A+| A| A-
Kitchen 'Sati'
I read with interest “Anti-Dowry Law Viewed from the Prison Cell” (EPW, 28 January 2012). One cannot factually and emotively disagree with many of the concerns that need to be addressed. Much is said about the misuse of the section on marital harassment – 498A of the Indian Penal Code. On the other hand, there exist many cases deserving registration as dowry deaths or suicides due to harassment in marriage (Sections 304B and 498A/306). But they do not see the light of day. No breath is wasted on discussing these.
I read with interest “Anti-Dowry Law Viewed from the Prison Cell” (EPW, 28 January 2012). One cannot factually and emotively disagree with many of the concerns that need to be addressed. Much is said about the misuse of the section on marital harassment – 498A of the Indian Penal Code. On the other hand, there exist many cases deserving registration as dowry deaths or suicides due to harassment in marriage (Sections 304B and 498A/306). But they do not see the light of day. No breath is wasted on discussing these.
The National Crime Records Bureau notes that in 2010, there were 8,391 cases of dowry deaths in the country. But behind every reported or written statistic is a world of lost, disempowered and silent, suppressed and manipulated statistics. Many do not have a voice, let alone raise it. Other voices dry up before gaining recognition as formal figures.
Dear Reader,
Or
To gain instant access to this article (download).
(Readers in India)
(Readers outside India)
