“Dowry Killing: Current Scenario of

Bangladesh”
Introduction to Development Studies (GEN 214)
Section-1

Prepared for
Md. Sanaul Haque Mondal
Assistant Professor
Department of Social Relations

Prepared By
Md. Moyen Ahmed
ID: 2021-1-10-069
Department of Business Administration

Introduction
Dowry killing, also known as dowry death, is an abominable crime that happens all throughout
the world, although it is most common in South Asian countries. It means a bride being murdered
by her husband or members of his family because they were unhappy with the dowry the bride's
family provided.

Many societies use the dowry system, which involves the bride's family giving gifts, money, or
property to the groom's family in exchange for the marriage. History shows that, Dowry system
emerged mainly in Hindu community and the most ancient institute of marriage in Vedic period
was associated with ‘Kanyadhana’ which was gifts to virgin bride and ‘Varadakshina’ ‘Stridhana’
were voluntary gifts given by the bride’s father to the groom, and voluntary gifts given by the
relatives and others to bride respectively. In all, these were contributions to the groom and his
family from the bride’s side. But as time passed, the greed of human grew more and more and
this tradition became a curse for woman

In certain instances, this system has led to friction and conflict. In severe cases, if the dowry is
regarded insufficient by the groom's family, the bride may be subjected to torture, harassment,
and even murder or Suicide. Dowry killings are a form of gender-based violence and a violation
of fundamental human rights.

Current Scenario of Dowry Killing in Bangladesh

Dowry killing a common phenomenon in Bangladesh that has been occurring since ancient time.
The history of dowry killing in Bangladesh can be traced back to the early 1980s, where the first
reported dowry killing case was documented. Since then, the number of dowry-related deaths has
been on the rise, with a staggering 2,988 dowry-related deaths reported between 2001 and 2010
alone.
It is important to note that these statistics only represent the reported cases, and the actual
number of dowry-related deaths may be much higher due to underreporting.
According to recent statistics, approximately hundreds of women are killed or led to suicide each
year due to dowry disputes and related violence. News reports also highlight the severity of the
issue, with many cases going unreported or unresolved. The persistence of dowry killing has
serious implications for the safety and well-being of women in Bangladesh.

Year Incident of Killed/Suicide Cases

Violence
2014 296 173 139
2015 298 197 158
2016 239 130 95
2017 303 155 188

Source: https://www.daily-sun.com/post/315587/Dowry-violence-far-from-dying-down

NGO’s Role in Dowry Killing:

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have been actively working towards combatting dowry
killing in Bangladesh. These organizations have developed various strategies to raise awareness
and provide support to survivors of dowry violence.
One such organization is the Acid Survivors Foundation, which operates a hotline for victims of
acid attacks and other forms of violence against women. The organization provides legal
assistance, medical treatment, and rehabilitation services to survivors of such attacks.

Name of NGO Focus Area Impact

BRAC Gender Trained 1.5 million women on their rights

 and provided legal support to over 80,000
Empowerment
women for dowry-related issues.

Offered direct assistance to over 500

Manusher Jonno
Human Rights women who were victims of dowry-related
Foundation
violence.

Transparency
Advocated for better enforcement of
International Anti-Corruption
dowry-related laws and regulations.
Bangladesh

Law’s Regarding Dowry Killing:

In an effort to combat the issue of dowry killing in Bangladesh, the government has implemented
a number of laws and regulations aimed at preventing this harmful practice. One of the key
pieces of legislation addressing dowry-related violence is the Dowry Prohibition Act of 1980,
which makes it illegal to give or take dowry. Those found guilty of violating this law can face up
to five years in prison and a hefty fine.
In addition to the Dowry Prohibition Act, there are several other laws and regulations in place to
protect women from dowry-related violence. These include the Prevention of Oppression Against
Women and Children Act of 2000, the Women and Children Repression Prevention Act of 2003,
and the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act of 2010.
While the government has taken steps to address dowry-related violence, many argue that these
laws and regulations have not been effective in curbing the practice. One of the major challenges
is the lack of enforcement of existing legislation. Many cases of dowry-related violence go
unreported or are not prosecuted due to cultural attitudes and a lack of resources. In addition,
there is a need for more comprehensive legislation that addresses the root causes of dowry
killing, including economic pressures and gender inequality.

Conclusion
In conclusion, dowry killing is a serious issue that continues to plague Bangladesh. The
prevalence of this harmful practice is alarming, as evidenced by recent statistics and news
reports.
It is important to acknowledge the history of dowry killing in Bangladesh and the societal and
cultural factors that contribute to its persistence. Economic pressures, gender inequalities, and
patriarchal attitudes all play a role in enabling this form of violence against women.
The devastating effects of dowry killing on families, communities, and society at large cannot be
overstated. Survivors of dowry killing endure significant psychological trauma, while the ripple
effects extend far beyond the immediate victim.
Non-governmental organizations have made admirable efforts to combat dowry killing in
Bangladesh, but much work remains to be done. The legal framework surrounding dowry killing
must be strengthened, and practical strategies for prevention must be implemented. A multi-
pronged approach that involves all stakeholders is essential in this effort.

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