January 27, 2025: Uttarakhand has become the first state in India to implement the much-debated Uniform Civil Code (UCC) from today, marking a historic step in the country’s legal and societal framework. The law, which aims to standardize personal laws across all religions, has stirred a range of reactions, with both support and criticism following its introduction.

The newly enacted UCC Act of Uttarakhand regulates several critical aspects of personal law, including marriage, divorce, succession, and live-in relationships. Notably, it sets an equal marriageable age for both men and women, creates uniform grounds and procedures for divorce, and bans polygamy and the controversial practice of 'halala.' The UCC also introduces a framework for the registration of marriages, divorces, and live-in relationships, ensuring transparency and legal recognition.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami officially launched the implementation of the law, emphasizing that from this moment, "the constitutional and civil rights of all the citizens of the state of Uttarakhand have become equal, and women of all religions have gained equal rights."

Along with the UCC implementation, CM Dhami introduced a rules manual and an online portal for applications from the CM’s camp office in Dehradun, designed to assist citizens with the transition and ensure compliance with the new laws.

The Uniform Civil Code has been a long-standing topic of discussion in India, and its implementation in Uttarakhand has sparked polarized opinions. Proponents of the UCC argue that it will bring much-needed equality and harmony to the diverse society of India, while critics voice concerns about its potential to create divisions and disrupt existing cultural practices.

The path to this momentous legislation began during the 2022 Uttarakhand Assembly elections, where CM Dhami had made a promise to implement the UCC if re-elected. After securing victory, he formed a five-member committee led by Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai to draft the code, incorporating feedback from over 2.3 lakh citizens.

On February 2, 2024, the 740-page draft was presented to the Chief Minister, and it was swiftly approved by the cabinet. The bill was then tabled in the state assembly on February 6, passed the following day, and received formal approval from Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (retd) on February 28. It was signed by President Droupadi Murmu on March 11, 2024.

Today’s implementation coincides with the scheduled visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Dehradun, further symbolizing the state's contribution to the nation's development agenda.

CM Dhami has framed the UCC as part of the larger vision for a "developed, organised, harmonious, and self-reliant nation." "UCC is just an offering made by our state in the great 'yagya' being performed by the Prime Minister," he said, referencing the national initiative.

As Uttarakhand moves forward with the UCC, the state will be closely watched for its impact on religious practices, women’s rights, and the broader societal landscape. The true effects of the law will unfold over time, with some hailing it as a step toward equality, while others remain wary of its implications.