Assam Introduces Stringent Anti-Polygamy Bill: Up to 7 Years Imprisonment for Offenders

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma presented a bill in the Assembly on Tuesday aimed at prohibiting polygamy, establishing it as an offense punishable by up to seven years of imprisonment for first-time offenders.

The Chief Minister, who oversees the Home and Political departments, introduced 'The Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025' with Speaker Biswajit Daimary's authorization.

The introduction occurred while MLAs from Congress, CPI(M), and Raijor Dal were absent, having walked out of the House shortly before the bill's presentation.

This proposed legislation will be applicable throughout the state, excluding Sixth Schedule areas, and will not affect members of Scheduled Tribes as defined under Article 342 of the Constitution.

According to the bill's 'Statements of objects and reasons', its purpose is to prohibit and eliminate polygamy and polygamous marriage practices in the state.

The bill criminalizes polygamy with penalties of up to seven years' imprisonment. Anyone who enters into a subsequent marriage while concealing an existing one will face 10 years of imprisonment and financial penalties.

It defines 'polygamy' as marrying or being married to another person when either party already has an existing marriage or a living spouse from whom they are not legally divorced, or their marriage has not been legally annulled or declared void.

The proposed law aims to provide compensation to female victims who suffer significant hardship and pain due to polygamous marriages.

For repeat offenders under the proposed act, the prescribed punishment will be doubled for each subsequent offense, as stated in the bill.

Village heads, quazis, parents, or legal guardians who dishonestly conceal facts or intentionally participate in conducting a polygamous marriage could face up to two years in jail and fines up to Rs one lakh.

Anyone who knowingly solemnizes a marriage violating the proposed law may receive punishment of up to two years of imprisonment or fines up to Rs 1.50 lakh.

The bill further proposes that individuals convicted of entering into a polygamous marriage under this legislation will be disqualified from public employment or appointments funded or supported by the state government.

Additionally, such persons cannot benefit from any state government-funded schemes, nor can they contest elections for Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, and similar positions.