The Uttarakhand government has made major changes in the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). Governor Lieutenant General (Retd) Gurmeet Singh has approved this new ordinance on 26 January 2026. Now getting married fraudulently or living in a live-in relationship can prove costly in the state. According to the new rules, sections of the Indian Justice Code (BNS) will be applicable and the punishment has also been made more stringent than before.
7 years jail for fraudulent relationship
If a person marries or lives in a live-in relationship by force, intimidation or by hiding his identity, he can now be jailed for up to 7 years. Along with this, a fine of Rs 50,000 will also have to be paid. This law has now become much stricter than before. If wrong information is given at the time of marriage or identity is hidden, then that marriage can also be legally cancelled.
Punishment for marriage with a minor and illegal divorce
Marriage with a minor: If someone marries a minor or lives in a live-in relationship by giving false information, he will be punished with 6 months of jail and a fine of Rs 50,000. Apart from this, a separate case will be filed against him under POCSO Act.
Illegal Divorce: Divorcing without legal process or by wrong means can result in a prison sentence of up to 3 years.
Second marriage: Getting married for the second time without divorce or living in a live-in relationship will now also come under the category of crime.
Registration required for live-in relationship
It has been made mandatory for live-in couples to register themselves within 30 days. If someone does not register, he may have to pay 3 months jail or a fine of Rs 10,000. Giving wrong information at the time of registration can increase both the punishment and the fine. Now, when the relationship ends, a ‘termination certificate’ will also be issued by the registrar, so that there are no legal complications in future.
