Assam Cabinet Approves Draft Uniform Civil Code Bill

On 13 May 2026, the Assam Cabinet approved the draft Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill in its first meeting of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s second term. The bill is scheduled for introduction in the Assam Legislative Assembly on 26 May 2026, the concluding day of the session that begins on 21 May.

Uniform Civil Code in India

The Uniform Civil Code is a proposed legal framework for common civil laws on marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption, and related personal matters. Article 44 of the Constitution of India places the UCC among the Directive Principles of State Policy.

Key Provisions in the Assam Draft

The Assam draft UCC Bill covers marriage and divorce registration, prohibition of polygamy, property rights for girls, and rules on live-in relationships. Tribal communities in hill and plain areas are kept outside the purview of the proposed law, and customary laws, traditional rituals, and religious rituals of Assam’s people are exempted from its scope.

Legislative Process in Assam

The Assam Legislative Assembly is the unicameral legislature of the state, and a bill becomes law after passage in the Assembly and assent by the Governor. The draft UCC Bill is expected to be tabled during the budget session scheduled from 21 May to 26 May 2026.

Important Facts for Exams

• Uttarakhand became the first Indian state to enact a Uniform Civil Code law in 2024.
• Gujarat has formed a committee for drafting a Uniform Civil Code framework.
• Article 44 is part of the Directive Principles of State Policy in Part IV of the Constitution of India.
• Assam is the third state to table a Uniform Civil Code Bill after Uttarakhand and Gujarat.

Exam-Relevant Points

The Bharatiya Janata Party included the UCC in its 2026 Assembly poll manifesto for Assam. The proposed law in Assam is linked to civil matters and does not cover criminal law.