In India, UCC (Uniform Civil Code) refers to a proposed set of common laws that would apply to all citizens, regardless of their religion, in matters like marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption. It aims to replace personal laws based on religious customs with a unified legal framework to ensure equality and justice.
Key Aspects of UCC in India:
- Constitutional Provision – Article 44 of the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) in the Indian Constitution urges the state to work towards implementing a UCC.
- Existing Personal Laws – Currently, different communities follow their own laws:
- Hindu Personal Law (applies to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists)
- Muslim Personal Law (based on Sharia)
- Christian and Parsi Personal Laws
- Judicial and Political Debate – Courts have often supported UCC for gender justice and secularism, while opponents argue it may infringe on religious freedom.
- Goa as an Example – Goa is the only Indian state that follows a common civil code under the Portuguese Civil Code of 1867.
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