Kathmandu, July 31, 2025 — The Nepal government has prepared a draft law that would allow polygamy in limited circumstances, revising the current total ban in place since 2018. The proposed amendment to Section 175 of the Criminal Code would permit a married person to remarry if a relationship outside marriage leads to pregnancy or childbirth.
The Ministry of Law says the move aims to protect the rights of women who are abandoned after bearing children outside wedlock. Secretary Parashar Dhungana stated that denying legal recognition to such relationships has left many women destitute.
The draft changes the language of the law to apply equally to both men and women. However, legal experts have warned that this could reintroduce patriarchal practices and increase gender-based violence. Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki called it a “major regression,” while ex-law minister Madhav Paudel said it undermines Nepal’s international image and commitment to gender equality.
Polygamy is currently punishable by up to five years in jail and a fine. The proposed amendment retains penalties for deceptive marriages but makes exceptions when a woman is pregnant or has given birth.
