Uttarakhand UCC demands registration for live-in couples, parental involvement essential

With the introduction of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand, individuals involved in or contemplating live-in relationships will be mandated to register with district authorities. The state assembly's recent bill presentation spearheaded by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami aims to align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of inclusive development while implementing comprehensive reforms, including regulations surrounding live-in arrangements.

The proposed UCC in Uttarakhand entails several provisions, notably addressing live-in relationships, which have garnered considerable attention. Under the new regulations, individuals in live-in relationships must register with district authorities, with those under 21 requiring parental consent for cohabitation. Registration extends to residents of Uttarakhand engaging in live-in relationships outside the state, except in cases deemed contrary to public policy or morality.

Additionally, stringent penalties are outlined for failure to register or providing false information, with fines up to ₹25,000 and imprisonment up to three months enforced. The legislation also ensures the legal recognition of children born from such relationships, granting them equal inheritance rights and safeguarding against stigma. Furthermore, provisions for maintenance rights for women abandoned by live-in partners are included, though specifics on "abandonment" criteria remain undefined.