August 08, 2025
Kathmandu
Anjana Bisangke speaking to the crowd about how the proposed bill violates women's right and gender equality principles. photo: Sakshyam Bhandari
An interaction session against polygamy, organized by Baigyanik Samajwadi Maila Sangathan ( वैज्ञानिक समाजवादी महिला संगठन), was held at Nepal Law Campus on August 8, focused on opposing the proposed legal changes that could legalize polygamy under certain conditions in Nepal.
Shanti Rijal Kafle, an Advocate, strongly voiced her opposition, emphasizing that polygamy violates women's rights. She argued that the proposed law favors men’s satisfaction while disregarding women’s rights, thus being fundamentally unjust.
Sudip Biswakarma, a mediaperson, representing the media perspective, commented that if such a law were to be enacted, it would give the government the appearance of supporting oppressors. He stressed that rights are not merely to be asked for but fought for.
The session reflected widespread concern among participants that legalizing or creating exemptions for polygamy would weaken gender equality and women's protections guaranteed in Nepal’s Constitution and international commitments.
Sudip Biswakarma is conveying his thoughts about the proposed bill.
Many see the draft as disproportionately benefiting men and supporting harmful social practices, which sparked significant public and political opposition across Nepal.
This dialogue aligns with ongoing protests and legal debates against the draft amendments to Nepal’s Criminal Code related to polygamy, highlighting the session’s relevance and urgency in the country’s current socio-legal context.
The voices from the session highlighted the demand that laws must protect women’s dignity and rights, and reject any regressions toward legitimizing polygamy.
The interactive session concluded with a strong agreement that legalizing polygamy would severely hamper women's rights and gender equality in Nepal. Its impact has been to fuel greater public awareness and mobilize opposition against regressive legal proposals that threaten social justice and constitutional protections for women.
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