The Madhya Pradesh cabinet has formally approved a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) bill, introducing a comprehensive set of new regulations concerning marriage, inheritance, and live-in relationships across the state. The proposed legislation, which now awaits clearance from the state legislature, includes strict provisions for individuals in live-in relationships, making non-declaration a potentially punishable offence.

Under the newly approved code, couples residing in live-in relationships will be required to declare their status. Failure to do so could lead to legal repercussions, with specific penalties outlined for various scenarios. Notably, married individuals found to be in undisclosed live-in relationships could face significant jail terms, reportedly up to five years.

The bill's scope extends beyond live-in arrangements, encompassing broader reforms in personal laws related to marriage and inheritance. While the full details of these provisions are yet to be made public, the cabinet's approval signifies a major step towards implementing a uniform civil framework within the state. However, the legislation includes an important exemption, with Scheduled Tribes (STs) reportedly not subject to the new code's provisions.

Following the cabinet's endorsement, the Uniform Civil Code bill will proceed to the state legislature for further debate and approval. Its passage would mark a significant shift in the legal landscape governing personal matters in Madhya Pradesh, aligning with a broader national discourse on uniform civil laws.