The dowry system began as stridhan in ancient India to secure the bride’s future but became exploitative under British policies that denied women property rights. Despite legal reforms like the Dowry Prohibition Act, dowry-related violence remains a major social challenge in India.

The recent Nikki Bhati case has renewed focus on dowry-related violence. This guide explains the legal protections and practical remedies available to women who face dowry harassment, so survivors know where to turn.

In the wake of the outrage over a dowry-related murder in Greater Noida, a ‘mahapanchayat’ held in Baghpat has appealed to all parents to gift weapons to their daughters during ‘kanyadaan’, instead of the traditional dowry of gold, silver, or cash.