Guwahati, May 25: The Assam government on Monday introduced the Uniform Civil Code Bill in the State Assembly, proposing a ban on polygamy and mandatory registration of live in relationships.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Atul Bora tabled “The Uniform Civil Code, Assam, 2026 Bill” in the Assembly on behalf of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
The Bill immediately triggered protests from opposition parties, including the Congress, Trinamool Congress and Raijor Dal, which demanded wider public consultation before introducing the legislation.
UCC Bill Seeks Major Reforms
According to the Statement of Objects and Reasons attached to the Bill, the proposed law aims to simplify and consolidate rules related to marriage, divorce, succession and live in relationships.
The Bill fixes the minimum marriage age at 21 years for men and 18 years for women.
It also seeks to prohibit polygamy across communities covered under the legislation.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that the Bill introduces a legal framework for live in relationships for the first time in Assam.
Registration Of Live In Relationships Mandatory
Under the proposed legislation, couples in live in relationships must register their relationship with authorities.
The government said mandatory registration will help protect the legal rights of partners and children born from such relationships.
Officials believe the move will provide legal recognition and reduce disputes related to maintenance, inheritance and child welfare.
Scheduled Tribes Exempted
The Bill clearly states that it will not apply to Scheduled Tribes residing in Assam.
The exemption has been included considering constitutional protections and tribal customs followed by indigenous communities.
Opposition leaders criticised the government for allegedly introducing the Bill without sufficient consultation with civil society groups and minority organisations.
The Assam government, however, defended the proposal and stated that the Bill aims to ensure equality, transparency and legal protection for citizens.
The legislation is expected to witness intense debate in the Assembly in the coming days.
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