Assam Takes Historic Step to Ban Polygamy
The Assam government has taken a significant step toward prohibiting polygamy in the state with the approval of the Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025. The state cabinet, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, gave its nod to the landmark legislation on Sunday, setting the stage for its introduction in the state assembly on November 25.
Once enacted, the bill will impose a maximum punishment of seven years of rigorous imprisonment for husbands found guilty of practicing polygamy. The legislation categorizes polygamy as a non-cognizable offence, meaning accused individuals will not be eligible for immediate bail, making the legal consequences more stringent.
Exemptions for Tribal Communities and Sixth Schedule Areas
In a crucial clarification, Chief Minister Sarma emphasized that the legislation will not apply to tribal communities due to their customary practices and traditions. The exemption also extends to natives living in Sixth Schedule-administered areas, including the Bodoland Territorial Council, Karbi Anglong, and Dima Hasao districts of Assam.
"Our cabinet has adopted a bill to prohibit polygamy in Assam. It also includes a provision to compensate the victim woman. However, it will not apply to the scheduled tribe population or immediately to Sixth Schedule areas of Assam," Sarma stated during the announcement.
The Chief Minister further clarified that minority Muslims who have been residing in Sixth Schedule areas since before 2005 will also be exempted from the provisions of this bill, acknowledging the complex demographic and cultural landscape of the region.
Compensation Fund and Victim Support
Demonstrating a compassionate approach to the legislation, the government has proposed establishing a compensation fund for women affected by polygamy. The amount of compensation will be determined based on the individual circumstances of each victim woman, with detailed rules for disbursement to be finalized during the framing of the bill's implementation guidelines.
This victim-centric approach marks a significant aspect of the proposed law, ensuring that women affected by polygamous marriages receive both justice and financial support from the state.
Other Significant Cabinet Decisions
Beyond the polygamy bill, the Assam cabinet made several other important announcements that will shape the state's development and recognition of achievements.
New University Honoring Ahom Dynasty Founder
The cabinet approved the establishment of a new university named after Chaolung Sukapha, the founder of the Ahom dynasty that ruled Assam for six centuries. The university will be set up as per an accord signed between Ulfa and the Assam and central governments, featuring a separate campus with a focus on commerce, business, and management education.
Legislation for the university will also be tabled in the state assembly on November 25, alongside the polygamy bill, marking a significant day for legislative activities in Assam.
Judicial Township and High Court Building
In a major boost to judicial infrastructure, the cabinet granted administrative approval for the first phase of a "state-of-the-art Judicial Township" at Rangmahal in North Guwahati. The project includes approval of Rs 487.78 crore for a new Gauhati High Court building, with plans underway to invite the Chief Justice of India to lay the foundation stone in January.
Recognition for World Cup Winner
The cabinet also approved a Rs 25 lakh reward for Uma Chetry, a member of India's Women's World Cup-winning cricket team from Assam. This gesture recognizes her achievement and contribution to Indian cricket while inspiring young athletes from the state.
Security Measures Ahead of Elections
Responding to media queries about the state government's initiative to provide arms to indigenous people living near "vulnerable" minority-dominated areas, Chief Minister Sarma revealed that many applications have been received. The first batch of firearm licenses is expected to be issued in February, ahead of next year's elections.
"We are now scrutinizing the applications and will be very selective," Sarma added, indicating a careful approach to the sensitive security measure.
These comprehensive decisions by the Assam cabinet reflect the government's focus on social reform, educational development, infrastructure improvement, and security enhancement as the state prepares for upcoming elections and continued development.
