Lok Sabha elections 2024: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has promised in its manifesto to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) across India if voted to power. This code would replace existing personal laws such as the Hindu Marriage Act, the Parsi Marriage and Divorce Act and the Christian Marriage Act with a single set of laws for all citizens.
In February, Uttarakhand became the first post-independence Indian state to adopt the UCC. As the polls head to the polls on April 19, let's take a look at the top electoral issues in the state.
UCC
The UCC creates common laws for marriage and inheritance that apply to all citizens regardless of religion, marking a significant departure as India's first such law. However, scheduled tribes are excluded.
Criticism stems from the strict regulations on live-in relationships, which require registration with possible penalties including prison sentences for non-compliance. Some argue that the UCC unfairly infringes on the religious practices of specific groups.
Religious tourism
Every year, millions of pilgrims flock to Haridwar, an important religious site, causing heavy traffic and putting pressure on local facilities, especially during major events such as the Kumbh Mela. This influx negatively impacts the quality of life of locals and underlines the urgent need for better management of tourism.
Sugar cane farmers
. than 1 lakh sugarcane farmers in Haridwar are facing delayed payments and inadequate compensation for damaged crops. Sugarcane prices in Uttarakhand are linked to those in Uttar Pradesh.
However, local farmers do not enjoy the same benefits, such as subsidized electricity for irrigation. This inequality has caused farmers major financial problems.
Disaster management
Uttarakhand is regularly plagued by floods and landslides, especially in Haridwar and the Garhwal region. Climate change is exacerbating these natural disasters, leading to significant losses for farmers and dangerous conditions for residents.
The severity of the 2023 floods led to wildlife sightings in residential areas, underscoring the urgent need for improved disaster management strategies and environmental protection policies.
Migration and employment
Many young people from remote areas like Garhwal migrate to cities for better opportunities. This demographic shift is changing the demographics of rural Uttarakhand, leaving older people in particular behind. It is important to generate more local jobs to stop this migration and help these communities thrive again.
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Published: Apr 18, 2024 11:20 AM IST