Hamlet Takes a Stand Against Dowry Culture

By Mir Rameez Raja

Srinagar: October 26

Ganderbal

In a remarkable display of progress, the village of Babawayil in the Ganderbal district of central Kashmir has emerged as a beacon of hope amidst the escalating cases of domestic violence in India and Jammu and Kashmir. This picturesque village, nestled in the serene embrace of the Himalayan range, has taken a bold stance against the deeply entrenched practices of dowry and extravagant marriage customs.    

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In a picturesque and mesmerizing village, the population exceeds 1500 individuals, with approximately 250 households. In a small village, the local residents are primarily engaged in the agricultural cultivation of walnuts, as well as the import and export of exquisite Pashmina shawls. The road leading to the village is reported to be in a dilapidated condition, with no proper public transport system available.

View of Babawayil, a small village in Central Kashmir's Ganderbal district, around 30 km away from Srinagar, is known for its banning of dowries. (Photo: Mir Rameez Raja)

In a small village, the residents have shown a preference for modest weddings as opposed to extravagant celebrations. In a village where tradition holds strong, it has been reported that the majority of wedding expenses are solely borne by the groom's family. Furthermore, it has come to light that this community has implemented a strict prohibition on the practice of dowry. In a remarkable display of unity and commitment, the villagers have made a solemn pledge to completely eradicate the practice of dowry. This historic moment was marked by the signing of a document on stamp paper, where each individual vowed to neither receive nor give dowry. The villagers' resolute stance against this age-old tradition is a significant step towards promoting gender equality and fostering a more progressive society. Three decades ago, a decision was made in response to a series of escalating incidents of domestic violence in the village. In a significant development, the village elders have come together to draft a no-dowry document on official stamp paper. This document has been signed by both the elders and esteemed members of the community, marking a united front against the practice of dowry in the village. Since that time, there has not been a single incident related to dowry. 

In a noteworthy development, the document explicitly states that the groom's family is prohibited from making any demands on the bride's family. In a noteworthy development, the groom's side has presented a generous gift of RS 50,000 to the bride. This substantial amount comprises RS 20,000 designated as the bride price (Mehr), an additional RS 20,000 allocated for the bride's trousseau to be utilized for her wedding attire, and a further RS 10,000 to cover miscellaneous expenses.

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In a recent statement, the 67-year-old Imam of the village, Bashir Ahmad Shah, revealed that their community has been rejecting the practice of dowry since 1985. However, it was in 2004 that they made the decision to officially solidify this stance by creating a written document. In a statement, he expressed that the decision was made with the intention of bringing an end to a marriage custom that has had detrimental effects on the lives of their daughters.

Mohd Altaf Shah, village head of Babawayil got her daughter married few years ago at mere expenses of less than twenty five hundred setting an epitome for others. (Photo: Mir Rameez Raja)

In a steadfast display of determination, we continue to remain vigilant and uphold our boycott against individuals who insist on the practice of demanding dowry. In a recent development, it has been stated that individuals who violate the law will face certain restrictions within their community. Specifically, those who commit such breaches will be prohibited from partaking in the religious practice of Namaz within the confines of a mosque. Furthermore, it has been emphasized that the families of these individuals will also be denied burial plots in the local graveyard. These measures have been implemented as a consequence for those who choose to disobey. In a statement, he further added.

In a heartwarming development, the villagers have expressed their overwhelming joy and satisfaction regarding the recent move. No incidents of domestic violence have been reported thus far from this village. This tradition is widely supported by the youth of the village.     

In a statement, Mohd Altaf Shah, Sarpanch, and village administrative head, proudly shared the news of his daughter’s marriage in the year 2021. Remarkably, he managed to organize the entire event with minimal expenses, amounting to a mere 2200. Shah further expressed his delight, stating that his daughter is currently leading a good life in her new marital home.

In a passionate statement, her denounced the societal practice of dowry, labeling it an evil that demands immediate cessation. The woman's life has been rendered miserable, promoting a call for collective action to safeguard the lives of our daughters. 

According to the latest data released by the National Crimes Records Bureau (NCRB), the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, including Ladakh, witnessed a total of 3937 cases of crimes against women, including dowry related cases, in the year 2022. The figure represents an increase from the previous year, as in 2020, there were 3405 reported cases.