Marriage is a human necessity, yet in Pakistan, millions remain unmarried due to the dowry system. In rural areas, many women are denied the right to marry freely, with families placing undue emphasis on the groom’s social status and material demands.
The origins of dowry may be disputed, but today it is a widespread social ill across South Asia. Rooted in ignorance, lack of education, and cultural pressure, it has caused untold suffering-financially crippling families, devaluing women, and fuelling domestic violence.
The media has played a role in reinforcing materialistic mindsets, making marriage more about wealth than partnership.
The government must act now. Dowry must be outlawed and awareness campaigns launched to challenge these norms. Every woman deserves the right to marry for love, not money, and every family deserves relief from this financial burden. Let’s ensure marriage is a right, not a transaction.
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