The Supreme Court on Friday strongly condemned the harassment of brides and their families, while hearing a dowry death case from Chhattisgarh. The court emphasized that mistreatment of women after marriage must stop and called for a strong social message against such practices.

A bench comprising Justices BV Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan refused to interfere with the conviction of the husband's younger brother under Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code, which deals with cruelty and harassment of a married woman.

The case relates to the death of a woman who was found hanging at her matrimonial home in 2010, within three years of her marriage. According to the prosecution, she was repeatedly subjected to harassment and dowry demands, including requests for money and a car.

During the hearing, Justice Nagarathna questioned why brides and their families continue to face humiliation after marriage. The court noted that such conduct often involves financial pressure on the bride's family and highlighted allegations that the victim's family had been insulted over their inability to meet dowry demands.

Observing that even educated families engage in such practices, the Supreme Court upheld the lower courts' findings and dismissed the appeal. The court reiterated the need to send a clear message that harassment and dowry-related abuse have no place in society.

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