Nepal's Commitment to Uphold Monogamy Sparks Debate

Nepal's Minister for Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs, Ajay Kumar Chaurasiya, firmly assured lawmakers on Wednesday that no bill promoting polygamy, or any other legislation against societal norms, would be placed before Parliament. During a parliamentary session, Chaurasiya stressed the government's commitment to upholding laws that reflect the country's social values.

The minister expressed concern over public confusion and distress spurred by speculative media interpretations surrounding proposed amendments to the Criminal Code. He clarified that a bill, perceived as promoting polygamy, was only in draft form pending cabinet review when media circulated premature reports. This stir led lawmakers to seek clarification from the ministry.

The contentious amendment to Section 175 of Nepal's Criminal Code suggested exemptions for bigamous unions if a new partner becomes pregnant, raising ethical and constitutional alarms. While intended to safeguard children, critics argue it undermines the legal status of the first spouse and may reintroduce polygamy, contradicting Nepal's anti-polygamy stance enforced since 2018.

(With inputs from agencies.)