Dainik Nation News Portal
DAINIK NATION BUREAU/DEHRADUN
With the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand, clarifications have been issued to address concerns raised by recent media reports. Notably, speculation that a religious certificate will be mandatory for registering live-in relationships has been refuted. Manu Gaur, a member of the UCC Rules Committee, clarified that such certificates will only be required in cases where a relationship falls under prohibited categories outlined in Schedule 01 of the Code.
For live-in registration under UCC, only four documents are generally required: proof of residence, date of birth, Aadhaar, and rental agreement documents (if applicable). Individuals who are divorced must provide a legal divorce decree, while those whose previous relationship has ended must furnish relevant documents.
Gaur emphasized that a religious certificate would apply to less than 1% of cases, specifically in communities where relationships within prohibited categories exist. He explained that this requirement is not a restriction but a facilitation measure to ensure applicants can complete the process. Additionally, the format of the religious certificate has been clearly defined in the UCC rules to avoid confusion.
Residency and UCC Registration
Addressing concerns about eligibility, Gaur clarified that UCC registration is open to anyone who has lived in Uttarakhand for at least one year, regardless of permanent or native residency. This provision ensures inclusivity for non-permanent residents while maintaining fairness in accessing government schemes. Only individuals registered under UCC will be eligible for state benefits, reducing strain on resources and preventing misuse by non-residents.
Streamlined Registration Process
Gaur also addressed concerns about the length of the registration form, which spans 16 pages. He explained that while the form is comprehensive, it is designed to be completed within 5-10 minutes online or 30 minutes offline. For online applications, Aadhaar integration simplifies the process further, allowing applicants to auto-fill key details.
The implementation of UCC in Uttarakhand marks a significant step in creating a streamlined and inclusive system for all residents.
