 Early Times Report
Rajouri, Oct 10: Under the able guidance of the worthy District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO), Rajouri, Janab Abdul Raheem (JKAS), the Department of Social Welfare, Rajouri, through the District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW), Rajouri, organised an awareness programme on the social evil of dowry in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Rajouri, under the able guidance of its worthy Chairman, Shri Rajinder Sapru Ji, on 10th October 2026 at Gujjar and Bakarwal Girls Hostel, Palma, Rajouri. During the programme, Ms. Nazma Sheikh, Gender Specialist, DHEW Rajouri, addressed the participants and highlighted the harmful social consequences of the dowry system. She emphasised the importance of gender equality, women’s dignity, equal rights and the collective responsibility of society in eliminating this social evil. She encouraged the participants to spread awareness within their families and communities and to promote a culture of equality, mutual respect and social responsibility.
Ms. Sameena Kouser, Para Legal Volunteer (PLV), DLSA Rajouri, also addressed the gathering and sensitised the participants about the legal provisions of the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961. She explained the legal consequences and penalties associated with giving, taking or demanding dowry and highlighted the importance of legal awareness, access to justice and the role of citizens in resisting dowry-related practices.
As part of the programme, a pledge on the prohibition of dowry was also administered to the participants, who collectively resolved to oppose the practice of dowry, neither give nor take dowry, discourage dowry-related customs in their families and communities, and promote gender equality and respect for women’s rights. The pledge aimed to strengthen collective commitment towards eliminating this social evil and fostering a society based on equality, dignity and justice. The programme aimed to enhance legal literacy among participants, promote awareness of women’s rights and gender justice, and encourage collective efforts towards eradicating dowry and other discriminatory social practices. Participants were urged to uphold constitutional values, reject the practice of dowry and contribute towards building a just, equitable and gender-sensitive society. |
