Sun Aug 31 02:36:15 UTC 2025: Here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text:

**The Hindu: Dowry Deaths Still Haunt India; Safety Concerns Persist for Women**

**New Delhi, India – August 31, 2025** – Despite laws against the practice, the horrific reality of dowry-related violence against women continues to plague India. The recent death of Nikki Bhati, a 26-year-old woman allegedly murdered for dowry, has sparked outrage and highlighted the persistent issue. Shocking videos, purportedly taken by Bhati’s sister, depict the abuse she suffered before her death. The police are investigating whether the incident was a dowry murder or abetment to suicide.

This case echoes a disturbing pattern documented in the National Crime Records Bureau, which reported thousands of dowry deaths in 2022, with many more cases pending investigation. Experts point out that dowry deaths are a unique form of violence against women in the subcontinent, where brides are killed because their families can’t meet the groom’s financial demands. While activists and women parliamentarians pushed for legislation against dowry in the past, the practice of demanding cash and expensive gifts continues.

Beyond dowry-related violence, a new National Annual Report and Index on Women’s Safety reveals that 40% of women surveyed in 31 cities still feel “not so safe” or “unsafe.” The report highlights a significant decrease in the perception of safety at night, especially in public transport and recreational areas.

In other news, Dhamayanthi Sriram, eight year old, is the youngest to represent India in the under 18 category for women at the Asian Surfing Championship (ASC) 2025.

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