The Assam government on Monday introduced the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill, 2026, in the state assembly, proposing compulsory registration of live-in relationships within one month. The legislation, tabled on behalf of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, aims to establish a uniform legal framework covering marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption and live-in relationships in the state.
Mandatory registration for live-in couples
According to the report by NDTV, under the proposed law, couples living together without marriage will have to officially register their relationship within a month. The bill states that any child born from such a relationship will be considered legitimate under the law.
As quoted by NDTV the bill says, "For the first time, the Bill provides a legal framework for live-in relationships. By requiring registration, the law ensures that the rights of partners - and any children born from such unions - are formally recognised and protected.”
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The legislation also bars registration if either partner is already married, effectively prohibiting polygamy under the proposed framework. Minors will not be allowed to enter into live-in relationships, and registration will not be accepted if either individual claims coercion, force or unlawful pressure.
A major milestone for the state. The #Assam government has officially tabled the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), Assam, 2026 Bill in the state assembly.
— Gauravv Somani (@somanigaurav) May 25, 2026
Key highlights of the proposed legislation:
🚫 Polygamy Ban: Having more than one spouse will become illegal.
📋 Live-in… pic.twitter.com/dGYIStJ66j
The bill further provides legal protection to partners in live-in relationships. A deserted partner will have the right to seek financial maintenance through the courts. The government has said the move is aimed at creating legal recognition for such relationships while safeguarding the rights of women and children.
Wider UCC provisions and tribal exemptions
Apart from live-in relationship rules, the proposed Assam UCC seeks to introduce uniform laws related to marriage, divorce, succession, adoption and maintenance. It also proposes compulsory registration of marriages and divorces along with a uniform minimum marriage age.
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If passed, Assam will become one of the few states in India to implement a state-level Uniform Civil Code framework after Uttarakhand. While traditional Biya (weddings) continue to hold strong cultural importance in Assamese society, the proposed Bill makes it mandatory for live-in couples to officially register their relationships.
Live-in relationships between consenting adults are legal in India and are protected under Article 21 of the Constitution. Although there is no specific legislation governing such partnerships, Indian courts have recognised long-term live-in relationships similar to marriages and have extended legal protection to both partners and children born from these unions.
