The Assam Legislative Assembly passed a Uniform Civil Code bill in 2026 [4], making it the third state in India to do so [1].
The legislation replaces diverse religious personal laws with a single set of rules for all citizens. This move shifts the legal framework for marriage, divorce, and inheritance, potentially impacting the social and religious fabric of the region.
Under the new law, the state implements a ban on polygamy [2]. The bill also establishes registration provisions for live-in relationships that apply to people of all religions [3]. These measures are designed to standardize civil conduct across the state's diverse population.
Proponents of the bill said the measure will empower and honor women [1]. They argue that a unified code ensures gender equality and protects legal rights regardless of a person's faith.
However, the move has faced criticism from political opponents. Opposition members said the bill is an unnecessary political stunt [1]. Critics argue that the legislation may infringe upon religious freedoms and traditional customs.
The passage of the bill follows a growing trend among a small number of Indian states to move away from personal laws. By standardizing these regulations, Assam joins a limited group of states that have sought to implement a civil code at the regional level [1].
“Assam became the third state in India to pass a Uniform Civil Code bill”
The adoption of the UCC in Assam signals a broader push toward legal secularism in personal matters, moving away from the historically fragmented system of religious personal laws. By banning polygamy and requiring registration for live-in relationships, the state is prioritizing a centralized legal standard over religious autonomy, which may increase legal friction between the government and minority religious groups.
