Uttarakhand Implements Uniform Civil Code: Key Changes for Live-In Couples

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Dehradun: In a historic move, Uttarakhand has become the first Indian state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), as announced by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. The landmark legislation, which aims to bring uniformity in legal provisions across communities, will have significant implications for live-in relationships, among other societal aspects.

Speaking about the UCC, Dhami highlighted its importance in fostering equality and harmony. “UCC is our contribution to the great ‘yagya’ led by Prime Minister Modi to make India a developed, harmonious, and self-reliant nation,” he stated.

The UCC establishes a uniform set of laws governing marriage, divorce, inheritance, property rights, and adoption for all citizens, regardless of religion or community. For live-in couples, the UCC introduces mandatory registration of relationships, providing legal recognition and rights previously unavailable under varied personal laws.

Key changes under the UCC for live-in relationships include:

  1. Mandatory Registration: Couples in live-in relationships will now have to register their partnership, ensuring legal documentation and clarity.
  2. Legal Protections: Registered live-in relationships will be entitled to legal safeguards, including rights in cases of separation or disputes.
  3. Uniform Age of Marriage: The UCC sets the minimum marriage age at 21 for both men and women, aligning with broader efforts to promote education and maturity before marriage.
  4. Ban on Polygamy and Child Marriage: These reforms extend to live-in relationships, reinforcing ethical and legal standards.

The UCC’s implementation was a core promise of the BJP during the 2022 Uttarakhand Assembly elections, where the party secured a historic second consecutive term in office. Dhami attributed the BJP’s resounding victory to its commitment to delivering on this agenda.

The move has drawn widespread attention as it sets a precedent for other states and the nation. The uniformity brought by the UCC is expected to resolve legal ambiguities, promote gender equality, and ensure a more organized legal framework for relationships, marriage, and family rights.

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