A system that won’t die
Even after decades of legal changes and social consciousness campaigns, abuse in the name of dowry remains a bane for women in India and elsewhere. Something that began as a practice to help out newlyweds has, over the course of generations, evolved into a system of exploitation. Today, not only does the dowry system deprive women of their dignity and autonomy but, in extreme instances, their lives as well.
The Sharjah tragedy: A wake-up call
The recent report of a young Kerala woman in Sharjah reportedly taking her own life and that of her child after months of dowry harassment and sexual abuse is not an isolated incident. It is a tragic reminder that even in 2025, numerous women continue to endure silently, many away from home, unable to access timely assistance. Her incident may have been making headlines, but many others go unnoticed behind closed doors and concealed smiles.
Psychological trauma—a ghost wound
Physical violence results in bruises which heal. Mental and emotional abuse, however, tends to leave wounds that are not visible. Women under constant criticism, belittling, money coercion, or threats from in-laws and even their husbands lose their identity over time. Most start thinking that they are to blame. Anxiety, depression, and suicidal tendencies are horribly prevalent, particularly when abuse is accompanied by isolation, no family support, or pressure to “adjust.”
Laws exist, but are they enough?
India has stringent laws such as Section 498A of the IPC, which makes cruelty by a husband or in-laws punishable. The Dowry Prohibition Act of 1961 prohibits giving and accepting dowry as well. Yet, legal redress is often delayed or too arduous, particularly for women overseas or in conventional societies. Threat of shame, victim blaming, or fear of further abuse silences many.
The path forward: Education, empowerment, and empathy
This crisis will only end with more than mere legal tools—it needs a change in culture. Families need to stop thinking daughters are liabilities. Boys need to be brought up to respect women, not to marry for money. Marriage needs to be a partnership, not a bargain.
Support systems must be tighter too. Helplines, women’s shelters, and counseling services need to be within reach—particularly in migrant centers such as the Gulf, where Indian women are silently abused, away from their families.
Conclusion: Speak, support, and stand up
It is time we didn’t ask women to “adjust” and began to ask society to be answerable. Each time we turn a dowry demand away, disregard mental health, or muffle the woman’s pain, we enable this cycle of pain to go on.
For each woman who makes a move to speak out, reach out, or fight back, countless more remain trapped. Let us make sure they are heard, seen, and protected—before another life is lost to silence.
