Exclusive: Dhami Leads Uttarakhand’s UCC Implementation, Ensures Religious Harmony & Women’s Rights

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami highlighted the state’s pioneering role in implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), describing it as a landmark initiative for equality and women’s empowerment. Dhami recalled that after the 2022 elections, the government prioritized introducing a law that provides uniform legal protection to all residents, aligning with India’s Constitution. The UCC draft, prepared under Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai’s committee, underwent extensive consultation with stakeholders over two years before being implemented. Since its introduction, Dhami emphasized, there has not been a single major controversy, and Muslim women in the state have welcomed the reform, which addresses social issues such as polygamy, halala, and iddat, offering them legal security. Dhami also addressed concerns regarding access to religious sites, explaining that the state ensures that temples and shrines remain inclusive, while respecting traditional custodians and rituals. He stressed that all decisions are taken collaboratively with stakeholders to maintain harmony, with the government acting as facilitator rather than unilateral enforcer. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guidance for inspiring the initiative and highlighted that Uttarakhand, with its vast forests, glaciers, and sacred sites, aims to set a model for other states in both legal reform and cultural inclusivity. The CM’s approach balances modernization with respect for Uttarakhand’s spiritual and social heritage.

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