Did BJP Praise Assam's Anti-Polygamy Bill While Congress Calls It Unnecessary?
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Synopsis
Discover the contrasting views on the recently passed anti-polygamy Bill in Assam. While the BJP welcomes it as a necessary societal reform, the Congress party argues it's redundant, citing existing constitutional provisions. Is this legislation a step towards progress or an unnecessary distraction?
Key Takeaways
- Assam Assembly passes anti-polygamy Bill.
- BJP supports the move for societal reform.
- Congress criticizes it as unnecessary.
- Bill imposes penalties for polygamy.
- Exemptions for Scheduled Tribes included.
New Delhi, Nov 28 (NationPress) Following the passage of a Bill by the Assam Legislative Assembly that prohibits polygamy and imposes a penalty of up to seven years in prison, the BJP expressed its approval of the decision, deeming it crucial for societal reform. Conversely, the Congress party criticized the legislation, claiming it to be unnecessary as similar regulations are already outlined in Sections 82 and 83 of the Indian Constitution.
BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal remarked to IANS, “This is a commendable initiative. The principles of India’s Sanatan culture clearly outline the family structure. Rejecting this framework is incorrect. This Bill will aid in safeguarding Assam’s cultural heritage.”
Endorsing the law, BJP leader RP Singh stated, “Polygamy adversely impacts society. We must take action against it. Marrying someone while the first spouse is still alive is unacceptable. No civilized society can condone such actions. Assam has made a commendable decision, and I extend my congratulations.”
In contrast, Congress leaders voiced strong objections.
Congress leader Debabrata Saikia expressed, “This Bill is unwarranted, as similar provisions already exist under Sections 82 and 83 of the Indian Constitution. Assam’s development has stagnated, and this seems like another effort at polarization, reminiscent of various states. Its introduction is unwarranted.”
Congress spokesperson Surendra Rajput also criticized Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, stating, “As elections approach, Hemanta Biswa Sarma seems to be losing his composure. He requires intervention, which could be found in Agra. Polygamy is already banned under Indian law, yet tribal community practices cannot be legislated away.”
He further added, “Polygamy has been restricted for a considerable time, but can Biswa Sarma alter traditions still upheld by tribal communities in the Northeast and even in Himachal Pradesh? This is merely another attempt to propagate a Hindu-Muslim narrative and divert attention from pressing issues. He has amassed the reputation of being the most corrupt Chief Minister in history.”
Previously on Thursday, the Assam Legislative Assembly approved a Bill to outlaw polygamy, establishing a maximum penalty of seven years in prison, along with provisions for compensating the victimized woman.
The Chief Minister declared that the 'Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025' marks the initial step toward enacting new legislation in the state, aligning with the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill recently passed by the Uttarakhand Assembly.
According to the Bill, anyone found guilty of entering into a second marriage while the first one is still valid could face imprisonment of up to seven years. Additionally, anyone concealing an existing marriage and proceeding to marry again could face ten years in prison along with a fine.
However, the Bill does not apply to Scheduled Tribes and areas governed by the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, which grants autonomy to tribal regions in northeastern states.
The Bill defines 'polygamy' as the act of marrying or being married to another individual while either party is still legally bound by a subsisting marriage or has a living spouse from whom they have not been legally divorced or whose marriage has not been legally annulled or declared void.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge that the discourse surrounding the Assam anti-polygamy Bill reflects deep societal values and cultural identities. While the BJP views this as a necessary reform, the Congress raises valid points about existing laws. The challenge lies in balancing tradition with modern legislative needs, a task that demands careful consideration.
NationPress
29/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main objective of the Assam anti-polygamy Bill?
The primary goal of the Assam anti-polygamy Bill is to prohibit polygamy and make it a punishable offense, thereby aiming to safeguard societal values and cultural identity.
What penalties are outlined in the Bill for polygamy?
The Bill stipulates a maximum penalty of seven years of imprisonment for engaging in polygamy, with harsher penalties for concealing existing marriages.
How does the Congress party view the anti-polygamy Bill?
The Congress party criticizes the Bill as unnecessary, arguing that similar provisions already exist under the Indian Constitution.
Are there any exemptions in the anti-polygamy Bill?
Yes, the Bill excludes Scheduled Tribes and regions under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
What does the term 'polygamy' refer to in the context of the Bill?
In the Bill, 'polygamy' refers to the act of marrying another person while already being legally married or having a living spouse.
