Uttarakhand adopts Uniform Civil Code Rules

Uttarakhand became the first Indian state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) on January 27, 2025.

The decision was approved by the state cabinet led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.

The UCC sets a uniform legal framework for marriage, divorce, inheritance, and live-in relationships.

Minimum marriage age is set at 18 years for women and 21 years for men, with mandatory marriage registration.

• Uniform grounds for divorce include cruelty, adultery, desertion, and mental illness.
• Equal inheritance rights are given to sons and daughters, removing the distinction between ancestral and self-acquired property.
• Mandatory registration of live-in relationships ensures legal protection and inheritance rights for children born in such relationships.
• Polygamy is completely banned across all religions.
• The law aims to promote gender equality and remove discriminatory practices but has sparked debates over its cultural impact.