Rajasthan Cabinet approves UCC bill mandating registration of live-in relationships, polygamy ban

Rajasthan's Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma announced plans to introduce the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state, marking a significant step toward implementing a common legal framework for personal matters such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance. The announcement comes as the state legislature prepares to convene for its monsoon session starting August 20. According to reports, the Rajasthan Cabinet has already approved a bill that mandates the registration of live-in relationships and prohibits polygamy. The proposed UCC aims to replace existing religious-based personal laws with a uniform set of regulations applicable to all citizens. This initiative follows the recommendations of a high-level committee chaired by former Supreme Court Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai. The committee was tasked with drafting the legislative framework for the UCC, a task previously undertaken in states such as Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. The Rajasthan bill, which mirrors these efforts, seeks to ensure equal property rights for sons and daughters across all faiths, regardless of their specific religious traditions. Under the new proposal, individuals must register their marriages and divorces within 60 days, ensuring transparency and legal recognition. Live-in relationships will also require either formal registration or written notification, bringing them under the purview of state law. These measures aim to standardize procedures and eliminate disparities arising from varying religious customs. The UCC does not apply to Scheduled Tribes or other communities whose customary practices are safeguarded under constitutional provisions. Minister Jogaram Patel clarified that the bill respects the cultural and social norms of these groups while promoting broader legal equity. The decision to introduce the UCC coincides with the impending model code of conduct for the upcoming panchayat and local body elections, suggesting a strategic timing to address legal reforms alongside electoral processes. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has long advocated for a common civil code, viewing it as essential for national integration and gender equality. Several BJP-led states have taken steps toward this goal. For instance, Uttarakhand became the first post-independence state to implement the UCC in January 2025, followed by Gujarat in March 2025, despite opposition protests. Goa has maintained a uniform civil code since adopting the Portuguese Civil Code in 1867. Recently, the Assam Assembly passed a similar bill, though the Opposition called for further scrutiny before final approval. Supporters argue that the UCC promotes fairness and reduces discrimination by applying consistent standards across all communities. Critics, however, raise concerns over potential encroachment on religious freedoms and the erosion of traditional practices. Some activists highlight the need for inclusive dialogue and public consultation to ensure the UCC aligns with diverse societal values. As the Rajasthan government moves forward with its plan, the focus will shift to legislative debates and public discourse. The introduction of the UCC represents a pivotal moment in India's ongoing debate over personal laws and national identity. With multiple states advancing similar initiatives, the path toward a unified legal framework remains both ambitious and contentious. The next phase will involve detailed discussions in the state assembly, setting the stage for a broader national conversation on legal reform.