Question
My friend and his girlfriend are in a long-term relationship and both are honors final-year students. The boy’s family accepts their relationship, but the girl’s family does not. The girl’s father, uncle, and elder sister have tried to force her to end the relationship and have even detained her. As they are both adults (boy: 23 years, girl: 22 years), can her family legally force her to marry someone against her will? What can we, as friends, do to support them?
Answer
In this situation, it’s important to understand the legal rights of both individuals and how you can support them:
- Legal Age and Consent:
- Both the boy and the girl are above the legal age of marriage in Bangladesh. According to the Child Marriage Restraint Act, 1929, the legal age for marriage is 21 for males and 18 for females. Since they are both adults, they have the legal right to choose their partners.
- Forced Marriage:
- Legal Definition: Forced marriage is a violation of personal rights and freedom. Under Bangladeshi law, any marriage conducted without the free and full consent of both parties is considered invalid.
- Parental Authority: While parents have significant influence over their children, they cannot legally compel an adult to marry against their will. If the girl does not consent to a marriage, it cannot be legally binding.
- Actions for Friends:
- Provide Support: Continue to offer emotional support to both individuals. Encourage them to communicate openly about their feelings and decisions.
- Seek Legal Advice: If the girl’s family continues to apply pressure, it may be beneficial for her to consult a lawyer. A legal expert can provide guidance on her rights and how to handle the situation.
- Involve Authorities: If the girl’s family threatens her or tries to force her into a marriage, she can report this to the police or local authorities. They can intervene to protect her rights and safety.
- Family Counseling: Encourage open dialogue between the girl and her family. Sometimes, involving a neutral third party or a family counselor can help facilitate understanding and reconciliation.
- Document Everything:
- It is advisable for the girl to document any instances of coercion or abuse. This documentation can be important if legal action is necessary.
- Consider Mediation:
- If both families are willing, mediation might be a good option to discuss the relationship in a safe environment. A mediator can help express concerns and desires while focusing on mutual understanding.