Family Legal Aid Services Empower Rozina to Escape Abuse

Rozina Begum, a 26-year-old domestic worker, had been enduring physical and mental torture for seven years at the hands of her husband, Sagar (34) Ahmed. From the very beginning of their marriage, Sagar became violent towards Rozina and used threats to force her into having a family. Over the years, the abuse escalated, leaving Rozina suffering emotionally and physically. After enduring this torment for seven long years, Rozina found the courage to protest against her abusive husband.

Introducing the Intervention

It is important to note that Friends Association for Integrated Revolution (FAIR), in collaboration with BNWLA and Community Legal Services, is implementing the Making Women Legal Rights a Reality in Bangladesh project in Khulna City Corporation. Under this project, FAIR has established Community Legal Service Centers (CLSCs), where free legal services are provided to marginalized individuals, particularly women, who face abuse or legal challenges.

Rozina came to know about family legal aid through FAIR CLSC’s outreach efforts. Encouraged by the possibility of finding justice, she took bold steps to protect herself and filed a written complaint at FAIR CLSC on April 15, 2015. The complaint, registered as KCCWA-0192, initiated the intervention of FAIR CLSC.

Mediation and the Resolution Process

Upon receiving the complaint, FAIR CLSC took immediate action. They initiated fact-finding and organized mediation sessions. Sagar was contacted through FAIR CLSC’s outreach legal camp and was informed about the complaint against him. On the scheduled day of mediation, both parties participated, and Sagar was briefed about the Prevention of Violence Against Women Act 2009, which outlines the offenses and punishments related to domestic violence. After understanding the law and the consequences of his actions, Sagar admitted his wrongdoing and promised to stop the violence against Rozina.

The mediation session resulted in a peaceful resolution, with both parties agreeing on terms that would ensure a healthier and more respectful relationship moving forward.

Effect of Family Legal Aid

Family legal aid played a crucial role in resolving Rozina’s case. Here’s how family legal aid made a significant difference in her life:

• Empowering the Vulnerable: Family legal aid empowered Rozina to stand up against her abusive husband. With legal support, she gained the confidence to seek justice and end the cycle of abuse.
• Facilitating Dialogue and Resolution: Through the mediation efforts of FAIR CLSC, both Rozina and Sagar were able to engage in constructive dialogue. This allowed them to address their issues peacefully and come to an amicable resolution.
• Ensuring Fairness and Equity: The mediation led to an agreement that included provisions for monthly support for Rozina and a commitment from Sagar to change his behavior. This ensured that Rozina would no longer live in fear and that she and her children would receive the support they needed.
• Restoring Peace and Stability: The resolution restored peace and stability to Rozina’s family, allowing them to move forward with harmony. She now lives with her husband in harmony, knowing that her rights are protected, and that she is no longer living in fear.

Motivational Change

The story of Rozina and Sagar has played a vital role in promoting positive social change at FAIR CLSC. Their story serves as an inspiration to donors, beneficiaries, and stakeholders. Family legal aid programs like these are instrumental in providing justice to individuals, helping them break free from cycles of violence and oppression. FAIR CLSC plays a vital role in building a just and equitable society by empowering vulnerable individuals and advocating for social justice.

Conclusion: The Power of Family Legal Aid

Rozina’s life was transformed through family legal aid provided by FAIR CLSC. By offering her the legal support she needed, FAIR CLSC not only saved her from a life of abuse but also facilitated a change in Sagar’s behavior, creating a healthier, more respectful family dynamic. This success story demonstrates the transformative potential of family legal aid in creating lasting change for individuals and communities.

By supporting organizations like FAIR CLSC, we help create a society where everyone can access justice and have the opportunity to live with peace and dignity.

Call to Action

If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence or other legal challenges, we urge those who are in a position to help to support FAIR CLSC in providing family legal aid to marginalized individuals. Your contribution can make a difference in empowering vulnerable people and ensuring they get the support they deserve. Join us in helping to protect the rights of those in need and create a just society.

N.B.: This success story is of a beneficiary of the project, but the image used is created by AI and not of the actual beneficiary.