Question: I am an HSC candidate from a Sanatan Dharmalabambi family. On the 18th of last month, my father and I had a quarrel due to family reasons. Later, he left the house and told us that he would not be with us. From November, my mother, brother, and I moved to a new rented house. We asked him to come home, but he refused. However, in the past few days, my father has been threatening to kill my two brothers. My father and brother work at the same place, and yesterday my father went to my brother’s factory and threatened to kill him with acid (which is used in the factory). My brother barely escaped. What should we do at this point? Are we right to be afraid?
Answer: Threats of harm, especially ones involving potential violence, must be taken seriously. Under Bangladeshi law, such threats can be classified as criminal offenses, and you should take immediate legal action. Here’s what you can do:
- File a Police Complaint:
- If your father is threatening to kill your brothers, you should immediately report the threats to the local police. You can file a general diary (GD) or an FIR (First Information Report) at the nearest police station. This will officially document the threats.
- The police will investigate the matter, and if they find the threats credible, they can charge your father with criminal intimidation under Section 506 of the Penal Code. If the threat involves the use of a dangerous weapon (like acid), it can lead to more severe charges, such as attempted murder or assault with intent to cause harm.
- Seek Protection:
- If you or your brothers feel in immediate danger, request the police to provide protection. They may issue a protection order or take action to prevent any harm from occurring.
- Court Injunction or Restraining Order:
- You can also apply to the family court or civil court for a restraining order to prevent your father from making further threats or coming near your brothers. A restraining order legally forbids him from contacting or approaching your family.
- Documentation:
- Collect any evidence of the threats, such as messages, recordings, or witness statements. If your father’s threats were made verbally at the factory, try to get any witnesses who were present. Evidence will be important for any legal action you pursue.
- Safety Precautions:
- In the meantime, ensure your family’s safety by staying in a secure location and avoiding direct contact with your father if you fear harm. Inform trusted neighbors or friends about the situation so they can alert authorities if necessary.