The Assam government has introduced the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill 2026 in the state Assembly, marking a major legislative move aimed at bringing personal laws under a common legal framework.

The bill was tabled by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Atul Bora on behalf of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Debate on the Assam UCC Bill 2026 is expected to take place in the Assembly on May 26 during the final day of the special session.

Promise Made Before Elections

Before the 2026 Assembly elections, Himanta Biswa Sarma had announced that his government would introduce the Uniform Civil Code if voted back to power. The proposed law seeks to establish a uniform legal structure governing marriage, divorce, inheritance, property rights, live-in relationships and related matters across all religions.

Once implemented, the same legal provisions would apply to citizens irrespective of their religious background.

Key Provisions of the Assam UCC Bill

The bill proposes to unify laws related to marriage, divorce, inheritance and live-in relationships. One of its major provisions is a ban on polygamy.

The proposed legislation also introduces a legal framework for live-in relationships in Assam. Registration of all live-in relationships would become mandatory under the law.

Children born from registered live-in relationships would be treated as legitimate children of the couple. However, registration would not be allowed if either partner is already married or is a minor.

Marriage Registration Mandatory

Under the bill, registration of all marriages and divorces would be compulsory. The law also fixes the minimum marriage age at 21 years for men and 18 years for women.

At the same time, the bill permits marriages to be conducted according to existing religious and traditional customs, provided they are officially registered.

Tribal Communities Exempted

The Assam UCC Bill exempts tribal communities from its provisions, recognising their distinct customary practices and traditions.

Debate Likely on Final Day of Special Session

The special session of the Assam Assembly began on May 21 and will continue till May 26. The government is expected to hold detailed discussions on the bill before it is taken up for further legislative process.

The move has triggered political and legal debate, with supporters calling it a step towards uniformity in civil laws, while critics are expected to raise concerns over its social and constitutional implications.