Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma delivered a strong message to All India United Democratic Front-AIUDF leader Badruddin Ajmal regarding his marital intentions. The CM, speaking on March 29, insisted if Ajmal plans to marry again, he must do so before the upcoming elections.
CM Himanta stressed that attending Ajmal’s wedding before the polls would remain lawful under existing regulations. However, he cautioned that post-elections, with the implementation of the Common Civil Code or CCC (also known as Uniform Civil Code-UCC), the situation would change.
Himanta Sarma outlined that under the CCC, any attempt by Ajmal to engage in multiple marriages would result in legal repercussions, possibly including arrest. The CM clarified that the prohibition on polygamy would be a pivotal provision of the CCC, rendering such unions unlawful in Assam.
These remarks from Himanta Sarma were prompted by reports of Ajmal’s alleged desire to enter into another marriage. While Ajmal is currently known to have only one wife, the CM warned against any additional marriages following the enactment of the CCC.
Ajmal’s controversial statements on March 28 sparked widespread debate as he stated, “Still today I am young to marry… I have strength and I can marry again.” Despite being over 74 years old, Ajmal referred to himself as “balwan Ajmal” and insisted that even CM Himanta couldn’t impede his marriage plans.
In response to Ajmal’s remarks, Congress leaders like Rakibul Hussain termed his remarks as “third-class talks” and Jakir Hussain Sikdar condemned his statements as inappropriate, particularly during the month of Ramzan. They questioned Ajmal’s choice of language given his age and familial responsibilities.
Himanta Biswa Sarma reiterated his government’s commitment to implementing the Common Civil Code during a prior session of the Assembly, highlighting its aims to address issues like underage marriages and polygamy. Currently enforced in Uttarakhand, CM Himanta’s administration aims to introduce the CCC in Assam as well.
