Gujarat UCC Gets Presidential Assent; Changes Family Laws

President Droupadi Murmu has given her assent to the Gujarat Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill, 2026, clearing a key constitutional step for the state’s new framework governing marriage, divorce, succession and live-in relationships.

The Gujarat Assembly passed the Bill on March 24 after a debate of more than seven hours. The state published the law in its extraordinary gazette on October 1, recording the President’s assent on September 17.

Gujarat becomes the second state after Uttarakhand to enact a Uniform Civil Code.

However, the law will come into force only on a date that the state government appoints through a separate notification.

The UCC introduces common rules for marriage and divorce across communities. It also creates a common framework for inheritance when a person dies without leaving a will.

Under the succession provisions, spouses, children and parents fall within the specified order of heirs, with sons and daughters receiving equal treatment. The legislation also regulates live-in relationships.

Partners must register such relationships with the designated authority, while certain relationships, including those involving a married person or a minor, cannot be registered.

Failure to register after the prescribed period can attract imprisonment of up to three months, a fine of up to ₹10,000, or both. Children born from registered live-in relationships receive legal recognition, while deserted women can seek maintenance.

The Code excludes Scheduled Tribes and groups whose customary rights are constitutionally protected under Part XXI. Its implementation will now depend on the state government’s notification and rules.

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