Uniform Civil Code(UCC): Balancing Diversity and Gender Justice

The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is a body of law that was recently the subject of a consultation with recognised religious organisations by India’s 22nd Law Commission. The formation of a UCC was not deemed necessary or desirable at this time by the previous 21st Law Commission’s consultation paper on the reform of family law, which led to this action.

All you need to know about Law Commission of India

The Government of India created the Law Commission of India as a statutory organisation. It is essential to the growth of the Indian legal system and legal reforms.

Establishment: The first Law Commission was established in 1955, and since then, there have been several subsequent commissions. The Law Commission operates under the Law Commission Act, 1956.

Composition: The Commission consists of a chairman, who is typically a retired judge of the Supreme Court of India or a retired Chief Justice of a High Court, and other members, including legal experts and scholars.

Role and Functions: The primary function of the Law Commission is to examine and review the existing laws of the country, suggest reforms, and make recommendations for new legislation. It also conducts research, studies, and consultations on various legal issues referred to it by the government.

Research and Reports: The Commission conducts in-depth research on legal matters, examines specific subjects, and prepares detailed reports with recommendations for legal reforms. These reports cover a wide range of topics, including civil and criminal laws, family laws, constitutional law, administrative law, and other legal areas.

Consultation with Stakeholders: The Law Commission seeks public opinion and engages with stakeholders, including government departments, judiciary, legal professionals, academic institutions, and civil society organizations, to gather diverse perspectives on legal issues and proposed reforms.

Implementation of Recommendations: The government reviews the reports and recommendations of the Law Commission and decides on their implementation. While the Commission’s recommendations are not binding, they often influence legislative changes and legal reforms.

Timeframe and Term: Each Law Commission has a specific term, usually three years, during which it functions. At the end of the term, a new Commission may be constituted.

Impact and Significance: The Law Commission’s recommendations and reports have played a crucial role in shaping Indian laws and legal reforms. Many landmark legislations and amendments have been based on the Commission’s suggestions.

Relationship with Judiciary and Parliament: The Law Commission often collaborates with the judiciary, seeking inputs from judges and addressing legal issues raised in court cases. It also interacts with Parliament, which may refer specific matters to the Commission for its expert opinion.

Recent Developments: The Law Commission continues to address contemporary legal challenges, such as reforms in family laws, criminal justice system, electoral laws, and other areas. It adapts to changing societal needs and legal developments to provide relevant recommendations

What is Uniform Civil Code (UCC)?

The UCC aims to establish a single personal civil law for the entire country, applicable to all religious communities in matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption, etc.

The idea of a UCC has a long history in India and has been a topic of debate and discussion.

This article explores the basis for a UCC, its timeline, the conflict with the right to freedom of religion, minority opinions, challenges to implementation, and the way forward.

What is the latest development regarding 22nd Law Commission and UCC?

The 22nd Law Commission of India has expressed its intention to gather public opinions and engage with recognized religious organizations regarding the Uniform Civil Code (UCC).

The Commission aims to solicit views from the public as well as religious organizations on the topic of the UCC.

By actively seeking public opinions and engaging with religious organizations, the 22nd Law Commission aims to gather diverse perspectives on the UCC. This approach recognizes the significance of public input and the need to consider the viewpoints of various religious groups that may be affected by the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code.

What are the concerns associated with the process?

Opposition from Religious Organizations: Religious organizations may have differing views on the UCC, and some may oppose the idea altogether. Engaging with these organizations may lead to resistance and challenges in reaching a consensus on the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code.

Potential Polarization: The UCC is a sensitive and contentious issue in India due to its potential impact on religious personal laws. Engaging with religious organizations and seeking public opinions may further polarize society along religious lines, leading to heightened tensions and divisions.

Influence of Traditional Practices: Religious organizations may advocate for the preservation of traditional practices and oppose any reforms or changes proposed by the UCC. This can hinder the progress of gender equality and other social reforms that the UCC aims to achieve.

