A lesson for govt employees & strong message against dowry system: Min

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kollam court verdict on Vismaya case is seen as a strong social message against the existing dowry practices by people from all walks of life.
Welcoming the court’s observations, transport minister Antony Raju said, “It is a message for all and a lesson to all government employees. The verdict is a clear message against the practice of the dowry system that still prevails in society. I had to face severe criticisms when the government dismissed Kiran Kumar from service. In fact, the government was trying to send a clear message that such offences will not be tolerated at any cost. The number of domestic violence complaints have come down after acting against Kiran.”
Health minister Veena George said the court’s finding provides much relief and is a boon for the fight against dowry practices in the state. While appreciating the prosecution and police, the minister said, “The verdict is a strong message to the society.”
P Sathidevi, chairperson of Kerala Women’s Commission, praised the prosecution and police for the way the case was handled. “In one year, they could collect all the evidence through an effective probe and capped all loopholes in order to prevent the accused escaping citing legal loopholes. It encourages all youngsters in the society to say a big ‘No’ against all anti-women practices,” said Sathidevi.
She said, even the educated women in society accept the practice of giving dowry. “The verdict today must be a warning to all, who still give and accept dowry, and help change the attitude of the society towards women,” added Sathidevi.
Women’s rights activists in the state termed the finding of the court ‘an eye-opener’ that helps to end the social evil of the dowry system. “Through the court finding, women in Kerala have got the courage to speak up against such harassment. The Vismaya case was much discussed in the society, and the court finding will have a positive impact on society. Now, we all are looking forward for the quantum of punishment he is going to get, and we expect the maximum punishment for the accused,” said Sandhya J, women’s rights activist.