Uttarakhand Pass the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill

The Uttarakhand assembly’s recent passage of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill 2024 marks a watershed moment in the state’s legislative history. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, heralding it as a historic milestone, emphasized its significance in fostering equality and unity among all citizens, transcending religious and social barriers.

Debate and Passage:
Following two days of rigorous debate, the assembly approved the UCC Bill by voice vote, underscoring bipartisan support for this groundbreaking legislation. While the Congress advocated for further deliberation in a select committee, the bill ultimately garnered unanimous approval.

Chief Minister’s Address:
Chief Minister Dhami, in his address to the assembly, expressed gratitude for the constructive dialogue that preceded the bill’s passage. He reiterated his government’s commitment to fulfilling its electoral promise of implementing the UCC, emphasizing its role in establishing a common legal framework for all residents of Uttarakhand.

Historical Context and Significance:
Dhami invoked the state’s cultural and spiritual heritage, symbolized by the sacred rivers Ganga and Yamuna, to underscore the transformative potential of the UCC. He likened its impact to the benevolent flow of the Ganges, blessing people across the nation, and emphasized its role in promoting the age-old adage of ‘unity in diversity.’

Public Consultation and Inclusivity:
The Chief Minister highlighted the extensive public consultation process undertaken by the government, involving over 2.32 lakh individuals and 43 public forums. This inclusive approach underscores the government’s commitment to soliciting diverse perspectives and ensuring the UCC’s resonance with the aspirations of the people.

Commitment to Equality:
Dhami reaffirmed the UCC’s core principle of equality, emphasizing its transformative potential in key areas such as marriage, maintenance, adoption, succession, and divorce. He echoed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ending gender-based discrimination and promoting social justice through comprehensive legal reform.

Addressing Past Injustices:
Reflecting on historical injustices and discriminatory practices, the Chief Minister underscored the UCC’s role in rectifying past errors and fostering a more equitable society. He lamented the legacy of vote bank politics and appeasement policies that perpetuated inequality, signaling a decisive break from the past.

Future Prospects and Adaptability:
While celebrating the UCC’s passage, Dhami emphasized its dynamic nature, open to future amendments and revisions as per evolving societal needs. This forward-looking approach underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring the UCC’s relevance and effectiveness in the long term.

Conclusion:
The passage of the UCC Bill in Uttarakhand represents a significant step towards realizing the ideals of equality, justice, and unity enshrined in the Constitution. As the state embarks on this transformative journey, it sets a powerful example for the nation, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive governance and social progress.