The Dowry as a Crime in Disguise of Gifts: Evidences from Sadar and Faridganj Upazilla of Chandpur District

Abstract

Dowry is a despicable affliction in society. The social evil has become a barrier for women in every
sphere of life. The culture of dowry can be found not only in sub-continent but also in Europe, China,
The United States, and also in African countries. A Dowry means the transfer of property by the bride
or her family to the groom as an arrangement of marriage. When a bride or her family pays money or
any other movable or immovable property, it is called dowry, which is also known as the bride price
in the sub-continent. Though the dowry is most common in the rural area, it cannot be said that it is
absent in cities. Instead, it is used as a disguise of gifts in women's marriage where the parents of the
marriageable woman are bound to give dowry as a gift to the groom. This anathematization of dowry
is increasing day by day in society. Social problems like child marriage, physical and mental abuse to
the women, divorce and even killing of women are the consequences of dowry. The government of
Bangladesh has taken significant steps to eradicate this practice. The punishment for dowry-related
crimes is severe, which has been amalgamated in the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1980. The most
important step is to create consciousness among people, especially in the rural areas, to stop the
practice of dowry from the society. This study will help the practice and people of the society to go
forward to abate the dowry practice.