Assam Introduces UCC Bill 2026: Polygamy Ban, Mandatory Live-In Registration Proposed
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Agartala
- May 25, 2026
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The Assam government on Monday introduced the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill 2026 in the state Assembly, proposing sweeping reforms in marriage, divorce, inheritance and family laws. The Bill includes a ban on polygamy and mandatory registration of live-in relationships.
The legislation was introduced in the Assembly by Atul Bora on behalf of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
For more Northeast political updates and legislative developments, visit The Tripura Post.
Key Highlights of Assam UCC Bill 2026
The proposed Uniform Civil Code aims to establish a common legal framework governing marriage, divorce, maintenance, inheritance and succession across Assam.
Polygamy Ban Proposed
One of the most significant provisions in the Bill is a complete prohibition on polygamy. If enacted, Assam will legally enforce monogamous marriages across communities covered under the law.
Mandatory Registration of Marriages and Divorces
The Bill proposes compulsory registration of marriages and divorces to strengthen legal safeguards related to maintenance, inheritance and spousal rights. The state government said the move would help ensure better legal protection, especially for women.
Compulsory Registration of Live-In Relationships
Another major provision is mandatory registration of live-in relationships. According to the Assam government, the measure is aimed at ensuring legal accountability and protecting the rights of partners involved in such arrangements.
Legal Marriage Age
Under the proposed legislation:
- Minimum marriage age for men: 21 years
- Minimum marriage age for women: 18 yearsÂ
Scheduled Tribes Exempted
The Assam government has specifically exempted Scheduled Tribes residing in the state from the provisions of the UCC Bill, citing constitutional and cultural protections available to tribal communities.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has repeatedly stated that the legislation aims to promote gender justice, legal uniformity, and social reform while respecting indigenous traditions and constitutional safeguards.
Political Significance
With this move, Assam has become the first state in Northeast India and the third BJP-ruled state in the country to introduce a Uniform Civil Code Bill in the Assembly.
The BJP had promised implementation of the UCC in Assam in its manifesto ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. The draft legislation was approved during the first Cabinet meeting held on May 13.
The Bill is expected to trigger intense debate both inside the Assembly and across political, legal, and social circles in Assam in the coming weeks.