Daijiworld Media Network - Guwahati

Guwahati, May 27: The Assam Legislative Assembly on Wednesday passed the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill, marking a major legislative development in the state. The Bill will now be sent to Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya for approval before being forwarded to President Droupadi Murmu for final assent.

Announcing the passage of the Bill, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma described it as a “historic” moment and thanked members of the Assembly for supporting the legislation.

“Today, the Assam Legislative Assembly has passed the Uniform Civil Code Bill, 2026. I am deeply privileged and grateful to all members for adopting this historic legislation,” Sarma said while addressing reporters.

He explained that once the Bill receives presidential assent, it will be formally implemented in Assam. The state government will then proceed with notifying detailed rules required for execution of the law.

According to the Chief Minister, the implementation process involves six to seven regulatory frameworks that will require Cabinet approval. While these rules have already been prepared, they can only be notified after the Bill receives final assent.

Sarma added that the complete rollout of the Uniform Civil Code in Assam could take approximately three to six months after receiving approval from the President.

The proposed law aims to introduce a common civil framework governing matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, succession, and live-in relationships, regardless of religion.

It also includes provisions such as a ban on polygamy and mandatory registration of live-in relationships, forming part of the state’s broader push toward uniform personal laws.

While the ruling BJP-led government has argued that the UCC will promote equality and social justice, the legislation has drawn criticism from opposition parties and various organisations, which have raised concerns over certain provisions and their potential impact.