Panchayat in Uttarakhand issues order that women cannot wear more than 3 gold ornaments in their wedding

Gold prices have been skyrocketing since the beginning of this year, marking an all-time high during this month, around the festive season, due to heightened geopolitical tensions.Amid these extremely high prices, the joint Panchayat of Kandhar and Indrani villages of Uttarakhand has imposed a strict limit on the Gold ornaments that a woman can wear during the wedding and accompanying functions.

Women can wear only limited jewellery during a wedding

This traditional community, which is situated between the Yamuna and Tons rivers in Dehradun district, has taken a stand against the rising cost of gold and its ripple effects on family harmony and equality.According to a PTI report, women in Jaunsar can now wear only three pieces of gold jewelleryat weddings, including a nose ring, earrings, and a mangalsutra. Those who defy the order face a hefty fine of Rs 50,000.Arjun Singh, the syana, or the most prominent person of Kandhar village explained in an interview with PTI Videos, “Due to the high price of gold, many women come under peer pressure to buy gold. This leads to familial conflicts and financial stress.

We aim to reduce this inequality.”

The step received mixed response from the community

While some women appreciated this step, others expressed concerns over why only their jewellery was targeted. Amala Chauhan, a resident of the area, said to PTI,“If equality is to be achieved, why must only women’s jewellery be banned? Men’s consumption of branded liquor should also be stopped. Gold is an investment, useful in difficult times. What is the use of alcohol and other wasteful expenditure?”Another resident Nisha Rawat also talked about the rising display of luxury at weddings as a source of tension, particularly pointing to high-end alcohol and meat as symbols of extravagance.

“Earlier, home-made liquor was served at weddings, but now the display of branded liquor and expensive gifts has increased. If we are talking about reducing expenses, alcohol and meat should also be banned,” she said to PTI.Men in the community appear to share these sentiments, with Bhim Singh Chauhan advocating that while the jewellery ban is welcome, the panchayat should also consider similar limits on alcohol and other lavish spending.

Arjun Singh has assured that women’s demands are being taken seriously, stating, “The women’s demands are justified. A ban on alcohol and other expenses will also be considered. This will be implemented in a phased manner”.

Gold prices over this month

Gold prices in India for October 2025 have been quite dynamic. According to Gold prices India, as of October 30, the price of 24-carat gold was around ₹12,0151 per 10 grams, showing a slight dip of about 0.84% compared to previous days.

The highest price this month was ₹1,31,953 per 10 grams on 17th, while the lowest was ₹1,15,870 per 10 grams on the 1st.

Cultural importance of Gold in India

Gold holds a very special place in Indian culture and traditions. It is more than just jewellery, as it symbolises wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. Festivals like Diwali, Akshaya Tritiya, and Dhanteras see gold purchases as a way to invite good fortune and success. Goddess Lakshmi is also associated with the precious yellow metal, which is passed down through generations as a family heirloom and a way to preserve heritage.