The Chhattisgarh cabinet has announced the formation of a high-level committee aimed at drafting a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) for the state, making it the third state governed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to take steps in this direction. This initiative is part of a broader movement to create a unified set of laws governing personal matters such as marriage, divorce, succession, and adoption for all citizens, irrespective of their religious or tribal affiliations.
As per the latest developments, the committee will be chaired by Ranjana Prakash Desai, a former Supreme Court judge known for her significant contributions to legal reforms. Desai previously led committees that helped shape the UCC frameworks in both Uttarakhand and Gujarat, which have already begun implementing aspects of their own codes. Uttarakhand has initiated a common personal law framework since January 2025, while Gujarat’s Assembly passed its UCC bill on March 25.
The Uniform Civil Code aims to simplify and unify various personal laws that are currently governed by community-specific regulations, often rooted in religious texts. This diversity can lead to complexities, especially in a multicultural society like India, where family laws can differ widely based on faith and custom. By proposing a standardized code, the Chhattisgarh government seeks to create a legal environment that ensures equality and justice in family matters for all citizens.
The committee is tasked with not only drafting the UCC but also engaging with the public and experts to gather insights and opinions. This participatory approach reflects the government’s intent to create a law that resonates with the needs and values of Chhattisgarh’s diverse communities. The proposed draft will eventually be submitted to the state cabinet and the Assembly for further discussion and approval.
As the conversation around the Uniform Civil Code continues to gain momentum, it underscores the BJP’s commitment to social reform and legal uniformity across the nation. Critics of the UCC often express concerns about the potential dilution of religious practices, while proponents argue that it is essential for ensuring gender equality and fairness in personal laws. The establishment of this committee marks a significant step in Chhattisgarh’s journey toward creating a more cohesive legal framework in a culturally rich and diverse state.
