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| Dowry system: A Social Evil Haunting Modern India | | | Amanpreet Kaur
The dowry system is one of the oldest and most harmful evils in our society. Although we live in a age of education, technology and equal rights, the practice of dowry continues to affect thousands of families. Dowry refers to the money, gifts, properties or valuable items given by the bride’s family to the groom’s family at the time of marriage - what was once considered a voluntary gift has now become a compulsory demand in many cases.
The dowry system places a huge financial burden on the bride’s family. Many parents spend their entire life savings or take loans to arrange dowry for their daughters. Poor families often face great difficulties and may even fall into debt. The fear of dowry expenses makes some people consider daughters a burden, which is a very unfortunate mindset.
The effects of dowry are not limited to financial problems. In many cases, women are harassed, abused and mistreated if their families fail to meet the demand of the groom’s family. Newspapers frequently report cases of domestic violence, cruelty and even deaths related to dowry disputes. Such incidents are a shame for a civilized society and highlight the urgent need for social reform.
Considering a recent dowry case, Tunisha Sharma, a 26-year old model and actor was found dead at her in-laws residence in Bhopal on 12 May 2026. Her family alleged that she was being harassed for dowry and questioned the initial claim that it was suicide. The case received nationwide attention, leading to arrests and a CBI investigation. The matter has also come under the scrutiny of supreme court.
This dowry also promotes gender inequality. It sends a wrong message that women are less valuable than men and must pay a price to get married. This practice goes against the principles of equality, dignity and respect that every individual deserves.
Talking about another recent case; Deepika Nagar a 24 year old girl from Greater Noida, Her family alleged that she faced continuous dowry demand, including cash, gold and a luxury SUV. she died after falling from terrace of her in law’s home and the autopsy revealed serious internal injuries. The circumstances of her death are under investigation.
The government has taken several steps to stop the evil practice. laws such as dowry prohibition act make giving and taking dowry a punishable offence. However, laws alone cannot solve the problem, people must change their attitude and reject dowry completely. Education and awareness can play an important role in bringing about this change.
Young people have a special responsibility in this matter. They should refuse to accept dowry and encourage simple marriages based on love, understanding and mutual respect. Parents should also teach children, the importance of equality and moral values rather than social status & wealth.
Social organization, educational institutions and the media can spread awareness about the harmful effects of dowry. Community leaders and influential citizens should openly speak against the practice and encourage society to abandon it.
In conclusion, the dowry system is a serious social evil that causes suffering, discrimination and injustice. It has no place in a modern and progressive society. Every citizen must work together to eliminate this practice and ensure that marriages are based on respect and happiness rather financial transactions. Only then we can built a society where women are treated with dignity & equality they deserve. |
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