BHOAP / Madhya Pradesh Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar on Sunday announced that the Congress would repeal the state’s Uniform Civil Code (UCC) if it forms the government after the 2028 Assembly elections, describing the legislation as “draconian”.
Singhar made the remarks while addressing the “Jang-e-Azadi-Ulema ki Qurbani” programme organised by Congress MLA Arif Masood in Bhopal. He said the Congress would review and repeal the UCC once it returns to power in the state.
The announcement is likely to sharpen the political contest over the legislation, which has emerged as a major point of disagreement between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress in Madhya Pradesh.
The state Cabinet approved the Madhya Pradesh Uniform Civil Code Bill 2026 at a special meeting on July 20. The legislation was subsequently passed by the Assembly on July 21 amid strong opposition from Congress members, who sought that the Bill be sent to a Select Committee.
The UCC establishes common legal provisions governing several aspects of personal and family matters, including marriage, divorce, inheritance, maintenance and adoption. Among its key provisions are a prohibition on polygamy, mandatory registration of marriages and registration of live-in relationships. Scheduled Tribes have been excluded from the legislation’s purview.
The UCC has been a contentious issue, with the Congress and other opposition parties questioning its possible implications for religious practices, customary laws and the rights of different communities. Concerns have also been voiced over its applicability to tribal societies, which enjoy specific constitutional protections.
The state government has defended the legislation, arguing that a common legal framework would promote equality and strengthen legal safeguards, particularly for women in matters concerning marriage, divorce and property.
Article 44 of the Constitution directs the State to endeavour to secure a Uniform Civil Code for citizens. However, the provision is part of the Directive Principles of State Policy and is not enforceable by courts.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has backed the UCC, maintaining that it is aimed at ensuring equality before the law and promoting social harmony.