Kathmandu, August 2 – The All Nepal Women Association (Revolutionary) has strongly objected to a proposed draft law by the Ministry of Law that would legalize polygamy under certain conditions. The organization has called on the government to immediately withdraw what it terms a “regressive” proposal.
In a press statement issued by the Association’s Chairperson Amrita Thapa, the organization expressed serious concern over media reports quoting Secretary Parashwar Dhungana of the Ministry of Law, who reportedly confirmed the preparation of a draft allowing men to marry another woman while still being married to their first wife.
“This proposal is not only regressive, it contradicts the preamble of Nepal’s Constitution, fundamental rights, and the international conventions Nepal has ratified regarding the elimination of all forms of discrimination,” the statement reads.
The Association emphasized that the Muluki Criminal Code 2074, which came into full effect on Bhadra 1, 2075 (August 17, 2018), had criminalized polygamy. Therefore, any legal attempt to make exceptions in certain cases would be unacceptable to Nepalese women.
“This draft is completely unacceptable. No woman should have to tolerate such a violation of her dignity and rights,” the statement continues.
Calling upon the government to cancel the draft, the organization has also appealed to intellectuals, workers, farmers, civil society, and the general public to stand in defense of constitutional values and against feudal mindsets that objectify women.
“If the government does not reverse this backward step, we will be compelled to launch a protest movement,” the Association warned.
