Assam Tightens Stand on Polygamy
The Assam government has announced a series of stringent measures against polygamy as part of its 2026–27 Budget proposals, reinforcing its commitment to women's empowerment and gender equality. Finance Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah stated that government employees found practising polygamy will face dismissal from service under the proposed policy.
In addition to disciplinary action against government staff, the government has proposed denying welfare scheme benefits to individuals who practise polygamy. The administration said these measures are aimed at discouraging the practice and promoting social justice while ensuring greater protection and equality for women.
The Budget also includes another significant proposal to deny government welfare benefits to individuals convicted under any criminal law. According to the government, the move is intended to ensure that public welfare schemes reach law-abiding citizens and strengthen accountability.
Assam has already taken legislative steps to curb polygamy. Earlier, the Assam Assembly approved a Bill prohibiting the practice, with violations attracting imprisonment of up to seven years. The latest Budget proposals are seen as an extension of the state's efforts to strictly enforce the law and discourage the practice through administrative and welfare-related measures.
The government maintained that these decisions reflect its broader agenda of promoting gender equality, empowering women, and building a more equitable and accountable society across the state.
