Uniform Civil Code in Maharashtra: Devendra Fadnavis Forms Expert Panel, Retired Judge Ranjana Desai To Preside

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced the formation of a seven-member expert panel to prepare a draft proposal for implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state. The committee will be headed by retired Supreme Court Judge Ranjana Prakash Desai.

The announcement, made during the ongoing monsoon session of the state legislative assembly, marks the official commencement of Maharashtra's legislative process toward a common civil framework. The proposed code aims to replace diverse religious personal laws with a uniform legal system governing marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption for all citizens, irrespective of their faith. Maharashtra Government Starts Deliberations on Uniform Civil Code, Annoucment of Committee on UCC Likely Next Week.

Chief Minister Fadnavis stated that the decision aligns with the Directive Principles of State Policy enshrined in the Indian Constitution, reflecting the foundational vision of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. He emphasized that a common framework is essential to uphold the constitutional values of equality and uniformity.

The development follows recent legislative debates in the assembly where members raised concerns over rising instances of triple talaq and personal law variations affecting women's rights. Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam affirmed the government’s stance, clarifying that the state is approach-positive and intends to use the UCC framework to extend uniform legal protections, particularly concerning women's rights and restrictions on polygamy.

Justice (Retd.) Ranjana Prakash Desai brings significant expertise to the role, having previously chaired the drafting committee for Uttarakhand’s Uniform Civil Code—the first state to implement the code post-independence. The Maharashtra panel will study existing legal frameworks, analyze recommendations from other states like Uttarakhand and Gujarat, and review public representations before finalizing its draft. Maharashtra Govt Orders Immediate Damage Assessment After Heavy Rains: Revenue Minister Bawankule.

While the ruling coalition has strongly backed the move, noting that a common civil code has long been a core ideological objective, opposition leaders have urged caution. Representatives from the Congress party noted that while the constitutional basis for UCC is valid, the government must ensure a broad, inclusive consensus by consulting legal experts, advocates, and diverse community leaders before the final bill is tabled.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 09, 2026 12:49 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).