I have married a second time, without divorcing my first wife. What are the consequences of my action?
Marrying a second time, during the lifetime of the first spouse, without obtaining a lawful divorce or the marriage, being declared null and void or dissolved, is generally referred to as bigamy. Bigamy is an offence in almost all Indian communities, with the exception of Muslims. Bigamy is not permitted under Parsi law. Any Parsi, who marries in the lifetime of his/her spouse, without a lawful divorce or without the marriage having been declared null and void or, having been dissolved, shall be subject to penalties, provided in Sections 494 and 495 of the Indian Penal Code. Bigamy is a criminal offence. The maximum imprisonment that is prescribed is a term of seven years. In cases where a person, who is marrying someone, conceals the fact that he/she is already married, the maximum imprisonment is a term of ten years. Also, under Parsi law, a bigamous marriage is void. Moreover, your first (lawful) wife can sue for divorce on the grounds of adultery.
