Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday announced that the state government will impose a comprehensive ban on the practice of polygamy, as part of a series of new legislations to be introduced in the upcoming Assembly session.
Addressing a public gathering, Sarma said the government will table and pass the bill on November 25. “No man will be allowed to keep more than one wife,” he declared, adding that any man who marries a second time while his first wife is still alive will face up to seven years in jail.
The proposed bill is part of a broader legislative package that the Assam government plans to introduce in the next Assembly session, expected to take place next month. Speaking to reporters in Nagaon on Wednesday, Sarma had indicated that the state would bring forward several “important and historic” bills, including those related to banning polygamy, addressing so-called “love jihad,” preserving Vaishnavite Satras, and ensuring land rights for tea tribes.
“The details will be shared once the State cabinet approves the draft bills,” he said.
Sarma also pointed to the state’s ongoing crackdown on child marriage, emphasizing that authorities continue to take strict action against those involved in marrying off underage girls, particularly in lower Assam where the practice remains more prevalent.
