Dowry Violence in Pakistan — Your Legal Rights and How to Fight Back

Despite being illegal, dowry demands and dowry-related violence — harassment, abuse, even murder — remain widespread in Pakistan. Know your rights.

The Law on Dowry

The Dowry and Bridal Gifts (Restriction) Act 1976 limits dowry to Rs. 5,000. Demanding dowry beyond this limit is a criminal offence. However, enforcement is almost non-existent in practice.

Forms of Dowry-Related Abuse

• Pre-marriage demands: Lists of furniture, appliances, jewellery, cash
• Post-marriage harassment: Continuous demands for more; insults about "insufficient" dowry
• Physical violence: Beatings related to dowry insufficiency
• Dowry murder: "Accidents," suicide coercion, or direct killing
• Dowry return demands after divorce: Attempting to keep the woman's property

Your Rights Regarding Dowry Items

Dowry items given to the bride are HER property. They cannot be taken by in-laws or husband. You have the right to sue for return of your dowry items through Family Court under the West Pakistan Family Courts Act.

What to Do

1. Document everything — photograph all dowry items before marriage
2. Keep receipts and records of all items given
3. If harassment begins: contact Aurat Foundation 051-2800312
4. File complaint with Women Protection Officer (WPO) in your district
5. Apply for Protection Order under PPPA 2016