Gujarat is set to become the second state after Uttarakhand to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). The Chief Minister made this announcement during a press conference, revealing the formation of a special committee to draft the UCC framework.
Key Announcement by Gujarat Government
The state government has formed a committee under the chairmanship of former Supreme Court Justice Ranjana Desai. The committee will gather public suggestions and draft the UCC for Gujarat.
The Chief Minister emphasized that Indianness and the Constitution are the guiding principles for this significant initiative.
Committee Members for UCC in Gujarat
- Justice Ranjana Desai (Retired Supreme Court Judge)
- C.L. Meena (Former IAS Officer)
- R.C. Kodekar (Advocate)
- Dakshesh Thakar (Former Vice Chancellor)
- Gitaben Shroff (Social Worker)
The committee is tasked with submitting its report within 45 days for government review.
Expected Changes Under UCC
Marriage and Divorce
- Minimum marriage age for girls set at 18 for all religions
- Equal rights for men and women in divorce
- Ban on polygamy
- Mandatory registration of live-in relationships
Inheritance and Property Rights
- Equal inheritance rights for women
Legal and Documentation Requirements
- Compulsory registration of marriages
- Six-month imprisonment for unregistered live-in relationships
Community Exemptions
- Scheduled Tribes will be excluded from UCC provisions
State Home Minister’s Assurance
State Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi assured that the rights of tribal communities will be fully protected. He further stated that the government would carefully review the committee’s report before implementing the UCC.
This landmark decision aims to bring uniformity to civil laws, ensuring equality and justice for all citizens in Gujarat.