Last Updated:
The Gujarat Uniform Civil Code Bill, 2026, was passed in the state Assembly with a majority, proposing a common legal framework for marriage, divorce, and succession.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
The Gujarat Assembly on Tuesday cleared the Gujarat Uniform Civil Code Bill, 2026, with a majority, becoming the second state after Uttarakhand to pass legislation proposing a common legal framework to govern marriage, divorce, succession, and live-in relationships irrespective of religion.
The Bill was tabled by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, a week after a state-appointed panel submitted its final report on the implementation of the UCC. The proposed law will extend to the entire state and also apply to residents of Gujarat living outside its territorial limits, with the exception of Scheduled Tribes and certain groups whose customary rights are protected under the Constitution.
What The Bill Proposes?
The Bill aims to create a uniform legal framework, as per its “Objects and Reasons” statement. Among other things, it provides for registration of live-in relationships, as well as their termination through a formal declaration.
The bill also prohibits bigamy. A marriage will be considered valid under the Code only if neither party has a living spouse at the time of marriage, according to the draft.
“The present Bill seeks to give effect to these recommendations by providing a uniform legal framework governing civil matters for all citizens of the State, irrespective of religion, caste, creed, or gender. It aims to uphold the principles of secularism, gender justice, and social reform, thereby strengthening the unity and integrity of society,” the Bill document stated.
The Bill defines key terms such as child, spouse, estate, will and live-in relationship, and recognises children born within or outside marriage, including those born through assisted reproductive technologies, as well as adopted ones, on an equal footing.
Marriages may be solemnised as per customary or religious ceremonies, but their registration will be compulsory. While non-registration will not invalidate a marriage, the Bill prescribes penalties for failure to register or for furnishing false information. The proposed law also standardises provisions relating to matrimonial disputes, restitution of conjugal rights, judicial separation and annulment of void or voidable marriages.
It also removes disqualifications based on physical or mental disability, while barring certain categories such as individuals responsible for the death of the deceased. The law also governs testamentary succession, enabling individuals to dispose of property through wills, and lays down detailed provisions on execution, validity, alteration and revocation of such wills.
(with inputs from PTI)
March 24, 2026, 11:08 PM IST
Read More
Source link
[ad_3]
