In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) petition challenging the validity of crucial provisions of the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961. The PIL, filed by Rupshi Singh, sought to strike down Sections 2, 3, and 4 of the Act, which define dowry, penalize the giving and taking of dowry, and punish those demanding dowry, respectively.
A Bench comprising Justice BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran heard the case and rejected the petition. Justice Gavai remarked, “Dismissed. Go and tell the parliament,” effectively shifting the responsibility to amend the law to the legislature. The petitioner had argued that the laws in question were invalid, describing herself as “public spirited” in her efforts.
