Dowry, once voluntary stridhana for the bride's security, has evolved into coercive demands that commodify women and perpetuate patriarchal inequality in India. Banned under the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961, it persists through disguised "gifts," fueling harassment, violence, and deaths. NCRB 2023 data reports 15,489 cases under the Act (14% rise) and 6,156 dowry deaths, with Uttar Pradesh and Bihar leading. Consequences include emotional/physical abuse, financial ruin, and female foeticide. Weak enforcement, low convictions (~20-30%), and social stigma hinder justice. Eradication demands girls' education, empowerment, awareness campaigns, stricter laws, and cultural shifts toward gender equality and dowry-free marriages based on mutual respect.
