Can't blame the dude and besides the female also needs to be realistic. If the guy is not rich, you can't ask beyond what is not for him to give. During courtship, that is the time to get to know each other including family background and financial status. The guy did the right thing though. If the guy gives in, in the future God knows what crazy stuffs the in-laws might ask for. Not worth it.

I have heard about this sort of case on my cousin side as well. Female family asking for exorbitant amount of cash as if like selling their daughter. Happens in Malaysia too.