Introduction:

A landmark move unfolded in Uttarakhand as Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami presented the Uniform Civil Code Bill in a special session of the State Assembly. The proposed legislation aims to bring about comprehensive changes in personal laws, including marriage, divorce, inheritance, among others. Notably, a pivotal provision mandates the mandatory registration of live-in relationships within one month, accompanied by stringent penalties for non-compliance.

The significant feature of the bill revolves around the compulsory registration of live-in relationships. Defined within the legislation, a live-in relationship pertains to cohabitation between a man and a woman in a shared household resembling a marital relationship, with no legal prohibitions. The legislation requires the submission of a statement regarding the live-in relationship to the registrar within the jurisdiction, introducing a robust mechanism for oversight.

Under Section 381, the registrar conducts a summary inquiry into the live-in relationship, ensuring factors like existing marriages, consent authenticity, and potential coercion are thoroughly examined. The registrar holds the authority to refuse registration, with reasons communicated in writing. Additionally, the registrar is mandated to inform the local police station and parents or guardians if either partner in the live-in relationship is under 21 years old.

The Bill also addresses maintenance concerns, extending similar provisions as in marriage. If a woman in a live-in relationship is deserted by her partner, Section 388 allows her to claim maintenance through the competent court, invoking relevant sections of the Code.

Crucially, the legislation affirms the legitimacy of children born out of live-in relationships under Section 379, emphasizing legal recognition and protection for such offspring.