Need to launch anti-dowry campaign stressed

Lahan, August 4

Speakers at a programme here have underscored the need for launching a special campaign to end the dowry system, which has afflicted the Tarai/Madhes people, especially women.

At the programme organised by the Holistic Development Service Centre, Saptari, they said the traditional thoughts and showy culture had fuelled the dowry system. Due to this social ill many women have been murdered, they argued.

Province 2 lawmaker Rubi Karna shared the harrowing reality that the system was prevalent among even the so-called educated families. So, the government itself should launch a  special campaign to end this practice, he added.

She further argued that patriarchy was another solid reason behind growing violence against women. She said the Province 2 assembly had begun formulating laws to protect the rights of women.

Kanchanpur Municipality Mayor Basanta Mishra said the local levels would act tough on the dowry system, which had made the lives of many women miserable. Inspector Ramesh Dahal said it was sad that women were facing family disputes merely because of the dowry system.