Assam issues strict warning against polygamy, government jobs at risk
Assam Legislative Assembly. Photo: Collected.
The state government of Assam, India, is set to take a tougher stance against polygamy (via marriages). The state's new budget proposals indicate that individuals who practice polygamy could be deprived of government welfare schemes in the future, and it could even cost them their government jobs.
While presenting the budget in the State Assembly on Friday, State Finance Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah stated that the benefits of the government's development projects should reach only those citizens who abide by the law and display social responsibility. For this reason, the government is considering stricter policies regarding issues like polygamy.
According to the proposal, amendments will be made to the service rules of government employees. Once the revised rules come into effect, administrative action can be taken against any government employee involved in multiple marriages. If necessary, they could also be dismissed from service.
Beyond just government employees, the administration is also considering imposing new conditions on the beneficiaries of various government schemes. The budget discussions highlighted plans to exclude individuals involved in polygamy from the scope of government assistance.
Notably, the Assam Legislative Assembly passed a law last year to curb polygamy. That legislation made it a punishable offense to enter into a second marriage while the first marriage is still legally valid. With the new budget proposals, the state government has sent a clear message that its stance is hardening further. However, it was also clarified that these provisions will not apply to certain indigenous and tribal communities who enjoy special constitutional protections.