Difficulty in Reaching a Consensus: Gathering public opinions from a diverse population with varying viewpoints can make it challenging to reach a consensus on the implementation of the UCC. Conflicting opinions and interests may hinder the formulation of comprehensive and effective recommendations.

Titanic Submersible Expedition

The Titan submersible’s five crew members all perished in the tragic implosion.

Submersible: What is it?

Submersibles are boats made for travelling underwater and are frequently used for tourism, exploration, and scientific study.

Their top speed is three knots, or 5.5 kilometres per hour (3.5 miles per hour), and they are white tubes that are roughly 6.7 metres long and 2.8 metres broad.

In the context of tourism, submersibles give visitors the chance to discover the wonders of the marine ecosystems and the undersea environment.

Adventuresome tourists are increasingly turning to submersible tourism since it provides special chances to experience the underwater world.

Submersible Tourism and the Titanic Site

The wreckage of the RMS Titanic, discovered in 1985, has been a popular destination for tourists over the years.

OceanGate Expeditions began offering Titanic expeditions, taking crews of “citizen scientists” and “crew members” to the site since 2010.

About Titan Submersible

The Titan submersible was constructed using titanium and filament-wound carbon fiber.

With a length of 22 feet and a weight of 10,432 kg, it was capable of reaching depths of 4,000 meters (13,123 feet).

Functionality and Equipment

The submersible employed 4 electric thrusters for movement and maneuverability.

Equipped with an array of cameras, lights, and scanners, the Titan facilitated deep-sea exploration and surveying.

Communication in deep waters was achieved using sound waves (sonar) since radio waves do not transmit effectively.

Differentiating Submersibles and Submarines 

Submersibles, such as the Titan, are not fully autonomous and require support ships for launch and recovery.

They descend using weights and do not possess the power to launch independently.

Submarines, on the other hand, are self-propelled and capable of launching and returning without external support.

Depth and Cost

The maximum depth for the OceanGate Titanic expedition is around 12,800 feet, with the wreck located at 12,500 feet.

The cost of touring the Titanic varies, with the OceanGate expedition priced at $250,000 per person.

Safety Considerations in Submersible Tourism

The submersible tourism industry adheres to international safety standards and has maintained a safety record without incident for 50 years, according to the Marine Technology Society (MTS).

Submersible tour companies conduct detailed risk assessments for each experience, ensuring clients are aware of the potential risks involved.

Clients often undergo risk assessments and sign waivers before embarking on submersible journeys.

Understanding Summer Solstice: Longest Day of the Year

For people who live north of the equator, the summer solstice, commonly referred to as the longest day of the year, takes place on June 21.

The summer solstice is discussed in this article along with its significance, causes, and impact on many regions of the world.

What is the summer equinox?

The Earth’s axial tilt is greatest inclined towards the Sun during the summer solstice.

On or around June 21st each year, it takes place in the Northern Hemisphere.

The Sun travels across the sky in its highest and broadest route during the summer solstice.

As a result, daylight hours are prolonged, making today the longest day of the year.

Various elements that affect the summer solstice

Earth’s Axial Tilt: The Earth’s axis is tilted relative to its orbit around the Sun, at an angle of approximately 23.5 degrees.

Tropic of Cancer: The summer solstice takes place when the Sun is directly over the Tropic of Cancer, located at 23.5 degrees north latitude.

Seasonal Variations: The tilt of the Earth’s axis causes different latitudes to receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year.

Sunlight Distribution in the Hemispheres

The Northern Hemisphere receives the maximum amount of sunlight during the summer solstice, typically on June 20, 21, or 22.

In contrast, the Southern Hemisphere experiences its peak sunlight during the winter solstice, which occurs on December 21, 22, or 23.

Cultural Significance and Celebrations

The summer solstice holds cultural and religious significance in various civilizations throughout history.

