Archive · 3 Sep 2026
Uttarakhand Waqf Board Plans UCC-Compliant Nikahnama for Muslim Marriages
Uttarakhand has introduced a Uniform Civil Code, or UCC, for the state.
The Waqf Board is making a new form for Muslim marriages called a Nikahnama.
The form will contain detailed information about the couple.
It will also require the couple to promise that their information is truthful.
Shadab Shams said practices such as polygamy and triple talaq will not be allowed under the new rules.
He also said some marriage-related religious conversion practices could lead to legal action.
Only Qazis and Imams approved by the Waqf Board would conduct marriages using this form.
Couples from different religions could still marry through a court.
The Uttarakhand Waqf Board is preparing a detailed Nikahnama aligned with the state’s Uniform Civil Code.
Chairman Shadab Shams said the document will address polygamy, triple talaq, halala and marriage-related religious conversions.
The proposed Nikahnama will include an affidavit requiring complete and truthful information from the parties.
Only Qazis and Imams appointed by the Uttarakhand Waqf Board would be permitted to conduct Nikahs under the proposed system.
Interfaith couples would retain the option of marrying through a court, while informal conversion-based marriages would not be permitted under the proposed framework.
- Who
- The Uttarakhand Waqf Board, led by Chairman Shadab Shams, is preparing the document.
- What
- The Board plans to introduce a detailed Nikahnama intended to align Muslim marriages with Uttarakhand’s Uniform Civil Code.
- When
- The proposal follows the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code; no specific introduction date is provided.
- Where
- Uttarakhand, India.
- Why
- The Board says the document will create awareness, ensure legal compliance and help prevent disputes or offences linked to prohibited practices.
- State involved
- Uttarakhand
- Policy framework
- Uniform Civil Code
- Proposed document
- A detailed Nikahnama with an affidavit
- Board chairman
- Shadab Shams
- Marriage officials
- Qazis and Imams appointed by the Uttarakhand Waqf Board
- Interfaith marriages
- Couples may approach a court for marriage, according to Shadab Shams
- Stated prohibited practices
- Polygamy and triple talaq; Shams also described halala as an offence