Implementation of First Uniform Civil Code in Uttarakhand ▪ Uttarakhand has become the first state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) after independence. ▪ Currently, different religious communities follow separate laws regarding marriage, divorce, adoption, and property rights. ▪ For this, an expert committee was formed under the chairmanship of former Supreme Court Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai. Key Features ▪ UCC applies to all residents of Uttarakhand except tribal communities. ▪ Under this law, not only marriage registration but also live-in relationships must be registered with the government. This can be done online. ▪ The law ensures common rules for divorce, remarriage, and alimony. ▪ It prohibits polygamy and the practice of Halala. ▪ Emphasizing gender equality, it sets the same minimum marriage age for both men and women. ▪ It ensures equal property rights for both male and female children. ▪ Children born in void marriages will be considered legal heirs, and the will-writing process has been simplified.
