Jaunsar Panchayat Limits Women to 3 Gold Items at Weddings: Equality Debate Emerges

According to the new regulation, women are now restricted to wearing only three jewelry items. (Representational)

A panchayat in the Jaunsar Scheduled Tribe area has implemented restrictions limiting women to wearing no more than three pieces of jewelry, with the intention of preventing jealousy and household disputes.

This directive was issued by the joint Panchayat governing Kandhar and Indrani villages, situated between the Yamuna and Tons rivers in Dehradun district.

The new rule specifies that women will only be permitted to wear a nose ring, earrings, and a mangalsutra at wedding ceremonies. Any violation of this regulation will result in a substantial fine of Rs 50,000.

Arjun Singh, the syana (most influential person) of Kandhar village, explained to PTI Videos, "The high cost of gold creates peer pressure among women to purchase gold. This frequently leads to family conflicts and financial strain. Our aim is to decrease this inequality."

Women in the community have generally supported the panchayat's decision, though not without expressing certain reservations.

Amala Chauhan, a Jaunsar resident, questioned, "If the goal is equality, why are only women's jewelry being restricted? Men's consumption of premium alcohol should also be prohibited. Gold serves as an investment that becomes valuable during difficult times. What benefit comes from alcohol and other wasteful expenditures?"

Nisha Rawat, while acknowledging concerns about expensive gifts exchanged at weddings, specifically highlighted high-end alcohol and meat as ostentatious displays.

"Previously, homemade liquor was served at weddings, but now there's an increase in displays of branded alcohol and costly gifts. If we're discussing expense reduction, then alcohol and meat should also be banned," she stated.

Many men in the community agreed with the women's perspective, acknowledging the validity of their demands.

"While the jewelry restriction is welcome, the women's request to reduce alcohol consumption and other expenses is equally valid. The panchayat should consider these points as well," remarked Bhim Singh Chauhan.

Arjun Singh indicated that the panchayat would soon address the women's criticisms.

"The women's demands are justified. Restrictions on alcohol and other expenditures will also be considered. Implementation will occur in phases," he confirmed.

In the Jaunsar Scheduled Tribe region, panchayat decisions are considered final and are strictly followed by the local population.