Dehradun: Uttarakhand Set to Implement Uniform Civil Code by October

Giving a push to the double engine government  Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is gearing up to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) by October, making it the first Himalayan state to do so.

The report by the Expert Committee on UCC, chaired by Shatrughan Singh, was released recently.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami assured that the UCC aims to provide equal rights and protections to all citizens, regardless of religion, and to end many prevailing social evils. 

Dhami stated, "This law guarantees the respect for women and the security of every citizen.

Through this law, we aim to eliminate numerous malpractices present in society and ensure equal rights for all. 

Dhami has also made clear the state's commitment to strictly enforcing laws against forced religious conversions.

Dhami stated, "We have taken strong measures against forced religious conversions and 'love jihad,' ensuring that such acts are punishable with up to 10 years in prison under our new stringent laws".

Dhami highlighted that these steps are part of broader efforts to maintain the original demographic composition of Uttarakhand while safeguarding the rights and security of its citizens.

Talking about UCC in Uttarakhand,  Shatrughan Singh said, "We have established a system to register live-in relationships. Parents of children aged 18 to 21 will be informed about these arrangements.

While ensuring privacy for matters related to marriage, divorce, or live-in relationships, our database will be designed to prevent any privacy breaches by third parties."

He also acknowledged the Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's commitment to implementing the UCC by October, stating, "We respect the Chief Minister's statement and are working accordingly."

At a ceremony in Delhi organized by the Myeru Pahad Foundation, Singh highlighted the importance of this legislation.

He stated, "This law is a tribute to every citizen of Uttarakhand. With their support and blessings, we have succeeded in drafting the UCC. It will soon be implemented on the ground."

He said the UCC guarantees respect for women and the security of all citizens, aiming to end several social evils and provide equal rights to all residents of the state.