Rising Divorce Rates in Dhaka: A Closer Look at the Alarming Trend

The number of divorce cases in Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, has been steadily increasing, with an average of one divorce registered every 40 minutes. This article examines the rise in divorce rates, particularly among women, the challenges faced in reaching settlements, and the contributing factors behind this trend. The analysis draws on data from the two city corporations of Dhaka and the office of the Dhaka district registrar.

The divorce rate in Dhaka has reached an alarming level, surpassing other regions in Bangladesh. In 2022 alone, a staggering 13,288 divorce applications were submitted, with 7,698 applications in the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) and 5,590 applications in the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC). This translates to an average of 37 divorces per day, or one divorce every 40 minutes.

An interesting aspect of the rising divorce trend is the increasing number of women initiating divorce proceedings. Women accounted for 70% of the divorce applications in the DSCC and 65% in the DNCC in 2022. This shift can be attributed to greater awareness, improved family support systems, and an increasing sense of financial independence and personal dignity among women.

Despite efforts to encourage settlements, the success rate remains dismally low. The process involves sending settlement notices to both parties, but only 2% of divorce applications resulted in a successful settlement in the DNCC, and data for other areas, such as Barishal City Corporation, remains incomplete. Lack of response or inability to reach agreements often leads to divorces becoming effective automatically within 90 days.

Divorce applications often cite reasons such as “lack of mutual understanding,” family disputes, mental abuse, extramarital affairs, dowry issues, drug addiction, separation from expatriate spouses, sexual dysfunction, doubts, indifference, and conflicts of personalities. These factors highlight the deteriorating tolerance within society, urban pressures, self-centeredness, and cultural differences that strain marital relationships.

The increase in divorce rates is not limited to Dhaka. Regions like Chattogram, Rangpur, Mymensingh, and Khulna have also witnessed a surge in divorce cases. Disagreements between spouses, assaults, extramarital affairs, and cultural differences are cited as the primary reasons for divorce in these areas.

Number of divorces in Dhaka

The rising divorce rates in Dhaka and other regions of Bangladesh indicate a societal shift and evolving attitudes towards divorce. Factors such as increased awareness, improved family support, financial independence, and cultural differences contribute to this trend. Addressing the underlying issues and promoting healthy relationships and mutual understanding are essential to mitigate the negative impact of divorce on individuals and society as a whole.