Uttarakhand Moves Forward with Uniform Civil Code (UCC) + UPSC?.ToString()?? UPSC?.ToString()+" Current Affairs";

Why in the News?
Uttarakhand is set to become the first state in India to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), with the state government approving the UCC rules manual. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the Cabinet has introduced key provisions to streamline legal services such as marriage registration, divorce, live-in relationships, and inheritance through digital and offline platforms.
Key Takeaways:
Introduction to UCC in Uttarakhand:
The Uniform Civil Code seeks to unify laws governing marriage, divorce, inheritance, and maintenance across all communities and faiths in Uttarakhand. This landmark step aims to promote equality, inclusivity, and efficient legal services.
Key Provisions of UCC’s Rules:
Marriage Registration: Registration and acknowledgment of marriages.
Divorce Registration: Processes for divorce registration and nullifying marriages.
Live-in Relationships: Provisions for the registration and termination of live-in relationships.
Inheritance Services: Registration of legal heirs (intestate succession) and wills (testamentary succession).
Complaint Mechanism: A grievance system to file and track complaints and appeals.
Equality Provisions: Equal inheritance rights for women, bans on polygamy, and a uniform marriageable age (18 for women, 21 for men).
Digital Integration for Ease of Access:
A dedicated portal and mobile app have been developed to simplify online registration processes, ensuring wider access.
Common Service Centres (CSC): For those without digital literacy, offline services will be available in remote areas.
Helpline and Support: A helpline and district-level officers are appointed for legal assistance.
Training and Implementation:
Officials’ Training: Extensive training programs are underway for 10,000 officials, including Village Development Officers (VDOs), to familiarize them with the UCC system.
Mock Drill: A statewide mock drill for system readiness is planned for January 21, 2025.
Implementation Timeline: The official date for UCC implementation will be announced after training is completed on January 24, 2025.
Objectives of UCC Implementation in Uttarakhand:
Inclusivity: Ensure all citizens, regardless of location or socio-economic status, have equal access to legal services.
Ease of Access: Digital platforms, combined with offline support, aim to make processes like marriage and inheritance registration simple and accessible.
Transparency and Efficiency: Digital integration of services reduces bureaucracy and fosters transparency, streamlining legal procedures.
Significance:
Uttarakhand’s move to implement UCC is a historic step toward equality and streamlined legal governance in India. It represents a model for other states aiming to adopt similar reforms.