Divorce rates in Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, have reached alarming levels, with one divorce occurring every 40 minutes, according to data obtained from the city corporations and the district registrar's office. The growing number of broken families highlights a pressing issue in the country, with separation rates also on the rise outside of Dhaka.
The statistics reveal that women are increasingly filing for divorce, seeking release from abusive or unhappy marriages. However, the settlements after divorce are dismally low, with less than 5 percent of cases resulting in satisfactory agreements for both parties involved.
Under the Muslim Family Act of 1961, which still governs divorce proceedings, applications for divorce in Dhaka must be submitted to the mayor's office of the respective city corporations. The applications are initially registered there and then forwarded to the regional office based on the wife's original place of residence.
In 2022, a total of 13,288 divorce applications were received by the mayor's offices of the two city corporations in Dhaka. Of these, 7,698 applications were received by the South City Corporation, while the North City Corporation received 5,590 applications. These figures indicate that approximately 37 marriages are breaking up in the capital every day, translating to a divorce occurring every 40 minutes. Moreover, the data for January and February of the current year recorded 2,488 divorce applications, further emphasizing the concerning trend.
The rising divorce rates reflect the need for greater attention and support for families in distress. It is crucial to address the root causes of marital conflicts and provide effective counseling and legal assistance to ensure fair and just settlements. Additionally, efforts should be made to promote healthy relationships and communication within marriages, reducing the need for divorce as a means of escaping difficult situations.
As the number of broken families continues to surge, it is essential for the government, civil society organizations, and communities to work together to foster an environment that promotes understanding, respect, and support within marriages, ultimately striving for stronger family units and a healthier society.