Legal Reform in Dowry Laws

Abstract

Prior to 1983, every form of violence committed within the family, either in the natal or the spousal home, was not considered an offence. Indian law lacked specificity which could bring such an offender to public trial, largely because domestic violence was considered a private affair not open to public scrutiny and state action. The doctrine of 'space' was used to argue that domestic affairs should be confined to the private space of the family. This doctrine stated that there should be a dividing line between both private and public affairs, and all matters within the family should be kept out of the interference of law.