Dehradun: The State Assembly unveiled the draft of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) on Tuesday, addressing various issues concerning marriage, divorce, conjugal rights, and inheritance. The UCC aims to establish equality regardless of caste, religion, region, or gender. It ensures that women have the right to remarry without any restrictions imposed by the code.

Marriage and Divorce: The draft outlines the conditions for marriage, stating that men should be at least 21 years old and women at least 18 years old. Marriage ceremonies must adhere to religious beliefs, and registration of marriages will be compulsory under the new code. The Uttarakhand Compulsory Registration of Marriage Act, 2010 will be repealed to eliminate any confusion.

Registration of Divorce or Nullity: After the UCC comes into effect, all divorce or nullity decrees must be registered according to the prescribed procedure. Parties involved must sign a memorandum as per the state government's requirements.

Restitution of Conjugal Rights and Judicial Separation: The draft allows either spouse to seek restitution of conjugal rights if the other has unreasonably withdrawn from the relationship. The court may decree restitution accordingly.

Nullity of Marriage and Divorce: Marriages conducted after the implementation of the UCC will be deemed null and void if they violate specified conditions. Divorce petitions can only be filed after one year of marriage, and children from such marriages will retain their legitimacy.

General Rules of Succession: The draft outlines inheritance rules, categorizing heirs into Class 1 (biological parents) and Class 2 (step-parents). Estate distribution is specified for both classes.

Submission of Statement for Live-in Relationships: Partners in live-in relationships must submit a statement to the registrar. Children born from such relationships will be considered legitimate, with registration procedures and registrar responsibilities detailed.

Equal Rights for Sons and Daughters: The UCC ensures equal rights for sons and daughters in all aspects of society, including inheritance. Amendments to the Indian Succession Act are included in the draft to uphold these provisions.

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