Chhattisgarh Progresses towards Standardized Civil Code.

Overview

The formation of high level committee to prepare a framework of Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is approved by the Cabinet of Chhattisgarh under the leadership of Vishnu Deo Sai. The project seeks to align individual laws and enhance equality especially on matters like marriage, inheritance and adoption.

Composition and Leadership of the Committee.

Ranjana Prakash Desai will chair the panel, which will have a high level of judicial supervision. The Chief Minister has been given the powers to appoint more members, whereby it is possible to have experts in the fields of legal, social, and administration. The committee will be supposed to operate in an inclusive and consultative manner.

The UCC has an objective and scope.

The suggested model aims at substituting the personal laws on religion with a common law that will govern all citizens. This is aimed at eradicating inconsistencies in the law and promoting equality in certain issues that concern gender justice. The reform also seeks to streamline legal processes and minimize complexities that have been brought about due to various personal systems of law.

Consultation and Legislative Process

The committee will consult with citizens, civil society organisations, and the domain experts to ensure that the inputs are collected. A key role in drafting will be played by public consultation. When prepared, the proposal will be submitted to the Cabinet, and later before the State Assembly, where it will be introduced to be made legislation.

Political Situation and Issues.

Although the government has defended the move by arguing that it is a move in the right direction towards equality and uniformity in law, opposition parties have objected to its effects on tribal practices and cultural independence. The project is representative of the wider tendency of states to examine UCC frameworks in the constitutional framework.

Exam-Focused Key Points

• UCC referred to in Article 44 (Directive Principles of State Policy).
• Intends to substitute religion-based personal laws.
• Guarantees equality in Article 14 of the Constitution.
• Chair: Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai.
• States are taking more interest in UCC frameworks.

Practice questions (with Answers)

Q1. In what Article is the Uniform Civil Code referred to?
Answer: Article 44.

Q2. Who is the chairman of UCC in Chhattisgarh?
Response: Ranjana Prakash Desai.

Q3. What is the main objective of the Uniform Civil Code?
Response: To bring uniformity and equalization of civil laws to all citizens.

Q4. What is the constitutional principle that favors equality before the law in this situation?
Answer: Article 14.