Gujarat UCC Bill Gets President’s Assent: What Changes Now?
The Gujarat Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill, 2026, has received President Droupadi Murmu’s assent. The move clears the way for the law to be implemented in Gujarat. The state government will now decide when the new law will come into force.
The Gujarat Assembly passed the Bill on March 24 after a debate of nearly eight hours. It was later published in the Gujarat government’s official gazette on October 1. The gazette stated that President Murmu had given her assent on September 17.
What Is the Gujarat UCC Bill?
The Gujarat UCC creates a common legal framework for several personal matters. These include marriage, divorce, succession, adoption and live-in relationships. The law will apply across Gujarat and also cover eligible Gujarat residents living outside the state.
However, the law has some exemptions. Scheduled Tribes covered under Article 342 of the Constitution are excluded. Certain groups whose customary rights are protected under Part XXI of the Constitution are also outside its scope.
New Rules for Marriage and Divorce
Under the new framework, marriage registration will become mandatory. The law sets the minimum marriageable age at 21 years for men and 18 years for women. Religious and customary ceremonies, including Nikah, Saptapadi and Anand Karaj, can continue, but the marriage must meet the legal requirements.
The law also prohibits bigamy. It sets out common rules for divorce and includes grounds such as adultery, cruelty and desertion. Divorce by mutual consent is also covered under the new framework.
Live-In Relationships and Inheritance
The UCC introduces a formal system for registering live-in relationships. Couples will have to submit a statement to the designated Registrar. The law also recognises children born from live-in relationships and provides them with legal rights.
In addition, the law changes succession rules. When a person dies without leaving a will, the estate will pass to specified heirs. The framework includes spouses, children and parents among the recognised heirs and provides equal inheritance rights for sons and daughters.
When Will Gujarat UCC Come Into Force?
Although the Bill has received presidential assent and has been published in the official gazette, it is not yet operational. The Gujarat government must issue a separate notification announcing the date of commencement.
The practical impact of the Gujarat UCC will depend on the commencement notification and the rules used by authorities to implement its provisions.
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