UCC Gazette Triggers Marriage Registration Rush in Gujarat, Applications Jump Fourfold

Following the presidential approval of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill and its official gazette notification by the Gujarat government on October 1, marriage registration applications have surged across the state, putting increased load on digital portals.

Online applications for marriage registration have risen three to four times over the past 48 to 72 hours, according to an analysis of online traffic. Ahmedabad and other cities have reported a sharp rise in applications, with backend systems facing increased load.

Daily Applications Rise From 200 To 800

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation’s marriage registration portal normally receives around 150 to 200 applications a day. Over the past week, the figure has climbed to around 700 to 800 applications daily, and at times even higher.

The sudden rush has been linked to the UCC provisions on mandatory marriage registration and penalties for missing the prescribed deadline.

Up To ₹25,000 Penalty For Delayed Registration

Under the new provisions, marriage registration will be mandatory within 60 days of marriage. Those failing to register within the stipulated period could face a penalty ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹25,000.

The penalty provisions have also prompted many couples who married earlier to apply for registration, amid concerns about complying with the new legal requirements.

Online Process Sees Longer Waiting Periods

The AMC shifted the marriage registration process to a fully paperless and digital system in August 2026. Applicants can upload their documents online, reducing the need to visit ward offices.

However, the rise in applications has affected appointment availability for document verification. Slots that were earlier available within two to three days now have a waiting period of around seven to 10 days.

Concerns Over Other Official Processes

There is also discussion among citizens that marriage certificates could become important for several official and financial processes after the UCC is fully implemented, including changing names on passports, opening joint bank accounts, inheritance-related matters and insurance claims.

The state government is expected to announce the specific implementation date and rules for the UCC in the coming days. Meanwhile, citizens are already using the marriage registration portal to complete their registrations ahead of the new legal requirements.