Revisiting the debate on polygamy, gender equality and women’s rights

By N.S. Venkataraman* 

While the world, particularly in the last few decades, has achieved spectacular growth in scientific advancement, technological practices, and management techniques, it still appears that the basic mindset of some sections of society remains unchanged at an unacceptable level. Although there is no dearth of men with progressive views about women — who fully recognize that men are in no way superior to women when viewed holistically — there are still some who continue to believe in the so-called superiority of men.

Despite several women’s liberation movements around the world in recent decades, the ground reality is that many women still live under the shadow of men and are often subjected to various forms of abuse and insult in day-to-day life. This scenario is visible in developed, developing, and underdeveloped countries alike, as evident from frequent media reports of atrocities committed against women.

Among the several types of offences against women, one of the most problematic practices is polygamy — the practice of a man being married to more than one wife at the same time. Although polygamy is legally permitted in a few countries and is claimed by some to be sanctioned by certain religions, there are also many instances where it is practiced covertly.

Polygamy is a deeply objectionable practice in which women are viewed merely in physical terms, ignoring the fact that they are no different from men in mental attributes, capabilities, and thinking processes. Men who choose to engage in polygamy can justifiably be described as regressive and disrespectful of human dignity.

While ancient texts and epics indicate that polygamy existed historically, many writings and speeches from the past also described it as the result of an undesirable mindset and condemned it as unethical. It can be stated firmly that polygamy has never been conclusively upheld as a legitimate practice. Even in the case of religions where some argue that polygamy is permitted, such interpretations are often distorted. A deeper study of religious texts reveals that women are revered as mothers, wives, sisters, and daughters, and are treated as highly respected individuals, no different from men. The claim that some religions endorse polygamy can often be traced to selective and misleading interpretations of isolated historical instances.

It is well known that in some countries, such as Iran and Afghanistan — predominantly Islamic nations — women continue to face discrimination even today. In several places, restrictions are imposed on their dress, and they are not allowed to pray alongside men in certain places of worship.

It is gratifying to note that the Government of Assam in India has banned the practice of polygamy in the state and introduced strict penalties for violations. This law was long overdue.

It is unfortunate that a worldwide anti-polygamy movement has not yet been effectively organised. The world cannot be considered truly civilised until women are regarded as equal to men in all respects, everywhere. The first essential step toward establishing gender equality should be the global eradication of polygamy.

It would be appropriate if the United Nations Organisation (UNO) were to take up this issue in earnest, discuss the harmful impacts of polygamy comprehensively at its international forum, and persuade all nations to legally and effectively ban this practice.

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*Trustee, Nandini Voice for the Deprived, Chennai