Dehradun: The Uttarakhand government is set to initiate the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), providing facilities for live-in couples and marriages to register online by the end of this year. Notably, this is the first time that the government has allowed the registration of live-in relationships online. The UCC mandates that live-in couples must register and comply with formalities under the government's UCC provisions.
The drafting of necessary rules under the UCC provision is underway by a nine-member panel led by former chief secretary Shatrughan Singh, which is expected to be completed by the end of June. Officials said they plan to implement the Act's provisions by late 2024.
Singh said, "We want to make it easier for people to complete formalities via the online mode. However, this process is complex as government staff need formal training. We plan to frame rules and conduct training sessions simultaneously to meet the deadline." He added that training for government employees, especially those in the sub-registrar office, would be conducted both online and offline, including at the village level, TOI reported.
Singh pointed out that online registration services for both couples and government staff will reduce the need for multiple visits to the registrar's office. It requires additional time because we want to ensure that the plan is "comprehensive and foolproof." "We are not against live-in relationships or imposing any restrictions. Registration is mandatory, and for couples aged 18 to 21, their parents will be informed." He emphasized that the intent is to "ensure parents are aware of their children's relationships."
UCC implementation would affect the freedom of live-in couples by mandating registration within a month of initiating companionship. Failure to comply will result in penalties, including either a three-month jail term or a fine of up to Rs 10,000. If registration doesn't occur beyond three months, the couple faces a maximum of six months in jail, a fine of Rs 25,000, or both.