GS4 · UPSC Mains
Diya is a first-year student studying political science in a metropolitan city. She belongs to a small village in a rural region. Although Diya cherishes her ancestral home, she has limited knowledge about the socio-cultural aspects of the area. One day, while talking to her father, Diya expresses her desire to visit her ancestral place. Her father readily agrees and advises her to inform her paternal uncle about her travel plans. On the destined day, Diya arrives at her village to a grand welcome organized by her uncle. Later in the day, he informs Diya that they are all to attend a marriage function in the village. At the function, while having dinner, Diya notices the preparations for the celebration. She overhears discussions among attendees about the dowry being offered for the bride. Diya learns that substantial amounts of money and gifts are expected from the bride's family, creating a financial burden that can lead to significant distress. Curious, she engages in conversation with her aunt, who explains the pressures faced by families regarding dowry. Her aunt mentions that many families feel compelled to meet these demands, as failing to do so can result in social stigma and even violence against the bride. The next day, while walking through the village, Diya sees a group of women discussing the dowry they have arranged for their daughters. They express their fears about not being able to meet the expectations of the groom's family. Diya is taken aback by how deeply ingrained these practices are, realizing that some families even go into debt or sell property to fulfil dowry demands. Though Diya leaves for her home a few days later, the incidents in the village leave an indelible mark on her psyche. As a political science student, she realizes that such practices are blatant violations of women's rights and dignity. However, she struggles to comprehend why such deeply entrenched societal norms continue to persist. The events she witnessed are not isolated incidents but rather a common phenomenon in many parts of the country, even today. a. What are the ethical issues involved in the case? b. Why do such discriminatory practices continue in the society? What role can youth like Diya play in checking such practices?
| Topper | Rank | Source | Copy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tushar Chauhan | AIR 216 · 2025 | Forumias | p.38 |
| Yarasi Tusharika | — | Forumias | p.38 |