DOWRY IN INDIA: LEGAL EVOLUTION, SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS, AND HISTORICAL FOUNDATIONS

AUTHOR – SHIVANI ABHIJIT KHANOLKAR, STUDENT AT B.C.T COLLEGE OF LAW, NEW PANVEL

BEST CITATION – SHIVANI ABHIJIT KHANOLKAR, DOWRY IN INDIA: LEGAL EVOLUTION, SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS, AND HISTORICAL FOUNDATIONS, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 5 (8) OF 2025, PG. 473-478, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.

Abstract

The dowry system in India, while stemming from ancient customs, has developed into a social issue that fuels gender-based violence, domestic violence, and even dowry-related deaths. This research paper investigates the historical roots of dowry, its evolution over time, and the socio-economic factors that perpetuate the practice. It critically evaluates the success of legal interventions, chiefly the Dowry Prohibition Act of 1961, along with later legal reforms. The study emphasizes the difficulties in implementation, gaps in enforcement, and judicial understanding. Employing a doctrinal methodology, the paper reviews literature from legal regulations, case law, and social science research to evaluate the effectiveness of legal measures in reducing dowry practices. It concludes by proposing recommendations for a comprehensive strategy that integrates legal, social, and educational reforms.

Keywords: Domestic Violence, Gender Inequality, Indian Legal System, Socio-Economic Impact, Patriarchy Dowry, Dowry Prohibition Act,.