Section 2 - Definition of “dowry”

In this Act, "dowry" means any property or valuable security given or agreed to be given either directly or indirectly--

• (a) by one party to a marriage to the other party to the marriage; or
• (b) by the parents of either party to a marriage or by any other person, to either party to the marriage or to any other person;

at or before [or any time after the marriage] [in connection with the marriage of the said parties, but does not include] dower or mahr in the case of persons to whom the Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) applies.

Explanation II.--The expression "valuable security" has the same meaning as in section 30 of the Indian Penal Code (45 of 1860).