The Madhya Pradesh government has stepped up its push to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC), setting up a high-level committee to prepare a draft law that could bring sweeping changes to personal laws in the state.
According to an official order issued by the Law and Legislative Affairs Department in Bhopal on April 27, the panel has been tasked with examining the feasibility of a common civil code and submitting its recommendations within a fixed timeline.
Committee Headed by Former Supreme Court Judge
The six-member committee will be chaired by Ranjana Prakash Desai, and includes experts from administration, law, academia and social sectors. The panel has been asked to submit a draft bill and a detailed report within 60 days.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has directed officials to move quickly, with the government aiming to introduce the legislation by Diwali this year.
“Balanced and Practical Framework” Planned
The government said the committee will study existing personal laws related to marriage, divorce, inheritance, maintenance and adoption, and suggest a framework suited to the state’s social and cultural realities.
“The committee will examine various aspects of personal laws and recommend a practical, socially balanced legal structure,” the order stated.
It will also review models already adopted in states like Uttarakhand and Gujarat to understand their implementation and adapt suitable provisions for Madhya Pradesh.
Focus on Live-in Relationships and Women’s Rights
One of the key areas the panel will look into is the regulation of live-in relationships, including registration, legal rights and responsibilities arising from such arrangements.
Sources indicated that issues related to women’s rights, child protection and equality will be central to the proposed law. The committee has been asked to ensure that any changes protect vulnerable groups while maintaining legal clarity.
Public Consultations to Be Held
The panel is expected to invite suggestions from citizens, legal experts, religious groups and social organisations before finalising its report.
“The committee may conduct consultations and hearings to gather public opinion,” officials said, adding that the final draft should reflect the state’s diverse social fabric.
Challenges Ahead in Tribal Areas
Experts believe that implementing a UCC in Madhya Pradesh could face challenges, especially due to the state’s large tribal population. Customary practices related to marriage and inheritance, protected under constitutional provisions, may become a key issue during the drafting process.
The government order also noted that the draft must consider the state’s “social, economic and cultural context” to avoid future legal complications.
Part of BJP’s Larger Push
The move aligns with the Bharatiya Janata Party’s long-standing agenda of introducing a Uniform Civil Code across the country. The concept aims to replace religion-based personal laws with a common set of rules for all citizens.
