A sum of money was agreed to be paid to the father in consideration of...
That it violates the principles of equality, freedom, and human rights. In many countries, the practice of paying dowry or bride price is considered discriminatory and degrading towards women. It perpetuates the idea that women are commodities to be bought and sold, rather than individuals with their own rights and agency.
Furthermore, paying a sum of money in exchange for marriage can lead to financial exploitation and abuse. It can create power imbalances within the relationship, where the husband or his family may feel entitled to mistreat or control the wife based on the amount of money paid. This can also prevent women from leaving abusive or unhappy marriages, as they may feel financially trapped.
In order to promote gender equality and protect the rights of individuals, many countries have enacted laws to prohibit or regulate dowry or bride price. These laws aim to ensure that marriages are based on free will and mutual consent, rather than financial transactions.
Therefore, any agreement that involves the exchange of money for marriage is considered void and against the principles of equality and human rights.
A sum of money was agreed to be paid to the father in consideration of...
Marriage Brocage or Brokerage Agreements
It is an agreement, in which, one or other parties to it or third parties, receive a certain money, in consideration of marriage. Such agreements being opposed to public policy are void.
Similarly, an agreement to pay money to the parent/guardian of a minor in consideration of his or her acceptance to give the minor in marriage is void, as it is opposed to public policy.
Example: A, a father of a girl promised to give a certain sum of money to B, a father of a minor boy and B agreed to marry his minor son with A’s daughter. Here the agreement is void, as it is opposed to public policy.
It is to be noted here that though an agreement to procure the marriage is void, the marriage will be a valid marriage.