Uttarakhand is set to implement its Uniform Civil Code or UCC on January 26, 2025. As a part of it, the state will introduce comprehensive digital registration requirements for various personal relationships and successions. The state has begun training officials on using the new UCC portal, which will serve as the primary platform for live-in couples. Here are all of the other important details that you would need to know about this particular set of new rules.
Uttarakhand: New Rules For Live-In Couples Under UCC
According to an article that was recently exclusively published by The Indian Express or IE, the portal mandates Aadhaar-linked registration for three user categories. These are citizens, service centre staff, and officials. The system also accommodates registration for Uttarakhand natives living elsewhere in India.
Notable features include mandatory registration of both marriages and live-in relationships. Similar documentation is required for both. Live-in couples must provide personal details including age proof, nationality, religion, and relationship status.
For testamentary succession cases, the new requirements include video recordings of witnesses reading succession declarations, along with Aadhaar details of all parties involved. The portal also allows third-party objections to marriages or live-in relationships, with sub-registrars responsible for verifying complaints to prevent misuse.
To support implementation, the government has established three state-level assistance centres: the IT Development Agency for technical support, the Common Service Centre for training, and the Prosecution Department for legal assistance.
Will It Apply To Same-Sex Couples?
While there may be some uncertainty around the question, it does not seem likely that same-sex couples will be recognised, and hence, come under the purview of the new UCC rules. The uncertainty primarily arose owing to the wording in Uttarakhand’s UCC Draft.
As per an article by The Print published last year, the draft employs the gender-neutral word ‘partner’ instead of the usual man-woman. This suggested that the bill may be aiming to be more inclusive.
However, it is important to note that the UCC does not recognise same-sex relationships. This is as per Sage Journals. Hence, it is unlikely that such couples will come under the scope of these new rules.
Do you think allowing government to control citizens’ private lives is a good move? Let us know in the comments section below!
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