India, Nov. 30 -- The Assam Legislative Assembly has passed the Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025, aimed at reinforcing marital accountability and protecting women. The legislation establishes one of the strictest legal frameworks against polygamy in the country.

Introduced on the first day of the Winter Session, the Bill seeks to criminalise second marriage without legally dissolving the first. It prescribes up to 10 years' imprisonment for concealing an existing marriage and up to seven years imprisonment for second marriage without dissolving the first. Repeat offenders will face double the punishment.

Religious clerics who perform such marriages may be fined up to Rs 1.5 lakh, while individuals who intentionally hide or delay...