M.S. Bharathi, a senior civil judge and secretary of a district legal services authority, has called for broader student awareness of India’s Dowry Prohibition Act of 1961.
Speaking at a Mission Shakti seminar at S.V. Arts and Science Degree College, Bharathi said the law makes it illegal to give, take or demand dowry, directly or indirectly. The event was organized by the state’s Women and Child Welfare Department.
She said dowry-related harassment and treating marriage as a financial transaction harm society and require legal action. Bharathi also discussed gender equality, constitutional rights and legal protections.
She encouraged female students to pursue higher education and financial independence. Women facing harassment, she said, can seek assistance from the district legal services authority, the Women and Child Welfare Department or a Sakhi One Stop Centre.