Invoking Sanatan values and references from the Rigveda, the Gujarat Chief Minister on Tuesday (March 24, 2026) described the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill as a step rooted in India’s civilisational ethos of unity and equality, as he introduced the legislation in the Assembly.
Opening his address, the Chief Minister said India’s ancient traditions emphasise collective harmony, “walking together, speaking together and being united in thought”, principles reflected in the Rigveda. He said the idea of a common legal framework flows from this philosophy, where truth is one and justice must be uniform, irrespective of religion.
Placing the Bill in a constitutional framework, he said it aligns with Article 44 and the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat,” and termed its introduction a “historic moment” for the State.
Key provisions of the Bill
The proposed legislation mandates registration of marriages across all religions within 60 days, with failure to comply attracting a penalty of up to ₹10,000. Cases of forced, coerced or fraudulent marriages, as well as multiple marriages, may invite punishment of up to seven years.
Uniform rules for divorce have been introduced, making court approval and registration mandatory. Out-of-court divorces would be invalid and may attract punishment of up to three years. Women are granted the right to remarry without conditions under the Bill.
A key provision ensures equal inheritance rights for sons and daughters across all religions, aimed at promoting gender equality and economic security for women.
The Bill also regulates live-in relationships by making registration mandatory. Failure to register could lead to imprisonment of up to three months or a fine of ₹10,000. In cases where individuals are between 18 and 21 years of age, their parents will be informed. The Bill prescribes strict punishment in cases involving coercion or fraud, and provisions of child protection laws would apply where minors are involved. It also provides for maintenance rights for women and legal recognition for children born out of such relationships.
“Live-in registration under Section 384 is not to curtail freedom but to ensure legal protection for daughters. Those who hide their identity and commit fraud in marriage will have no place in Gujarat.”
‘No interference in religious practices’
Addressing concerns, the Chief Minister said the UCC would not interfere with religious customs or traditions and would only regulate the legal aspects of civil matters. He noted that practices such as cousin marriages in certain communities would continue to remain valid where permitted by custom. “In minority communities, cousin marriage is a valid tradition, and the Bill clearly states that such marriages will remain legally valid where permitted by custom. Thus, such traditions will continue under UCC where accepted; the law does not prohibit them,” Mr. Patel said.
Based on consultations and legal study
The Chief Minister said the Bill was prepared after extensive public consultation and a detailed study by a high-level committee chaired by retired Justice Ranjana Desai. The committee examined representations from citizens and organisations, studied Supreme Court judgments, existing personal laws, the Uttarakhand UCC, and global legal models.
Focus on women’s rights
Highlighting the emphasis on women’s welfare, he said the Bill seeks to eliminate discriminatory practices and ensure equal rights in matters of marriage, divorce and inheritance. Uniform provisions for maintenance and property rights, he said, would strengthen protection and dignity for women while safeguarding children’s rights.
“While our country reveres women, in practice, under personal laws, Muslim daughters receive half the inheritance of sons. What kind of justice is this? Is that daughter not a citizen of India? Through Part 2, Chapter 1 of this bill, we ensure that every daughter in Gujarat gets equal 100% rights to her father’s property. Similarly, inhumane practices like ‘Nikah Halala’, which undermine women’s dignity, must be eliminated,” he said.
Exemption for Scheduled Tribes
The Chief Minister clarified that Scheduled Tribes, as defined under Article 366(25), have been fully exempted from the ambit of the bill, ensuring that their customs and traditions remain protected.
‘Step towards Viksit Bharat’
Framing the legislation within a broader national vision, the Chief Minister said the UCC is essential for achieving social equality alongside economic development under the goal of Viksit Bharat@2047.
He reiterated that the Bill seeks to eliminate discrimination based on religion or caste while ensuring equality before the law, and does not aim to curtail cultural diversity or individual freedoms.
Published – March 24, 2026 05:13 pm IST
