Is Bigamy Always illegal?

Bigamy refers to the act of marrying one person while still legally married to another. In many jurisdictions, including India, bigamy is illegal and considered a criminal offense.

Key Points Regarding Bigamy:

1. Legal Framework:
   • In India, bigamy is addressed under Section 494 and Section 495 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Engaging in a second marriage while the first marriage is still valid is punishable by law.
2. Exceptions:
   • Certain personal laws allow for polygamous marriages (e.g., under Muslim law), where a man can have multiple wives. However, this does not apply to all communities and must comply with the specific personal laws governing that community.
3. Criminal Implications:
   • If a person marries again without legally dissolving the first marriage, they can face criminal charges, which may include imprisonment and fines.
4. Legal Consequences:
   • Aside from criminal penalties, bigamous marriages are generally considered void, meaning they do not have legal standing, and any rights or claims arising from them may be unenforceable.
5. Social and Civil Ramifications:
   • Bigamy can lead to significant social stigma and civil disputes, especially related to property, inheritance, and child custody.

Summary: Bigamy is generally illegal in most jurisdictions, including India, under specific laws. While some communities may allow polygamous marriages, marrying again while still legally married is typically a criminal offense.