In Bangladesh, a concerning trend is emerging as more educated young women are tragically losing their lives in circumstances that shock society. Some are dying by suicide, while others are facing situations that raise troubling questions. Despite their education and professional success, these women exhibit a vulnerability that often goes unnoticed, both by those around them and sometimes even by themselves.
The recent passing of Dr. Nafisa Tabassum Dhipra has sparked public discussions on this painful reality. Reports suggest prolonged emotional distress and alleged abuse in her marriage. Another case is that of Afra Ivnath Khan Ikra, a university graduate who took her own life due to her husband’s extramarital affair and emotional neglect. These incidents have left behind grieving families and young children.
The deaths of Dhipra and Ikra highlight the devastating impact of emotional and psychological abuse, which is often overlooked as it does not leave physical scars. Criticism, manipulation, threats, and attacks on one’s confidence are normalized, with many families dismissing it as a private matter. Emotional abuse remains hidden, similar to how domestic violence was once perceived, with many women suffering in silence.
Studies indicate that emotional violence affects one in three women in Bangladesh, with controlling behavior affecting nearly half of them. This form of abuse is prevalent and often goes unaddressed due to societal pressures, financial concerns, and hopes for improvement. Women who choose their partners may find it harder to seek help, fearing judgment and stigma.
Achievements in education and career do not shield women from emotional abuse and may even make them more vulnerable in some cases. The pressure to maintain a facade of a happy marriage while enduring emotional distress can be overwhelming. Until emotional abuse is recognized as a form of violence, many women will continue to suffer silently.
Preventing emotional abuse requires greater awareness and education, particularly within families. Perpetrators must be held accountable to send a clear message that emotional abuse is unacceptable. The stories of women like Dhipra and Ikra should prompt society to address harmful attitudes and provide better support for those facing abuse.
Dr. Sina Akand, a London-based sociologist and development consultant, emphasizes the importance of acknowledging emotional abuse as a form of violence to protect women from such tragedies.
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