Consider the following statements regarding the Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025 : I. The Bill makes polygamy a criminal offence punishable with up to seven years in jail and a fine. II. The Bill is applicable in all areas of Assam, including Sixth Schedule areas. III. Individuals convicted under the Bill will be ineligible for government jobs, State benefits, and contesting elections. IV. The Bill applies only to residents of Assam and does not cover polygamous marriages conducted outside the State. How many of the above statements are correct?

The correct answer is Option B In News Assam introduced the Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025 , proposing jail terms, fines, and penalties for illegal second marriages, with the objective of protecting women and ensuring social reform. Key Points The Bill states polygamy is a criminal offence punishable with up to seven years in jail and a fine. Hence, Statement I is correct. The Bill excludes Sixth Schedule areas and members of Scheduled Tribes. Hence, Statement II is incorrect. The Bill explicitly states that individuals convicted will be ineligible for government jobs, State benefits, and contesting elections. Hence, Statement III is correct. The Bill applies to: Assam residents entering polygamous marriages outside the State, Non-residents owning property or receiving State benefits. Thus, it does not apply only to residents, nor is it restricted to marriages inside the State. Hence, Statement IV is incorrect. Additional Information Concealing an existing marriage can lead to 10 years imprisonment. The Bill does not affect polygamous marriages contracted before its enactment under valid customary/personal laws. Village heads, qazis, parents, and guardians who facilitate polygamous marriages are also liable. Opposition parties allege the Bill targets a specific community ahead of the 2026 elections.