Is Maharashtra Ready for a 'Dowry-Free, Violence-Free' Future?

Mumbai, May 23 (NationPress) The NCP unit, under the leadership of Sharad Pawar, officially launched a statewide protest aimed at addressing the rising incidents of dowry deaths, introducing a special initiative titled “Dowry Free Maharashtra - Violence Free Family.” This campaign was inspired by the tragic death of dowry victim Vaishnavi Kaspate-Hagavane from Pune.

NCP-SP leader and MP Supriya Sule, while making the announcement, expressed her outrage, stating: “In a state that has historically led the nation in women's empowerment, the victimization of a daughter like Vaishnavi is profoundly distressing. This incident has left Maharashtra in a state of shock. Mere expressions of anger and sorrow are insufficient; we must engage in proactive awareness campaigns.”

“Thus, we are resolutely committed to commencing a movement for a dowry-free and violence-free Maharashtra starting on June 22 this year. It is imperative that all segments of society engage in this effort. Only through collective action can we achieve the vision of 'dowry-free Maharashtra and violence-free families,' which would serve as a fitting tribute to Vaishnavi,” she added.

Sule recalled that three decades ago, Maharashtra pioneered the nation's first women's policy on June 22, 1994, championed by former chief minister Sharad Pawar. This policy was the result of contributions from various sectors and institutions throughout Maharashtra.

“Thanks to this women’s policy, numerous social, political, and economic advancements have been made in the lives of women in our state. However, it remains a fact that we have yet to eradicate the harmful practices such as dowry and domestic violence that women continue to endure. Maharashtra was founded on the principles of visionaries like Chhatrapati Shivaji, Mahatma Phule, Rajarshi Shahu, and B.R. Ambedkar.

“Our state is home to remarkable women like Rajmata Jijau, Savitrimai Phule, and Punyashlok Rajmata Ahilyadevi Holkar. For the past 50 years, various institutions, organizations, and individuals have diligently pursued the cause of gender equality. With this legacy in mind, I am launching this initiative from Pune on June 22, 2025,” Sule stated.

She further explained that the campaign will be rolled out in phases throughout the year across the entire state, with the party ensuring follow-up until the objectives are met. “I urge everyone to share their suggestions and actively participate. I humbly call upon all my brothers and sisters to join us in this movement to create a “dowry-free Maharashtra and violence-free family,”” she concluded.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Legislative Council Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe expressed concern over the increasing dowry deaths in Pune, urging law enforcement to enhance vigilance and take immediate action to prevent such tragedies.

“To avert the recurrence of these incidents, counseling and guidance programs should be established in schools and colleges. Additionally, police officials should regularly assess the efficacy of Women Vigilance Committees and Bharosa Cells, providing an 'Action Taken Report' based on their activities weekly. Police Commissioners must submit a comprehensive report monthly,” she advised.

Gorhe also recommended collaborative efforts among the education, police, and women and child welfare departments to foster widespread awareness about harmful practices against women, relevant laws, and available support options, along with government schemes aimed at their empowerment.