Committee Formed to Draft UCC Under CM Vishnu Deo Sai; Political Heat Intensifies
Raipur | The Chhattisgarh government has taken a major and historic step towards implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state. In a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai at Mahanadi Bhavan, the government decided to initiate the process of replacing existing personal laws with a uniform legal framework.
High-Level Committee to Draft UCC
The Council of Ministers has approved the formation of a high-level committee, chaired by retired judge Ranjana Prakash Desai, to prepare the draft of the Uniform Civil Code. The Chief Minister has been authorized to nominate other members of the committee.
The committee will consult citizens, social organizations, and experts to prepare a framework that will enable a uniform legal system governing marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption, and maintenance.
Impact on Personal Laws
Currently, these matters are governed by different personal laws based on religion, often leading to complexity and inequality in legal processes. The government believes that implementing UCC will:
- Simplify and standardize laws
- Enhance transparency in the justice system
- Promote religious and gender equality
This move is seen as a step towards fulfilling the vision of Article 44 of the Constitution of India.
Public Participation in Law-Making
The government aims to make the process participatory. The committee will invite suggestions from the public through a web portal. The draft will be presented in the State Assembly after cabinet approval.
Political and Social Reactions Expected
This decision is not just administrative but marks the beginning of a significant shift in the social and legal framework of the state.
- If implemented, it will replace religion-based personal laws with a uniform civil system for the first time in the state.
- The move is expected to trigger intense political, social, and legal debates in the coming days.
Other Key Cabinet Decisions
While UCC was the highlight, several other important decisions were also taken:
- 50% reduction in property registration fees for women to promote women’s empowerment
- 25% stamp duty concession for serving and retired soldiers on property purchases up to ₹25 lakh
- Amendments in industrial land rules to improve Ease of Doing Business
- Changes in sand mining and mineral rules to ensure transparency and availability
- Strengthening rural economy through livestock and vaccination initiatives
This cabinet decision signals a transformative phase in Chhattisgarh’s governance, with far-reaching implications for law, society, and politics.
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