Can I marry a second wife

As far as I know Muslims can contract up to 4 marriages. Talak is also easy for men. But Muslims are also liable to Cr. P. C. Laws like 498A IPC and DV Act apply to Muslims also. You will have real problem if your wife or in-laws unleash any of these laws against you. You may not get custody of the girl child.

If you have not done so, so far, write a letter to your father-in-law requesting him to send back his daughter to you stating your case in conciliatory language but being careful at the same time not to say anything that he can be used against you. You can say that you love her and miss her. You can also say that you miss your daughter. Write similar letter to your wife also. If you do not get reply to the letters send the same letters by Registered AD explaining the reason for sending by registered post. You must build a case in your favor. If they do not respond favourably to your letters go to court for restoration of conjugal rights. If that fails file for custody of the child. You may atleast get visitation rights. If cases are in the court that will help you if they try 498A or DV Act against you. Though Shariat law may allow you to marry a second time a second marriage may be considered as a hostile act by you and that will help people of your first wife to take actions against you. Your case for custody of the child will also become weak.

I can only wish you good luck. Hindu or Muslim human beings are same.