PNS | DEHRADUN
The recent implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand has sparked widespread debate among the State’s residents. While some see it as a progressive step toward equality and modernisation, others expressed concerns over its rushed execution, lack of clarity and potential social implications.
The UCC, which aims to replace personal laws with a uniform legal framework for local citizens, has become a focal point of discussion for Uttarakhand’s residents. A 28-year-old Dehradun resident Shivangi Dwivedi criticised the purportedly hurried implementation of the UCC. “In a State with diverse communities and traditions, imposing a uniform law might create confusion and unrest. Our State thrives on diversity and one law for all does not feel practical. People should have had more time to understand how it affects them personally rather than feeling it is being forced on them,” she said. Bank employee Sarthak Verma also raised concerns about certain provisions, including the mandatory registration of live-in relationships. “Those who register might become vulnerable to harassment, which is not uncommon here. Moreover, the exclusion of Scheduled Tribes defeats the very purpose of the UCC. How is it ‘uniform’ when it comes with exceptions rather than inclusions? It is just a waste of time and resources,” he said.
A postgraduate student Preeti Singh also questioned the interference in personal freedoms. “Why tamper with the rights of consenting adults? Does the government think people will actually take this law seriously?” she asked. A local resident Pratap Bhatt also called the UCC’s name misleading. “It is not truly a ‘uniform code’ when it excludes a large section of the population, mainly Hindu tribes. The provision requiring parental consent for relationships between consenting 21-year-olds is regressive. It feels like the government is meddling in personal lives unnecessarily,” he said. Dehradun resident Meeta Kathaith, who works in Delhi, expressed her apprehension about the state-wise rollout of the UCC. “I thought it was commonly understood that the UCC would be introduced nationwide after consultations with various groups. If each State implements its version, there will not be uniformity and later modifications will be chaotic. Our State might soon become a laughing stock,” she said. College student Shahzad Ali also raised his concerns as a Muslim. “Personal laws are part of my identity and this feels like an attempt to erase our customs. Instead of addressing real issues, the UCC is being used as a distraction to divide communities. I have heard that some organisations plan to challenge this law in court and I hope they succeed,” he said.
Many also criticised the government’s priorities, pointing to unaddressed local issues. Retired army officer Bishan Singh Jeena questioned the necessity of the UCC in Uttarakhand. “Did anyone here actually demand it? Instead of addressing irregularities in land laws or safeguarding the rights of Uttarakhand’s natives, the government is diverting attention to something we did not ask for,” he said. On the other hand, some residents supported the UCC. A nurse, Priyanka Gusain praised it as a step toward gender equality. “Discriminatory practices in personal laws have long denied women equal rights. The UCC can help ensure justice and empower women to stand on equal footing, regardless of religion,” she said.
A UPSC aspirant Shruti Khansali also expressed cautious optimism, acknowledging the mixed reactions. “Since the UCC is newly implemented, many people might not fully understand its implications. The government should focus on educating locals to clear doubts and build trust,” she said.
