The New Nation - Internet Edition

AMONG some ill practices in the Bangladesh society, specially disturbing is the practice of taking of dowry by the bridegroom from the bride's family. Frequently, the media reports on dowry-related cruelties perpetrated on innocent young maidens and their parents. Failure to give pledged amounts of dowries invite physical torture and verbal abuse on young brides in the homes of their husbands. In some cases, even after full receipt of committed dowry amounts, the bridegroom and his family is seen putting physical and mental pressures on the bride and her family for more payments. Dowries are crushing economic burdens and sources of constant mental torment for the parents of the bride. Financially disadvantaged families sell precious lands and other assets and turn poorer to meet the dowry demand.

Thus, it is very important to have this scourge removed from the society. A press report some time ago stated that 40 dowry-free marriages were solemnised at Chapainawabganj. But reports about a few cases of dowry-free marriages do not mean that the giving and taking of dowry is on the wane. Far greater numbers of marriages are taking place with dowries than without them. Therefore, the civil society and the media should concert their activities and start a social movement against dowry.

Some people are of the view that harsh laws against dowry will be effective. But they miss the point that the laws can be sidetracked and dowries given without proof by those who would wish to cling to the practice. Thus, the main deterrent to dowry can be no other than large scale social condemnation and admonition of those who engage in this practice.