A dramatic incident in Madaripur has triggered widespread local discussion after a young man began a hunger strike outside the home of his alleged partner, demanding formal recognition of their relationship and restoration of their union. The situation, unfolding in Nabagram Union under Dasar upazila, has drawn the attention of residents and law enforcement alike due to its emotional intensity and conflicting claims from both parties.
The protester, identified as 28-year-old Biswajit Patra, son of Biprodash Patra of Alisakandi village, staged his hunger strike from Tuesday morning (31 March) at the residence of his alleged partner, Anushila Barai, daughter of Monotosh Barai, who lives in a neighbouring household. His presence outside the property quickly attracted local crowds, turning the quiet rural setting into a focal point of tension and curiosity.
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Claim of long-standing relationship and marriage
Biswajit Patra claims that his relationship with Anushila Barai began approximately a decade ago and gradually developed into a romantic partnership. He further alleges that the relationship culminated in marriage through a court registration process around four years ago.
According to his account, he invested a significant amount of money—estimated between 15 and 20 lakh taka—towards his partner’s education and personal development during the course of their relationship. He maintains that after she recently secured employment, she abruptly ceased communication with him.
Expressing distress over the situation, he stated that he had no alternative but to resort to a hunger strike outside her residence, demanding formal acknowledgement of their marriage and restoration of their relationship. His protest, he said, is intended to compel both families to address the matter publicly.
Residents reported seeing him seated outside the home for hours, refusing food and water, while appealing for resolution through social recognition of the alleged marriage.
Counterclaim of coercion and divorce
However, Anushila Barai has strongly rejected his allegations. She confirmed that a relationship existed in the past but denied that it was voluntary in its final legal form. According to her statement, she was coerced into signing court marriage documents and did not willingly consent to the registration.
She further claimed that she formally issued a divorce notice approximately one week prior to the incident, effectively ending any legal or personal ties between them. Anushila has stated clearly that she has no intention of continuing the relationship or entering into any form of reconciliation.
Her position has added further complexity to the dispute, as both parties present fundamentally opposing accounts of the same relationship—one asserting ongoing marital validity and the other claiming forced documentation followed by legal dissolution.
Police response and ongoing monitoring
The matter has been acknowledged by local authorities. Officer-in-Charge of Dasar Police Station, Md. Tarikul Islam, confirmed that law enforcement has been informed about the situation and is monitoring developments closely.
He stated that, at present, no written complaint has been officially filed by either party. However, he added that if a formal complaint is received, police will investigate the matter and take appropriate legal action in accordance with existing laws.
Authorities have also indicated that they are observing the situation to ensure that it does not escalate into public disorder or create safety concerns in the area.
Community reaction and social impact
The incident has sparked considerable debate within the local community. Some residents view the hunger strike as an emotional expression of personal grievance, while others consider it an inappropriate method of resolving a private dispute in a public space.
Social observers note that such disputes, particularly involving claims of court marriage and subsequent denial, are increasingly being reported in rural areas, often leading to tensions between families and communities. The case has also highlighted the complexities surrounding informal relationships transitioning into legally contested marriages.
Local mediators reportedly attempted informal discussions between the two families, though no agreement has yet been reached. The situation remains unresolved, with both sides maintaining firm and opposing positions.
Timeline of events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| ~10 years ago | Alleged romantic relationship begins |
| ~4 years ago | Claim of court marriage registration |
| Recent weeks | Woman reportedly begins working and ceases contact |
| 31 March (Tuesday) | Biswajit Patra begins hunger strike outside girlfriend’s home |
| Following days | Tension rises; police informed, no formal complaint filed |
Continuing uncertainty
As of now, the dispute remains unresolved, with no judicial proceedings initiated and no formal police case registered. The hunger strike continues to draw local attention, reflecting the emotional and legal complexities surrounding relationship disputes in the region.
Authorities have urged restraint and encouraged both parties to seek legal clarification through appropriate channels rather than public confrontation.