(1)] If any person, after the commencement of this Act,
gives or takes or abets the giving or taking of dowry , he shall be punishable2[with imprisonment for a
term which shall not be less than3[five years, and with fine which shall not be less than fifteen thousand
rupees or the amount of the value of such dowry, whichever is more]:
Provided that the Court may, for adequate and special reasons to be recorded in the judgment, impose
a sentence of imprisonment for a term of less than4[five years].]
5[(2) Nothing in sub -section ( 1) shall apply to, or in relation to, -
(a)presents which are given at the time of a marriage to the bride (without any demand having
been made in that behalf):
Provided that such presents ar e entered in a list maintained in accordance with the rules made
under this Act;
(b)presents which are given at the time of a marriage to the bridegroom (without any demand
having been made in that behalf):
Provided that such presents are entered in a list maintained in accordance with the rules made
under this Act:
Provided further that where such presents are made by or on behalf of the bride or any person
related to the bride, such presents ar e of a customary nature and the value thereof is not excessive
having regard to the financial status of the person by whom, or on whose behalf, such presents ar e
given.]