Congress leader Pawan Khera today criticised Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s recent statements on Uniform Civil Code ( UCC ) and the issuance of a new Nepalese banknote, calling for firm action from the Government of India.
Reacting to CM Sarma’s promise to introduce a UCCafter the next state elections, Khera said, “First of all, he will not return to power, he will go to jail. He knows it. This country is a collection of cultures and beliefs. You cannot impose one belief on everyone.” He emphasised that India is a diverse country, and any move to enforce a single law on personal matters would face strong opposition and could disturb social harmony.
Khera also responded to Nepal’s recent release of the new NPR 100 banknote, which reportedly features an updated map including Indian territories. Calling it “absolutely shocking,” he questioned the silence of the Indian government. “The government of India needs to act smart and tough. Where is the response from the government of India?” Khera asked, urging the authorities to take clear and decisive steps to protect the country’s interests. 
The Assam Legislative Assembly on Wednesday, November 27, passed the Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025, marking a major development in the state’s marriage laws. The new legislation criminalizes polygamy and lays down strict punishments for anyone entering into a second marriage while the first remains legally valid.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, presenting the bill in the House, called it the “first important step” towards implementing a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Assam. Sarma said that if the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) returns to power in the next assembly elections, the full UCC will be introduced and passed in the very first session. He also emphasized that women’s rights would not be compromised and the government has an “unshakeable resolve” to ensure justice and dignity for women.
The bill provides that a person who marries again while already in a valid marriage can face up to seven years in prison, while someone who hides an existing marriage before marrying again can be punished with up to ten years in jail and a fine. The legislation also includes provisions for compensation to women affected by polygamous relationships. Repeat offenders will face double the punishment for subsequent violations.
