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The Maharashtra government has initiated consultations with multiple stakeholders on the issue of implementing a Uniform Civil Code (UCC), the Legislative Council was informed, following a demand from BJP MLC Parinay Fuke for a law similar to the one enacted in Uttarakhand, reported news agency PTI.

Govt seeks time amid ongoing consultations

Responding to a Calling Attention Motion raised by Fuke, the government said it requires more time to present a detailed response as the matter involves consultations across several departments, reported PTI.

Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe informed the House that the issue has been referred to multiple departments for comprehensive inputs.

Multiple departments involved in deliberations

Gorhe said the proposed legislation requires inputs from departments including law and judiciary, women and child development, and general administration, reported PTI.

She directed that all concerned departments submit written responses within a month, emphasising the importance of a coordinated and well-considered approach.

“If responses are not received, the Chair will intervene and convene a meeting,” she said, underlining the seriousness of the issue, reported PTI.

Demand for common law across communities

Fuke argued that the Constitution envisages efforts toward a common civil code and highlighted the existence of different personal laws governing marriage, divorce and adoption across communities, reported PTI.

He urged the Maharashtra government to introduce a uniform framework to ensure equal legal standards for all citizens, reported PTI.

Reference to developments in other states

The BJP legislator pointed out that Uttarakhand has already enacted a law on the Uniform Civil Code and noted that Gujarat has also taken steps in this direction, reported PTI.

He said Maharashtra should consider similar legislation to bring uniformity in civil matters.

Govt emphasises need for detailed framework

The state government indicated that due to the complexity and sensitivity of the subject, a comprehensive and consultative approach is necessary before any decision is taken, reported PTI.

Officials said the ongoing consultations aim to examine legal, social and administrative aspects to ensure that any proposed law is balanced and implementable.

The issue is expected to be taken up again in the council once inputs from all departments are compiled and reviewed.

(With inputs from PTI)