Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has said the state will now move toward implementing a Uniform Civil Code after recently clearing the way for a polygamy ban. His statement has sparked fresh debate on personal laws, social reform and the next phase of legal changes in the state. The Assam Moves Toward Uniform Civil Code announcement marks a significant policy shift as the government prepares for wider reforms affecting marriage, divorce, inheritance and family-related laws.
Sarma made the statement while addressing reporters during a public event. He said the decision to prohibit polygamy was the first step toward creating a unified legal framework for all communities. According to him, the state wants to ensure equality and clarity in civil laws. His remarks gained attention across political circles, especially as the UCC debate continues nationwide.
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From polygamy ban to broader reforms
Assam recently advanced its proposal to ban polygamy through a state-level law. The government claimed the ban would promote gender justice and strengthen family rights. Soon after the decision, Sarma said the state must now focus on the next stage: creating a common civil code for all citizens. The Assam Moves Toward Uniform Civil Code plan reflects his belief that personal laws should move toward uniformity rather than difference.
Sarma said a UCC would help reduce legal confusion created by multiple personal laws. He argued that a common code could give equal rights to women across communities and reduce discrimination in matters of marriage and inheritance. His statement indicates that the state government is preparing policy groundwork before presenting the proposal.
Political reactions across the state
The announcement triggered mixed reactions from political parties. Supporters of the move said a UCC will modernise civil laws and bring clarity to family matters. They believe uniformity will strengthen the legal rights of women, especially in areas where personal laws differ sharply. According to them, the Assam Moves Toward Uniform Civil Code initiative could serve as a model for other northeastern states.
Opposition parties, however, asked the government to hold wide consultations before drafting the law. They argued that sudden legal changes may create confusion among communities who follow specific customs. Some leaders said the government must ensure that cultural rights are not ignored while designing the code. They also raised concerns about timing and political motives.
Experts highlight need for consultation
Legal experts said that creating a Uniform Civil Code requires careful planning and discussion. They noted that civil laws in India reflect a mix of customs, religious practices and statutory reforms. A UCC must address these elements without creating new conflicts. Experts added that the Assam Moves Toward Uniform Civil Code proposal will need community input, legal reviews and clarity on how existing laws will change.
They also pointed out that the Constitution allows states to advance reforms if they choose to do so. Since Assam has already taken steps such as the polygamy ban, the next reforms may follow a similar legislative route. Even so, experts urged the government to prepare detailed drafts and hold open consultations.
Public response reflects curiosity and concern
Among the public, the announcement has drawn strong interest. Supporters welcomed the move, saying a UCC will help end unequal treatment and give every citizen the same set of rights. Some residents said the Assam Moves Toward Uniform Civil Code initiative could reduce disputes linked to marriages or property. They believe uniform rules will make legal processes easier for families.
However, other groups expressed concern about how the reforms may affect traditional practices. They said Assam’s diverse cultural landscape requires sensitivity. Community leaders from tribal areas also said their customary laws protect important social values. They asked the government to consider special provisions so traditions can coexist with new reforms.
Government preparing roadmap for next phase
Sources within the government said discussions on the UCC have begun at senior levels. Departments involved in law, welfare and minority affairs will study different types of civil codes used in other regions. They want to understand which elements can be adapted to Assam’s social structure. The Assam Moves Toward Uniform Civil Code plan may involve phased implementation rather than immediate enforcement.
Officials also said the government will soon start public consultations. These may include meetings with community groups, women’s organisations, legal bodies and academic experts. Feedback collected during this process will help shape the final draft.
A turning point for Assam’s legal landscape
As Assam moves toward deeper civil-law reforms, the political and social landscape of the state is set for major change. The polygamy ban marked the beginning of this shift. Now, with the Assam Moves Toward Uniform Civil Code proposal, the state is preparing for a broader restructuring of personal laws.
The next steps will depend on how widely the government consults stakeholders and how carefully it balances equality, tradition and legal clarity. The coming months are likely to see intense discussions as Assam prepares for its next phase of civil reforms.
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