GUWAHATI, Nov 27: The Assam Legislative Assembly on Thursday passed the Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025, introducing stringent penalties including up to 10 years of imprisonment for individuals entering into a second marriage while their first remains legally valid. The legislation marks a major move by the state government to curb polygamy and strengthen women’s rights.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, speaking in the Assembly, asserted that the bill is aimed at protecting women and ensuring social justice, not targeting any particular community. Citing the example of Türkiye and reforms in other Muslim-majority nations, he said, “Islam cannot promote polygamy… This bill is not against Islam. True Islamic people will welcome this Act.”
The bill applies across Assam except in Sixth Schedule areas and to Scheduled Tribe communities defined under the Constitution. It mandates seven years of jail for contracting an unlawful polygamous marriage and up to ten years for concealing a previous marriage from a partner.
In a significant provision, women trapped in illegal marriages will be eligible for compensation and legal safeguards. Additionally, strict action will be taken against anyone including Gaonburahs, village heads, qazis, or guardians who knowingly aid or conceal polygamous unions, with punishment extending to two years in jail and fines up to ₹1 lakh.
Calling the passage of the bill a “strong stride towards justice for our Nari Shakti,” the Chief Minister wrote on X that Assam was committed to ensuring women’s rights and accountability in marital laws.
