Assam introduces UCC Bill banning polygamy, registering live-in relationships

The Assam government on Monday tabled the Uniform Civil Code, Assam, 2026 Bill in the assembly, seeking to ban polygamy and make registration of live-in relationships compulsory. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Atul Bora introduced the bill on behalf of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

The Bill sets minimum marriage ages at 21 for men and 18 for women, and prohibits polygamy. It also provides a legal framework for live-in relationships, requiring registration to protect the rights of partners and children. The Bill will not apply to Scheduled Tribes in Assam.

Opposition parties, including Congress, Raijor Dal and Trinamool Congress, opposed the move, demanding wider consultation with stakeholders before introduction.