Uttarakhand Weighs New Nikahnama Framework, Registration of Clerics Under UCC

Current Summary

Uttarakhand, the first state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), is considering a new nikahnama framework that would include registration of qazis and clerics who solemnise marriages, along with stronger documentation requirements. The State Waqf Board is examining ways to record the identities of those conducting nikah ceremonies, collect details at the time of the ceremony, and organise marriage documents, though the proposed format, legal provisions and implementation mechanism have not yet been finalised. Waqf Board chairman Shadab Shams said residents have been adapting to the UCC, in force for about a year and a half, and stressed that the framework does not permit more than one marriage, adding officials are now more serious about nikah, divorce and women's rights. Minority Welfare Minister Khajan Das said the government wants to make the nikahnama 'more robust' and is considering registering clerics who perform marriages, a step he said would help prevent disputes during the marriage process and ensure reliable records. Officials say further details, including the proposed procedure, could be announced within two to three months.

What Changed

• 16 Oct, 04:21 pm
  Signal detected: Uttarakhand Weighs New Nikahnama Framework, Registration of Clerics Under UCC

Background

Uttarakhand implemented the Uniform Civil Code roughly a year and a half ago, becoming the first state to do so, setting common rules for marriage and divorce across religious communities.