Assam govt passes bill to ban polygamy, what CM Himanta Biswa Sarma said about UCC?
Assam Government Bans Polygamy: The Assam government has taken a major decision that has captured national attention. The Assam Assembly has passed a bill banning polygamy. Following this decision, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that true Muslims will welcome this law. He also made a major announcement to introduce the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the first session of the next term.
Under the "Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025," having more than one wife will now be considered a serious crime. Those found guilty face a penalty of up to seven years in prison and a fine. Those found guilty of concealing their first marriage and marrying a second time face a sentence of up to 10 years.
However, this law will not apply to Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Sixth Schedule areas. The bill was introduced in the absence of opposition parties, who walked out of the House after a discussion on the death of singer Zubin Garg.
Not anti-Islam
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma responded sharply to opponents, stating that this bill is not against Islam, but in the interest of true Muslims. He argued that Islam never promotes polygamy, and that similar strict laws exist in Muslim countries like Turkey and Pakistan.
According to the CM, the government's aim is to eradicate this evil practice from the state and bring equality to society. The law also includes compensation of up to Rs 1.40 lakh to victims. The CM said that true Islamic people would welcome this act because Pakistan also has an Arbitration Council.
UCC to play crucial role in transforming state's social system
The anti-polygamy law is being touted as the first step towards a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Assam. CM Himanta Sarma made a promise in the House, stating that if he returns to power, he will introduce the UCC in the very first session of the Assembly. He committed to implementing the UCC in Assam. The CM stated that there is no longer any room for old practices in Assam. This new law will play a crucial role in transforming the state's social system, and all eyes are now on the government's next steps.