Assam Chief Minister Defends Uniform Civil Code in Assembly
Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has defended the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the assembly, emphasizing its role in safeguarding women's rights in minority communities. He highlighted the government's commitment to social justice over political interests. Additionally, Sarma announced that Assam is on track to become a 10 lakh crore rupee economy by 2028, with significant growth in its Gross State Domestic Product. The state has also received substantial financial support from the central government for infrastructure development. The UCC bill is expected to be discussed and passed in the assembly soon, marking a significant legislative move.
| May 26, 2026, 15:41 IST
Chief Minister's Defense of the Uniform Civil Code
On Tuesday, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma defended the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the assembly, stating that the bill aims to provide enhanced protection and justice for women in minority communities. During the discussion in the house, Sarma emphasized that the BJP-led government prioritizes social justice over political interests, introducing the UCC bill in the assembly's first session to safeguard the rights of women from religious minorities.
Focus on Social Justice
The Chief Minister remarked that their presence in the assembly is not merely for vote bank politics. Before catering to their supporters or political agendas, they have introduced the UCC bill for the sake of social justice. He asserted that the proposed legislation would provide the highest level of security for women in minority communities, strengthening their rights concerning marriage, inheritance, and social security. Sarma accused opposition parties of misleading the public regarding the bill's objectives, reiterating that the UCC will ensure maximum protection for women in minority societies.
Economic Growth Projections
In another statement, Chief Minister Sarma announced that Assam is on track to achieve a 10 lakh crore rupee economy by 2028. Speaking in the assembly, he noted that the state's Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) has risen from 4 lakh crore rupees in 2021-22 to an estimated 8.72 lakh crore rupees currently, reflecting an annual growth rate of 13 to 15 percent. He added that with this unprecedented growth, Assam is well-positioned to significantly contribute to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a 5 trillion dollar national economy.
Financial Support from the Central Government
The Finance Ministry reported on February 2 that Assam has received 5.61 lakh crore rupees in tax transfers and central grants from 2014 to 2026. Additionally, the state has been granted over 17,000 crore rupees in interest-free loans under the Special Assistance Scheme for Capital Expenditure (SASCI). This scheme provides interest-free loans from the center for 50 years, aimed at sustainable infrastructure development, beyond the recommendations of the Finance Commission.
Upcoming Legislative Discussions
Furthermore, the ministry indicated that between the fiscal years 2020 and 2026 (up to January 12, 2026), Assam is set to receive 17,104 crore rupees under SASCI, facilitating significant infrastructure and asset development. Meanwhile, on Monday, Assam's Parliamentary Affairs Minister Atul Bora introduced the "Uniform Civil Code Bill, 2026" on behalf of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in the assembly. The discussion and passage of this bill are anticipated on May 27.