Announcing the decision after the Cabinet meeting held at Chaman Mahal in Jagdishpur, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said the government is fully prepared to present the legislation in the Assembly. He described equality as an integral part of India's cultural values and said the proposed law reflects the constitutional principle of equal rights for all citizens.

Bill to Be Introduced in Assembly

With the Cabinet's approval, the state government will now move the legislation to the Assembly for debate and passage. If enacted, Madhya Pradesh will join the growing list of states that have either implemented or legislated the Uniform Civil Code.

The proposed legislation is expected to address civil matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, succession, adoption, and maintenance under a common legal framework. The detailed provisions of the Bill are expected to become clearer once it is formally introduced in the Assembly.

Chief Minister Highlights Equality and Cultural Heritage

Speaking after the meeting, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said the government's decision aligns with the constitutional vision of equality and justice.

He also highlighted the historical significance of Bhopal and Jagdishpur, recalling the legacy of King Bhoj, the Parmar dynasty, the Gond rulers, and Rani Kamlapati. The Chief Minister said the region has long been a centre of Indian civilization and cultural heritage.

The Cabinet meeting venue also featured an exhibition showcasing tribal culture and local heritage, while tribal artists presented traditional folk performances. Cabinet ministers travelled to the venue in electric buses as part of the government's sustainability initiative.

Progress of UCC in Other States

The Uniform Civil Code has gradually gained momentum in several states:

• Uttarakhand became the first state after Independence to implement the Uniform Civil Code. The Bill was passed in February 2024, received Presidential assent in March 2024, and came into force in January 2025 after the approval of implementation rules.
• Gujarat became the second state to pass a UCC Bill when its Assembly approved the legislation in March 2026.
• Assam passed its Uniform Civil Code Bill in May 2026. The legislation exempts Scheduled Tribes (Hill and Plain) and protects traditional religious customs and practices.

Goa Already Follows a Common Civil Code

Although Goa has long operated under a common civil law system, it does so through the Portuguese Civil Code, which predates India's Independence. Therefore, Uttarakhand is widely regarded as the first Indian state to implement a Uniform Civil Code after Independence.

Historical Background of the Uniform Civil Code

The idea of a Uniform Civil Code has been discussed for nearly two centuries.

In 1835, the British administration recommended uniform laws relating to criminal matters, evidence, and contracts while keeping personal laws based on religion separate. After Independence, the issue resurfaced during constitutional debates.

The B. N. Rau Committee, constituted in 1941, recommended reforms in Hindu personal laws. Subsequently, the Hindu Code Bill was introduced in the Constituent Assembly in 1948, aiming to reform marriage, inheritance, and women's rights within Hindu society.

Today, the Uniform Civil Code continues to be debated as a constitutional and policy issue, balancing the principles of equality, religious freedom, and personal laws.