The Assam Legislative Assembly today passed the Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025, aimed at reinforcing marital accountability and protecting women. The legislation establishes one of the strictest legal frameworks against polygamy in the country.

 

The Bill, introduced on the first day of the Winter Session, seeks to criminalize entering into a second marriage without legally dissolving the first. It includes provisions of up to 10 years’ imprisonment for individuals who conceal a previous marriage and up to seven years’ imprisonment for entering into a second marriage without dissolving the first. Repeat offenders will face double the punishment under the law.

 

Religious clerics who perform such marriages may be penalized up to 1.5 lakh rupees, and individuals who intentionally hide or delay information from the authorities may face up to two years’ imprisonment and a fine of 1 lakh rupees. However, the law will not apply to the Sixth Schedule areas or to the tribal communities of the State.

 

The Indian National Congress, AIUDF, CPI(M), and Raijor Dal sought several amendments and demanded that the Bill be sent to a Select Committee. After several hours of debate and discussion, the Congress and Raijor Dal withdrew their demand for amendments following assurances from the Chief Minister on several issues, while the AIUDF and CPI(M) refused to withdraw theirs.