Increase in Dowry Demands Highlights Disconnect Between Marriage and Social Security for Women
In the heart of Delhi, a seven-year-old girl named Anjum will not be burdened with the weight of a dowry for her wedding. This is because her husband, in an attempt to sell all their gold jewellery, has already stripped away her family's assets. Anjum's story is a stark reminder of the pervasive issue of dowry harassment in India.
According to the National Crime Records Bureau, India recorded 34,477 dowry deaths between 2018 and 2022. In 2021 alone, there was a 31% increase in cases registered under various provisions of the Dowry Prohibition Act compared to the previous year. Yet, the Ministry of Women and Child Development claims that the existing laws, such as the Dowry Prohibition Act and the Indian Penal Code, are sufficient to address this issue.
Anjum, who is not educated and financially dependent on her husband, has been living in Delhi with her three children for nine years after fleeing her abusive in-laws. Despite her plight, she has not been able to file for divorce due to social isolation, constant intimidation, and lack of family support. Her father, sadly, has never expressed support for her leaving her husband.
Anjum's harrowing experience is not an isolated incident. She experienced physical and emotional abuse from her husband and in-laws for unmet dowry demands. The groom's family believes it is their right to receive gifts from the bride's family, not for the bride but for themselves. This belief, coupled with societal normalization, has led to few survivors admitting to their experiences.
It's important to note that identifying dowry harassment is not solely dependent on the educational qualifications of women. Dowry demands are not influenced by socio-economic factors, occupations of the groom, or his location (India or abroad). These demands can take various forms, such as compensation for visits, business expenses, or losses.
Decriminalizing someone who gives dowry could potentially encourage more people to report cases, as it would remove the fear of being penalized. However, making dowry punishable may discourage reporting due to the social stigma attached. This delicate balance in law enforcement is a complex issue that requires careful consideration.
Organizations like CSI-Schweiz are working tirelessly to support women like Anjum. However, the numbers of reported dowry deaths and harassment cases continue to rise, with 158 dowry deaths and 2,699 dowry harassment cases already reported in 2025, according to National Commission for Women data.
As we move forward, it's crucial to continue the conversation around dowry harassment, challenge societal norms, and support those affected by this insidious practice. Only then can we hope to create a society where women like Anjum can live free from fear and abuse.
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