In protest: Abrogation of dowry sought

Ask govt to draft law that completely ban custom.

ISLAMABAD: A group of activists, academics, lawyers and youth leaders on Thursday came together to endorse the movement against dowry and articulated the need of a law that completely banned the custom.

They called for the definition of ‘dowry’ to include the conventionally understood Jahez and also wulvar (bridal gift price) and barri (items given or expected from the bridegroom).

Speaking at the gathering at Agehi, the secretariat of FADAN, a network of volunteers for advocacy for legislation against dowry violence in Pakistan, rights activist Tahira Abdullah outlined the requirements of a phased consultative process and the substantive content of an anti-dowry law for Pakistan, including items to be inserted in the statement of objects and reasons, definitions, text, and rules.



Academic and expert on women studies Dr Riffat Haq highlighted the need and significance of including anti-dowry messages in the curriculum of Gender Studies departments of universities.

FADAN’s Founder-Chair Dr Rakhshinda Perveen briefed the group on the history of the organisation’s campaigns, and presented a concept paper on the envisaged future campaign and planned activities, keeping in mind the experiences gained, knowledge, information and issues related to dowry practices and inherent gender-based violence.

Earlier, participants condoled the sudden and tragic passing of the young journalist, Huma Choudhary. They paid tribute to her dedication and commitment. She covered the first National Anti-Dowry Day on November 17, 2015 and was eager to share the journey of FADAN and be part of future plans and actions.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 26^th,  2016.