Dowry is anything of value, including cash and property, which is given by either the bride’s family to groom’s family or by the groom’s family to the bride’s family as a condition of marriage.

Dowry

This explainer discusses dowry and the circumstances in which asking for dowry is a crime. It primarily deals with the law laid out in Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961.

FAQs

Can you file a dowry case after you have been divorced under Hindu law?

Someone I know committed suicide because of harassment from dowry demands by her in-laws. Can the in-laws still be charged with dowry death?

My in-laws are asking for dowry after 7 years of my marriage. What should I do?

In case the validity of my marriage is in question, and there are demands from your spouse or spouse’s family for dowry, can I still complain to the authorities?

Can I settle matters with my wife to avoid going to court or being punished for accepting dowry?

How is dowry different from gifts given during weddings, from one side to another?

If a case for dowry harassment is made against all the members of the husband’s family, even though demand was made by just one person, then are they all liable?

Can a case of dowry be filed after divorce?

Can a complaint of dowry be filed before the marriage?

Are there any special punishments for death as a result of dowry demands?

If a complaint is made against someone for demanding dowry, will they be arrested immediately?

Can you also file a case under the domestic violence law for dowry harassment?