The Assam government has tabled legislation in the state assembly to introduce a uniform civil code (UCC), a contentious issue that aims to establish a common set of laws for personal matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and succession for all citizens.
Assam becomes the third BJP-ruled state to do so, following Uttarakhand and Gujarat. The legislation, known as the Uniform Civil Code Assam Bill, 2026, was introduced by Assam minister Atul Bora.
The bill is expected to regulate the minimum age of marriage, protect the right of women to family property, abolish polygamy, recognise live-in relationships, and mandate compulsory registration of marriages and divorces.
However, tribals residing in hills and plains will be kept outside the purview of UCC, similar to provisions in Uttarakhand and Gujarat. The UCC will also not affect religious rituals, customs, and traditions.
The Assam government's move is the BJP's third attempt to implement a UCC, following its promise in the 2026 assembly polls manifesto.
