Home The Constitution Part IV Article 44

Art. 44 Part IV: Directive Principles of State Policy

Uniform Civil Code

Exact text — Constitution of India

The State shall endeavour to secure for the citizens a uniform civil code throughout the territory of India.

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

One of the most politically debated Directive Principles — it directs the State to work towards a single, common set of civil laws (covering marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption) applicable to all citizens, replacing the current system where these matters are largely governed by separate personal laws tied to religion. As with all Directive Principles, it's a goal, not a court-enforceable mandate, and remains unimplemented at the national level as of 2026.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This is the constitutional basis for the ongoing Uniform Civil Code debate — some states have explored their own versions, but no national UCC exists yet; meanwhile, courts have periodically urged Parliament to act on this Article, most notably in cases involving triple talaq and Muslim women's rights.

Landmark Cases

How courts have interpreted this Article

Sarla Mudgal v. Union of IndiaAIR 1995 SC 1531 — Urged the government to move towards a Uniform Civil Code, partly in response to religious conversion being misused to enable bigamy under different personal laws. Verify this case

Read alongside this one

Marriage, Family & Inheritance

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 44

Does India have a Uniform Civil Code today?

Not at the national level as of 2026 — it remains a live and debated policy question, though a few states have moved on their own versions.

Is Goa's civil code the same as what Article 44 envisions?

Goa retains a common civil code inherited from Portuguese colonial law, applicable to all its residents regardless of religion — often cited as a working example of what a broader UCC could look like, though it predates and isn't itself derived from Article 44.

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The text above reproduces Article 44 of the Constitution of India as amended to date, for general educational reference. It is public-domain legislative text, but we recommend cross-checking the authoritative version at legislative.gov.in or india.gov.in before relying on it for a legal matter. The explanation, examples and FAQs are general information, not legal advice — consult a qualified advocate for guidance on your specific situation.