Legal Implications on Dowry System in Pakistan: A Critical Analysis

Abstract

Dowry is a very troubling issue these days, especially in South Asia. Its origin dates back to the late Bronze Age and early Iron Age. Its bad impacts are effective in Pakistani society too. This research paper revolves around the dowry system in Pakistan, its consequences, and legislative attempts made to curb this menace. In this paper, the history of dowry and its system prevailing in Pakistani society is evaluated. A Qualitative method of research is used to evaluate how dowry is practiced in rural and urban areas of Pakistan and how it is responsible for the death of hundreds of lives. The Dowry and Bridal Gifts (restriction) Act 1976 was enacted to empower women and tackle the atrocities of Dowry however has been amended in 2016. Enforcement of laws, mass awareness, education to the common man, and media campaigns against this social evil are the possible ways to uproot this malady. This article comprises of four sections: in the first section introduction to dowry and its historical background is articulated, in the second portion customs prevailing and its effects are elaborated. The third section is about the anti-dowry laws enacted in the state and their implementation. In the fourth section, the possible ways and precautions is to annihilate this evil from our society.