The scourge of dowry-related violence continues to plague India, with a recent case in Tamil Nadu highlighting the tragic consequences of this deeply rooted social evil. A 27-year-old woman, Ridhanya, died by suicide in Tiruppur district after allegedly facing harassment from her husband and his family for failing to meet their dowry demands. This incident has sparked outrage and renewed calls for stricter enforcement of anti-dowry laws.

Ridhanya's marriage to Kavin Kumar in April 2025 was allegedly predicated on a promise of 500 sovereigns (about 4 kg) of gold jewelry and a luxury Volvo car worth Rs 70 lakh. However, according to investigators, only 300 sovereigns were given during the wedding, leading to increased pressure and alleged abuse from her husband and his family.

In a series of heartbreaking WhatsApp voice messages sent to her father shortly before her death, Ridhanya detailed the daily mental and physical torture she endured. "I don't like this life. I'm unable to continue," she said in one message. "You and mom are my world. I'm sorry, father — everything is over. I'm leaving". On June 28, 2025, Ridhanya left her in-laws' home, stating she was going to a temple. Several hours later, she was found dead inside her car, having consumed pesticide.

Police have arrested Kavin Kumar and his parents on charges including dowry harassment and abetment of suicide. Ridhanya's father, Annadurai, recounted how his daughter had returned home just 15 days into her marriage, shaken and distressed. He claims the husband's family compared their dowry to others, even demanding Rs 100 crore like "other grooms had received to start businesses". He is urging authorities to ensure no other family suffers as his did.

This is not an isolated incident. Another case surfaced a day later where a 22-year-old newlywed woman in Tamil Nadu died by suicide after alleged dowry harassment by her husband and in-laws. Lokeshwari, who had been married for only three days, reportedly took her own life after an argument over dowry demands. Her husband allegedly asked her to demand additional gold, an air conditioner, and other household items from her parents.

These recent deaths highlight the persistent issue of dowry-related violence in India, despite the existence of laws prohibiting the practice. The Dowry Prohibition Act of 1961 forbids the request, payment, or acceptance of dowry. Further, Section 304B of the Indian Penal Code addresses dowry deaths specifically, defining it as the death of a woman within seven years of marriage under unnatural circumstances, if it's proven that she was subjected to cruelty or harassment for dowry demands. The punishment for dowry death ranges from a minimum of seven years imprisonment to life imprisonment. Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code also deals with cruelty against women, which can be related to dowry harassment.

While these laws exist, their effectiveness has been widely criticized. Many argue that the practice of dowry deaths and murders continues unchecked in many parts of India. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, 6,450 dowry deaths were registered in India in 2022, and 13,479 cases were registered under the Dowry Prohibition Act. Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of dowry deaths with 2,218 incidents.

Several factors contribute to the persistence of dowry-related violence, including deeply ingrained patriarchal norms, societal pressure, and the perceived economic value of women. The burden of dowry can put immense financial strain on the bride's family, and in some cases, demands for dowry can escalate to emotional abuse, physical harm, and even death.

Activists and legal experts are calling for stricter enforcement of existing laws, increased awareness campaigns to change societal attitudes, and measures to empower women economically and socially. Some argue for reforms to the dowry laws themselves, while others emphasize the need for better implementation and prosecution of offenders.

The tragic deaths of Ridhanya and Lokeshwari serve as stark reminders of the urgent need to address the issue of dowry-related violence in India. A multi-pronged approach involving legal reforms, social awareness, and economic empowerment is essential to eradicate this practice and ensure the safety and dignity of women.