Assam Plans to Outlaw Polygamy, Awaits Presidential Nod

Guwahati, August 6, 2023 — Assam Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, announced on Sunday the upcoming enactment of a law against polygamy within the current fiscal year. The development follows the submission of a report by an expert committee commissioned by the state government to examine the viability of such legislation.

Led by retired Guwahati High Court judge Rumi Phukan, the four-member committee was established by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government in Assam this May. The committee›s mandate was to delve into the matter and present their findings within a 60-day window.

While unveiling the committee›s report, Chief Minister Sarma emphasized, «Although I haven›t delved into the report›s specifics, the committee was tasked with evaluating the feasibility of enacting a polygamy ban law by the state government. The committee has communicated that we possess the authority to do so. However, it›s imperative that the final endorsement of the legislation comes from the President, not the governor.» This anticipated legislation aims to address the practice of polygamy, with the necessary legal procedures expected to unfold in due course. The move underscores the state›s commitment to modernizing its legal framework while ensuring that all necessary approvals are obtained..