Guwahati: Assam has taken a decisive legislative step by criminalising polygamy, with the state assembly approving the Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025. The law makes contracting a second marriage while already legally married a punishable offence — carrying a maximum penalty of seven years’ imprisonment.
शादी करो, मगर लिमिट में!
Want govt jobs and benefits? Then say no to a second marriage!
Assam bans polygamy and takes a step into the 21st century. pic.twitter.com/nrGuiB93f5
— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) November 27, 2025
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma hailed the move as a landmark reform aimed at safeguarding women’s rights and ensuring legal parity across communities. The legislation is applicable irrespective of religion, caste, or tribe, and includes provisions to penalise not only offenders but also individuals who help or conceal such unlawful marriages.
A historic day for Assam as the Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025 is unanimously passed.
A strong step towards women’s dignity and empowerment.
Grateful to Hon’ble CM Dr. @himantabiswa for this landmark reform. pic.twitter.com/OpbOfbbmC4
— Dilip Saikia 🇮🇳 (@DilipSaikia4Bjp) November 27, 2025
With its passage, Assam now moves closer to the broader agenda of uniform civil reforms and strengthened protections within matrimonial law — marking what the government calls a “historic pivot toward gender justice and social equality.”
