Gujarat Legislative Assembly: Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel Passes Uniform Civil Code Bill
Following a marathon seven-hour debate, the Gujarat Legislative Assembly has officially passed the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill, 2026.
GANDHINAGAR — Following a marathon seven-hour debate, the Gujarat Legislative Assembly has officially passed the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill, 2026. Led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Gujarat becomes the second state in India to adopt a common legal framework for personal matters, following Uttarakhand.
The new law establishes a single set of rules governing marriage, divorce, succession, and live-in relationships for all citizens, irrespective of religion. While the ruling party hailed the move as a milestone for Article 44 of the Constitution, opposition members from the Congress and AAP raised concerns regarding fundamental rights and the bill's impact on diverse religious practices.
Key Highlights of the Bill
- Designation: Gujarat Uniform Civil Code, 2026
- Proponent: Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel
- Scope: Covers all residents of Gujarat (excluding Scheduled Tribes).
- Key Mandates: Compulsory registration of live-in relationships and a strict prohibition on bigamy.
Strategic Intent
Tabling the bill, CM Bhupendra Patel emphasized that "justice must be one" even if religions are many. The legislation aims to ensure equality before the law under Article 14, providing a unified legal structure that reflects the aspirations of the state’s citizens for equal justice and modern governance.