Source: The Hindu
Pushkar Singh Dhami, the chief minister of Uttarakhand, formally implemented the Uniform Civil Code on Monday for all citizens of the state, with the exception of Scheduled Tribes and locals who have left the state. As a result, Uttarakhand became the first Indian state to adopt the UCC after gaining independence.
UCC outlaws’ practices like as Halala, Iddat, and Talaq. Additionally, it guarantees equal rights for women in matters pertaining to inheritance and property.
Online marriage, divorce, and cohabitation registration is required by UCC. For this reason, the government portal ucc.uk.gov.in was created. On the portal, users can contribute their own content, register complaints, and view records.
Aadhaar-based verification is available on the web portal. The text will be translated into 22 languages, including English, using an AI-powered translation service.
Additionally, the UCC stipulates that a landlord cannot refuse a home to a couple who have completed the live-in registration process. There are three options to register a will through the UCC portal: either fill out the form online, upload a handwritten or typed will, or film it in a three-minute video and upload it.
Model Question:
Q: Discuss the significance of implementing a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in India. Highlight the challenges associated with its implementation and suggest measures to address these challenges. (250 words)
The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) seeks to replace personal laws based on religion with a common set of laws governing marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption, and maintenance. Article 44 of the Indian Constitution envisions a UCC to ensure justice, equality, and national integration.
Significance of UCC
Gender Equality: It eliminates discriminatory practices in personal laws, especially against women, ensuring equal rights in marriage, inheritance, and maintenance.
Secularism: UCC promotes the secular fabric of India by separating religion from personal laws.
National Integration: A common civil code fosters a sense of unity and reduces communal divisions.
Simplification of Laws: Uniformity reduces legal complexities and promotes easier adjudication of disputes.
Judicial Recommendations: The judiciary, in cases like Shah Bano (1985) and Sarla Mudgal (1995), has advocated for UCC to address inconsistencies in personal laws.
Challenges in Implementation
Cultural and Religious Sensitivities: Resistance from communities fearing the erosion of their customs and traditions.
Diversity in Practices: India’s pluralistic society has deeply entrenched religious and regional practices.
Political Polarization: UCC is often perceived as a tool for political gains, causing apprehension.
Lack of Consensus: Building agreement among various stakeholders is a significant hurdle.
Gradual and Consultative Approach: Engage with communities to build trust and consensus.
Awareness Campaigns: Educate citizens on the benefits of UCC to reduce misinformation.
Codification of Existing Laws: Begin with the codification of personal laws to streamline inconsistencies.
Gender-Just Focus: Prioritize addressing gender discrimination to garner broader support.
While UCC can strengthen the principles of equality and secularism, its implementation requires careful balancing of constitutional values and societal sensitivities. A phased and inclusive approach, with widespread dialogue, is essential to achieve this constitutional vision without alienating any community.
