Bhopal: The Madhya Pradesh UCC panel has been formed to study and prepare a draft for implementing a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state. In a major policy step, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has set a fast timeline, aiming to introduce the law by Diwali this year. The move reflects a broader push by the BJP to create uniform personal laws across India.
Madhya Pradesh UCC Panel: High-Level Committee Formed in Bhopal
The Law and Legislative Affairs Department in Bhopal issued an official order on April 27 to set up a high-level panel.
The committee will be chaired by former Supreme Court judge Ranjana Prasad Desai. Other key members include:
- Retired IAS officer Shatrughan Singh
- Legal expert Anup Nair
- Academician Gopal Sharma
- Social worker Budhpal Singh
Ajay Katesaria, Additional Secretary, will act as the panel’s secretary.
What the Madhya Pradesh UCC Panel Will Study
The committee has been given a detailed mandate to review current personal laws in the state. These include:
- Marriage and divorce laws
- Maintenance and alimony
- Inheritance and succession
- Adoption rules
- Live-in relationships
Currently, these matters are governed by different religious and personal laws. The government wants a uniform, fair, and practical legal framework for all citizens.
Learning from Other States
The panel will also examine models already implemented in states like Uttarakhand and Gujarat.
These states have already taken steps toward implementing a Uniform Civil Code. Madhya Pradesh aims to adopt best practices while keeping its own social and cultural context in mind.
Madhya Pradesh UCC Panel: Public Consultation and Stakeholder Input
The committee will invite suggestions from a wide range of stakeholders, including:
- General public
- Religious and social organisations
- Legal experts
- Academicians
Public consultations may also be held to ensure wider participation and transparency.
Madhya Pradesh UCC Panel: Focus on Women, Children and Live-in Laws
A key part of the panel’s work will be to:
- Protect the rights of women and children
- Regulate live-in relationships
- Define legal status and registration norms
The committee will also assess legal and administrative challenges to ensure smooth implementation.
Timeline of Madhya Pradesh UCC Bill
The government has set an ambitious timeline:
- Draft bill to be prepared within 60 days
- Full rollout targeted by Diwali 2026
Separate orders will define how the committee will function and operate.
Opposition and Tribal Concerns
The proposal has triggered strong opposition, especially from tribal groups.
Key concerns include:
- Over 21% of the state’s population belongs to Scheduled Tribes
- Tribal leaders fear loss of traditional customs
- Legal protections under the Fifth Schedule and PESA Act
Many leaders have warned of statewide protests if their traditional systems are affected.
What is the Importance of UCC
The Uniform Civil Code aims to bring:
- Equal laws for all citizens
- Legal clarity in family matters
- Reduced conflict between personal laws
However, balancing equality with cultural diversity remains a major challenge.
Read also: Gujarat Panel Submits Final Report on Uniform Civil Code, Prioritizing Women’s Rights
