In a significant step to curb dowry-related harassment, the Directorate of Women & Child Development (WCD), Goa, has appointed a network of Dowry Prohibition Officers under the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961. The move aims to strengthen enforcement of the law and tackle the persistent social evil of dowry practices across the state.
According to the notification, senior district officials have been designated to exercise powers under the Act and assist victims, as well as take action against offenders.
North Goa district
The following officers have been appointed:
- Collector, North Goa – 0832-2223612 | coln.goa@nic.in
- Additional Collector-I – 9422394914 | ac1-north.goa@nic.in
- Additional Collector-II – 9923700405 | ac2-north.goa@nic.in
- Additional Collector-III – 9420595095 | ac3-north.goa@nic.in
- Sub-Divisional Officer (Dy. Collector, Panaji) – 9421151048 | sdm-panaji.goa@nic.in
- Deputy Collector, Mapusa-I – 8308014526 | sdm-mapusa.goa@nic.in
- Deputy Collector, Mapusa-II – 7083234963 | sdm-mapusa.goa@nic.in
South Goa district
- Deputy Collector & SDM, Salcete-I – 0832-2794109 | sdm-salcete.goa@nic.in
- Deputy Collector & SDM, Salcete-II – 0832-2794160 | sdo2-salcete.goa@nic.in
- Deputy Collector & SDM, Ponda – 0832-2312469 | sdm-ponda.goa@nic.in
- Deputy Collector & SDM, Mormugao – 8767114825 | sdm-mormugao.goa@nic.in
Kushavati district
- Deputy Collector & SDM, Quepem – 0832-2662241 | sdm-quepem.goa@nic.in
- Deputy Collector & SDM, Sanguem – 0832-2603141 | sdm-sanguem.goa@nic.in
- Deputy Collector & SDM, Dharbandora – 0832-2614036 | dycol-dharband.goa@nic.in
- Deputy Collector & SDM, Canacona – 0832-2643696 | sdm-canacona.goa@nic.in
The WCD Department has appealed to citizens to actively reject dowry practices, stressing that both giving and taking dowry is a criminal offence. Under the law, offenders face a minimum of five years’ imprisonment along with a fine of at least ₹15,000 or the value of the dowry, whichever is higher.
Residents who are victims of or witness to dowry harassment can approach the designated officers in their respective jurisdictions. Complaints can also be registered through the Women Helpline at 181.
