Dowry: A Curse To Society

Mr. Mayank Upadhyay, Delhi Metropolitan Education (DME), Sector 62, Noida

“Endow Equality, not Dowry: Let Love Prevail, Not Material Gain”

Introduction

Marriage is a holy union between two souls or a man – woman relationship as responsible one to one unit in a society and form a family. Its essential components are sexual intercourse, procreation of children and live together to fulfil their mutual obligations together. It is considered as one of the sixteen Sanskaras in Hindu Religion and thus, it is considered as sacred and eternal union but still in many areas, the institution of Dowry continue for centuries. While society has evolved, the practice of Dowry is still a regressive practice that plagues the society. In this essay, we will understand about the dark side of Dowry, the consequences faced by the woman due to less wealth in form of dowry, small brief about Dowry Prohibition Act 1961 and Section 304B of Indian Penal Code 1860.

What is Dowry?

In simple terms, Dowry refers to the wealth or property that the bride’s family is expected to provide it to groom’s family during Marriage. This practice has its historical roots considering it to be offering financial security to newlyweds. However, with changing time, Dowry is also transforming into more cunning and wrong approach.

Dark side of Dowry

The Practice of Dowry is associated with negative aspects and consequences, especially prevalent in some cultures and societies. Some key points illustrating Dark Side of Dowry are as follows:-

Ø Gender Inequality: Dowry reinforces the existing gender inequality by treating women as commodities to be bought through material possessions. It perpetuates the notion that bride worth is determined by the amount of dowry she brings into marriage, rather than her intrinsic value as human being.

Ø Financial Exploitation: Due to high Dowry demands, bride’s family can exploit to the financial exploitation. Families may feel compelled to go into debt or sell assets to meet dowry demands, leading to financial strain and even bankruptcy. This can perpetuate cycles of Poverty, particularly in families with limited financial resources.

Ø Violence and Abuse: Dowry related disputes can escalate into violence and abuse against bride who didn’t met dowry expectations or whose family fails to dowry demands. It can lead to mental or physical harassment, cruelty, abetment to suicide, dowry deaths etc.

Ø Social Stigma and Discrimination: Women who are unable to provide Dowry or whose families can’t afford dowry demands can face social stigma and discrimination within their communities. They may be viewed as undesirable or unworthy of marriage leading to isolation, ostracism and decreased opportunities for social and personal advancement.

Ø Legal & Regulatory Challenges: Even while many nations have laws that exclude or restrict the practice of dowries, enforcement of these laws can be lax, and cultural norms may still be in place. This makes it difficult to stop abuses linked to dowries and to defend the rights of women and girls.