Shillong: The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council is drafting a bill to control live-in relationships and customary marriages. The proposal targets rising cases of bigamy and polygamy. It aims to fill deep legal gaps in indigenous marriage laws. Council officials intend to introduce the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Regulation and Registration of Marriages, 2026, in the coming months.
Executive Member Deity H. Majaw oversees the plan. She confirmed the council lacks power over customary unions and divorce. Current jurisdiction only covers Christian marriages under the 1954 Act. The new bill changes that. It creates a formal framework for recording unions and settling disputes when relationships end. Majaw said, "One of the important components of the proposed Bill will be to regulate live-in relationships."
The council wants traditional leaders like the Rangbah Shnong to help register these marriages. Rural areas currently lack awareness of the Meghalaya Compulsory Registration of Marriage Act, 2012. Legal experts and activists met Tuesday at the State Convention Centre to discuss these hurdles. The session focused on maintenance for women and safeguarding rights. Council leadership under Winston Tony Lyngdoh expects to push the legislation forward soon.
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