Advent of UCC in India and Challenges: With reference to recent bills

introduction in the parliament

Abstract
The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) proposes a unified legal framework for governing aspects
such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption across all religious communities in India.
This idea is encapsulated in Article 44 of the Constitution, which seeks to establish a
consistent civil code throughout the nation.
Article 44's origin in the Directive Principles of the Indian Constitution aimed to address
discrimination against marginalized groups and promote unity among the country's diverse
cultural segments. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, during the Constitution's drafting, advocated a
voluntary approach to the UCC. Consequently, Article 35 from the original Constitution was
later incorporated as Article 44 in the Directive Principles of State Policy. This provision was
included with the understanding that it could be implemented when there is widespread
societal acceptance and support for the UCC
Keywords:
[01:24, 21/08/2023] Devesh: ANTI

Dehradun: The Uttarakhand government on Friday constituted a five-member committee to

be led by a former Supreme Court judge, Justice (retired) Ranjana Prakash Desai, to prepare a
draft proposal for the implementation of Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the hill state. It will
also include Justice Permod Kohli (retired), social activist Manu Gaur, former chief secretary
Shatrughan Singh and vice- chancellor of Doon University Surekha Dangwal.

The panel has been tasked to conduct a wide range of consultations, check legal aspects and
deliberate on amendments required in the law before handing over the draft proposal of the
findings to the state government.
[01:24, 21/08/2023] Devesh: A notification on the draft panel and its approval by

governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (retd) was issued by additional chief secretary Radha Raturi
on Friday evening.

Soon after Friday's announcement, CM Pushkar Singh

Dhami said, "We had made a promise to the people of

Uttarakhand before the state elections and the formation of this committee is an important
move in that direction. The UCC will provide for the same laws regarding marriage, divorce,
land, property and inheritance for all, irrespective of their faith. This will increase social
harmony, promote gender justice and empower women."
[01:24, 21/08/2023] Devesh: rm Civil Code

The CM also said that other states should follow the

template of UCC being implemented by the Uttarakhand government. Dhami pointed out that
"in the first cabinet meeting after the swearing-in ceremony, the government on March 24 had
passed a proposal to implement the UCC."

Citing the reasons behind the need for UCC, he said,

"Uttarakhand is a vibrant state whose culture and heritage have been at the core of Indian
civilisation for centuries. This is a 'Devbhoomi' for the people and the state has been a centre
of knowledge and spirituality of our Vedas, Puranas and sages. People from all corners of the
country come here with great faith and devotion. Therefore, it is important to protect the
cultural and spiritual heritage." The chief minister further said that "protecting the cultural
and spiritual
[01:24, 21/08/2023] Devesh: Heritage , preserving its environment and the borders are
important for the state and the country.