In a landmark ruling, the High Court of Bangladesh has clarified that under Muslim family law, a man does not need his first wife’s consent to marry a second time, provided the Arbitration Council grants permission.
The decision came from a writ petition on the interpretation of Muslim Family Laws. The court noted that current laws do not explicitly require the first wife’s consent, placing the authority instead with the Arbitration Council.
For years, it was widely believed that marrying again without a wife’s approval was illegal and socially unacceptable. However, in its 24-page verdict, the High Court emphasized that the law focuses on the Arbitration Council’s procedural role rather than spousal consent.
