Dehradun village restricts women to wear only 3 pieces of gold during marriage

In an unusual incident, a panchayat in Uttarakhand’s Jaunsar Scheduled Tribe area has restricted women from wearing more than three pieces of gold jewellery, claiming that excessive display of gold fuels jealousy and domestic discord.

The order, issued by the joint panchayat of Kandhar and Indrani villages in Dehradun district, allows women to wear only a nose ring, earrings, and a mangalsutra during weddings. Those who violate the order will face a Rs 50,000 fine.

However, the head of Kandhar village, Arjun Singh said the rule was meant to reduce financial pressure and inequality, as rising gold prices often lead families into debt.

While some women supported the move, others questioned its gender bias. “If we’re talking equality, men’s spending on branded liquor should also be curbed,” said Amala Chauhan, calling gold an investment for hard times.

Residents also urged the panchayat to restrict alcohol and lavish wedding expenses, arguing these too cause financial strain. Singh later assured that the panchayat would review women’s concerns and may introduce a ban on alcohol and luxury spending in phases.

In Jaunsar, such panchayat rulings are binding and widely respected by the local community.