Assam proposes jail term, heavy fines for polygamy, Pg1

Key Highlights:

• The Assam government introduced the Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025, prescribing jail terms and fines for polygamy.
• The Bill makes polygamy a criminal offense, punishable with up to seven years in jail and a fine.
• Punishment can extend to 10 years in jail if a person conceals an existing marriage.
• The law will be applicable across the State, barring the Sixth Schedule areas and members of the Scheduled Tribes.
• The Bill also covers village heads, qazis, parents, and legal guardians who facilitate polygamous marriages.
• The Bill specifies that polygamous marriages contracted before it comes into force will not be affected.

Detailed Insights:

• The Bill aims to prohibit polygamy, protect women, and streamline society, according to the Statement of Objects and Reasons.
• The Bill extends its jurisdiction to Assam residents entering polygamous marriages outside the State and non-residents owning property or receiving State benefits.
• Individuals convicted under the law will be ineligible for government jobs, benefits, and contesting elections.
• A designated authority will be notified to process compensation for women affected by polygamous marriages.
• The Bill does not affect polygamous marriages contracted before its enactment, provided they adhere to existing personal or customary laws.
• Opposition parties have criticized the Bill as a move to target Muslims ahead of the 2026 Assembly election.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Polygamy: The practice of having more than one spouse at the same time.
• Sixth Schedule: Provisions in the Indian Constitution that allows for the formation of Autonomous District Councils to protect tribal rights.
• Customary Laws: Traditional rules and practices that are widely accepted and enforced within a community or society.