Gujarat UCC Comes Into Force From October 1

GANDHINAGAR: Gujarat on October 1 brought two major laws into force, putting the state’s new Uniform Civil Code (UCC) on the statute book while simultaneously tightening regulations governing secondary and higher secondary schools. The UCC now covers marriage, divorce, inheritance and live-in relationships, while the education amendment introduces tougher penalties and greater oversight of school management.

The Gujarat Uniform Civil Code, 2026, was published in the state government’s extraordinary gazette as Gujarat Act No. 15 of 2026 after receiving the President’s assent. The law applies across Gujarat and also covers Gujarat residents living outside the state.

The UCC provides legal recognition to live-in relationships and includes provisions relating to maintenance and protection following the breakdown of such relationships. It also lays down uniform provisions covering marriage, divorce and inheritance.

One of the key provisions is mandatory registration of marriages, creating an official record that can be used in disputes involving maintenance, property and other legal rights.

The Code also prohibits polygamy and provides for equal inheritance rights for sons and daughters. It further provides property rights for wives and provisions for individuals to claim their share even when a deceased person leaves no will.

However, Scheduled Tribes covered under Article 342 of the Constitution have been excluded from the UCC. The Code also excludes communities whose traditional rights are protected under Part XXI of the Constitution.

The second major law to take effect is the Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (Amendment) Act, 2026. It brings private secondary and higher secondary schools receiving government grants under a clearer regulatory framework.

The amendment introduces tougher action against unauthorised schools and rule violations. Penalties for operating unregistered schools include fines ranging from ₹10 lakh to ₹15 lakh and imprisonment of one to two years.

The amendment also gives the government greater control over rules governing teacher and principal recruitment, qualifications and service conditions. Aided schools will also have to follow the state’s reservation policy during recruitment.

School managements will no longer be able to suspend teachers or principals without submitting the decision to an authorised officer for approval. Schools will also require Board approval and must follow a prescribed procedure before closure.

Thus, October 1 marked the simultaneous implementation of two significant legislative measures affecting family law, property rights, education administration and school management across Gujarat.