The Uttarakhand government has strongly clarified its position after two bills were returned by the Raj Bhavan for reconsideration. Officials have stated that the primary focus should remain on the states firm legal framework and clear policy intent, not on procedural aspects of the legislative process. The government has stressed that governance and enforcement remain unaffected.
Government Emphasizes Existing Stringent Legal Provisions
Senior officials have underlined that Uttarakhand already has a stringent law in place to deal with unlawful religious conversions. The existing legislation includes strict penalties and safeguards against forced or fraudulent conversions. According to the government, the proposed amendment bill is meant to further strengthen enforcement and remove operational gaps.
The administration has reiterated that there is no dilution in policy intent. The state remains committed to maintaining law and order while ensuring constitutional compliance. Officials have described the amendment as an improvement to an already strong legal structure.
On the Uniform Civil Code, the government has reiterated that the bill reflects a long term reform vision. It aims to promote equality and uniformity in civil matters. The administration maintains that the policy direction on UCC is clear and unchanged.
Return of Bills Linked to Technical Drafting Issues
The Raj Bhavan returned the Uniform Civil Code Bill and the Religious Conversion Prevention Amendment Bill for reconsideration. According to reports, the return was due to clerical and technical drafting issues.
The government has clarified that there were no policy objections from the governor. The step was taken to ensure accuracy and procedural correctness. Officials have described this as a routine part of the legislative process.
Corrections are already being addressed. The revised drafts will be sent back to the Raj Bhavan after technical issues are resolved.
Government Confident of Smooth Clearance Ahead
The Uttarakhand government has dismissed speculation around the development. It has stated that the return of the bills should be seen as a procedural pause, not a setback.
Officials remain confident that once corrected, the bills will receive assent. The administration has reaffirmed its commitment to strong governance, legal clarity, and decisive reforms.
The government has urged focus on its firm policy stance and effective laws already in force, rather than temporary procedural steps in the legislative journey.
