Guwahati: The Assam government has tabled a bill in the state assembly that seeks to ban polygamy, with provisions for jail time for offenders. The Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025, was introduced on the first day of the Winter Session by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

The bill prescribes a rigorous imprisonment for up to seven years for those who violate the ban. Furthermore, individuals concealing a previous marriage could face imprisonment for up to 10 years. Repeat offenders will face doubled penalties. The bill also includes provisions that bar offenders from contesting elections and remove their names from the list of beneficiaries of government schemes.

The law will be applicable throughout Assam, except in the Sixth Schedule areas, and will not extend to members of any Scheduled Tribe community as defined under Article 342 of the Constitution.

Beyond those entering into polygamous marriages, the bill also addresses those involved in facilitating or concealing such unions. Any priest or "Quazi" knowingly solemnizing a marriage that contravenes the law could face imprisonment for up to two years and a fine of up to Rs 1.5 lakh. Village chiefs, parents, or legal guardians who dishonestly or fraudulently conceal and intentionally participate in the performance of a polygamous marriage could be imprisoned for up to two years and fined up to Rs 1 lakh. Moreover, individuals who "wilfully hide, neglects or unreasonably delays" reporting information about such marriages may be punished under the same sections as the main offenders.

The bill extends beyond the state's residents, applying to individuals living outside Assam who own immovable property in the state or receive state-funded benefits, subsidies, or welfare support. It also provides a mechanism for compensation to women affected by polygamous marriages, with a designated authority to process applications and disburse compensation.

The bill specifies that marriages contracted before the Act comes into force will not be affected, as long as they adhere to existing personal or customary laws and have valid proof.

According to the Statement of Objects and Reasons, the bill aims to prohibit and eliminate practices of polygamy, protect women from hardship, and streamline society. The Assam government has stated a firm stance that religious justifications for polygamy will not be accepted. The introduction of the bill occurred in the absence of opposition Congress, CPI(M), and Raijor Dal MLAs, who staged a walkout after a discussion on the death of singer Zubeen Garg. The bill will be taken up for discussion and passage at a later date.