Assam's Bold Move: New Bill Aims to Establish Uniform Civil Code and Ban Polygamy

The Assam government has introduced a significant Bill aimed at establishing a Uniform Civil Code, which seeks to ban polygamy and enforce the registration of live-in relationships. Presented by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Atul Bora, the Bill has faced opposition from various parties demanding more stakeholder engagement. It aims to clarify laws surrounding marriage, divorce, and inheritance, while setting minimum ages for marriage. Notably, it also provides legal recognition for live-in partnerships, ensuring rights for partners and their children. However, the Bill will not apply to Scheduled Tribes in Assam, raising questions about its broader implications.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 25, 2026, 11:40 IST

Assam Government Introduces Uniform Civil Code Bill

Guwahati: On Monday, the Assam government presented a Bill aimed at implementing a Uniform Civil Code, which includes a ban on polygamy and mandates the registration of live-in relationships.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Atul Bora introduced 'The Uniform Civil Code, Assam, 2026 Bill' in the assembly on behalf of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Opposition parties, such as Congress, Raijor Dal, and Trinamool Congress, voiced their dissent, calling for broader consultations with stakeholders prior to the Bill's enactment.

The objective of the Bill is to streamline and clarify laws related to marriage, divorce, inheritance, and live-in partnerships, as outlined by Sarma in the 'Statement of Object and Reasons' accompanying the Bill.

The legislation proposes a minimum marriage age of 21 for men and 18 for women, while explicitly prohibiting polygamy.

For the first time, the Bill establishes a legal framework for live-in relationships, ensuring that the rights of partners and any children from these unions are formally acknowledged and safeguarded, according to the Chief Minister.

However, the Bill specifies that it will not apply to any Scheduled Tribes residing in Assam.