Guwahati, Sept 03: Assam is set to take a significant step toward social reform with the impending introduction of a bill aimed at banning polygamy in the state. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently shared updates on this proposal, indicating that the bill’s final draft will be completed in the next 45 days, with expectations of it being introduced in the state assembly in December.
The initiative to ban polygamy in Assam gained momentum when the state government sought public feedback on the proposed legislation. A notice was issued on August 21, encouraging citizens to share their opinions on the matter by August 30, either via email or postal submission.
The response to this call for public input has been substantial, with the government receiving a total of 149 suggestions. An overwhelming majority of 146 suggestions expressed support for the bill, signaling strong public backing for the ban on polygamy. However, three organizations have expressed their opposition to the proposed legislation.
– Update on proposed bill for banning polygamy –
We have received a total of 149 suggestions in response to our public notice. Out of these, 146 suggestions are in favor of the bill, indicating strong public support. However, 3 organizations have expressed their opposition to the…— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) September 2, 2023
Chief Minister Sarma highlighted the positive developments surrounding the proposed bill, stating that the state government had formed a legal committee to analyze the feasibility of banning polygamy. The committee’s findings have been encouraging, indicating that the state legislature possesses the competence to enact such a law.
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Furthermore, Sarma mentioned the inclusion of provisions in the bill aimed at addressing concerns related to “Love Jihad” in the state. While the specific details of these provisions were not outlined, it suggests the bill may encompass broader considerations related to social issues.
In his remarks, Sarma also addressed the issue of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in the state. The chief minister clarified that the decision to withdraw AFSPA would be made after discussions with the Union government. AFSPA is an act of the Indian Parliament that grants special powers to the armed forces to maintain public order in “disturbed areas.” The review and potential withdrawal of AFSPA from certain areas have been subjects of ongoing discussions in various states.
The impending introduction of the bill to ban polygamy in Assam is a significant step toward social reform and aligns with the government’s commitment to address important issues in the state. The public’s overwhelming support for the proposed legislation underscores the urgency and necessity of addressing this practice, which has far-reaching social and legal implications.
As the final draft of the bill takes shape, it will be interesting to see how Assam’s legislative and executive branches collaborate to bring about this essential change in the state’s legal framework.
