@article{ref1,
title="An epidemiological study of dowry deaths in special reference to burns in Indian scenario: A medicolegal study",
journal="Medico-legal update",
year="2017",
author="Sathyanarayana, P.K.K. and Sundaragiri, S.",
volume="17",
number="2",
pages="50-70",
abstract="BACKGROUND: Dowry death is a burning problem of the society in India owing to prevailing traditional cultural practices, socioeconomic and psychosocial taboos and life style. <br><br>OBJECTIVES: This paper appraises the patterns, socioeconomic and demographic factors of dowry deaths cases due to burns. Materials and Method: The present prospective study comprised of 212 dowry death cases pertaining to burns brought for medico-legal autopsy at tertiary teaching hospital in Telangana, India for 2 years. Data was collected and analyzed in relation to different factors from police inquest report, first information report and autopsy examination proper. <br><br>RESULTS: Deaths due to burn (n=212) constituted commonest causative factor for dowry deaths. Majority (n=141; 64.09%) were found to be homicide. Majority (n=63; 29.72%) were recorded in the age group of 23 to 26 years. 91 cases (42.92%) had more than 80% of total body surface area involved in burns. Majority of deaths (n=77; 36.32%) occurred during night (9 pm to 6 am). Husband alone was found to be most common offender (n=71; 33.49%). Majority of the victims were housewives (n=173; 81.61%). Majority of the dowry deaths were drawn from joint family (n=174; 82.08%). Incidence were more in arranged marriages (n=173; 81.60%). First and the foremost location of incidence was in-law's house (n=160; 75.47%). <br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This social malicious evil needs to be targeted by a multifaceted and united approach of women welfare organizations, police and judiciary towards enhancement of socioeconomic and educational profile along with provision of strict laws and speedy justice. © 2017, World Informations Syndicate. All rights reserved.<p /><p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0971-720X",
doi="10.5958/0974-1283.2017.00067.6",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.5958/0974-1283.2017.00067.6"
}