SRINAGAR: The Union Government has clarified that no guidelines have been issued to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in any State, addressing concerns raised during a recent Lok Sabha session. Minister of State for Law and Justice, Arjun Ram Meghwal, provided the information in response to an unstarred question posed on December 20.
According to Meghwal’s statement, the government has not directed State Governments regarding the UCC. Instead, the matter was referred to the 21st Law Commission of India (LCI) for examination and recommendations. While the 21st LCI issued a consultation paper to facilitate wider discussions, it did not submit a final report. The 22nd LCI also sought public and organisational input in 2023 but similarly concluded its term without presenting recommendations. Meghwal underscored that the Law Commission ensures broad consultation with stakeholders, professional bodies, and academic institutions when formulating law reform proposals.
The Minister further explained that personal laws fall under the Concurrent List (Entry 5 of List-III) of the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution, granting States the authority to legislate on such matters. Additionally, district and regional councils in scheduled areas have powers under the Sixth Schedule to create laws on inheritance, marriage, divorce, and social customs.
