Secure women's right to land ownership

Women today contribute equally to the nation's economy. Yet, they remain largely excluded from land ownership. The Constitution guarantees equal rights under Articles 27 and 28(2), but personal inheritance laws still restrict women. Under Muslim law, daughters receive half of what sons inherit and wives get only one-eighth if children exist. Hindu law similarly limits daughters' inheritance and often denies widows property. In practice, societal norms further prevent women from claiming even their legal shares. Daughters are told they "belong to another family," and property often ends up with children or in-laws while the woman herself remains insecure. Attempts to assert rights can lead to conflict, humiliation, or even illegal seizure of land by male relatives.

Research shows that only 2-4 per cent of land is registered in women's names, and merely 1-2 per cent of women can control it. Lack of land restricts access to loans, legal recourse, and economic opportunities, leaving women vulnerable after divorce or widowhood.

Securing women's land rights, education and awareness are essential. Legal protections must be enforced, and anyone attempting to cheat women should face punishment under Penal Code 420. Simplifying inheritance procedures, digitalising land records, and ensuring access to legal support can empower women and safeguard their property.

A woman's land is her right, strength, and security. Protecting it is not charity-it is justice. Only then can Bangladesh truly advance socially, economically, and achieve sustainable development goals.

Ibrahim Khalil

Student, Faculty of Law and Land Administration

Patuakhali Science and Technology University