Every suggestion will be examined seriously, says Raj UCC Draft Committee Chairman
Jaipur, July 10
The Rajasthan Uniform Civil Code Draft Committee has assured the citizens that every opinion, whether in support of the proposed law, seeking amendments, or expressing dissent, will be given equal consideration as it prepares the final draft of the legislation.
The Rajasthan government's public consultation on the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC)-2026 witnessed wide participation on Friday, with representatives from diverse sections of society offering suggestions and feedback during a divisional and district-level public hearing held at the District Collectorate Auditorium in Jaipur.
The hearing was chaired by Shatrughna Singh, Chairman of the UCC Bill Drafting Committee and a retired IAS officer, and coordinated by Divisional Commissioner V. Saravana Kumar.
Addressing the gathering, Shatrughna Singh said the state government is committed to ensuring extensive public participation in drafting the Uniform Civil Code.
To achieve this, the committee is seeking suggestions from public representatives, religious leaders, legal experts, academicians, social organizations, and the general public.
He said the objective of the Uniform Civil Code is to establish a uniform and equitable legal framework governing matters such as marriage, divorce, maintenance, inheritance, and live-in relationships.
The committee will undertake a detailed analysis of all suggestions received before preparing the draft legislation.
Singh emphasised that the committee welcomes every viewpoint, including proposals supporting the draft, recommending amendments, or expressing dissent.
"Every suggestion will be examined with seriousness," he said, urging citizens to actively participate in the consultation process to help frame a practical, balanced, and inclusive law for Rajasthan.
Divisional Commissioner V. Saravana Kumar said the hearing witnessed participation from elected representatives, religious leaders, legal professionals, academicians from law and social sciences, non-governmental organisations, political party representatives, and members of civil society from across the Jaipur division.
He also announced that a separate public hearing for residents of Jaipur district will be held on July 11, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the District Collectorate Auditorium.
Manish Goyal, Joint Secretary (Administration) and the Home Department's representative on the committee, said the state government is collecting public feedback through both physical hearings and an online portal.
SMS messages containing the UCC consultation link have been sent to all Jan Aadhaar cardholders in Rajasthan, he added.
Citizens can visit the UCC Rajasthan portal, log in using their mobile number or Jan Aadhaar number, verify their identity through an OTP, and submit their responses as an individual or on behalf of an organisation.
The portal allows users to answer consultation questions by selecting "Yes" or "No", submit written suggestions of up to 400 words, and upload supporting documents or memoranda in PDF format.
Among those present at the hearing were Hawa Mahal MLA Mahant Balmukundacharya, Jaipur District Collector Sandesh Nayak, members of the UCC Drafting Committee, and other prominent citizens. District Collectors from other districts of the Jaipur division also participated through video conferencing.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Good to see the government asking for public opinion, but I'm skeptical about how serious they are about 'equal consideration'. In my experience, dissent is often ignored. Still, I'll submit my thoughts—at least we have a chance to be heard. 🤷♀️
UCC will simplify things for everyone—no more confusion over different personal laws. Marriage, divorce, inheritance should be same for all Indians. But let's not rush; we need to ensure minority communities don't feel threatened. The committee seems balanced, but actions speak louder than words.
It's impressive that Rajasthan is using technology like SMS and online portal to gather feedback. In the US, we have similar consultations but often less accessible. However, I wonder if rural voices are truly being heard—digital divide is real. Hope they also conduct village-level meetings.
I appreciate that they're including religious leaders and legal experts in the discussion. But I hope the final draft doesn't compromise on women's rights for the sake of 'consensus'. Uniform civil code should protect daughters and wives equally across all communities.
A practical and inclusive law—exactly what we need. I'm glad the committee is taking suggestions seriously. Live-in relationships being covered is a progressive step. However, implementation will be key; laws are only as good as their enforcement.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.