Uttarakhand has implemented the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), which mandates the registration of live-in relationships, making it the first state in India to do so. The UCC provides legal recognition, ensures equal property rights for children, and imposes penalties for non-compliance. This progressive law aims to promote equality and social justice in civil matters.
Uttarakhand: The recent implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand has stirred nationwide discussions, especially regarding its impact on live-in relationships. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami highlighted the significance of the new rules, which mandate registration for live-in relationships while ensuring equal rights for children born out of such unions.
Mandatory Registration of Live-In Relationships
Under the UCC, registration of live-in relationships is mandatory, making Uttarakhand the first state in India to enforce such a regulation. Speaking about the new provisions, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami said,
“Children born through live-in relationships will also be considered to have equal rights in property. In this law, registration for live-in relationships has been made mandatory.”
He further explained,
“The registrar will give the information of the couple to their parents. This information will be kept completely confidential.”
Key Provisions of UCC for Live-In Relationships
The UCC outlines clear guidelines for individuals in live-in relationships, ensuring both legal recognition and accountability:
- Mandatory Declaration: Couples in a heterosexual live-in relationship within Uttarakhand, regardless of residency, must submit a statement to the registrar.
- Non-Resident Clause: Residents of Uttarakhand living in a live-in relationship outside the state may also register their declaration with the registrar.
- Confidentiality Assured: While parents of the couple will be informed, the details will remain strictly confidential.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance: Failing to register as live-in partners could result in a three-month jail term or a fine. Delays in registration or providing false information could lead to a six-month jail term or a fine of Rs 25,000.
- Equal Property Rights for Children: Children born out of live-in relationships will have equal rights to inheritance and property under the new law.
How the UCC Came Into Effect
The implementation of the UCC was a key promise of the Dhami-led government during the 2022 assembly elections. Following its victory, the government acted swiftly:
- In March 2022, the state cabinet approved the formation of an expert committee to draft the UCC.
- On May 27, 2022, the committee, headed by retired Supreme Court Judge Ranjana Prakash Desai, was constituted.
- After engaging with diverse stakeholders, the committee submitted a detailed draft to the state government on February 2, 2024.
- The legislation was passed by the state assembly on February 7, 2024, and received presidential assent shortly thereafter.
- Finally, the UCC was officially implemented in Uttarakhand on January 27, 2025.
A Transformative Step
The UCC aims to standardize civil laws governing marriage, divorce, succession, inheritance, and related matters, ensuring equality for all citizens regardless of religion or gender. By introducing mandatory registration for live-in relationships, the UCC not only provides legal recognition to such unions but also protects the rights of individuals and children involved.
Uttarakhand’s bold move to implement the UCC reflects a progressive approach to governance and equality. While the law has sparked debates across India, it is widely seen as a significant step toward inclusive governance, legal accountability, and social justice.
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