Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Sets Age Limits and Marriage Rules Under New UCC
In a groundbreaking move, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has unveiled a proposal to implement a new set of rules for personal law, including age limits and marriage regulations, as part of a uniform civil code (UCC). The new rules are aimed at ensuring gender equality, promoting social welfare, and bringing uniformity in the governance of personal matters such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance across the state. The UCC proposal is seen as a bold step towards modernizing family laws and is expected to set a precedent for other states considering similar legislation.
The announcement came during a special session of the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly, where Dhami expressed that the UCC would not only streamline the state’s legal framework but also address societal concerns about age disparities and child marriages, which remain prevalent in certain parts of India. The proposed rules are designed to create a more equitable environment for both men and women, while safeguarding the rights of vulnerable groups.
Key Provisions of the New UCC
- Minimum Marriage Age: One of the most significant changes proposed by the Uttarakhand government is the raising of the minimum marriage age. Under the new UCC, the legal age for marriage for both men and women will be set at 21 years. This is in line with the recent changes made by the central government, which raised the minimum age of marriage for women from 18 to 21. The decision aims to curb child marriage and empower women by allowing them to complete their education and become financially independent before entering marriage.
- Gender-Neutral Marital Laws: The new UCC will also introduce gender-neutral provisions concerning marital rights and duties. Currently, personal laws in India are often governed by religion-specific codes, such as Hindu personal law or Muslim personal law, which can result in varying rules for different communities. The UCC aims to bring uniformity, ensuring that both men and women have equal rights and responsibilities in marriage, inheritance, and divorce.
- No Compulsory Marriages for Minorities: While the UCC proposal is designed to establish common rules, the Uttarakhand government has clarified that it will not force minorities to follow a singular religious code if it conflicts with their traditions. However, marriage under the new system will be subject to the legal age requirements and consent, regardless of religious affiliations.
- Marriage Registration: The UCC will mandate the registration of all marriages within 30 days of their solemnization. This move is aimed at ensuring legal protection for married individuals and preventing cases of polygamy or bigamy. It will also serve as a safeguard for women and children in cases of domestic violence or inheritance disputes.
- Inheritance and Property Rights: In addition to marriage laws, the UCC will address issues related to inheritance and property rights. The new rules will grant both daughters and sons equal rights over their parents’ property. This marks a significant shift from traditional laws, which have often favored male heirs over females. The proposal aims to ensure that both genders have equal access to property and wealth, thereby reducing gender-based financial disparities.
Public Reaction and Criticism
The announcement of the UCC has been met with mixed reactions. Many women’s rights organizations have hailed the move, emphasizing that the new marriage age limits and inheritance rights will offer women better protection and opportunities for personal growth. These changes are also expected to help reduce societal issues such as child marriages, dowry harassment, and gender discrimination.
However, religious groups and critics of the proposal have expressed concerns about the potential infringement on personal freedoms and religious practices. They argue that the state should not interfere in the personal and religious matters of citizens. Some have also raised questions about the feasibility of implementing a single set of laws in a country as diverse as India, with its wide array of cultural and religious practices.
Conclusion
As the debate continues, Uttarakhand’s move to introduce a Uniform Civil Code with specific age limits and marriage regulations signals a major shift towards uniformity and gender equality in personal laws. While the proposal faces challenges, it is clear that the state government is determined to modernize the legal framework and ensure equal rights for all citizens. The success of this initiative could pave the way for similar reforms in other states across the country, setting a new standard for the future of family law in India.
