Assam Passes UCC Bill; Polygamy Banned, Live-in Relationship Registration Made Mandatory

The Assam Legislative Assembly has passed the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill despite strong opposition and an extended debate. With this move, Assam has become the third state in India to move forward with implementing a Uniform Civil Code after Uttarakhand and Gujarat.

Assam Assembly Approves Uniform Civil Code Bill

The Assam Legislative Assembly has passed the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill following a marathon debate and intense opposition protests inside the House. The development marks a significant step towards implementing a common civil law framework in the state.

With the passage of the legislation, Assam joins Uttarakhand and Gujarat among the states taking concrete steps toward implementing the Uniform Civil Code.

Government Calls It a Landmark Reform

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma described the decision as a historic measure aimed at strengthening women’s rights, promoting social reform, and modernizing the legal system.

Speaking during the Assembly debate, Sarma stated that the dignity and rights of women cannot be compromised under any circumstances. The government maintains that the legislation will provide greater legal protection and social security to women.

Polygamy Prohibited Under New Law

One of the key provisions of the new legislation is a complete ban on polygamy in the state.

Individuals found violating the law could face imprisonment of up to seven years. The state government has said the provision is intended to ensure equal rights and stronger legal safeguards for women.

Live-in Couples Must Register Their Relationship

The legislation also makes registration mandatory for couples living in live-in relationships.

Failure to register could result in a prison term of up to three months. The government argues that mandatory registration will help establish legal clarity and accountability in such relationships.

Uniform Rules for Marriage, Divorce and Inheritance

The Bill seeks to introduce a common legal framework governing marriage, divorce, maintenance, and property inheritance, irrespective of religion.

Supporters of the legislation say it aims to ensure equality before the law by applying uniform civil rules across communities.

ST Communities Kept Outside the UCC Framework

The legislation excludes Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities from its scope.

The government has stated that the exemption is intended to preserve the traditional customs, practices, and cultural identity of tribal communities while implementing broader legal reforms elsewhere.