News24 | First wives' consent debated: Mpumalanga backs polygamy, but wants Marriage Bill to protect women

Woman not Concubine, prima facie in relationship nature of marriage

An Indian court has ruled that a state legislator must pay ₹1.25 lakh monthly maintenance to a woman claiming to be his first wife, even if she earns, to maintain a lifestyle similar to his. The court dismissed the MLA's appeal, stating their relationship appeared to be in the nature of marriage, evidenced by two children.

News24 | First wives' consent debated: Mpumalanga backs polygamy, but wants Marriage Bill to protect women

While the inclusion of polygamy in the Marriage Bill was generally welcomed in Mpumalanga, there was a strong emphasis, from both men and women, that women's rights should be protected.