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Marriage LawVERIFIED NEPAL LEGAL TERM
Bahubibaah (बहुविवाह)
English Equivalent:Polygamy
Definition Summary
"The practice of having more than one spouse at the same time."
Detailed Explanation
Bahubibaah is strictly illegal and a punishable offense in Nepal. Any second marriage contracted while the first marriage is active is void.
Legal Basis in Nepal Law
Muluki Civil Code 2074, Section 72 and Criminal Code 2074.
Practical Example
If a married husband registers a second marriage, he can face criminal charges for bahubibaah.
Marriage Laws and Registration Procedures in Nepal
Marriage registration in Nepal is governed strictly by the Muluki Civil Code 2074 (Chapter 2, Sections 67 to 84). Both parties must meet the legal requirements to secure a valid marriage certificate.
Key Statutory Rules:
- Age Requirement: Both the bride and groom must have completed 20 years of age. Any marriage below this age is considered child marriage (Balbibaah) and is legally void.
- Monogamy Rule: Polygamy (Bahubibaah) is strictly prohibited. Neither party can have a living spouse at the time of registration.
- Consanguinity Prohibitions: The parties must not be within prohibited degrees of relationship (blood relations), except where local customs permit.
- Jurisdiction: For court marriage, at least one applicant must have resided in the district for at least 15 days, verified by a residency recommendation from the local ward office.
Required Documentation:
- Original Citizenship Certificates (Nagarikta) of the couple and witnesses.
- Official Single Status Certificate (Avibahit Pramanpatra) issued by the respective local ward office.
- Residency proof letter (Basobas Sifaris) if registering in a district other than the permanent address.
- Recent passport sized photographs of the couple and witnesses.