
Tue Jan 28 07:12:57 UTC 2025: ## Uttarakhand Becomes First State to Adopt Uniform Civil Code
**Dehradun, India** – Uttarakhand has become the first state in India to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC), a move hailed by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami as a landmark achievement in ensuring equal rights for all citizens regardless of religious affiliation.
The UCC, launched with the inauguration of a dedicated portal on Monday, aims to replace what the government considers outdated personal laws that perpetuate inequality. While Goa has a pre-independence UCC, Uttarakhand is the first BJP-ruled state to enact a new, comprehensive code. CM Dhami stated that the UCC will eliminate discrimination based on caste, religion, sect, and gender, specifically mentioning an end to practices like “halala” and “iddat.” He also highlighted the empowerment of women as a key benefit.
The announcement has, however, been met with immediate opposition. The Muslim Sewa Sangthan, Tanzeem-e-Rahnuma-e-Millat, and Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind have announced their intention to challenge the UCC in court upon the reopening of the courts after the upcoming holidays. The CM, in contrast, expressed confidence that the UCC would serve as a model for other states, potentially sparking a nationwide movement towards greater social justice and equality.