Entertainment Report :
In a resounding declaration of victory for maternal rights, the name of actress Azmeri Haque Badhon echoed through
the courtroom once more, but this time with resolute pride.
Recently, Badhon achieved a significant milestone- full guardianship of her child.
This monumental event took place on April 22 marking a triumph not just for the actress personally but for all mothers striving for recognition of their inherent rights.
The pivotal moment came as the High Court intervened to address the archaic guardianship laws prevalent in Bangladesh.
Under the existing legal framework, Section 19(B) of the Guardian and Wards Act of 1890 denied anyone the opportunity to become the guardian of a minor child if the father was alive.
Recognising the inherent conflict and inconsistencies between these laws and fundamental constitutional rights, the High Court opted not to declare them in discord with constitutional articles 26, 27 and 28.
Following this decision, a committee comprised of experts in family law was tasked with formulating guidelines to facilitate the guardianship process, directing the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs and the National Human Rights Commission to submit these guidelines by August 4. This landmark ruling not only addressed a legal discrepancy but also symbolised a significant step towards gender equality and maternal empowerment.
For Badhon, this victory was the culmination of a protracted struggle.
With her daughter, Michele Amani Saira, now a fifth-grade student, Badhon had dedicated herself to providing a nurturing environment. Their bond has been unbreakable, and Badhon meticulously organised her professional commitments around her daughter’s needs.
Recalling the difficult journey, Badhon shared her experiences with a mix of relief and determination. She shared her feelings by this way, “I remember anxiously awaiting the verdict for my daughter’s guardianship back in April 2018. It was an immensely challenging time for me, feeling isolated without any support system.”
Badhon’s resolve was fueled by her unwavering belief in the injustice of the existing laws. “Why should I have to seek permission from her father, who hasn’t contributed anything?” she questioned. “This was the most significant hurdle for me then, feeling like my existence was diminished,” the actress added.
In the face of societal expectations and legal obstacles, Badhon refused to relent. “As a mother, I couldn’t tolerate such injustice. I wanted to ensure she had the best possible upbringing,” Badhon also said.
Her perseverance paid off as she navigated the legal proceedings with diligence and determination.
Badhon recounted, “Throughout the hearings, I attended diligently, listening attentively to every argument. When I stood before the judge, I presented my case transparently, sharing my perspective.”
Badhon’s case served as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change. The actress emphasised, “My verdict, being a rare occurrence in Bangladesh, underlines the urgency of addressing this issue. Now, with this rule in place, it’s time to challenge the notion that this isn’t discriminatory and take steps to rectify it.”
Reflecting on her journey, Badhon expressed gratitude for the support she received and the organisations advocating for maternal rights. She declared, “This experience has reinforced my belief in the importance of women speaking up and being aware of their rights.”
