Chhattisgarh begins UCC push, panel to draft law after public consultations

The Chhattisgarh government has formally initiated the process to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC), with the state Cabinet approving the formation of a high-level committee headed by retired Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai to prepare a draft legal framework.

Officials said the panel will begin wide-ranging consultations with citizens, legal experts and key stakeholders before submitting a comprehensive report that will eventually be placed before the state Assembly after completion of legal procedures.

“The committee will consult citizens, legal experts and stakeholders to prepare a comprehensive draft, which will later be placed before the state Assembly following due legal procedures,” an official said.

The proposed move seeks to replace the current system of religion-based personal laws governing marriage, divorce, inheritance and family matters with a common legal framework aimed at ensuring uniformity and simplicity.

In an official statement, the government said experts believe that in a socially diverse state like Chhattisgarh — home to tribal, rural and urban communities — a UCC could help reduce legal ambiguities and promote social harmony.

The statement added that the issue carries wider national relevance, as the Uniform Civil Code has remained one of India’s most debated legal and political subjects for decades.

Citing Article 44 of the Constitution, the government said the Directive Principles encourage the state to work towards securing a Uniform Civil Code for all citizens. It argued that the existence of multiple personal laws often creates inequalities in legal processes and adds complexity to the justice delivery system.

According to officials, the proposed code is intended to simplify civil laws while promoting religious neutrality and gender equality.

The committee will invite suggestions from the public, organisations and subject experts, and may also seek feedback through an online portal. Based on these recommendations, a final draft will be prepared and submitted to the Cabinet for approval before being introduced in the Assembly.

If enacted, the legislation would establish a common and transparent civil legal framework across the state.

Chhattisgarh’s move comes amid growing momentum around the issue. Uttarakhand became the first state in the country to implement the UCC in January 2025, while the Gujarat Assembly passed a UCC Bill last month.