Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has strongly opposed allowing polygamy on the grounds of a spouse’s illness, describing the husband-wife relationship in Hindu culture as a “sacred and divine bond” built on care, commitment, and responsibility.
Speaking during a discussion on marriage-related legal provisions, Sarma said that if a wife falls ill, a husband’s duty is to ensure her treatment and well-being rather than seeking another marriage.
“If my wife falls ill, it is not my job to marry again. My job is to get my wife treated,” the Chief Minister said, criticizing what he alleged was a demand by the Congress party to permit remarriage in such circumstances. He termed such a position as “cruelty” and argued that abandoning an ailing spouse in favor of a second marriage would cause severe mental distress.
Sarma stated that marriage is regarded as a divine relationship in Hindu society and that partners are expected to support each other during difficult times. He questioned the social implications of allowing remarriage solely because a spouse is unwell, saying such a move would undermine the values of care and responsibility within a family.
The Chief Minister further clarified that his government had rejected demands to allow polygamy without valid legal grounds. According to him, a second marriage cannot be permitted unless there are legally recognized reasons and due legal procedures are followed.
He added that in cases involving allegations of infidelity or serious marital disputes, individuals must seek legal remedies through the courts. A person can remarry only after obtaining a proper divorce decree in accordance with the law, he said.
The remarks come amid ongoing discussions surrounding marriage laws and proposed legal reforms in Assam, including the state government’s efforts to regulate issues related to polygamy and family law.
