Streedhan in India refers to the property, wealth, or assets that a woman receives during her marriage, which remains her personal ownership. This can include gifts such as jewelry, money, clothes, or other valuables given to the bride by her parents, relatives, or friends during the wedding. Unlike dowry, which is traditionally given to the groom’s family, streedhan is the woman’s rightful property and cannot be claimed by her husband or his family.
In Indian law, streedhan is considered the woman’s exclusive property, and it is meant for her use and financial security. This practice has cultural significance and is protected by legal provisions to ensure a woman’s rights over her personal wealth.
A dowry is a transfer of parental wealth, property, or assets, traditionally given to the groom and his family as part of a marriage arrangement. It is often seen in various cultures and may include money, land, jewelry, household items, or other valuables. The dowry is typically intended to support the new couple, but historically, it was also meant to ensure the bride’s financial security and could be a way for the bride’s family to establish a connection with the groom’s family. The practice of dowry varies greatly by region, culture, and time period.
Yes, dowry is prohibited in India. The practice of giving or receiving dowry is banned under the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961. The law aims to prevent the exploitation of women and eliminate dowry-related harassment or violence. It makes the giving, taking, or demanding of dowry a criminal offense.
Punishment for Taking Dowry:
According to the Dowry Prohibition Act:
- Imprisonment: The person demanding or taking dowry can face imprisonment of up to 6 months, which can be extended to 2 years.
- Fine: A fine of up to ?10,000 or the amount equivalent to the value of dowry, whichever is greater, can also be imposed.
In addition to this, dowry-related offenses can be linked to other criminal acts such as harassment, cruelty, or even murder under sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which can lead to more severe punishments, including imprisonment for longer periods.
Despite the legal ban, dowry practices still persist in some parts of India, and enforcement of the law remains a challenge.
But Streedhan is not prohibited in India. Unlike dowry, streedhan refers to the gifts, wealth, or property given to a woman at the time of her marriage, which remains her personal property. It can include money, jewelry, clothes, or other valuables given by her parents, relatives, or friends. It is her rightful possession, and the law protects her rights over it.
Punishment for Taking or Giving Streedhan:
There is no punishment for giving or taking streedhan, as it is not a criminal act, but rather a customary practice meant to benefit the woman. However, if a husband or his family misappropriates or refuses to return the streedhan, it can be treated as criminal breach of trust or misappropriation under the Indian Penal Code (IPC). In such cases, legal action can be taken under sections of the IPC, including:
- Section 406 (Criminal breach of trust): Punishable with imprisonment of up to 3 years or a fine, or both.
- Section 420 (Cheating): If it involves fraud, the punishment can be up to 7 years of imprisonment and a fine.
Streedhan, when unlawfully withheld or misused, can lead to criminal charges, but simply giving or receiving Streedhan is not illegal. It is the woman’s property, and she has the legal right to own and manage it.
It shows Bias towards men is imbedded not only in Legal system but in daily life of Every Indian. Feminists are successfully justifying whatever Women and her family do it right, Man is always wrong.
Dowry and Streedhan are 2 aspects of Marriage system of India, but dowry is criminal Act but Streedhan is not, Its Women birth rights.
Anyone want more proof to say Indian Society is Feminist..?