Gujarat Committee Presents Comprehensive UCC Report to CM Patel
Synopsis
A high-level committee in Gujarat has submitted a pivotal draft report on the Uniform Civil Code to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. This comprehensive document aims to unify personal law across religions, emphasizing women's rights and cultural diversity.
Key Takeaways
Gujarat's UCC initiative aims for a uniform legal framework across all religions.
The committee's report emphasizes women's rights and safety.
Extensive public consultations informed the report's recommendations.
Uttarakhand has already enacted a UCC law, setting a precedent.
The draft report has been submitted for further government consideration.
Gandhinagar, March 17 (NationPress) A high-level committee formed by the Gujarat government to explore the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state has presented its comprehensive report to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar on Tuesday.
The committee, led by retired Supreme Court Justice Ranjana Desai, delivered a detailed three-volume draft report to the chief minister, which includes recommendations for establishing a uniform legal framework governing personal law issues for all religions and communities within the state.
This report was developed following thorough research, district visits throughout Gujarat, and extensive consultations with the public, as stated by the committee.
The primary focus is to tackle matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption under a unified legal system.
Committee members noted that the draft emphasizes equal rights and safety for women while considering the state’s diverse geography and culture.
Aside from Justice Desai, the committee included retired senior IAS officer C.L. Meena, senior advocate R.C. Kodekar, former university vice-chancellor Dr. Dakshesh Thakar, and social activist Geeta Shroff.
During the submission of the report, the chief minister was accompanied by senior government officials.
The committee’s advisor, retired senior IAS officer and former Chief Secretary of Uttarakhand, Shatrughan Singh, was also in attendance.
Uttarakhand has been a pioneer in implementing the UCC in India.
The state enacted the Uniform Civil Code of Uttarakhand Act, 2024, becoming the first in the nation to put such legislation into effect, commencing from January 27, 2025, after the Bill was approved by the state legislature and received presidential approval.
The committee highlighted that its recommendations are grounded in a meticulous assessment of the legal, social, and cultural facets of the state and reflect the insights gathered from its consultations with various communities and stakeholders.
The draft report has now been officially submitted to the state government for further deliberation.
Point of View
The report aims to enhance equality and safety, particularly for women. This initiative reflects a broader movement towards modernizing legal frameworks in India while respecting cultural diversity.
NationPress
3 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Uniform Civil Code?
The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) seeks to replace personal laws based on the scriptures and customs of each major religious community in India with a common set governing every citizen.
Who led the committee that drafted the UCC report?
The committee was headed by retired Supreme Court Justice Ranjana Desai.
What are the key focuses of the UCC draft report?
The report emphasizes addressing marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption under a common legal structure while prioritizing equal rights for women.
When will the UCC become effective in Uttarakhand?
The Uniform Civil Code of Uttarakhand Act, 2024, will come into effect on January 27, 2025.
How was the UCC report developed?
The report was prepared based on extensive studies, district visits across Gujarat, and significant public consultations.
