Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday announced that the state cabinet has approved a new law to ban polygamy, under which those found guilty could face up to seven years of rigorous imprisonment. The law, titled The Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025, will be introduced in the state assembly on November 25.
Speaking to reporters after the cabinet meeting, Sarma said the law aims to ensure justice and protection for women. “The Assam cabinet today approved a Bill to ban polygamy. The Bill will be called ‘The Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025’. It will be tabled in the assembly on November 25,” he said.
The chief minister added that some exceptions could apply to areas under the Sixth Schedule, which includes regions with special constitutional provisions for tribal communities.
Sarma also announced the creation of a government fund to support women affected by polygamy. “We have decided to create a fund to give compensation to the victim women. The government will help with financial support in the required cases so that no woman faces hardship in her life,” he said.
He further stated that anyone convicted under the new law could face rigorous imprisonment of up to seven years, signaling the government’s firm stance against the practice.
