Gujarat – Uniform Civil Code Context: Gujarat has become the second state following Uttarakhand to enact the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in 2026. Approved by the State Legislative Assembly, this law regulates marriage, divorce, inheritance, and live-in relationships under a single legal framework, irrespective of religion. About the Uniform Civil Code It aims to replace religion-specific personal laws by introducing a uniform, common law that applies equally to all individuals, regardless of their religion, caste, creed, gender, or sexual orientation. Constitutional Provisions Article 44 of the Indian Constitution serves as a directive principle, guiding the State to endeavor to secure a Uniform Civil Code for citizens throughout India. Matters such as marriage, divorce, adoption, and inheritance are listed in the Concurrent List (List III) of the Seventh Schedule to the Indian Constitution. Current Facts Purchasing Managers’ Index It is a measure of economic activity in both the manufacturing and services industries. It is based on surveys that ask participants to report how key business factors have changed compared to the previous month. Separate indices are prepared for the manufacturing and services sectors, which are then combined to form an overall composite index. This index indicates whether business conditions, according to purchasing managers, are improving, worsening, or remaining unchanged. Current Status of UCC in India Currently, a Uniform Civil Code is not in force on a nationwide basis in India. Uttarakhand was the first state in independent India to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). Goa follows a common civil code system based on the Portuguese Civil Code of 1867. The Supreme Court's Stance In cases such as Shah Bano (1985) and Sarla Mudgal (1995), the Supreme Court of India has recommended the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code. In the Shayara Bano vs. Union of India (2017) case, the Supreme…
