Gujarat UCC Bill 2026 marks a major legal reform as Gujarat becomes the second state after Uttarakhand to adopt a Uniform Civil Code. The bill was passed on March 24, aiming to create one common law for all citizens regardless of religion. It focuses on areas like marriage, divorce, inheritance, and live-in relationships to ensure equality and fairness.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Gujarat UCC Bill 2026 Key Provisions

The Gujarat UCC Bill 2026 makes it compulsory to register marriages and divorces. People who fail to do so may face fines up to ₹10,000. Divorce is allowed only through proper legal process in court. The law bans practices like polygamy and punishes forced or fake marriages with jail terms up to seven years. It also allows individuals to remarry freely after divorce and restricts certain practices like halala.

Regulation of Live-in Relationships

A key part of the Gujarat UCC Bill 2026 is the regulation of live-in relationships. Couples must officially register their relationship and also inform authorities if they separate. Children born from such relationships will be legally recognized. Women who are abandoned in these relationships can claim financial support, which improves protection for their rights.

Exemptions and Legislative Process

The bill does not apply to Scheduled Tribes, respecting their traditional customs. It was prepared based on suggestions from a committee led by Justice Ranjana Desai, a retired judge of the Supreme Court of India. The committee received around 20 lakh public responses. While the government supported the bill as a step toward equality, some opposition leaders raised concerns about its constitutional aspects.

Debate and Broader Impact

The Gujarat UCC Bill 2026 has started a wider debate across India. Supporters believe it will bring gender justice and legal clarity by removing different personal laws. Critics argue that it may raise constitutional questions and affect religious freedom. The bill connects to Article 44, which supports the idea of a Uniform Civil Code in the country.