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Maharashtra Government Moves Towards Implementing Uniform Civil Code

The Maharashtra government is taking significant steps towards implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), with plans to form an expert committee for drafting the necessary framework. Home State Minister Yogesh Kadam confirmed the government's commitment to the UCC, addressing issues like polygamy and the enforcement of the triple talaq law. The assembly witnessed a vigorous debate on the proposal, highlighting concerns over the effective implementation of existing laws. This initiative marks a pivotal moment in Maharashtra's legal landscape, aiming to ensure equality and justice for all citizens.
 

Maharashtra's Steps Towards Uniform Civil Code

On Tuesday, the Maharashtra government indicated that it might be the next state to implement the 'Uniform Civil Code' (UCC). The administration announced plans to form an expert committee aimed at drafting a framework for this legislation. Responding to a discussion in the assembly, Home State Minister Yogesh Kadam stated that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has decided to establish a committee chaired by a retired High Court judge to prepare the draft. He mentioned that the process of implementing the UCC would commence once the committee submits its report.


Government's Commitment to UCC

Kadam emphasized that the government is "100 percent positive" about introducing the Uniform Civil Code in the state. He noted that the draft would consider provisions addressing issues such as polygamy. The minister also highlighted that a law against 'triple talaq' is being enforced in Maharashtra. This issue was raised by BJP MLA Devyani Farande through a 'call attention motion', where she referred to cases in Nashik where Muslim women allegedly faced immediate divorces, threats, and harassment from their husbands.


Concerns Over Implementation of Triple Talaq Law

Referring to the 2019 law that criminalized triple talaq, Farande argued that it is not being effectively implemented at the grassroots level. She cited instances where women were reportedly divorced over the phone, threatened with the circulation of private videos, physically assaulted, and left without financial support. Farande advocated for stronger protective measures for women, mentioning processes adopted in countries like Pakistan, where the first wife's consent is required before a second marriage.


Debate in the Assembly

During the discussion, a heated debate ensued between the ruling party and the opposition. NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) MLA Jayant Patil questioned the basis on which the proposal was accepted, while Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar argued that the triple talaq law is a central law and questioned its relevance in the state assembly.