Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the inauguration of the 38th National Games on Tuesday, praised the Uttarakhand government for implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), calling it a historic step towards social harmony and the protection of personal rights. Speaking at the event, Modi emphasised the significance of the UCC in promoting a dignified life for women and reinforcing the democratic spirit of the country.
"Today the world is saying that the 21st century is India's century. After offering prayers to Baba Kedar, it came out from my mouth that this is the decade of Uttarakhand. I am very happy that Uttarakhand is developing rapidly. Yesterday, Uttarakhand became the state to implement the Uniform Civil Code. I sometimes call it the Secular Civil Code. It will act as a foundation for a dignified life for our mothers and sisters. It will strengthen the spirit of democracy and the constitution. I congratulate the Uttarakhand government for this," Modi remarked.
He also compared the UCC to sportsmanship, highlighting its essence of equality and unity. "Sportsmanship removes us from description. Every win is about everyone's efforts. UCC has the same team spirit as sports, discrimination against none, everyone is equal. I congratulate the Uttarakhand government for this historic step," he added.
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PM Modi On India's Bid To Host 2036 Olympic Games
In addition to his remarks on the UCC, Modi discussed India's bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games, stating that the country is using all its efforts to secure the rights to host the prestigious event. "We are pushing for hosting rights of 2036 Olympics; it will take Indian sports to new heights," Modi said. He further explained that hosting the Olympics would lead to improved facilities for athletes and benefit all sectors in the country.
Modi had previously expressed India's intentions to host the 2036 Games during the International Olympic Committee's session in Mumbai in 2023. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has already submitted its official expression of interest to the IOC. "It is our endeavour to enhance your capabilities and we are focussed on supporting you. We consider sports an essential aspect in the development of the country," Modi continued, addressing the athletes at the event.
The Prime Minister also celebrated the rise of sports in India, citing several recent victories. "Glorious days of hockey are returning. Our Kho-Kho team won the Gold Medal, Gukesh D won the World Chess Championship...This has shown that in India, sports is not just an extracurricular activity. Now, our youth are treating sports as a primary career option," Modi remarked.
He also highlighted the role of sports in India's growth, saying, "Today sports is being linked to the development of India. We are linking it with the self-confidence of the youth. Today, India is on its way to becoming the third-largest economic power of the world. Sports become a big part of it, this is our effort."
Modi further touched upon the contribution of India’s sports equipment industry, particularly in Meerut, which houses over 35,000 factories producing various sports items. He also shared a personal anecdote about a meeting with India's Olympic team, during which an athlete affectionately referred to him as their "Param Mitra" (dear friend), instead of just "PM".
UCC In Uttarakhand
Regarding the UCC, which came into force in Uttarakhand on Monday, the law aims to protect personal rights and streamline the legal processes surrounding marriage, divorce, inheritance, and live-in relationships. The UCC applies to all residents of the state, irrespective of religion, and bans practices such as polygamy and child marriage. However, it does not apply to Scheduled Tribes or certain protected communities.
Key provisions of the UCC include defining the eligibility for marriage, which requires that both parties are mentally healthy, of the eligible age, and free from a living spouse. The legal marriage age is set at 21 years for men and 18 years for women. The law also mandates the registration of marriages within 60 days, although non-registration does not invalidate a marriage.