Did CM Maryam violate dowry laws by including 'bridal gifts' in Dhee Rani program?

The mass marriage initiative launched by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz could potentially violate Pakistan's dowry laws, which limit bridal gifts to no more than Rs5,000.

Under the Dhee Rani Program, the provincial government will help facilitate marriages for over 3,000 women in Punjab, aged 18 to 40, who come from underprivileged backgrounds.

Although the government has labelled furniture and other items as gifts, in Pakistani society, these extravagant items are commonly recognised as dowry.

To participate in the program, interested individuals must register through the online portal by November 5, 2024.

According to the information provided on the portal, the brides selected for the program will receive a dowry of Rs206,000.

The dowry includes items, such as a Holy Quran, a prayer mat, a wooden double bed with mattresses, a mirror, and a dinner set.

The couples participating in the mass wedding will also receive a salami of Rs100,000 through an ATM card from Maryam Nawaz.  A celebratory meal will be provided for 20 guests of each couple.

Despite increasing efforts to discourage the dowry system, it remains a prevalent practice in society.

Although Pakistan has enacted stricter laws to curb the exploitation associated with dowry, many individuals are either unaware of these laws or choose to disregard them.

Section 3 of the Dowry and Bridal Gifts (Restriction) Act of 1976 prohibits the bride's parents from giving gifts valued at more than Rs5,000 in total to either the bride or the groom.

The law further stipulates that no dowry or bridal gifts can be given six months before or one month after the rukhsati. 

Furthermore, no person is permitted to enter into an agreement to give or receive dowry. Any person who violates these provisions is subject to a penalty of six months imprisonment and a fine."

The Independent Urdu interviewed the Director General (DG) of the Social Welfare and Bait-ul-Maal Department, Khawaja Muhammad Sikander Zeeshan regarding the potential violation of dowry laws. 

He maintained that the items listed as dowry on the website are considered "gifts" from the Punjab government.

"Perhaps the wording on the website needs to be corrected," he added. 

Sikander Zeeshan also mentioned that women from minority communities are also eligible to apply for the program through the online portal.