Uttarakhand's Uniform Civil Code Simplifies Marriage Registration Process with Over 4.5 Lakh Registrations

The implementation of the Uniform Civil Code in Uttarakhand has streamlined marriage registrations, allowing over 4.5 lakh couples to register online in just one year. This significant shift from offline to online processes enhances accessibility and efficiency.

The introduction of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand has streamlined the marriage registration process, resulting in over 4.5 lakh marriages being registered within a year, as reported by the state government on Monday. The UCC will mark its first anniversary in the state on January 27, with a total of 4,74,447 marriages registered during this period.

Previously, under the Uttarakhand Compulsory Registration of Marriages Act, 2010, the entire registration process was conducted offline. Couples had to visit the sub-registrar's office on a specific date with two witnesses. Now, with the UCC, couples can register their marriages online from any location.

Online Marriage Registration Process

The UCC allows couples or their witnesses to apply for marriage registration online and submit necessary documents and video statements. This shift to digital has significantly increased the daily average of registrations to about 1,400 compared to just 67 under the old system.

In addition to marriage registrations, the UCC has facilitated other processes online. During this period, 316 individuals have obtained divorce certificates online. Furthermore, 68 people have received certificates for living in cohabitation relationships, while two have ended such relationships.

Efficiency and Timeliness

The UCC mandates a 15-day timeframe for issuing marriage registration certificates after application submission. However, on average, applicants receive their certificates within five days. This efficiency has contributed to increased public trust in the system.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed that Uttarakhand's implementation of the UCC serves as an example for other states. He stated that the transparency and ease of the UCC provisions have boosted public confidence in the process.

Impact and Model Law

The Chief Minister also highlighted that Uttarakhand's UCC has emerged as a model law in all aspects. The simplicity and transparency of its implementation have encouraged more people to register their marriages under this new system.

The success of Uttarakhand's UCC demonstrates its effectiveness in simplifying legal procedures related to marriage registration. This model could potentially inspire similar reforms in other regions seeking to modernise their civil code systems.

With inputs from PTI