In a significant development, the Uttarakhand assembly, on Wednesday, passed the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill 2024 by voice vote, marking a historic moment in the country’s legislative landscape. The passage of the bill comes after a rigorous debate spanning two days, during which Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami hailed the occasion as a watershed moment for the nation.
The Congress, while acknowledging the importance of the UCC, advocated for sending the bill to the select committee for thorough deliberation. Leader of Opposition Yashpal Arya emphasized the need for addressing ambiguities and complexities through comprehensive discussions. Despite amendments proposed by Arya and BSP MLA Shahzad, the House did not consider them during the deliberations.
Chief Minister Dhami, in his address preceding the bill’s passage, lauded the extensive discussions held by both ruling and opposition MLAs, underscoring the state’s privileged position in spearheading this transformative legislation. Reflecting on the state’s commitment to upholding the principles of unity in diversity, Dhami expressed gratitude to the people for their unwavering support.
Dhami traced the genesis of the UCC, highlighting the exhaustive public consultations and widespread participation that shaped its contours. With over 43 public consultations and inputs from 2.32 lakh individuals, the UCC Committee meticulously crafted a framework that underscores the principles of equality and justice.
Emphasizing the transformative potential of the Uniform Civil Code Bill, Dhami underscored its role in fostering societal harmony and dismantling entrenched inequalities. He stressed the need to transcend vote bank politics and embrace a society founded on principles of equality and justice, echoing the ideals enshrined in the Constitution.
The UCC Bill encompasses provisions aimed at promoting gender equality, inheritance rights, and marital rights, while also addressing issues of polygamy and live-in relationships. Scheduled Tribes have been accorded exemptions to preserve their customs and traditions, underscoring the government’s commitment to cultural diversity.
The passage of the Uniform Civil Code Bill heralds a new era of social reform and progress, signaling a departure from divisive politics and reaffirming the state’s commitment to inclusive governance. As Uttarakhand blazes a trail in enacting progressive legislation, the nation looks forward to embracing a future defined by equality, justice, and unity.
In addition to the Uniform Civil Code Bill, the assembly also approved a bill providing reservation to statehood agitators in government jobs, further cementing Uttarakhand’s commitment to inclusive development. With the passage of these landmark bills, the assembly adjourned sine die, marking a momentous chapter in the state’s legislative journey.
Dhairya Saraswat