The recent tragic death of Nikki Bhati in Greater Noida is a stark reminder that dowry is not just a crime—it’s a deep-rooted social problem. These tragedies are not isolated. They reflect a system where financial transactions still dictate marriage choices, putting daughters and families at risk.
As a society, we cannot simply say, “This is your daughter, your problem.” Dowry affects all of us. It’s time for parents, youth, educators, and authorities to take collective action.
For Parents: Guide with Awareness, Not Tradition
Parents must shift their mindset. Dowry is not a cultural norm—it is illegal and deadly. Teach your children about:
- Respect, equality, and mutual consent in marriage
- Recognizing financial and emotional red flags in relationships
- The courage to make their own choices, free from societal pressure
Parents’ guidance shapes values. A well-informed family can prevent tragedies before they happen.
For Daughters and Sons: Choosing Wisely
Marriage should be a partnership of trust, love, and respect—not a transaction.
- Daughters should be empowered to say no to dowry or controlling behavior.
- Sons must understand that demanding dowry is unacceptable and harms everyone, including themselves.
- If a man is “selling himself” through financial gain, it raises questions about his values and whether a healthy, happy life is possible with him.
Education, self-awareness, and confidence are key tools for making wise choices.
Society’s Role: Stop Accepting the Status Quo
Dowry continues because society silently tolerates it. We must challenge this:
- Communities should call out dowry practices instead of normalizing them
- Marriage should be based on compatibility and equality, not money
- Accepting dowry from men or women only perpetuates a cycle of abuse
Collective awareness is vital. This is not just “your daughter” or “my daughter”—it’s everyone’s responsibility.
Education: From School to Workplace
Schools, colleges, and universities must teach values, not just academics:
- Gender equality and respect for others
- Legal consequences of dowry and domestic abuse
- Emotional intelligence and relationship management
Workplaces, too, should reinforce respect and equality, making these principles a norm in adulthood.
Authorities: Swift and Serious Action
Law enforcement must act decisively:
- Immediate investigation of dowry complaints
- Protecting victims and witnesses
- Holding perpetrators accountable
Justice must be prompt; delay only empowers abusers.
A Collective Future: Ending Dowry Together
Dowry is a societal problem requiring a societal solution. Parents, youth, educators, police, and communities must unite:
- Empower daughters and sons with knowledge and courage
- Educate society from classrooms to workplaces
- Act collectively against abusive norms
Only together can we break the chains of dowry and create a safer, fairer society where marriage is about love and respect—not money.