Jahida Begum, a resident of Nonabhanga village in Bagerhat Sadar upazila, has accused her daughter-in-law, the woman’s parents and brothers, and some local people of abuse and a conspiracy to seize her homestead. She made the allegations in a written statement at a news conference at Bagerhat Press Club on Friday at 11am. Jahida said she and her disabled husband, Nur Mohammad Fakir, were living in fear for their safety.

According to Jahida, her only son Shahidul Islam married Asifa Akter Sumi, daughter of Chhattar Mallik from the same area. She alleged that after the marriage, Asifa behaved badly toward her and her husband. Jahida also claimed that, at the instigation of her daughter-in-law and her parents and brothers, mental and physical abuse of elderly and ill family members had intensified.

Jahida said the boundary of her home adjoins that of her daughter-in-law’s father, and alleged that the accused were trying to occupy their land. She also alleged threats to kill them and seize the property. Jahida claimed her son was being held under pressure as part of a plan to take over the family land and house. She sought urgent intervention, a proper investigation and justice from senior administration officials.