The Chhattisgarh government has officially invited stakeholders, including citizens and religious institutions, to submit suggestions on the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) by October 15.

Key Takeaways

  • The 5-member high-level committee has set October 15 as the deadline for suggestions.
  • CM Vishnu Deo Sai intends to table the UCC Bill in the upcoming Winter Session.
  • The committee is reviewing marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption laws.
  • Opposition demands exemptions for tribal communities to protect traditional customs.

RAIPUR: In a significant move toward legal reform, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Chhattisgarh announced on Tuesday that the committee tasked with drafting the framework for the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) has begun soliciting public opinion. The committee has reached out to government and non-government organizations, social groups, religious institutions, and individual citizens to contribute to the proposed law.

The Submission Process

According to an official statement, the five-member high-level committee, headed by Justice Desai, has established October 15 as the final deadline for submissions. Stakeholders can provide their feedback via email at [email protected], through the dedicated web portal (https://ucc.cgstate.gov.in/), or by post to the Committee's office in Raipur.

Legislative Roadmap

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has previously indicated that the UCC Bill is expected to be introduced in the State Assembly during the upcoming Winter Session. The committee is currently conducting a comprehensive review of existing personal laws to ensure the new framework is practical and legally sound regarding matters like maintenance, succession, and adoption.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that Chhattisgarh's initiative follows the footsteps of states like Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Assam, and Madhya Pradesh. The implementation of a UCC represents a major shift from religion-based personal laws to a unified constitutional framework, potentially reshaping the social fabric of the state.

The success of the UCC in Chhattisgarh will depend on how effectively the state integrates modern legal standards while respecting the unique cultural identities of its diverse population.

Comparison of UCC Implementation Status

StateUCC StatusKey Focus Areas
UttarakhandImplemented/In ProgressMarriage and Live-in relations
Madhya PradeshBill PassedBan on polygamy & Tribal exemptions
ChhattisgarhProposed/Consultation PhaseDrafting the framework
Did You Know?: In Madhya Pradesh, the UCC bill includes specific provisions to exclude tribal communities to protect their centuries-old traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I submit my suggestions for the UCC?
You can submit suggestions via email, the official web portal, or by post to the Civil Lines office in Raipur.

2. What is the main concern raised by the opposition?
The opposition is demanding that tribal communities be exempted from the UCC to preserve their traditional social and marriage systems.