APWWS condemns glorification of polygamy on social media, terms it regressive

Itanagar, Feb 4: The Arunachal Pradesh Women’s Welfare Society (APWWS) has strongly condemned the increasing glorification of polygamy on social media, calling it a regressive trend that undermines gender equality and women’s empowerment.

The organization has urged the state government to enact strict legislation to prohibit the practice, particularly in government, political, and public sectors.

In a letter addressed to the chairperson of the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women, APWWS president Kani Nada Maling expressed grave concern over the rising crimes against women and the persistent prevalence of polygamy within tribal societies.

The organization, which has been championing women’s rights since 1979, stressed that the absence of stringent legal provisions has allowed the practice to thrive, further marginalizing women.

“The glorification of polygamy on digital platforms is not only misleading but also harmful. It sends a regressive message to society and undermines the progress made in ensuring gender justice and women’s empowerment,” the APWWS stated in its letter.

The organization pointed out that certain individuals are exploiting polygamy under the guise of tradition, depriving women of their rights and dignity. APWWS warned that normalizing polygamy through social media platforms could have serious consequences, reinforcing archaic social norms that hinder gender equality.

“The lack of legal deterrents has led to the unchecked proliferation of polygamy, exacerbating gender inequality and social instability. This practice needs to be addressed through strong legislative measures,” the letter emphasized.

APWWS has called for urgent deliberation at the highest levels of government to formulate and enforce a comprehensive legal framework prohibiting polygamy.

The organization asserted that such a law is essential to safeguarding the dignity and rights of women in Arunachal Pradesh and preventing further exploitation.

“As the leading women’s organization in the state, we unequivocally condemn any attempt to normalize or promote polygamy. We seek immediate intervention and decisive action to address this critical issue,” the APWWS said.