Assam Passes Bill to Ban Polygamy: Step Toward Uniform Marriage Laws

• The Assam government has approved a landmark Bill to ban polygamy , marking a significant move toward legal uniformity and gender justice in the state. The proposed legislation seeks to make polygamy a criminal offence , ensuring protection and compensation for women affected by such practices. This development reflects the government’s broader vision to establish uniform civil and marriage laws across communities in Assam.

Provisions and Punishments Under the Bill

• The Bill declares polygamy a punishable offence , prescribing imprisonment of up to seven years for those found guilty. It also includes a provision for compensation to women impacted by illegal marriages, ensuring both punitive and restorative justice.
• The legislation’s objective is to promote gender equality , uphold the dignity of women, and align Assam’s family law structure with constitutional principles of equality before law . It aims to curb exploitative practices and reinforce the state’s stance on monogamy as a legal and social norm .

Exemptions for Tribals and Scheduled Areas

• The law excludes members of Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities and residents of Assam’s six Scheduled Areas , respecting the cultural autonomy and traditional customs protected under the Constitution.
• Additionally, minority Muslim marriages solemnised before 2005 in Scheduled Areas will remain outside the purview of the law . These exemptions ensure that the new legislation does not infringe upon constitutionally guaranteed cultural and community rights.

Implementation and Legislative Roadmap

• The Assam government plans to introduce the Bill in the upcoming Budget Session of the State Assembly for formal passage. It forms part of a wider reform package that includes stricter regulations on arms licences and land transactions . Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasised that the initiative supports Assam’s goal of social harmony, gender justice, and legal uniformity , potentially setting a model for other Indian states.

Exam-Oriented Facts

• Bill Approved: November 2025

• Punishment: Imprisonment up to 7 years and compensation for victims

• Exemptions: Scheduled Tribes and six Scheduled Areas of Assam

• Pre-2005 Muslim marriages in Scheduled Areas: Exempt from the law

• Purpose: Promote gender equality and uniform marriage practices