Srinagar :District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Budgam, in collaboration with the Boys Higher Secondary School, Khan Sahib, under its Legal Literacy Club (LLC), organized an awareness programme on the issue of dowry and allied social evils.
The programme also incorporated an important session on the rights, protection, welfare, and entitlements of senior citizens, emphasizing the need to ensure dignity, security, and legal protection for the elderly in society. Participants were sensitized to the challenges faced by senior citizens and the legal safeguards available to them under existing laws.
The primary objective of the programme was to create awareness among students and participants regarding the serious social and legal consequences of the dowry system, while also educating them about the legal mechanisms in place to curb such practices. The initiative further aimed at fostering a sense of responsibility among the youth to stand against social evils and uphold the values of equality, respect, and justice.
The session witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and faculty members, who actively engaged with the resource persons through interactive discussions and queries. The programme provided a platform for meaningful dialogue, enabling participants to better understand the social realities and legal implications associated with dowry and the neglect of senior citizens.
On the occasion Resource Persons delivered comprehensive and insightful lectures highlighting the multifaceted nature of the dowry system and its adverse impact on society.
The resource persons elaborated on the provisions of the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961, explaining that the Act strictly prohibits the giving, taking, or demanding of dowry and prescribes stringent penalties for those found guilty of such offences. They emphasized that what was once considered a voluntary exchange of gifts has now transformed into a coercive and exploitative practice, often leading to harassment, cruelty, domestic violence, and even dowry-related deaths.
They further underscored the importance of the landmark judgment of the Supreme Court in State of Uttar Pradesh vs. Ajmal Beg, wherein the Court called for strict enforcement of laws relating to dowry and stressed the urgent need to spread legal awareness to effectively combat such social evils.
In addition, the speakers highlighted the legal rights of senior citizens, stressing the duty of society and family members to ensure their well-being and protection. The participants were informed about the legal remedies available to senior citizens in cases of neglect, abuse, or abandonment.
Through such awareness programmes, the Legal Literacy Club continues its endeavour to empower young individuals with knowledge of their legal rights and responsibilities.
These initiatives play a vital role in shaping socially conscious citizens who can contribute towards the eradication of harmful practices and the promotion of a just and equitable society.
The general public, students, and stakeholders were encouraged to actively participate in such programmes and become agents of positive social change.
The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks, wherein the efforts of DLSA Budgam and all stakeholders were appreciated for their commitment to promoting legal literacy and awareness among the youth.
