UCC to ensure gender equality, says U'khand govt

THE Uttarakhand government has presented compelling arguments in response to several petitions challenging the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the Nainital High Court, including the imperatives of national unity and gender equality and the need for legislation to prevent criminal offences and safeguard the welfare of children born from live-in relationships.

- NARENDRA SETHI @ Dehradun

The government said in its affidavit that such measures are intended to enable these children to lead lives of dignity within society.

The court will hear the arguments on April 22. Sources said the Uttarakhand government's defence of the UCC hinges on its dedication to individual rights and gender equality, asserting that it promotes "national integration" through a unified legal framework.

According to government sources, the UCC seeks to reduce divisive politics rooted in religious identities.