The Uttarakhand government will start implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) from January 2025, making it the first state in India to introduce this law since Independence. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said that the UCC draft was given to the state administration on October 18. The government is preparing for the rollout and plans to finish all necessary work before the deadline.

"Our government has taken the historic decision to implement the Uniform Civil Code in January 2025," said CM Dhami. He added that this move aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

How is the Uttarakhand government preparing for the UCC rollout?

The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is designed to ensure that all citizens are treated equally and have the same opportunities, without any discrimination. To get ready for its implementation, Uttarakhand's Legislative and Law departments have reviewed a detailed draft created by a nine-member group led by former chief secretary Shatrughan Singh.

The government has also set up a smaller five-member team, also led by Singh, to manage the training of about 30,000 government employees. This training will help the employees understand the new rules and how to use tools like online portals and apps for providing services.

The training sessions teach government employees how to use a new online portal and mobile app. These tools will let people submit documents digitally for services like registration or appeals. This means they won't need to visit government offices in person, making the process easier and faster.

"Maximum services should be kept online, keeping public convenience in mind," Dhami directed officials. The training for state employees will be completed within a month, and infrastructure for implementing the UCC is being gathered.

Why is the UCC important for Uttarakhand?

According to CM Dhami, the UCC reflects the vision of the Constitution's makers, who aimed for equality, justice, and unity in society. "We are fully committed to fulfilling the expectations they have of us to ensure equality, justice, and unity in society," he said.

Uniform Civil Code (UCC)

The Uniform Civil Code means that the same laws will apply to everyone, no matter their religion. It will make rules for things like marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption, and property sharing equal for all. This idea is to ensure fairness and keep religion separate from everyday laws.