Uttarakhand’s UCC: Just One Live-in Couple Registered in 10 Days

Uttarakhand’s Uniform Civil Code: A Slow Start

The recent implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand, India, has [[sparked]] a debate. The state, under the BJP government, became the first in the country to enforce this significant legal change on January 27th, aiming for uniform laws across all religions. A key part of the UCC is the mandatory registration of live-in relationships. However, initial numbers show a less-than-enthusiastic response.

Low Registration Numbers Raise Questions

In the first 10 days following the UCC’s launch, only one live-in relationship has been officially registered. While officials state that five applications were received, only one was approved. This low number has raised questions about the public’s reception of this specific aspect of the UCC. The government-created online portal, designed to register marriages, divorces, and live-in relationships, saw Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami register his marriage as the first entry. However, this personal example hasn’t yet translated into widespread public participation in registering live-in partnerships.

Privacy Concerns and Public Awareness

The mandatory registration of live-in relationships has faced criticism, with some arguing that it infringes upon citizens’ right to privacy. High Court lawyer Kartikeya Hari Gupta described it as “peeping into bedrooms.” Another lawyer, Dushyant Mainali, suggests that the low participation might be due to a lack of public awareness of the UCC’s provisions, and potential penalties for non-compliance. There is also the possibility that people are hesitant to share personal relationship details on an official platform.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Under the UCC, live-in couples have one month to register their relationship. Failure to do so can result in a penalty of up to three months imprisonment and/or a fine of Rs 10,000. Non-compliance after receiving an official notice could lead to six months imprisonment and/or a Rs 25,000 fine. These [[strict penalties]] could be a factor in the low registration numbers.

Political Agenda or Public Need?

Mr. Mainali points out that the initial response indicates the UCC may be more of a political priority for the state government rather than a widespread public demand. The low numbers are leading to speculation about the practical implications and public perception of this [[controversial legislation]]. It is too early to definitively assess the long-term success of the UCC, but the initial low registration rates of live-in relationships are certainly noteworthy. Time will tell whether this initial low participation is indicative of a larger trend or merely a consequence of the early stages of implementation.

Looking Ahead

The implementation of the UCC is still in its early stages. Whether the registration numbers will eventually increase, or whether this low response will continue, is still uncertain. The situation needs more time for analysis before a full assessment of this law and its impact can be made. The ongoing debate and uncertainty about the UCC’s future [[impact]] make this a story worth following.

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