In Bihar, an increasing number of wives are turning to the State Women’s Commission due to their husbands’ extramarital affairs, with officials receiving as many as 10 complaints each day. The incidents often stem from long-term marriages, some lasting over 20 years. Many wives only uncover the affairs after years of deception, leading them to request assistance. The Bihar State Women’s Commission is addressing these complaints earnestly by summoning husbands for counseling sessions. However, officials note that numerous husbands do not attend these sessions despite multiple reminders, resulting in the involvement of local police to ensure their presence. Apsara, the Commission’s Chairperson, stated, “We have been receiving a significant number of complaints in recent months.
Daily, four to five cases specifically pertain to extramarital relations. Counseling has proven effective in mending many troubled marriages.” Reports come from both urban and rural settings, with some marriages dating back 25 years, suggesting that even long-standing unions are vulnerable to infidelity. Two recent cases highlight this issue. Soni Kumari (name changed), from Sipara, Patna, has been married for a decade and discovered her husband’s affair three years ago, prompting her to file a complaint; the Commission has sent him two notices. Pinky Kumari (name changed) from Danapur, married for 20 years with adult children, has also reported her husband’s affair lasting two years, leading to a counseling call from the Commission.
Officials indicate that while many husbands are initially hesitant to engage, such interventions frequently lead to positive outcomes for the families involved.