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Husbands named in majority of domestic violence complaints against women

Official data reveals that spousal abuse accounts for the largest share of violence complaints filed by women in Bangladesh. The findings underscore the persistent problem of domestic violence within marriage relationships across the country.

LSN Bangladesh · 14 September 2026

Husbands named in majority of domestic violence complaints against women

Husbands are named in approximately 62 percent of complaints filed by women regarding violence, according to official records reviewed by authorities. The statistic highlights the prevalence of domestic abuse within matrimonial relationships and raises concerns about the safety of women in their own homes.

The complaints encompass various forms of violence, including physical assault, harassment, and other abusive behaviour. Rights advocates have long identified domestic violence as a critical issue affecting women's wellbeing and social status across Bangladesh.

The data comes at a time when multiple civil society organizations continue to push for stronger enforcement of existing laws protecting women from domestic abuse. Legal provisions under the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act remain in place, yet implementation challenges persist in many jurisdictions.

Experts attribute the high prevalence of spousal violence to multiple factors including socio-economic pressures, limited awareness of legal protections, and cultural barriers that discourage women from seeking help. Advocacy groups have called for increased resources for counselling services, shelters, and law enforcement training to better address domestic violence cases.