Uttarakhand CM Dhami Declares UCC Implementation a Golden Chapter in State History
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has proclaimed the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) as a golden chapter in the state's historical narrative. Speaking at the inaugural "Uniform Civil Code Day" event held on Tuesday at the Himalayan Cultural Center in Garhi Cantt, Dehradun, the CM emphasized that this milestone ensures the establishment of social justice, equality, and constitutional values across Uttarakhand.
Honoring Contributors to UCC Drafting and Implementation
During the ceremony, CM Dhami paid tribute to various stakeholders involved in the UCC process. He honored:
- Members of the committee responsible for drafting the Uniform Civil Code
- Administrative officers who facilitated its smooth implementation
- Individuals who contributed to the registration procedures
The Chief Minister highlighted how this initiative aligns with Sanatan culture and traditions, which have historically promoted harmony and equality. He referenced Lord Krishna's teachings in the Gita as foundational to these principles.
Constitutional Foundations and Political Commitment
Dhami elaborated on the constitutional basis for the UCC, noting that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and other framers of the Indian Constitution included it under Article 44 in the Directive Principles of State Policy. They envisioned a common law applicable to all citizens, transcending community-specific personal laws.
The CM revealed that, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's guidance, he incorporated the commitment to implement the UCC in Uttarakhand into his election manifesto before the 2022 Assembly polls. He expressed gratitude to the people of Devbhoomi for supporting the BJP in this divine task, which he described as a transformative endeavor for the state.
Addressing Historical Inequalities and Empowering Women
CM Dhami addressed the societal challenges that preceded the UCC implementation, stating that discrimination, inequality, and injustice had persisted due to varying personal laws for different communities. He argued that these disparities created an uneven social fabric that needed rectification.
With the UCC now in effect, Dhami asserted that not only have equal rights been secured for all citizens, but a new era of women's empowerment has commenced in Uttarakhand. He emphasized that the code eliminates legal disparities that previously hindered gender equality, particularly in matters of marriage, inheritance, and divorce.
Cultural and Social Implications of UCC in Uttarakhand
The Chief Minister connected the UCC's principles to Uttarakhand's cultural ethos, suggesting that the state's spiritual heritage naturally supports uniform civil laws. He positioned the implementation as both a legal reform and a cultural reaffirmation, bridging modern constitutional values with traditional wisdom.
Dhami concluded by reiterating that the UCC represents a historic achievement for Uttarakhand, setting a precedent for other states to follow. He expressed confidence that this move will foster greater social cohesion and reinforce the state's commitment to progressive governance.
