103 men accused of polygamy in Kailali; Victims seek police action

Dhangadhi: The practice of polygamy in Kailali continues despite legal prohibitions, as 103 men have been accused of marrying a second time, abandoning their wives. These cases reflect only the complaints formally registered with the police, with no records of those who secretly remarry or gain societal acceptance.

Although polygamy is prohibited under the law, the number of men entering second marriages has been rising. Section 175 of the Criminal Code clearly states that a married man cannot remarry while his marital relationship is still in force. Sub-section 2 of the same provision also prohibits women from marrying men they know are already married. Violating these laws can result in imprisonment for one to five years and a fine ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 50,000.

Despite these legal measures, police data shows that 103 complaints of polygamy have been filed over the past three fiscal years. According to the records, 41 cases were registered in fiscal year 2078/79, 34 cases in 2079/80, and 28 cases in 2080/81.

Police officials note that polygamy remains prevalent in society, but only a fraction of cases are formally reported. Though the law categorizes polygamy as a punishable crime, with penalties including up to five years of imprisonment, the trend of second marriages has yet to be effectively curbed.

Victimized women continue to seek justice, urging authorities to take action against those violating the law.