Sikh Youth Federation has launched a helpline( 9334614231) for those who want to contribute to social welfare rather than spending on weddings and giving gifts.
Federation president Satnam Singh Gambhir said that anyone who wants to help people suffering in hospitals can make donations through helpline. Addressing a press meet, the president informed that during wedding ceremonies people give gifts in form of cash and if they want the same cash can be transferred and used for patients in hospital. Federation will play role in making best use of such funds.
He, said: "It is this splurge of wealth on ceremonies that is promoting dowry and practices like female foeticide." He recommended a simple wedding in a Sikh gurudwara concluded before the auspicious pre-noon period followed by a teetotal and vegetarian reception.
Across India girls are considered a liability as expensive dowries have to be paid at weddings that themselves cost a great deal. Even the poorest of peasants come under peer pressure to organise lavish weddings and often take out loans that burden the family with debts.