As of May 2026, the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is being actively implemented at the state level in India, aiming to replace religion-based personal laws with a common set of civil laws for marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption. Uttarakhand passed the first UCC Bill in February 2024, followed by Gujarat in March 2026, and Assam is set to table its draft Bill on May 26, 2026.

As of May 2026, the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is being actively implemented at the state level in India, aiming to replace religion-based personal laws with a common set of civil laws for marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption.             Uttarakhand passed the first UCC Bill in February 2024, followed by Gujarat in March 2026, and Assam is set to table its draft Bill on May 26, 2026. 

Key Developments & Status (May 2026)

Assam (Upcoming): -

The Assam Cabinet approved the draft UCC Bill on May 13, 2026, targeting to table it in the assembly on May 26. It covers marriage, live-in relationships, and polygamy, but specifically exempts tribal communities and protects religious customs.

Gujarat UCC Bill 2026: -

Passed in March 2026, this Bill mandates registration of marriages and live-in relationships, bans polygamy, and regulates inheritance.

Uttarakhand UCC Act 2024:-

 The first state to implement the UCC, which governs personal matters for all residents, excluding Scheduled Tribes (ST).

National Context: -

While Article 44 of the Constitution encourages a national UCC, current moves are led by individual states.

Key Features of State UCC Bills

Mandatory Registration: -

Compulsory registration of marriages and live-in relationships.

Prohibition of Polygamy:-

 The bills ban second marriages while a spouse is living.

Equal Rights: -

Aims to provide equal inheritance rights, particularly for women.

Live-in Relationships: Requires legal registration of live-in relationships. 

Contention and Scope

The UCC is highly contentious. Supporters view it as essential for national unity, gender equality, and secularism, while opponents express concerns about minority rights and the erosion of diverse religious practices. Most state bills currently exempt tribal communities to respect local customs. 

       Assam Govt to introduce UCC Bill in State Assembly on May 26

MJF Lion ER YK Sharma