Dowry System In India

Anshu Kumari, B.A.LL.B, Amity University, Patna

Introduction

It is said that “Change is the rule of the world” but many of the people still maintaining the vices or old customs and practices even in the 21st century. With the change of time, many ongoing traditions loses their existence and become a anathema for the society in the form of evil practices. And this is the reason why that practices brings distorted form and become a problem for the society. The dowry system is the main problem in India which refers to the practice of giving gifts or money by the bride’s family to the groom and his family at the time of marriage. It has been prevalent in India for centuries, and despite the laws against it, the practice continues in many parts of the country. It would be absolutely wrong to say that our traditions should be left behind with time, rather it should be according to the needs of the society and in social interest.

According to the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961, dowry has been defined under section 2 as “any property or valuable security given or agreed to be given either directly or indirectly, by one party to a marriage to the other party to the marriage, or by the parent of either party to a marriage or by any other person, to either party to the marriage or to any other person, at or before or any time after the marriage”.

So, basically Dowry is a practice where the bride’s family is expected to give gifts, cash, or property to the groom and his family at the time of the wedding. In Indian society, it has become a social belief to spend more and more on the marriage of a girl, whether the bridegroom has demanded or not, and the he person who is unable to do this, then he self humiliated in the society. Reason being it is connected with social position and family prestige. This puts immense financial pressure on the bride’s family and can lead to exploitation, harassment, and even violence against the bride if the demands are not met. And these things does not end with the wedding ceremony, but it continues thereafter.