The Gujarat government announced the formation of a 5-member committee on Tuesday, tasked with preparing a draft for the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and laying the groundwork for the law. The committee will be chaired by retired Supreme Court judge Ranjana Desai.
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, in a press conference, revealed that the committee would submit its report to the state government in 45 days. Based on the report, the government will then make its decision on the implementation of the UCC.
“The committee, headed by Justice (retd) Ranjana Desai, will draft the UCC and create the law. The report will be submitted within 45 days, after which the government will decide on the next steps,” CM Patel stated.
Patel emphasized that the Constitution of India is designed to fulfill the duties of its citizens, and under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country is celebrating 75 years of the Constitution this year. He reiterated that Modi’s vision is to implement a Common Civil Code nationwide, ensuring equal rights for all citizens.
He also drew parallels with the government’s actions in revoking Article 370 and banning Triple Talaq, saying these promises are being fulfilled. “Gujarat is working towards fulfilling Modi Ji’s resolve to ensure equal rights and opportunities for all,” Patel said.
Gujarat’s Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi elaborated on the composition of the committee, which includes retired senior IAS officer CL Meena, advocate RC Kodekar, former Vice Chancellor Dakshesh Thakar, and social worker Gita Shroff. Sanghavi stated that the committee would undertake thorough research over the next 45 days before presenting its findings to the state government.
Earlier this month, Uttarakhand became the first state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC).
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had mentioned the concept of a Secular Civil Code in his Independence Day speech last year. He underscored the need for a national discussion on the UCC, highlighting the Supreme Court’s repeated calls for its implementation. “Keeping in mind the spirit of the Constitution, we are working with full force towards a Secular Civil Code,” Modi had stated.
