Lawmakers slam polygamy bill as attack on women’s rights
KATHMANDU: During today’s special session of the House of Representatives, several lawmakers voiced strong opposition to a proposed legal provision that would allow polygamy under certain conditions.
Sushila Shrestha, a lawmaker from the Janata Samajwadi Party, fiercely criticized the draft bill, arguing it contradicts the constitution’s guarantee of gender equality and violates international agreements such as the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).
“If someone wants to marry again, they can first seek a divorce. Legalizing polygamy strikes at the heart of the constitution and the principle of equality,” Shrestha stated, warning that the proposed bill poses a serious threat to the dignity and rights of all women.
She also expressed disappointment that the Women Coordination Committee within the Parliament has not yet been formed, which she said has weakened efforts to raise and address critical issues affecting women.
Meanwhile, Prem Suwal of the Nepal Workers and Peasants Party raised concerns about corruption related to the printing of smart licenses, passports, and national ID cards.
He demanded that relevant ministers provide clarifications and insisted that these essential documents be printed within Nepal to prevent further irregularities.
