- By Vaidika Thapa
- Fri, 29 May 2026 05:47 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Supreme Court on Friday strongly criticised the practice of dowry-related harassment while hearing a 2010 dowry death case from Chhattisgarh. The top Court refused to grant relief to the convicted husband’s family members and said that a strong message must be sent against the humiliation of brides and their families.
SC Slams Dowry Harassment
A Bench of Justice BV Nagarathna and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan refused to interfere with the conviction. They made sharp remarks on the social issue of dowry harassment. The apex Court said the behaviour of the accused family reflected a disturbing pattern in society. According to the Bar and Bench report, Justice Nagarathna said, “Why do boys marry girls and then insult them and their families? Let a message go out that they cannot continue insulting the bride and her family.”
She further emphasised the need for deterrence, saying a strong message must go out against such conduct. The case pertains to a 2010 incident in Chhattisgarh where a woman died by hanging within three years of her marriage. The prosecution alleged that she was subjected to continuous harassment and dowry demands, including demands for cash and a car.
The trial court held that the death occurred under unnatural circumstances within seven years of marriage. This triggered the legal presumption of dowry death. Evidence from the woman’s family showed repeated demands for money and cruelty before her death. Medical reports confirmed death due to asphyxia by hanging.
The courts found that the circumstances, including financial demands and harassment, showed a clear link between cruelty and the death. Several members of the husband’s family were convicted under various sections. The Chhattisgarh High Court later upheld the trial court’s decision.
SC Refuses Relief In 2010 Dowry Death Case
The present appeal before the SC was filed by the younger brother-in-law of the deceased woman. He challenged his conviction and sought relief. However, the Court did not agree with the request for relief. Justice Nagarathna said, “You should be happy that it is only 498A and only three years.” She also commented on the nature of financial pressure in such cases, saying: “Attempt is to squeeze the bride and her family.”