New Delhi: The debate over the Uniform Civil Code has returned to the national spotlight after the Assam government introduced a UCC bill in the Assembly on May 25, 2026. With this move, Assam has become the third major state to move towards implementing a common civil law framework covering issues such as marriage, divorce, inheritance and live in relationships.
The bill was introduced by the Himanta Biswa Sarma led government at a time when several BJP ruled states are taking steps to bring personal civil matters under one uniform legal structure. The stated aim of the law is to create common rules for all citizens in family related matters and ensure equal access to justice.
Uttarakhand was the first state to fully implement the Uniform Civil Code, with the law coming into effect in January 2025. Under the Uttarakhand law, registration of marriages and divorces has been made mandatory, polygamy has been prohibited and live in relationships have also been brought within a legal framework.
Gujarat became the second state to move forward on the issue after passing its UCC bill in March 2026. The Gujarat law includes provisions related to marriage, divorce, inheritance and live in relationships. It also provides for equal property rights for women and contains measures against forced marriage.
Assam’s proposed law is being seen as a stricter version in some areas. The bill proposes a ban on polygamy and makes registration of marriage and divorce within a fixed time period compulsory. It also seeks mandatory registration of live in relationships and gives full legal recognition to children born from such relationships. The bill places special emphasis on strengthening the rights of women and children.
However, the Assam bill keeps Scheduled Tribes outside its scope so that their traditional customs and cultural practices are not affected. The state government has maintained that the proposed law is aimed at equality and simpler justice for citizens.