L. V. JADHAV vs SHANKARRAO ABASAHEB PAWAR & OTHERS

The Supreme Court held that a mere demand for dowry, even without consent to comply, constitutes an offence under Section 4 of the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961. The Court clarified that the definition of 'dowry' should be interpreted liberally to include any property or valuable security demanded before or during marriage ceremonies. The High Court's decision to quash the proceedings was overturned, emphasizing that inherent powers should be exercised cautiously to prevent misuse of the law.