India's first live-in relationship registration approved; Uttarakhand government reports receiving more applications

As part of the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), approval has been granted for live-in relationship registration. Uttarakhand has become the first state in India to authorize such registration. The introduction of mandatory registration for live-in relationships comes in the wake of the implementation of the UCC. Out of the first three applications received under this provision, the government has now approved one.

The Uniform Civil Code came into effect in Uttarakhand on January 27 this year, making it the first state in India to implement such a legal framework. The Uttarakhand government maintains that laws should be modernized to align with the changing times. The government has also reported receiving more applications for live-in relationship registration. This initiative marks the first instance in the country where couples living together without marriage are granted legal protection.

Through the UCC, Uttarakhand is implementing uniform laws applicable to all citizens of the state, covering aspects such as marriage, divorce, and property rights.

Applications for live-in relationship registration can be submitted via the UCC portal. Currently, three such applications have been received, as confirmed by the government. The Dehradun police are reviewing the applications, and certificates permitting cohabitation will be issued once the submitted documents and claims are verified as valid.

This registration also provides couples with the option to end their live-in relationship either online or offline. Once a live-in relationship is initiated, registration must be completed within a month. If the couple decides to separate, both partners must meet with the registrar and provide mutual consent. Parents of the applicants will also be informed when the registration is completed through the UCC web portal.

Once the relationship is officially registered, an official certificate will be issued. This certificate enables partners to rent houses, hostel accommodations, or PG facilities. If a woman in a live-in relationship becomes pregnant, she is required to inform the registrar. The child's birth status must be updated within 30 days. Children born from such relationships will be recognized as the legal offspring of the couple and will be entitled to all the rights granted to children of legally married couples.

Failure to register a live-in relationship under the UCC can result in penalties, including imprisonment for up to six months, a fine of ₹25,000, or both.