The West Bengal Cabinet on Thursday approved the formation of a committee led by retired Supreme Court judge Ranjana Prakash Desai to review the draft Uniform Civil Code Bill. The panel has four weeks to examine the legislation and submit its recommendations. Minister Agnimitra Paul stated that the committee’s findings would then be presented to the Assembly. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari had earlier informed lawmakers about the planned review. The Bharatiya Janata Party had pledged in its manifesto to enact the code within six months of taking office. Sources indicate the proposed law may prohibit polygamy, ensure equal inheritance rights, restrict child marriage, and regulate live-in relationships. The bill is expected to draw from similar laws in Assam, Uttarakhand, and Gujarat, while excluding Adivasi communities. Both factions of the Trinamool Congress have opposed the measure, with calls for broader public consultation.
