Assam Government Plans to Ban Polygamy, CM Himanta Forms Committee to Examine the Issue

The Assam Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has announced plans to ban polygamy in the state. To examine the matter thoroughly, the government has decided to form a committee. The announcement was made at a book launch event in Guwahati on Monday. The committee will explore all aspects of the issue before making any recommendations to the government.

Polygamy, the practice of marrying multiple partners, is prevalent in various parts of the country, particularly in the Muslim community. Under Muslim personal law, a man is allowed to have up to four wives if he can provide financial support to all of them equally. However, the practice of polygamy is not limited to Muslims alone. In some tribal societies in Assam, it is also prevalent.

The Assam government is concerned over the implications of polygamy. Hence, it has decided to take a closer look at the matter. CM Sarma has expressed that the committee will examine all relevant aspects of polygamy, including its impact on the society, especially on women and children. The committee will also explore if polygamy promotes gender inequality and whether it violates the fundamental right to a dignified life.

The committee will comprise representatives from various communities, legal experts, and NGOs. Matters related to religion and personal laws tend to evoke strong emotions, and given Assam’s diverse population, the government wants to ensure that all viewpoints are heard before arriving at any decision.

The topic of polygamy has been controversial for some time now. Many feel that it promotes patriarchal values and creates an unequal power relationship between men and women. Polygamous marriages often result in women being subjected to emotional and physical abuse, and in some cases, the women are treated as commodities. It can also lead to neglect of children born from such marriages, significantly affecting their upbringing.

The Assam government’s move to examine the issue shows its commitment to protecting the welfare of its citizens. It is essential to ensure that traditional practices and beliefs do not violate fundamental human rights, particularly those of women and children. The committee’s findings will help the government make informed decisions about whether to ban polygamy in the state.

In conclusion, the Assam government’s decision to form a committee to examine the issue of polygamy is a step in the right direction. The government’s intention to protect the welfare of its citizens, irrespective of their religious or cultural beliefs, is commendable. The committee’s findings will provide valuable insights into the impact of polygamy on society and will help the government make informed decisions. The Assam government’s proactive approach to protecting the fundamental rights of its citizens sets an example for other states to follow.