Clear Uniform Civil Code Bill

BJP-ruled Uttarakhand has become the first state to pass the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), a move that could encourage other BJP-ruled states to follow suit. The Bill, which seeks to replace the old personal laws that govern marriage, divorce, succession and live-in relationships, was passed in the State Assembly amid the opposition's demand to refer it to the select committee of the House.

UCC refers to a common set of laws that are applicable to all Indian citizens, and is not based on religion in dealing with marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption, among other personal matters.

"Today is an important day for Uttarakhand. We have passed a bill that people across the country have been demanding for a long time, and Uttarakhand is the first to pass it. I want to thank all the MLAs, and the people of Uttarakhand who gave us a chance to come to power and eventually pass the bill," Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami told reporters outside the assembly.

Mr Dhami thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his strong support and encouragement. The Chief Minister said the bill was not against anyone, but for the benefit of everyone, especially women. This bill will give the right to equality to everyone without any discrimination on matters like marriage, maintenance, inheritance, and divorce... It will mainly remove discrimination against women," the Chief Minister said.