Uttarakhand Waqf Board proposes new nikahnama to align with UCC

Image used for representational purposes only. | Photo Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto More than a year and a half after Uttarakhand rolled out the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), the State Waqf Board is preparing a revised format for the nikahnama, or Islamic marriage contract, to bring Muslim marriage registrations into conformity with the new law, Waqf Board chairman Shadab Shams said.Under the revised format, the columns introducing second, third or fourth marriages will be removed, with only one marriage allowed under the UCC, which has been in force in the State since January 27, 2025. Practices such as “triple talaq” and halala will also stand barred, in keeping with the UCC.“The new marriage registration process will also do away with conversions carried out solely for marriage, with interfaith couples required to register instead under the Special Marriage Act,” Mr. Shams told The Hindu.He said the redrafted nikahnama is intended to spread awareness within the community and shield people from legal complications that could arise from continuing practices now barred under the UCC.The proposed document will also carry an affidavit requiring both parties to furnish complete and accurate personal details. Legal action will be taken for those who don’t, he warned.Under the proposed system, only clerics authorised by mosque management committees will be permitted to solemnise nikah, and such clerics will be issued special appointment numbers, Mr. Shams said.The Waqf Board oversees all mosques, madrasas and associated properties in the State and, through its management committees, appoints the Qazis who solemnise marriages.Parag Madhukar Dhakate, Minority Welfare Special Secretary, said the Waqf Board has sent the proposal to the Ministry for review. “It is under consideration, and a meeting for the same is proposed on September 9," he said. Published - September 05, 2026 07:07 pm IST