Padma Aryal slams polygamy proposal
Aryal warned that such a law could have long-term negative consequences, including the erosion of family structure and increased social discord.
KATHMANDU: CPN-UML Central Committee Secretary and former Minister Padma Aryal has strongly objected to a proposed amendment in the Muluki Aparadh Sanhita (Criminal Code), 2074, particularly a provision that would grant legal recognition to relationships outside of marriage if a child is born or the woman becomes pregnant.
Aryal argues that the proposed change would encourage polygamy and lead to family disintegration.
The Ministry of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs recently made the draft bill public for feedback, which includes a controversial clause in Section 175 (5Ka).
The clause states: “Notwithstanding anything written in sub-section 5, if a child is born or a woman becomes pregnant as a result of a marital relationship, such a marriage shall not be annulled solely on the grounds of punishment for bigamy.”
In a press statement issued Monday, Aryal expressed her firm disagreement with this provision. She stated that under the guise of legal legitimacy, the draft disrespects societal values and morality.
According to her, the proposal essentially aims to legalize unethical and illegal extra-marital relationships involving married men, thereby undermining established moral and social norms.
“This provision implicitly endorses immoral conduct by providing legal status to a relationship outside marriage if it results in pregnancy or childbirth,” she said. “Rather than deterring the crime of bigamy, it may legitimize and even increase such incidents, as individuals could misuse the clause to justify unlawful relationships.”
Aryal warned that such a law could have long-term negative consequences, including the erosion of family structure and increased social discord.
She emphasized that laws should guide society towards discipline, protect moral integrity, and defend against injustice.
Calling for prudence and accountability in the legislative process, Aryal urged lawmakers and officials involved in drafting the bill to deeply understand the broader implications of such legal changes and act with caution and responsibility.
