Mon Jan 27 17:52:05 UTC 2025: ## Uttarakhand Launches Historic Uniform Civil Code
**Dehradun, January 27, 2025** – Uttarakhand has become the first state in India to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC), marking a significant step towards ensuring equal rights for all citizens regardless of religion. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami launched the UCC’s official portal (ucc.uk.gov.in) and its accompanying rules today.
The process began on May 27, 2022, with the formation of an expert committee. The state assembly passed the bill on February 8, 2023, receiving presidential assent on March 8, 2024. The rules were finalized in October 2024, culminating in today’s implementation.
The UCC aims to standardize personal laws related to marriage, divorce, inheritance, and succession, applying to all residents except scheduled tribes, and also to Uttarakhand residents living outside the state. Implementation will be overseen by a tiered system: SDMs and Gram Panchayat Vikas Adhikaris in rural areas, SDMs and executive officers in municipal areas, and municipal commissioners in municipal corporations. A Registrar General will monitor the entire process.
Key features of the UCC include mandatory marriage registration within 60 days of the wedding (with a six-month grace period for marriages since March 26, 2010), clear guidelines for live-in relationships requiring registration within one month of commencement, and simplified will-making processes through an online portal. Citizens can register marriages, file complaints, and access help desks through the new online portal.
The government has emphasized the accessibility of the UCC through the online portal and the technical support provided. Uttarakhand’s implementation is hailed as a significant step towards equality and is expected to foster a more equitable society.
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