Answer

Introduction

Despite legal prohibition, dowry in India continues as a systemic form of gender violence. From coercion and harassment to dowry deaths, it reflects structural patriarchy that commodifies women, undermines equality, and increasingly resembles gender-based femicide.

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Dowry as Continuum of Violence and Femicide

• Coercive Demands: Dowry begins with “gifts” and gradually becomes coercive economic extraction from the bride’s family.
  Eg: Dowry demands are often normalised as financial assistance for marriage and household setup.
• Domestic Abuse: Non-fulfilment of dowry demands often leads to mental and physical cruelty within marriage.
  Eg: Section 85 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) criminalises cruelty and harassment by husband or relatives.
• Dowry Deaths: Persistent abuse frequently culminates in murder, suicide, or suspicious deaths of women.
  Eg: According to NCRB data, India recorded 5,737 dowry deaths in 2024, averaging nearly 16 deaths every day.
• Structural Patriarchy: Dowry reflects patriarchal norms where women are treated as financial burdens and marriage becomes transactional.
• Femicide Nature: Dowry killings target women specifically because of gendered economic expectations, amounting to femicide.

Effectiveness and Limitations of Existing Legal Frameworks

• Dowry Ban: The Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961 criminalises giving and taking dowry.
• Punitive Provisions: Specific criminal provisions address dowry death and cruelty against married women.
  Eg: Section 80 BNS punishes dowry deaths, while Section 85 covers cruelty and harassment.
• Weak Enforcement: Poor investigation and delayed justice reduce deterrence despite strong laws.
  Eg: The conviction rates remain nearly 35% where trials are completed.
• Social Pressure: Victims and families often avoid complaints due to stigma, fear, and social honour.
  Eg: Many women are advised to “adjust and compromise” rather than seek legal remedy.
• Institutional Gaps: Limited shelters, counselling, and witness protection weaken victim support systems.
  Eg: NCRB and NCW reports repeatedly highlight underreporting and withdrawal of complaints in domestic violence cases.

Comprehensive Strategy for Dowry Eradication and Women’s Protection

• Social Awareness: Mass campaigns must delegitimise dowry as immoral rather than prestigious.
  Eg: “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” can integrate anti-dowry behavioural awareness modules.
• Women Empowerment: Education, employment, and property rights strengthen women’s bargaining power.
• Speedy Justice: Fast-track courts and time-bound investigation can improve conviction and deterrence.
• Support Systems: Accessible helplines, shelters, counselling, and legal aid must protect vulnerable women.
  Eg: One Stop Centres under the Sakhi scheme provide integrated support to violence survivors.
• Community Action: Families, religious leaders, and local institutions must socially boycott dowry practices.

Conclusion

Dowry persists because patriarchy normalises economic control over women despite legal prohibition. Eradicating it requires not only stricter enforcement but also societal transformation that restores dignity, equality, and partnership as the true foundation of marriage.

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