Guwahati: In a significant declaration underscoring the Assam government’s commitment to enhancing women’s and girls’ protection, Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma announced stringent penalties for polygamy and proposed new legislation to tackle cases of ‘love jihad’.
Speaking at a public meeting in Bongaigaon, the Chief Minister confirmed that the state is moving forward with a bill that will make marrying more than one woman a serious offense. “Any man marrying more than one woman will face up to seven years in prison,” Dr. Sarma stated, further adding that the bill is scheduled to be presented and passed in the Assam Vidhan Sabha on November 25th.
Beyond the push against polygamy, the Chief Minister detailed a second, related legislative proposal aimed at crimes categorized as ‘love jihad,’ specifically when an underage girl is targeted. Dr. Sarma announced that this new law will introduce strict accountability for both the perpetrator and their family. He explained, “If someone tries to elope an underage girl under the pretext of love jihad, both the offender and his parents will be held accountable and face jail time.” These proposed legal measures form part of a broader, concerted effort by the state government to strengthen the protective framework for women and children across Assam.
