The Assam Assembly on Wednesday passed the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill, 2026, introducing a common civil framework for marriage, divorce, inheritance, and live-in relationships in the state. The Bill was approved through a voice vote in the 126-member Assembly with support from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies, while Congress, Raijor Dal, and Trinamool Congress opposed the legislation.
The law makes Assam the third state after Uttarakhand and Gujarat to adopt a Uniform Civil Code. However, Scheduled Tribes (STs), who make up over 12% of Assam’s population, have been kept outside the purview of the legislation.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma defended the Bill, describing it as a major step toward gender justice and women’s empowerment. He said the law would mandate registration of marriages, divorces, and live-in relationships, ban polygamy, ensure equal inheritance rights for sons and daughters, and protect elderly parents. Sarma also stated that the law aims to prevent marriages and relationships based on coercion or deception.
The Chief Minister argued that the UCC aligns with Article 44 of the Constitution, which advocates for a common civil code. He also pointed out that Goa has followed a similar civil code since 1961.
Opposition parties strongly criticised the legislation, arguing that it was introduced without adequate consultation with minority communities. Congress leaders said the Bill could infringe upon personal freedoms and increase social and religious tensions in a diverse state like Assam.
Raijor Dal MLA Akhil Gogoi raised concerns about possible surveillance and misuse of authority under certain provisions, while Trinamool Congress MLA Sherman Ali Ahmed alleged that parts of the legislation violated religious freedoms protected under the Constitution.
The Assembly Speaker rejected the Opposition’s demand to refer the Bill to a Select Committee for detailed examination before its passage.
