The Madhya Pradesh cabinet has approved the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), introducing legal reforms to ensure equal rights in marriage, property inheritance, and live-in relationships.The new law mandates that married individuals entering live-in relationships face up to five years' imprisonment.

Key provisions include prohibiting polygamy, setting minimum marriage ages at 21 for men and 18 for women, and granting equal inheritance rights to sons and daughters.Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in protected areas are exempt from these rules.Chief Minister Mohan Yadav emphasized the UCC's aim to uphold women's dignity, promote social harmony, and end discriminatory practices.The law also safeguards religious freedom while rejecting claims of cultural imposition.Opposition leaders criticized the focus on the issue, highlighting pressing concerns like unemployment and farmer distress.The legislation reflects a broader push for legal equality across personal and property rights.