The Assam cabinet has approved a new Bill aimed at banning polygamy in the state, paving the way for its introduction in the upcoming assembly session later this month. Chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the decision on Sunday after a cabinet meeting in Guwahati, describing the move as a significant step toward social reform.

According to the chief minister, the proposed legislation will make indulging in polygamy a punishable offence with a maximum jail term of seven years. The offence has been classified as non-cognizable, which means the police cannot arrest without a warrant, but those booked under the law will not be eligible for immediate bail. The legal framework is designed to ensure strict enforcement while preventing misuse.

Sarma said the Bill also includes a provision for compensating the affected wife. Since those convicted will be sent to prison, the state plans to create a dedicated fund to provide financial support to wives depending on their circumstances. The chief minister indicated that details of the compensation mechanism would be refined during legislative discussions.

The proposed law, however, will not apply universally across the state. Tribal communities that follow customary practices, the hill districts of Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao that fall under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, and areas under the Bodo Territorial Region—covering five districts—will be exempted from its purview. This exemption reflects constitutional protections granted to certain indigenous groups and autonomous regions.

Beyond the anti-polygamy legislation, the Assam cabinet approved several other initiatives. A new policy on start-ups and innovation received the green light, aimed at strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the state. The government will offer financial support for a range of activities including ideation, prototype development, seed funding, and venture capital assistance. Support amounts will vary significantly, from ₹10 lakh to ₹10 crore, depending on the stage and scale of the project.

In recognition of sporting achievement, the cabinet also decided to award ₹25 lakh to Uma Chetry, a member of the Indian women’s cricket team that recently won the ICC World Cup. The felicitation is intended to honour her contribution and inspire young athletes across Assam.

With the Bill expected to be tabled later this month, the proposed law banning polygamy is set to become a major topic of political and social debate in Assam, potentially reshaping the state’s legal landscape on family and marriage practices.