Guwahati, Nov 27 (LatestNewsX) – The Assam Legislative Assembly approved the Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025 on Thursday, turning polygamy into a punishable offense in the state. At the same time, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reiterated his government’s long‑term goal of introducing a Uniform Civil Code (UCC).
When the bill was presented, Sarma framed it as a clear move toward legal consistency and the protection of women’s rights. He told members that if he returned as chief minister after the forthcoming assembly elections, his administration would table the UCC in the first session and ensure it is carried out quickly.
Sarma called the new law a “foundation stone” for the UCC, stressing that the aim is to craft a single set of civil rules for every citizen, whatever their religion or background. He clarified that the statute is not targeted at any specific group; it will apply uniformly to all non‑tribal residents.
“Hindus are not exempt from polygamy. This bill will cover Hindu, Muslim, Christian and all other communities,” the chief minister said during the debate.
The legislation makes it a serious crime to enter into a second marriage while the first one is still legally valid. Those who do so face up to ten years’ imprisonment and potential financial penalties.
Members of Scheduled Tribes and regions governed under the Constitution’s Sixth Schedule are exempt from this provision.
During the floor discussion, Sarma urged a united front, arguing that the issue is one of social reform rather than political division.
Opposition parties, including the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) and the CPI(M), tabled several amendments, voicing concerns about the bill’s implications. All the proposed changes were rejected by voice vote, allowing the bill to move forward.
In addition, Sarma announced that the government is drafting another piece of legislation to tackle deceptive or fraudulent marriages. He added that a separate bill targeting what is often called “love‑jihad” will be presented to the Assembly by the end of February next year.
Sarma said that the anti‑polygamy law showcases the government’s commitment to progressive reforms in personal law and to protecting women’s dignity and rights. He concluded that the measure will significantly help build a fairer, more equitable society in Assam.
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