific provisions for marriage, divorce, and maintenance, with clear guidelines for court involvement. The new law also introduces penalties for non-compliance, such as failing to register marriages or live-in relationships.

Key features of the UCC include the abolition of practices like polygamy and halala in the Muslim community, mandatory registration for live-in relationships, and equal rights for children born to unmarried couples. However, the code does not recognize same-sex marriages, limiting marriage to heterosexual couples.

While acknowledging opposition from certain quarters, particularly regarding religious and cultural changes, Singh maintained that the law primarily aims to protect women's rights across all communities. He expressed readiness to assist other states interested in drafting similar legislation, noting that Uttarakhand's model could serve as a template that states could modify according to their specific needs.

Singh, who currently chairs the Pay Discrepancy Committee, continues to work on policy-making initiatives and has offered his expertise to other states considering UCC implementation.