In earlier days, dowry was given to the married girl from her famliy as a part of her share in the property. With change in time is was more of regarded as 'Dowry' than 'Share in Property'. Shouldn't we go back to good-old-days and change the perspective?
In my considered view, this would help allot in matrimonial cases and this shall slowly eliminate the dowry cases. Today girls don't seek their share in their father's property which leads to dowry. Also, the groom's side expect it as a way of earning wealth. But as & when this dowry is abolished and the only transfer would be of girl's share of property after marriage this would solve the issue.
The Govt. should move to make this as a mandatory arrangement for all marriages. Every girl who gets married should be alloted her property share and this transfer should also be limited to girl's name only and this property could not be transferred to her husband or anyone else. This would ensure she is safe and not harrassed for further transfer of the property.
Another addition to above provision should be that in case of divorce, the amount of maintenance paid by the husband shall be equated after reviewing the property owned by the wife. However in case of cruelty or unnecessary & illegal harrassment by one spouse shall play pivotal role while deciding maintenance. Maintenance should be seen as punishment for the erring spouse than a right of the victim.
I think this is VERY POSTIVE suggestion which would lead to harmonize the matromony in India.
Expert advice and comments from my learned friends are most welcome!
//peace
/Saurabh..V
