Assam Assembly Approves Controversial Uniform Civil Code Amidst Opposition Outcry

The Assam Assembly on Wednesday approved the Uniform Civil Code Bill, a law seeking to establish unified personal laws across various aspects including marriage and succession, regardless of religion. This move ignited protests from the opposition, labeling it a 'political agenda' by BJP.

Opposition members urged further stakeholder consultation and challenged the decision not to refer the Bill to a select committee. They criticized the government for bypassing due process, despite earlier disputed amendments. The new legislation excludes tribal communities and introduces penalties for polygamy and unregistered live-in relationships.

Ruling BJP members argued the Bill would advance women's rights without infringing on religious freedoms. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted the legislation as a fulfillment of BJP's electoral promises, while dismissing claims of religious bias against the bill.

The opposition, led by Congress, contended that existing laws already cover issues raised by the Bill, accusing the government of using the legislation to divert attention from other critical state issues like unemployment and education.

(With inputs from agencies.)