The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) was implemented in Uttarakhand on Monday. It aims to simplify laws related to marriage, divorce, inheritance, and live-in relationships while protecting personal rights.
The UCC applies to all residents of the state, regardless of religion, and bans practices like polygamy and child marriage. However, it does not apply to Scheduled Tribes or communities protected under the Constitution.
Marriage rules:
The UCC defines clear rules for marriage. Both individuals must:
- Be mentally fit and capable of consent.
- Meet the legal marriage age (21 for men and 18 for women).
- Have no living spouse.
- Avoid prohibited relationships.
Marriage registration is mandatory within 60 days but won’t invalidate the marriage if not completed on time. Marriages before March 26, 2010, can still be registered, though it’s optional. Registration can be done online or offline, and decisions must be made within 15 days. False information during registration can result in penalties.
Also Read: UCC to lay foundation for harmonious India: Uttarakhand CM
Rights of children:
Children from void or voidable marriages and live-in relationships will be considered legitimate. They will also have equal rights to ancestral property, as the term "illegitimate" has been removed from legal language.
Inheritance and wills:
The UCC streamlines the process of creating and canceling wills. It includes provisions for a “Privileged Will,” allowing soldiers and personnel in high-risk services to easily document their property decisions. These wills can be handwritten, verbal, or dictated and don’t require formalities like signatures if made during active service.
A privileged will becomes invalid one month after the service ends unless updated.
Technology and convenience:
The government is introducing an online portal to make these legal processes simpler and more accessible. While creating a will isn’t mandatory, the UCC offers an easy system for those who want to document their property decisions.
By simplifying these legal processes, the UCC aims to promote fairness, social harmony, and transparency in Uttarakhand.
Also Read: Uttarakhand becomes first state to implement Uniform Civil Code
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