The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, strengthens the legal framework for addressing dowry deaths by enhancing penalties (minimum 7 years to life imprisonment under Section 80) and streamlining evidentiary standards, such as presuming guilt if harassment or cruelty is proven "soon before death" . It introduces procedural improvements like mandatory forensic investigations, fast-track trials, and acceptance of digital evidence (e.g., WhatsApp messages, payment records) under the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) . However, its effectiveness remains challenged by deep-rooted cultural norms normalizing dowry, underreporting due to stigma, and evidentiary gaps in domestic abuse cases . While the BNS improves legal rigor, systemic issues like judicial delays and societal resistance to abandoning dowry practices persist, limiting its transformative impact