Protests erupted outside the Jama Masjid in Ahmedabad when workers from the All India Majlis‑e‑Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) demonstrated against the Gujarat government’s proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill. The demonstration coincided with Eid al-Fitr and was carried out without prior police permission.
Demonstrators displayed banners with messages like “Remove UCC, Save the Nation” and “Repeal UCC,” while chanting against the Bill. Many protesters expressed concerns about provisions they feel promote live‑in relationships, contradicting Islamic Sharia law. One protester emphasized that “Sharia does not allow it” and demanded the withdrawal of the legislation.
Police intervened shortly after the protest began and detained around 12-13 individuals to maintain public order. The Gujarat Uniform Civil Code, 2026, is set to be presented for debate next week following the submission of a draft report by a high‑level committee to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
The proposed Bill aims to establish a unified legal framework for marriage, divorce, succession, inheritance, and live‑in relationships for all residents of Gujarat, regardless of religion, caste, or creed. It includes provisions for mandatory registration of live‑in relationships, maintenance rights for partners, equal responsibility for child‑rearing, and penalties for non‑compliance.
Government officials highlighted the importance of the legislation in ensuring equal rights for citizens. The Bill, influenced in part by the Uniform Civil Code Act in Uttarakhand, will undergo further discussion in the House on March 24, a day before the conclusion of the Budget session. Enhanced security measures were implemented around the mosque and other sensitive areas during Eid celebrations to prevent any potential escalation of tensions post-protest.
