NEW DELHI: It is hinted that the central government is gearing up to introduce a bill to implement the Uniform Civil Code in the winter session of Parliament.

The Law Commission of India has solicited the views and ideas of the public and recognised religious organizations to examine the Uniform Civil Code. The Law Commission has given 30 days to the respondents to present their views.

The 22nd Law Commission of India is among other things examining the Uniform Civil Code on a reference sent by the Ministry of Law & Justice.

Initially, the 21st Law Commission examined the subject of the Uniform Civil Code, soliciting the views of all the stakeholders through its appeal along with a questionnaire dated 7.10.2016 and further public appeals/notices dated 19.03.2018, 27.03.2018 and 10.4.2018. It had been received an overwhelming response from the respondents.

An official said the 21st Law Commission issued the consultation paper on "Reforms of Family Law" on 31.08.2018.

"Since more than three years have lapsed from the date of issuance of the said Consultation Paper, bearing in mind the relevance and importance of the subject and also the various court orders on it, the 22nd Law Commission of India considered it expedient to deliberate afresh over the issue," he said.

Accordingly, the 22nd Law Commission of India decided again to solicit the views and ideas of the public at large, as well as recognised religious organisations about the Uniform Civil Code.

"Those who are interested and willing may present their views within a period of 30 days from the date of Notice through the "click here" button or by email at membersecretary-lci[at]gov[dot] into the Law Commission of India," the official added.

Proceedings are in progress in BJP-ruled states of Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Assam and Madhya Pradesh to introduce a uniform civil code.

The Uniform Civil Code is a proposal to formulate and implement personal laws which will apply uniformly to all citizens regardless of their religion, gender, and sexual orientation. The code comes under Article 44 of the Constitution, which stipulates that the state shall endeavour to secure a Uniform Civil Code for the citizens throughout the territory of India.

In the BJP's 2019 Lok Sabha election manifesto, the party had promised the implementation of UCC if it came to power.