The Legal Framework Controlling Migrant Women and the Imperative of Uniform Civil Code

Ankita

Adoption of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in India has been the subject of vigorous debate, specifically regarding its implications for marginalized groups, such as migrant women. Migrant women tend to experience legal vulnerabilities due to the convergence of personal laws, socio-economic disadvantage, and restricted access to justice. The envisioned UCC seeks to substitute religious-governed personal laws with one uniform legal scheme, perhaps narrowing gender imbalances in marriage, divorce, succession, and maintenance. The singularity of legal regime may further erode the cultural identity as well as produce further exclusionary effects on the migrant women who already face systematic obstacles in India. This article critically explores whether a UCC would bring about greater gender equality and better legal protection to migrant women or if it would overlook their socio-cultural realities and cause unintended discrimination. Through a critical analysis of constitutional provisions, judicial precedents, and foreign experiences, this research assesses the possible advantages and pitfalls of enacting UCC in India. The study also investigates worldwide legal systems which have embraced consistent civil laws and how they have affected migrant and minority populations. The research concludes by emphasizing the importance of a sensitive and inclusive process in formulating the UCC, with special care to ensure that the interests of migrant women are properly catered to. Policy suggestions are centered on maintaining a balance between uniformity and diversity, improving legal assistance for migrant women, and encouraging gender-sensitive reforms to ensure equality and cultural identity.

Keywords: Uniform Civil Code, Migrant Women, Gender Equality, Legal Protection, Cultural Identity.

Cite the article: Ankita (2025). The Legal Framework Controlling Migrant Women and the Imperative of Uniform Civil Code. International Journal of Law, Education, Social and Sports Studies, 12(3),1-6. DOI: 10.33329/ijless.12.3.1