In a decisive move toward social reform, the Assam Cabinet has approved the Assam Polygamy Bill 2025, which aims to outlaw polygamy in the state. The bill, titled the Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025, will be presented in the Assam Legislative Assembly on November 25.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the proposed law seeks to ensure gender equality and protect the rights of women across the state. The decision aligns with the government’s broader initiative to promote a uniform civil code-like framework in Assam.
Key Provisions of the Bill
The Assam Polygamy Bill 2025 proposes to make polygamy a criminal offence, punishable by up to seven years of rigorous imprisonment. It also plans to restrict immediate bail, ensuring that offenders face strict legal consequences.
Officials explained that the bill defines polygamy as entering into another marriage while the first marriage is still legally valid. This would apply irrespective of religious or customary practices, making it a uniform rule for all communities in the state.
Importantly, the law aims to protect women from exploitation and legal ambiguity, offering them a stronger legal framework for justice.
Government’s Stand on the Reform
Chief Minister Sarma emphasized that this law is about “empowering women and ensuring equal rights.” He added that the Assam government has studied similar laws from other states before finalizing this draft.
Earlier, the government had set up a special committee led by retired judge Justice Rumi Phukan to examine the issue of polygamy. After thorough review and public consultation, the committee recommended a complete ban, leading to this cabinet approval.
The state’s legal department is currently preparing for the assembly presentation later this month.
Public Reactions and Legal Context
Public response to the Assam Polygamy Bill 2025 has been mixed. Several women’s rights groups have welcomed the move, calling it a step toward gender justice and social equality. They believe it will discourage exploitation and improve the status of women in both rural and urban areas.
However, a few community leaders have expressed concerns about the bill’s impact on personal laws and religious freedom. Some argue that the issue requires broader national discussion before implementation.
Despite the debate, the Assam government remains firm on its stance. As per officials, the bill aligns with constitutional guarantees of equality and aims to bring clarity to family laws in the state.
Expert Opinions on the Assam Polygamy Bill 2025
Legal experts have pointed out that criminalizing polygamy could set a precedent for other northeastern states. Advocate Anindita Dutta, a Guwahati-based lawyer, stated that the bill could “close long-standing legal gaps and strengthen protection for women under personal laws.”
Additionally, social reformers believe that Assam’s move reflects a growing national trend toward uniformity in marriage laws, promoting inclusivity and fairness across all faiths.
To support their stance, experts have cited existing legal precedents under the Indian Penal Code and Hindu Marriage Act, where bigamy is already prohibited for certain communities.
What Comes Next
The Assam Polygamy Bill 2025 will be introduced in the Legislative Assembly on November 25, where lawmakers are expected to debate its provisions. If passed, the bill could make Assam one of the few states to officially criminalize polygamy across all religions.
The government has assured that awareness campaigns will follow to educate citizens about the new law. These campaigns aim to encourage voluntary compliance and prevent misuse of the legislation.
A Step Toward Equality
The Assam government’s decision to push the Assam Polygamy Bill 2025 reflects a strong political and social message. It highlights the state’s commitment to gender justice, legal equality, and women’s empowerment.
As the bill moves toward formal introduction in the assembly, all eyes are now on the upcoming session in Dispur. Whether the bill faces resistance or gains bipartisan support, its impact on Assam’s social and legal landscape is likely to be significant.
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