New Delhi: The Supreme Court Dowry Death Verdict, on Friday delivered strong observations against dowry-related Dowry Harassment while dismissing an appeal filed in connection with a 2010 dowry death case from Chhattisgarh. The court said a clear message must go out against the humiliation and financial pressure often faced by brides and their families after marriage.
A bench comprising Justice BV Nagarathna and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan refused to interfere with the conviction of the deceased woman’s younger brother-in-law, who had challenged the findings of the lower courts.
During the hearing, Justice Nagarathna sharply criticised the behaviour of families that allegedly continue demanding money and expensive gifts from a bride’s side even after marriage.
“Why do boys marry girls and then insult them and their families?” the judge observed, adding that such conduct cannot be normalised.
Justice Bhuyan also expressed concern over the social acceptance of such practices, remarking that even educated families continue to engage in dowry-related harassment.
The case relates to the death of a woman who was found hanging in her matrimonial home in Chhattisgarh in 2010, within seven years of her marriage. According to the prosecution, she faced repeated harassment over dowry demands, including requests for cash and a car.
Statements from the woman’s family alleged that she was subjected to cruelty and financial pressure shortly before her death.
The trial court had convicted several members of the husband’s family under Sections 304B, 306 and 498A of the Indian Penal Code, citing dowry death, abetment of suicide and cruelty. The Chhattisgarh High Court later upheld the convictions.
The petitioner’s counsel argued before the apex court that only Section 498A was applicable to his client and that the allegations were insufficient.
However, the bench refused to accept the argument. Justice Nagarathna remarked that the appellant should be relieved that the punishment was limited to three years under Section 498A.
The Supreme Court ultimately upheld the earlier rulings and dismissed the appeal, reinforcing its stand against dowry harassment and coercion in matrimonial homes.
