DOWRY DEATHS IN INDIA: A PERSISTENT SOCIAL SCOURGE

Dowry deaths in India remain a critical issue despite various legal interventions and societal efforts aimed at curbing this harmful practice. Rooted in the deep-seated traditions of patriarchy and gender inequality, dowry deaths are the result of coercion, harassment, and violence experienced by married women over unfulfilled dowry demands by their husbands and in-laws. This paper explores the prevalence of dowry deaths, the socio-cultural factors contributing to the persistence of the dowry system, and the gaps in legal enforcement that continue to enable these tragic incidents. The research highlights that despite the existence of laws such as the Dowry Prohibition Act of 1961 and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act of 2005, societal pressure, weak legal implementation, and ineffective judicial processes prevent significant reductions in dowry-related violence. This paper also examines the role of education, economic empowerment, and community initiatives in mitigating dowry deaths, stressing the importance of a multi-faceted approach to address this societal scourge. Ultimately, it calls for stronger policy enforcement, increased public awareness, and widespread gender-sensitization programs to foster long-term change. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for systemic reform to eliminate dowry deaths and ensure the safety and dignity of women in India.