| Section | Rule | Key Concept | Case Law |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | Definition of dowry | Dowry means any property or valuable security given in connection with marriage. | Satvir Singh v. State of Punjab |
| 3 | Penalty for giving or taking dowry | Giving or taking dowry is punishable with imprisonment and fine. | |
| 4 | Penalty for demanding dowry | Direct or indirect demand for dowry is punishable. | |
| 4A | Ban on advertisement | Advertising offers for marriage in exchange for dowry is illegal. | |
| 5 | Agreement for dowry void | Any agreement for giving or taking dowry is invalid (not legally enforceable). | |
| 6 | Dowry to be for benefit of wife | Dowry received must be given to the wife within a fixed time. | Pratibha Rani v. Suraj Kumar |
| 7 | Cognizance of offences | Court can take action only on complaint by aggrieved person or authorized person. | |
| 8 | Offences to be cognizable | Police can take action without prior court approval in some cases. | |
| 8A | Burden of proof | Accused must prove that no dowry demand was made. | |
| 8B | Dowry Prohibition Officers | Officers appointed to prevent and investigate dowry offences. | |
| 9 | Power to make rules | Government can make rules to implement the Act. |