Justice RC Chavan Resigns From Maharashtra UCC Panel, Shares Vision
Justice RC Chavan has resigned from Maharashtra’s UCC committee over differences on public consultation and has outlined his views on gender equality, inheritance and family laws.
Retired Bombay High Court judge Justice R C Chavan has resigned from Maharashtra’s Uniform Civil Code committee, citing differences over the process of seeking public feedback and questions over the participation of a person who was not a committee member. His resignation was submitted on September 19 and accepted by the state government on September 21.
In his resignation letter, Chavan said the experience had been a learning opportunity and wished the committee and people of Maharashtra well. He added that, as a free citizen, he would now be able to express his views independently. The seven-member committee is headed by retired Supreme Court judge Justice Ranjana Desai and was formed in July to prepare recommendations on implementing a UCC in Maharashtra.
Chavan also outlined his views on what a UCC should address. He said it should focus on protecting families while ensuring safety, security and gender equality. He favoured gender-neutral terminology, equal inheritance rights and an “areligious” framework that would not interfere with private religious practices.
He also proposed allowing consenting adults to establish the terms of their relationships through agreements covering separation, property, inheritance and responsibilities towards children and parents. He favoured voluntary registration of such relationships, while suggesting that certain state benefits and inheritance rights could be linked to registration.
Chavan further proposed that all children be treated equally, with biological or adoptive parents responsible for their education and support until they turn 18.
The Maharashtra government has said it plans to move ahead with UCC legislation after the committee submits its recommendations, with the Bill targeted for the winter Assembly session.
