The Prevention of Rum Rasum Act, 1997 (1947 A.D

This Act may be called the Prevention of Rum Rasum Act, 1997.

“It extends to the 1[whole of the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir].

“Rum” means the consideration which the parents, relatives or guardians of a female receive in lieu of the marriage or betrothal of such female from the bridegroom, his relations or guardians either in cash or in the form of movable or immovable property ; “betrothal” means the engagement of a female to a male for marriage or promise to marry. Explanation.–– Wari or any other customary presents made at the time of marriage or betrothal to the girl or her relations shall not be included in Rum.

Whoever receives or abets the taking of Rum from any person in connection with any betrothal or marriage shall be sentenced to imprisonment of either description which may extend to one year, or fine not exceeding five hundred rupees, or both.

An offence under this Act shall be bailable but not cognizable and 2[a Judicial Magistrate] shall have jurisdiction to try it.