Uttarakhand to Enforce Uniform Civil Code: Live-in Relationship, Divorce Registration Online

Uttarakhand will be the first state in India to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), a holistic legal framework which ensures equal rights for all citizens. The historic decision has come after 10 months and 22 days of concerted effort culminating in the Cabinet approving the draft. The law is scheduled to come into effect from January 26, 2025. It has already been passed by the legislature on March 8, 2024, and got the President’s assent on March 12. Today, a state-level mock drill of the UCC web portal is conducted to assess the registration process and operational issues that may be identified.

Main Points of the Uniform Civil Code

The 92-page UCC rulebook, prepared after detailed deliberations with the Departments of Justice and Legislation, covers many aspects of civil life, including marriage, divorce, inheritance, live-in relationships, and registration of terminations. Applicants can register online on the official portal ucc.uk.gov.in.

The important provisions are as follows:

Registration Provisions

• Live-In Relationships: The live-in relationship can be registered, and the couple can mutually decide to end it. Both parties would have to confirm to terminate.
• Marriage and Divorce: The marriage and divorce registration process will be simplified. Divorce registration will require a court order beforehand.
• Inheritance: The sub-registrar’s office will handle inheritance-related registrations, and names, addresses, and witness details will be required. The portal will enable uploading of wills and modifications.
• Online Accessibility: The citizen can register from their houses using the Aadhaar number. They can also monitor their applications and complaints through e-mail and SMS.

Three-Tier Registration Process

An overall three-tier registration process has been devised in order to ensure accessibility:

• Village Level: The sub-registrar will be the Village Development Officer.
• Urban Areas: The Executive Officer will be the registrar in municipalities and panchayats, whereas SDM-level officers will be the registrars.
• Municipal Corporations: The Tax Superintendent shall act as the sub-registrar and the Municipal Commissioner as the registrar.

A Registrar General will monitor complaints and appeals regarding registrations so that it would be settled within a specific period of time.

Mock Drill for the Web Portal

Today’s mock drill will test the functionality of the UCC web portal. Registrars and sub-registrars will use the portal to test the registration process, including applications submitted through Common Service Centers (CSCs). All issues found will be rectified to improve the system.

Fee Structure and Services

The government is finalizing the fee structure for UCC registrations, which will range from ₹50 to ₹500. Registration via CSCs will attract an additional ₹50 fee. In remote and hilly areas, CSC agents will facilitate home registrations for citizens.

Ensuring Transparency and Privacy

Although the registration data will be open to the public for greater transparency, the individual’s personal data will not be made public without the individual’s consent. Citizens can also file complaints through the portal and track their status.

Implementation of the UCC is one of the greatest steps toward civil law modernization and ensuring equality for all citizens. The State of Uttarakhand is aiming to simplify the legal processes with the help of technology and local governance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can register on the UCC portal?

Any citizen of Uttarakhand who meets the eligibility criteria for marriage, live-in relationships, or inheritance registration can register using their Aadhaar number.

2. What documents are required for registration?

Applicants will need to provide Aadhaar details, proof of residence, and any specific documents related to the type of registration, such as marriage certificates or wills.

3. How much does registration cost?

The fees range from ₹50 to ₹500, depending on the type of registration. Additional charges of ₹50 apply for registrations via CSCs.

4. Can I register from home?

Yes, you can register online through the portal ucc.uk.gov.in using a mobile phone or computer.

5. What happens if I encounter issues during registration?

You can file a complaint on the portal, which will be addressed by the Registrar General within a stipulated time.

6. Is my personal information safe?

Yes, the portal ensures that no personal information is disclosed without the individual’s consent.

7. How do I terminate a live-in relationship registration?

Both partners must confirm the termination request via the portal to complete the process.

8. What is the role of the three-tier registration system?

This system ensures that registrations can be processed efficiently at the local level, with designated officers handling applications in villages, towns, and cities.

9. Is a court order necessary for divorce registration?

Yes, a valid court order is required before divorce can be registered on the portal.

10. Can I track the status of my application?

Yes, applicants can track their registration status and complaints through email or SMS updates.