Under Chapter 6 of the (Muluki Ain), Nepal has taken a firm stance: Monogamy is the legal standard. Therefore, Atirikta Bibaha is generally prohibited and punishable by law. The General Rule: Monogamy is Mandatory For the vast majority of Nepali citizens (specifically those governed by the Civil Code, including Hindus, Buddhists, and others), a person can only be married to one living spouse at a time. If a husband or wife marries another person without legally dissolving the first marriage, the second marriage is considered void ab initio (invalid from the beginning).
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific cases, consult a qualified attorney or the District Court. Would you like a version of this article tailored to a specific audience (e.g., law students, community leaders, or a simplified pamphlet for rural awareness)? atirikta bibaha
This article unpacks what Atirikta Bibaha means, when it is (rarely) permitted, and why it is largely a criminal offense in modern Nepal. Literally translated, Atirikta Bibaha means "extra" or "additional marriage." Legally, it refers to the act of a person entering into a second marriage while their first spouse is still alive and the first marriage remains legally valid. Under Chapter 6 of the (Muluki Ain), Nepal