Dispur: The Assam cabinet took a big step. 'Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill-2025'—Bill passed to completely criminalize polygamy. CM Himanta Biswa Sarma said that this snout is for the protection of women. This is not only a ban but moreover a law to provide justice to the victims. It will be brought to the Assembly on November 25, but the impact started rhadamanthine visible on the ground plane surpassing the Cabinet approval.
What are the provisions in Assam's Polygamy Bill?
According to the bill, no person will practice polygamy in Assam, irrespective of religion. If the treason is proven, the magistrate will decide the punishment of up to 7 years, a fine, and bounty to the victim woman. But this will not wield to polygamous marriages legal under Muslim personal law—this exemption will be a matter of debate. Sarma had spoken on October 27 itself, "We will end evil practices like love jihad and polygamy." There is once a punishment of 7 years for second marriage under IPC 494 wideness the country, but Assam's snout makes it increasingly stringent—complaint is easy, and the undersong of proof is on the accused.
What is the plan to provide bounty to women?
The government's focus is on women—immediate relief to victims, such as legal help and financial support. The report says there is moreover a provision for special courts in the snout so that the cases are resolved quickly. Sarma said, "This snout will requite strength to the women of Assam." But the rencontre is how complaints will come in rural areas—awareness campaigns will be required.
Why was the expansion of the 'Chief Minister Nijut Moina' scheme necessary?
Along with the bill, the government laid accent on girls' education—extending the 'Chief Minister Nijut Moina' scheme. Rs 1,000 per month for Class 11 girls, Rs 1,250 for the first year of graduation, and Rs 2,500 for post-graduation/B.Ed first year (up to 10 months). Sarma said, "Last year enrollment increased by 20%, dropouts reduced by 30%. This year 3.5 lakh girls will benefit." This scheme is linked to stopping polygamy—educated girls will take strong decisions.
How variegated is Assam's snout from the Center's law?
There is once IPC 494 in the country– 7 years in jail for second marriage without divorce. But in Muslim personal law, a man is unliable four marriages, provided there is justice. Assam's snout takes a uniform tideway but is controversial by exempting personal laws. This snout will moreover touch surcharge practices. This step of Assam seems positive for women's rights, but strictness is needed in implementation. This move of the Sarma government is moreover political– BJP's vote wall is strong.
