Question: In my 3 years of married life, I have never been at peace with my in-laws. They used to torture people for dowry, and my husband supported me at first. Now, my husband and mother-in-law have started torturing me since the birth of my daughter. I live a very emotional life. The neighbors have also abused me in front of my husband, and my mother-in-law does not allow me to use any part of the house. My husband does not protest. I want to protect my daughter and secure my future. If I take legal action, will it stop the torture from my husband and mother-in-law?
Answer: In Bangladesh, domestic violence and abuse are serious matters and can be addressed through legal measures. The Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2010 provides legal protection to victims of domestic abuse, including mental, physical, and emotional violence.
Here are the actions you can take:
- File a Police Report: If you are facing physical or emotional abuse, you can file an FIR (First Information Report) with the police. The police are obligated to act under the Domestic Violence Act. Your husband and mother-in-law could be legally punished for their actions, which may help stop the abuse.
- Seek a Protection Order: Under the Domestic Violence Act, you can seek a protection order from the court. This order will legally prevent your husband and mother-in-law from further torturing or harassing you. It can also provide for your physical protection and prohibit them from evicting you from the home.
- File for Divorce and Custody: If the abuse continues, you may consider filing for divorce on the grounds of cruelty and abuse. The court can also grant you custody of your daughter if it deems that living with your husband is harmful to her well-being.
- Seek Maintenance: You can also seek maintenance for yourself and your daughter, ensuring financial support after separation or divorce.