Bengal’s First BJP Government Plans To Introduce UCC Bill This Assembly Session

Last Updated:June 26, 2026, 08:55 IST

The implementation of a Uniform Civil Code was one of the BJP’s key commitments in its election manifesto.

The new BJP government in West Bengal is planning to introduce a Bill to implement the Uniform Civil Code during the ongoing Assembly session.

According to BJP leaders, the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code was one of the key commitments in the party’s Sankalp Patra (election manifesto). Party leaders have indicated that placing a UCC Bill before the Assembly would be among the priority legislative measures of the government in West Bengal.

The move would place West Bengal among the states that have initiated efforts towards a common civil code framework. Uttarakhand became the first state in India to implement the Uniform Civil Code. BJP leaders have also pointed to similar initiatives and discussions in Gujarat and Assam.

What Is the Uniform Civil Code?

The Uniform Civil Code seeks to establish a common set of civil laws governing matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, succession and adoption, irrespective of religion. Supporters argue that a uniform legal framework promotes equality before the law and removes disparities arising from religion-specific personal laws.

According to BJP leaders, the proposed framework would include:

Standardised Marriage Laws

• A uniform minimum legal age for marriage across all communities.
• Mandatory registration of marriages to ensure legal recognition and documentation.

Gender Equality Measures

• Prohibition of practices such as polygamy.
• Equal property and inheritance rights for women. Uniform legal protections irrespective of religious affiliation.

Registration of Live-in Relationships

• Mandatory registration of the commencement and termination of live-in relationships with designated authorities.
• Legal accountability and documentation of such relationships.

Uniform Divorce Procedures

• Standardised legal grounds and procedures for divorce.
• Replacement of customary or religious divorce practices with a common legal framework.
• Uniform legal remedies and safeguards for both spouses.

Focus on Minority-Dominated Districts

Party leaders believe the issue could have significant political and social implications in districts with substantial minority populations, including Malda, Murshidabad and parts of North Dinajpur.

According to party sources, a section of women from minority communities has welcomed the prospect of a Uniform Civil Code, viewing it as a measure that could strengthen legal rights relating to marriage, divorce and inheritance. The claims, however, have not been independently verified.

Political Significance

For the BJP, the UCC remains one of its longstanding ideological and policy commitments. If enacted, the legislation would be one of the most significant legal reforms introduced by West Bengal’s first BJP government.

The proposal is expected to trigger extensive political debate. Supporters describe it as a step towards legal uniformity and gender justice, while critics are likely to raise concerns regarding its impact on religious personal laws and cultural practices.

About the Author

Kamalika Sengupta

Kamalika Sengupta is the Editor (East) at CNN-News18 / News18.com, focusing on politics, defence, and women’s issues. She is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over 20 years of experience reporting...Read More

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