A young woman named Shilpi Akhter is staging a hunger strike at her husband’s house, demanding recognition as his lawful wife in Narsingdi.
The incident took place at the house of Robiul Islam in Satpakhia village under Dulalpur Union of Shibpur Upazila, Narsingdi.
Shilpi Akhter, the protester, is the daughter of Jalal Mia from Darihaola village in Palash Upazila. On Tuesday.
She was found sitting in front of her husband's house in Satpakhia village. Upon learning of her presence, her husband and his family reportedly locked the house and fled.
Speaking to reporters, Shilpi Akhter said she met Md. Imran Mollah, a migrant worker in Lebanon, via mobile phone six years ago, and they developed a deep romantic relationship. Around two months ago, driven by love, Imran returned to Bangladesh from Lebanon. On 12 June 2025, they got married according to Islamic Sharia law without the consent of their families, with a dower of Tk 3 lakh.
Following the marriage, they rented a house in the Taroa area of Narsingdi town and began living together happily. However, because Shilpi comes from a financially disadvantaged family, her in-laws did not accept the marriage.
After living together for about one and a half months, Imran, unable to withstand pressure from his family, left Shilpi and returned to his parental home. With no other options, Shilpi went to her husband’s house and began a hunger strike to claim her rightful place as his wife.
Later, Imran and his family allegedly assaulted her. Shilpi then called the emergency service 999, and police from Shibpur Police Station rescued her and sent her back to her parental home.
When journalists attempted to speak with Imran Mollah, he reportedly fled the scene.
Now, having lost everything, Shilpi Akhter is devastated. She cannot stay with her family, nor is she being accepted by her husband. She has appealed for immediate intervention from the local administration.
Shibpur Model Police Station OC Md. Afzal Hossain said, no formal complaint has been received from either party. If a complaint is lodged, appropriate legal action will be taken following an investigation.
