Judge calls dowry a punishable crime

District Legal Services Authority Secretary M.S. Bharathi told students on Thursday that dowry is a punishable crime, not just a social evil, and urged wider awareness of the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961.

“punishable crime and not just a social evil”

Giving or taking dowry is illegal

Ms. Bharathi explained that giving, taking or demanding dowry, both directly or indirectly, was illegal. She spoke at a Mission Shakti seminar organised by the Women and Child Welfare Department at S.V. Arts and Science Degree College in Chittoor.

Dowry harms society and needs action

Explaining the Act's provisions, penalties and safeguards, Ms. Bharathi said that harassment over dowry and treating marriages as financial deals harms society and calls for legal action with social consciousness.

Education gives women independence

Ms. Bharathi highlighted gender equality, constitutional rights and legal protections, saying respecting women was everyone's duty. She urged girl students to pursue higher education and gain financial independence.

“Education and self-reliance help women take independent decisions”

Harassed women should seek help

Women facing harassment should not remain silent but seek help from the DLSA, Women and Child Welfare Department and Sakhi One Stop Centre, Ms. Bharathi said.