Heated Assam Assembly row after Congress MLA suggests husband should remarry; CM Sarma calls idea “cruelty” to women

Guwahati — A sharp debate erupted in the Assam Assembly on Friday after Congress MLA Baby Begum suggested that a woman who has been ill for a long time should allow her husband to remarry.

The remarks were immediately criticised by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who called the suggestion “cruel” and defended the sanctity of marriage. 

Speaking on the Assembly floor, Baby Begum argued that in cases of prolonged illness a husband may need to consider remarriage. Her comments drew quick rebuke from several members across party lines. Responding strongly,

CM Sarma said marriage in Hindu society is a “divine relationship” and that a husband’s duty is to care for and treat his wife rather than seek a new partner. “To ask a suffering woman to permit her husband to marry again is nothing but cruelty,” he said, questioning the moral acceptability of such an idea and warning that it would inflict severe mental distress on women. Sarma also emphasised the social and ethical responsibilities of spouses, urging lawmakers to protect vulnerable family members instead of promoting actions that could stigmatise them.

His remarks were met with applause from ruling party members and protests from the opposition. The incident sparked a wider discussion in the Assembly about gender sensitivity, family responsibilities and the treatment of patients at home. Opposition members criticised the original suggestion as insensitive and demanded an apology. Several women legislators described the remark as degrading and called for stronger safeguards for women's dignity and mental well‑being.

The Assembly session continued amid tense exchanges, with party leaders warning against making divisive or inflammatory comments on personal and social issues. No formal apology by Baby Begum was recorded in the House during the session. Background: Assam has seen growing public debate over social values and family law in recent years, with political leaders frequently weighing in on matters related to gender, marriage and social welfare.