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Assam govt passes UCC bill with ban on polygamy (Img: Internet)
New Delhi: The Assam Assembly on Wednesday passed the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill, 2026, introducing a common legal framework for matters related to marriage, divorce, succession and live-in relationships in the state. With the passage of the legislation, Assam has become the first northeastern state to approve a UCC law.
The Bill was passed amid protests from opposition members, who demanded that the proposed legislation be referred to a select committee for wider scrutiny and discussion. Despite the objections, the BJP-led government secured the Bill’s passage in the Assembly.
‘Need Of The Hour’, says CM Himanta Sarma as Assam govt tables UCC Bill in state assembly
One of the most significant provisions in the new law is a ban on polygamy. The legislation also makes registration compulsory for marriages, divorces and live-in relationships.
Under the proposed framework, marriages must be officially registered within 60 days of the ceremony. Couples entering live-in relationships will be required to register their partnership within 30 days.
The Bill also introduces penalties for non-compliance. According to the state government, deliberate failure to register a marriage or divorce within the prescribed period may attract a fine of Rs 10,000.
The Uniform Civil Code was among the key promises made by the BJP ahead of the 2026 Assam Assembly elections. Earlier this month, the Assam Cabinet approved the draft legislation during its first meeting after the elections.
Assam govt approves UCC draft, bill to be tabled in Assembly on May 26
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had repeatedly stated that the law aims to ensure equal civil rights and establish a uniform legal structure for all residents of the state, irrespective of religion or community.
Opposition parties criticised the move during the Assembly proceedings and sought more detailed examination of the Bill. Leaders from opposition benches argued that such a wide-ranging law required broader consultation before implementation.
Despite the protests, the government maintained that the legislation was necessary to modernise personal laws and streamline legal procedures related to family matters in the state.
