Marital separation among some poor Bangladeshi women: Analysis of some cases

Abstract

Objective

This paper intends to show the challenges faced by poor Bangladeshi Muslim women from lower socioeconomic status, in case of divorce or separation in marriage. Participants will also learn how they earn for their living and how they raise their children if any. This paper will also present the obligations of marriage in Islam, which may reduce the hazards in their life.

Method

Some women were interviewed from lower socioeconomic status from slum area of Dhaka. Researcher took their consent before interview had started. They were asked about their age, educational status, duration of marriage, type of work they do for livelihood, whether they get any maintenance money from the husbands in case of separation, expenses for raising children if any, any criticize from the friends and relatives, etc. The answers were noted carefully.

Results

After critical analysis of the interview it was revealed that they were leading their lives on their own, most of them were not aware of their rights relating to marriage in Islam. Two of the women had to pay dowry. Some of them were addicted to tobacco leaf taken with betel nut and PAN, a special form of leaf.

Conclusions

In conclusion, it can be said that these women lead their lives with courage. They need to be educated about their marriage rights in Islam and legal help. At a time, men should be educated about the marriage rights of the wives and the evil effects of dowry in the society.

Disclosure of interest

The author has not supplied his/her declaration of competing interest.