Festivals and rituals often commemorate this astronomical event, symbolizing the triumph of light and fertility.

People around the world celebrate the summer solstice through festivals, bonfires, music, dancing, and outdoor activities.

Notable celebrations include the Summer Solstice Stonehenge Festival in England and the Midnight Sun Festival in Norway.

What are Lab-Grown Diamonds (LGDs)?

PM Modi gave First Lady Jill Biden a 7.5-carat lab-grown diamond as a gift during his official visit to the US.

The advantages that lab-grown diamonds, sometimes referred to as LGDs, have over mined diamonds in terms of ethics and the environment have helped them become more well-liked in recent years.

Lab-Grown Diamond (LGD) – what is it?

Diamonds produced in a laboratory using technology that mimics the natural geological processes of diamond production are known as lab-grown diamonds.

The chemical, physical, and visual characteristics of LGDs are identical to those of natural diamonds, unlike those of diamond substitutes like Moissanite or Cubic Zirconia.

Environmental and ethical benefits

Compared to mined diamonds, LGDs are seen as more ethical and sustainable options.

They are produced without the social exploitation that occurs during diamond mining and with less environmental damage than conventional mining methods.

Characteristics of gifted diamond

Carat Weight: The diamond weighs 7.5 carats. Carat weight refers to the size and weight of the diamond, with one carat equal to 200 milligrams.

Origin: The diamond is created in a laboratory using advanced technology and does not come from natural diamond mining.

Certification: The diamond has been certified by the Gemological Lab, IGI (International Gemological Institute). Certification ensures that the diamond meets industry standards for quality and authenticity.

Cutting and Polishing: The diamond is expertly cut and polished to enhance its brilliance and visual appeal. The precise craftsmanship and attention to detail result in a well-cut and faceted diamond.

Methods of LGD Production

(A) High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT) Method:

This common method involves subjecting a diamond seed, typically made of graphite, to extreme pressures and temperatures to transform it into a diamond.

HPHT requires heavy presses capable of generating immense pressure (up to 730,000 psi) and temperatures exceeding 1500 degrees Celsius.

(B) Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) and Explosive Formation:

CVD involves the deposition of carbon atoms onto a diamond seed using a gas mixture, resulting in the growth of a diamond layer.

Explosive formation, known as detonation nano-diamonds, utilizes explosive reactions to create tiny diamond particles.

Properties and Applications of LGDs

Optical Properties and Durability: LGDs possess similar optical dispersion to natural diamonds, giving them the characteristic sparkle. Their durability makes them suitable for industrial applications, such as cutters and tools.

Enhanced Properties and Industrial Uses: LGDs can have their properties enhanced for specific purposes, such as high thermal conductivity and negligible electrical conductivity. These properties make LGDs valuable for electronics, acting as heat spreaders for high-power laser diodes and transistors.

Impact on the Diamond Industry

(A) Sustainable Growth in the Jewellery Industry

As natural diamond reserves decline, LGDs are gradually replacing mined diamonds in the jewelry sector.

The production processes for LGDs, including cutting and polishing, align with established practices in the diamond industry.

(B) India’s Diamond Industry

The rise of LGDs is unlikely to significantly impact India’s diamond industry, which specializes in polishing and cutting diamonds.

India’s established diamond industry can continue to thrive while incorporating LGDs as part of its offerings.

Commercial LGD Production in India: InCent-LGD

In the Union Budget 23-24, a 5-year research grant was announced for an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) with the aim of encouraging the development of LGD machinery, seeds, and recipes.

It would establish the India Centre for Lab Grown Diamond (InCent-LGD) at IIT Madras.

The primary aim of InCent-LGD is to provide technical assistance to domestic industries and entrepreneurs, fostering indigenous manufacturing of Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) and High Pressure and High Temperature (HPHT) systems.

The project seeks to expand the Lab-Grown Diamond (LGD) business by offering affordable technology to start-ups, creating employment opportunities, and boosting LGD exports.