1 min readMumbaiJul 9, 2026 03:00 PM ISTFormer Supreme Court judge Justice Ranjana Desai (File photo)Maharashtra minister Ashish Shelar on Thursday announced the formation of a committee headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice Ranjana Desai to draft rules and recommendations for implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state.The seven-member committee will comprise former judges of the Supreme Court and High Court, along with experts from various fields. The members include former High Court judge Justice R.C. Chavan, former High Court judge Justice S.G. Mehare, former Chief Secretary D.K. Jain, former Advocate General Birendra Saraf, social activist and Padma Shri awardee Ramesh Patange, and education expert Dr. Suvarna Rawal.Shelar made the announcement in the Maharashtra Legislative Council. The state government aims to introduce the Uniform Civil Code legislation during the Winter Session in Nagpur after receiving the committee’s report.© The Indian Express Pvt LtdVallabh Ozarkar is a Senior Correspondent with The Indian Express' Mumbai bureau, recognized as an authoritative and deeply knowledgeable voice on the politics, governance, and infrastructure of Maharashtra. With more than nine years of experience in major news organizations, his reporting delivers high standards of Expertise and Trustworthiness. Expertise & Authority Current Role: Senior Correspondent, The Indian Express, Mumbai bureau. Geographical Specialization: Provides exclusive and detailed coverage of Maharashtra politics and governance, operating at the epicenter of the state's decision-making in Mumbai. Core Authority: His reporting demonstrates deep Expertise across critical and often complex state matters, including: Political Dynamics: In-depth analysis of the ruling coalition (Mahayuti) and opposition (MVA), internal party conflicts, and crucial election updates, including local body polls and municipal corporation tussles. Governance & Policy: Focused coverage on significant state policies, such as the overhaul of Mumbai's 'pagdi system' (rent control for old buildings) and social welfare schemes (e.g., Ladki Bahin Yojana accountability). Infrastructure & Development: Reports on major urban and regional infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai Water Metro, Uttan-Virar Sea Link, and Thane Metro development. Administrative Oversight: Follows legislative actions, cabinet decisions, and reports on issues of accountability and alleged fraud within state departments. Experience Current Role: His role at The Indian Express—a leading national daily—validates the credibility and standard of his reporting. Career Foundation: Prior to The Indian Express, Vallabh contributed to other major metropolitan news outlets, including the Mumbai Mirror and DNA - Daily News & Analysis, providing a solid foundation in rigorous urban and political journalism. Evidence of Impact: His work consistently breaks down complex political developments and administrative failures, such as exposing discrepancies in government welfare schemes, cementing his reputation as a trusted source for ground-level, impactful news from Maharashtra. He tweets @Ozarkarvallabh ... Read MoreStay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on InstagramTags:MaharashtraAdvertisementLoading Recommendations...AdvertisementLive BlogBahrain sounds alarm amid Iranian strikes, Qatari PM dials Iran’s Araghchi7 minutes agoIndia news LIVE updates, 9 July 2026: India, Australia sign landmark energy and minerals pact21 minutes agoCBSE 10th Second Board Result 2026 Live Updates: Board has not released result date yet36 minutes agoWeather Live Updates: Red alert in Delhi as capital braces for more rain; flood hits life in Gujarat, Maharashtra48 minutes agoIran alleges US cruise missile attack in northern Golestan, warns of retaliation4 hours ago