Hypergamy thus became both a social strategy and a religiously sanctioned norm,” Justice Karol, who authored the recent judgment, observed. Also Read | Dowry deaths in India: Long investigations, rare convictionsNoting that although the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961 sought to prohibit the practice, dowry has persisted in society. This social evil, the court said, has slipped through the statutory definition cloaked as “gifts” and “social expectations”. The court ordered the prompt appointment of Dowry Prohibition Officers in States, and public access to their details. It said police officers and judicial officers dealing with dowry cases must undergo periodic training and sensitisation.

Source: The Hindu December 24, 2025 20:45 UTC