Uttarakhand Chief Minister Celebrates First Anniversary of Uniform Civil Code Implementation
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami marked a significant milestone on Tuesday by commemorating the first anniversary of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) implementation in the state, celebrated as 'UCC Day'. Addressing a special program, Dhami declared that the UCC has initiated a transformative era of women's empowerment across Uttarakhand.
Ending Discrimination Through Uniform Laws
Dhami emphasized that for years, different personal laws for various communities fostered discrimination, inequality, and injustice within society. The implementation of the UCC has not only granted equal rights to all citizens but has specifically empowered women, according to the Chief Minister. He stated, "The implementation of the UCC has not only given equal rights to all citizens of the state but has also ushered in a new era of women's empowerment in the state."
Impact on Social Evils and Women's Rights
The Chief Minister highlighted tangible benefits, noting that Muslim women in Uttarakhand have been liberated from practices like halala, iddat, polygamy, child marriage, and triple talaq. Remarkably, not a single case of halala has been reported since the UCC's enforcement, a fact that Dhami credits for the law's warm reception by Muslim women. However, he acknowledged that some polygamy cases have emerged, vowing strict action against such violations.
Historical Context and Political Commitment
Uttarakhand holds the distinction of being the first Indian state to implement the UCC. Dhami criticized past "vote bank politics" for delaying this move post-independence, pointing out that uniform codes are standard in developed nations and many Muslim-majority countries. He referenced constitutional framers, including B.R. Ambedkar, who advocated for the UCC under Article 44's Directive Principles.
Fulfilling a pre-election promise from the 2022 Assembly polls, Dhami initiated the UCC process upon forming his government, culminating in its implementation on January 27, 2025. He described this achievement as a "golden chapter" in Uttarakhand's history and a source of personal pride.
Legal Framework and Future Provisions
Reiterating that the UCC is not anti-religious, Dhami framed it as a legal measure to eradicate social evils and foster equality and harmony. "Through this law, the fundamental beliefs and practices of any religion have not been changed; only the harmful practices have been removed," he clarified.
Recent amendments via an ordinance introduce provisions to annul marriages involving identity concealment or false information, alongside strict penalties for coercion, fraud, or illegal acts in marriages and live-in relationships. Dhami also honored officials who contributed to the UCC's drafting and registration efforts.
