“Adjust” or Leave? Dowry, Silence and Violence Against Women in Kerala

Abstract

This essay focuses on the persistence of dowry system in India, more specifically Kerala, despite it being illegal since 1961. With examples of the most recent deaths and cases of violence related to dowry, such as cases of Vismaya, Athulya, Fazila, Dr. Shahana and Mofia Parveen, it is clear that the tradition of violence continues even amongst educated and economically independent women in a very progressive state. Firstly, this essay will look into the laws against dowry, such as Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961, Indian Penal Code – Sections 304B and 498A and Indian Evidence Act – Section 113B. Secondly, it will give a brief history of the tradition of dowry in Kerala, as the practice changed from voluntary to commercial due to alterations of the job market and migration to the Gulf states. Finally, it will examine that there is no way for the law to stop dowry practice in Kerala, as dowry is kept alive through caste endogamy, weak women's property rights, family prestige, honour and the necessity for a daughter to adjust instead of getting divorced.