Gujarat Passes Historic UCC Bill: Key Provisions, Rules & Impact
March 24, 2026, marked a historic day for the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, as the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill was passed by a majority. Introduced by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the bill was debated for nearly seven and a half hours in a marathon session. With its passage, Gujarat has become the second state after Uttarakhand to take a decisive step toward implementing a Uniform Civil Code.
Uniform Legal Framework for Marriage and Divorce
The bill introduces key provisions related to marriage and divorce. Registration of marriages will now be mandatory for people of all religions within 60 days, failing which a penalty of up to Rs.10,000 may be imposed. Additionally, any divorce granted without court approval will be considered invalid. The primary objective is to ensure legal protection for women and safeguard their rights.
The bill introduces key provisions related to marriage and divorce. Registration of marriages will now be mandatory for people of all religions within 60 days, failing which a penalty of up to Rs.10,000 may be imposed. Additionally, any divorce granted without court approval will be considered invalid. The primary objective is to ensure legal protection for women and safeguard their rights.
Strict Registration Rules for Live-in Relationships
One of the most talked-about provisions in the Gujarat UCC Bill is the regulation of live-in relationships. Couples living together in the state will be required to register their relationship with the registrar within a specified timeframe. Failure to comply may result in up to three months of imprisonment or a fine. Furthermore, if either partner is below 21 years of age, their parents will be informed by authorities.
One of the most talked-about provisions in the Gujarat UCC Bill is the regulation of live-in relationships. Couples living together in the state will be required to register their relationship with the registrar within a specified timeframe. Failure to comply may result in up to three months of imprisonment or a fine. Furthermore, if either partner is below 21 years of age, their parents will be informed by authorities.
Ban on Polygamy and Equal Inheritance Rights
To promote social equality, the bill imposes a complete ban on polygamy. If a person marries again while their first spouse is still alive, they may face up to seven years in prison. In terms of property rights, both sons and daughters will now have equal inheritance rights in their father’s property. However, the law will not apply to Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities in the state.
To promote social equality, the bill imposes a complete ban on polygamy. If a person marries again while their first spouse is still alive, they may face up to seven years in prison. In terms of property rights, both sons and daughters will now have equal inheritance rights in their father’s property. However, the law will not apply to Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities in the state.
Opposition Protests and Next Steps
During the debate, opposition members strongly criticized the bill, calling it “politically motivated.” After some of their demands were not met, members of Indian National Congress and Aam Aadmi Party staged a walkout from the House.
During the debate, opposition members strongly criticized the bill, calling it “politically motivated.” After some of their demands were not met, members of Indian National Congress and Aam Aadmi Party staged a walkout from the House.
The bill will now be sent to the Governor for approval, followed by the President of India. It will come into force across Gujarat only after receiving final presidential assent.
