Haryana Voter Rolls Reveal Legacy of Unwanted Daughter Names

In some Haryana families, girls were given names that suggested there were already too many daughters.

Names such as Bhateri, Kafi and Anchahi could mean “enough,” “surplus” or “unwanted.”

These names showed that sons were often valued more than daughters.

Some women said their names made them feel ashamed or embarrassed.

Younger women were more likely to question and reject these names.

One woman began using the name Tamanna instead of Maafi in her marital village.

Other girls were given names based on fruits and sweets, which could also treat them carelessly.

The number of such names may have declined partly because sex-determination technology reduced the birth of additional daughters.

The article says Haryana still shows signs of continuing preference for boys.