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How to Get Legal Help for Domestic Abuse in Bangladesh

Question

My husband, his mother, and sister have physically and mentally abused me. When I try to protest or reason with him, he uses foul language and tries to throw me out of the house. I have now been staying at my father’s house for 7 months, and they have not made any effort to resolve the situation. What steps can I take to get government assistance? And if I want to pursue a divorce, where do I go for help?

Answer

  1. File a Case Under Domestic Violence Law: The Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2010 provides protection for victims of domestic abuse. Under this act, you can file a complaint with your local Women and Children Repression Prevention Tribunal or the nearest police station. This can lead to a protection order against your husband and his family, ensuring your safety and potentially barring them from contacting you.
  2. Seek Government Assistance: The Department of Women Affairs in Bangladesh offers resources for women in your situation. They provide shelter, counseling, and legal aid. You can contact the nearest District Women Affairs Office or visit a One-Stop Crisis Center (OCC) available in public hospitals. These centers provide medical care, shelter, legal aid, and counseling services for abused women.
  3. Pursue a Divorce: If you want to proceed with a divorce, you can file for it through your local Family Court. Under the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, 1961, a woman has the right to seek divorce due to physical or mental abuse. Contact a family lawyer who can guide you through the process and help file the necessary documents.
  4. File for Maintenance: While filing for divorce, you can also seek financial maintenance for yourself and any children under Section 5 of the Family Courts Ordinance, 1985. This can help provide financial support if your husband is not fulfilling his obligations.
  5. Legal Aid Services: If you need legal support, the National Legal Aid Services Organization (NLASO) provides free legal assistance to those unable to afford it. You can apply at your district’s legal aid office, which offers help in cases of divorce, maintenance, and domestic violence.