Uttarakhand will implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) on January 27, just a day before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Dehradun. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is set to launch the UCC portal on the same day, marking Uttarakhand as the first state in India to introduce UCC, as confirmed by Chief Minister’s secretary, Shailesh Bagoli.
The UCC portal launch is scheduled for 12:30 pm at the Secretariat. Implementing UCC was one of the BJP's key promises during the 2022 Assembly elections, which led to the party's second consecutive term in power.
Community participation in UCC workshop
Earlier, a workshop on the UCC was held at the Uttarakhand police headquarters. Representatives from various communities actively participated, raising questions about their social rights under the code.
Legal experts and presenters explained that the UCC aims to establish harmony by creating uniformity in social rights across all religions and communities. They emphasised that the code promotes coordination and equality among diverse groups.
Also Read: Uttarakhand cabinet approves UCC rules ahead of rollout
Special provision for defence personnel
The UCC includes a special provision for defence personnel called the "privileged will." This allows soldiers, air force personnel, and mariners engaged in high-risk situations like warfare or expeditions to create a will flexibly, either in writing or verbally.
According to an official, a privileged will written by the testator in their handwriting does not require a signature or witness. Additionally, such a will can be declared verbally in the presence of two witnesses.
However, a verbal will becomes invalid if the testator survives and no longer qualifies to make a privileged will within one month.
This provision ensures that individuals in high-risk professions can express their wishes regarding their estate, providing a practical solution in challenging circumstances, the official added.
Also Read: Uttarakhand notifies UCC, set rules for marriages
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