Uniform Civil Code In MP: Govt Claims Over 90% Support, Religious Leaders Oppose Live-in Relationships In UCC

The Madhya Pradesh government is moving ahead with plans to bring live-in relationships under the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC), a step that has triggered opposition from several religious and social groups. Religious leaders have expressed strong reservations, arguing that legal recognition of live-in relationships would not serve the best interests of society.

The Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind has also opposed any inclusion of such provisions within the UCC framework.

A member of the State Women’s Commission, Sadhana Sthapak, has stated that live-in relationships should be discussed separately. She noted that young individuals often make incorrect decisions at an early age and suggested that a separate committee should be formed to examine the issue. One suggestion has also been made that if individuals choose to live in a live-in relationship, a mandatory registration system should be introduced within 30 days.

At the same time, the drafting committee is working on completing its report by June 30, with plans to submit the draft bill to the government by July 5. The state government intends to table the legislation in the Monsoon Session of the Legislative Assembly beginning July 20. On the question of live-in relationships under the UCC, a majority of religious and social organisations have recommended against granting legal recognition.

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Views from religious leaders

Chandrashekhar Tiwari, president of the Hindu Utsav Samiti, stated that live-in relationships should be excluded from the UCC altogether, arguing that such arrangements are contrary to Sanatan traditions and should not be formally acknowledged in the legal framework.

Bhopal city Qazi Mushtaq Ali said that Islamic law is based on the Quran and Hadith, and he opposed the recognition of live-in relationships. He further remarked that even interactions outside marriage are considered inappropriate, and warned that legalising such arrangements could disturb social stability. He also raised concerns about issues such as child custody and upbringing, questioning the necessity of the UCC at this stage.

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Archbishop AAS Durai Raj of the Catholic Christian Committee emphasised the importance of maintaining unity in diversity. Buddhist spiritual leader Bhante Shakyaputra Sagar Thero said that India’s cultural and religious diversity must be fully respected while formulating a Uniform Civil Code, and that the religious freedom of Buddhism should be protected in accordance with the Constitution.

Over 90% citizens in favour of UCC: Chief Minister

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav stated ahead of a cabinet meeting that extensive public consultations have been conducted across all districts regarding the proposed UCC. A state-level consultation was held in Bhopal on June 22, alongside meetings with various commissions, departments, political parties, and religious representatives.

According to the government, around 34.9 million SMS messages were sent to beneficiaries under the Samagra system to invite feedback on the proposal. More than nine million responses were received, with over 90 percent reportedly supporting the UCC. The government also claims that minority communities have expressed considerable support. The drafting process is currently underway in coordination with the Law Department.