President Droupadi Murmu recently addressed a special session of the Uttarakhand Assembly, convened to commemorate the state’s silver jubilee. During her address, she expressed strong appreciation for the legislature’s proactive stance in enacting the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), alongside other pivotal laws such as the Lokayukta Act, the Uttarakhand Zamindari Abolition and Land Reforms Act, and the anti-cheating legislation.
The Uttarakhand UCC, passed in January of this year, introduces comprehensive provisions, including a complete prohibition on practices like triple talaq (traditional Muslim personal law customs related to marriage and divorce). Crucially, it also ensures that women are granted equal rights in matters concerning property and inheritance, marking a significant step towards gender equity.
President Murmu’s visit to Uttarakhand spanned three days, from November 2 to November 4.
Speaking to the Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) in Dehradun, Ms. Murmu highlighted the essential role of legislative assemblies within India’s parliamentary framework. She underscored that legislators serve as the vital link between citizens and the government. She emphasized that an MLA’s continuous dedication to resolving public issues and promoting welfare builds an unbreakable bond of trust with their constituents.
The President further urged MLAs to approach their duties with particular sensitivity towards the welfare and development of society’s most vulnerable sections. She also stressed the importance of prioritizing efforts to create growth opportunities for the younger generation.
Commending the Uttarakhand Assembly members for successfully implementing the Uniform Civil Code Bill in alignment with constitutional directives, the President noted the Assembly’s impressive track record, having passed over 550 crucial Bills since the state’s inception.
She also acknowledged the substantial improvements in Uttarakhand’s Human Development Index (HDI) and literacy rate since its formation in 2000. Additionally, Ms. Murmu lauded the state’s initiatives for women’s empowerment, expressing optimism for an increased representation of women in the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly in the future.
In her address, Ms. Murmu encouraged the state to continue its developmental journey while steadfastly preserving its unique natural and cultural heritage.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami extended his gratitude to the President for honoring the State Assembly with her presence during this special session. He affirmed that her inspiring words, particularly regarding the Uniform Civil Code, would serve as a guiding force for Uttarakhand’s development over the next 25 years.
“The President’s inspiring words on the Uniform Civil Code further strengthen our resolve. We remain committed to the all-round development of the State and public welfare,” stated Mr. Dhami.
Uttarakhand Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd) and Assembly Speaker Ritu Khanduri were also in attendance at the event.
Uttarakhand is set to celebrate its 25th anniversary of statehood on November 9.