Islamabad, March 11 (NationPress) The Standing Committee on Interior of Pakistan's National Assembly has recently dismissed a proposal aimed at prohibiting dowry, labeling it as "unfeasible". Annually, around 2,000 brides in Pakistan reportedly lose their lives due to dowry-related conflicts, making the rejection of this bill not just a failure in parliamentary action but also highlighting the government's unwillingness to address systemic gender coercion masked as cultural tradition, according to a report.

In Pakistan, dowry is often rationalized as traditional "gifts," with the bride’s family providing cash, jewelry, household items, and various valuables to the groom's family. This practice, however, leads to coercion, violence, and humiliation. Families unable to meet dowry expectations face social exclusion, and daughters are frequently viewed as a financial burden. A report from Nepal-based Hamrakura indicated that nearly 13.5 million women in Pakistan are unmarried due to their families' inability to afford dowries.

The Dowry Restraint Bill, introduced by Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Sharmila Faruqui, aimed to criminalize dowry practices. The proposed legislation outlined severe penalties, including prison sentences of up to five years and fines of PKR 250,000 or the equivalent value of the dowry for anyone caught participating in dowry transactions. Additionally, the bill sought to penalize those who demanded dowries, directly or indirectly, with potential prison terms of up to two years.

Despite its intentions, the committee unanimously turned down the bill, with chairman Raja Khurram Nawaz arguing that existing laws governing wedding expenses and dowry practices are already in place, asserting that more effective enforcement of these laws is necessary. Other committee members, such as Khawaja Izhar ul Hassan, criticized the bill for placing the onus of complaints on brides and their families, which could harm family dynamics.

"The dismissal of this legislation reveals a significant flaw in Pakistan's legislative process: laws that aim to address structural inequality often face unattainably high standards, while those that maintain the status quo receive minimal scrutiny. Dr. Rakhshinda Perveen pointed out that dismissing the bill as ‘unworkable’ showcases a reluctance to legislate against routine forms of gendered coercion. The committee's dialogue disturbingly appeared to promote dowry rather than restrict it, thereby normalizing a practice that commodifies women," the report noted.

"This situation is especially alarming given the extent of the issue. Dowry disputes not only perpetuate violence but also worsen poverty, as poorer families often resort to loans to meet demands, leading to greater financial instability. The rejection of the bill indicates a reluctance from the state to confront this coercive system head-on, favoring regulation over abolition," the report concluded.