Assam Proposes 7-Year Jail Term for Polygamy: New Bill to Protect Women's Dignity Regardless of Religion

Guwahati:

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Monday that the proposed legislation against polygamy will include a minimum punishment of seven years imprisonment.

The bill is scheduled to be introduced in the assembly on November 25, during the first day of the winter session. The Chief Minister made this announcement while launching the second phase of the 'Mukhya Mantrir Nijut Moina' educational scheme.

"Regardless of religion, if someone marries another woman without legally divorcing his wife, there will be provisions for seven years or more imprisonment," he explained to the female beneficiaries attending the event.

Sarma emphasized that even if an accused claims religious permission, the BJP government will not permit polygamy in any form.

"We will protect the dignity of women in this state at any cost," the Chief Minister declared. Last year, the government initiated the 'Mukhya Mantrir Nijut Moina' program to support female education through monthly financial assistance: Rs 1,000 for Class 11 students, Rs 1,250 for first-year undergraduates, and Rs 2,500 for first-year postgraduates and BEd students, provided over a 10-month period.

The Chief Minister highlighted the program's success, noting, "Because of this scheme, the enrollment rate increased while the dropout rate of girls significantly decreased compared to last year. Approximately 3.5 lakh girls will benefit from the scheme this year."

Previously, Sarma had mentioned that the state government plans to introduce several bills during the upcoming assembly session addressing issues such as 'love-jihad' and polygamy.