Agreement to Pay Dowry

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Any agreement for the exchange of dowry is not valid. You cannot go to court if your future or existing father-in-law refuses to pay dowry after entering into an agreement to pay you dowry. The agreement will be treated as if it never happened. It has no legal effect.

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Complaining about a Demand for Dowry

Under the Indian law, in case you have been coerced into paying dowry, you can still file a complaint against the offenders.

What is Dowry?

Dowry is anything which has value (such as cash and property) which is given by the bride’s family to the groom’s family as a condition of marriage.

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If dowry has been given or taken at or after your wedding and the same is received by your husband or in-laws or any other person, they have to hand it over to you as it is your property.

Maintaining A List Of Gifts During Marriage

Giving gifts or presents by either the bride or groom at the wedding is not punishable when it has been done voluntarily.

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Under the Indian law, it is illegal to demand dowry from anyone related to the bride or groom as a condition of marriage.

Mehr and Dower Not Dowry

According to the Indian law, It is important to note that Mehr or Dower given during Muslim marriages is not the same as dowry.