Masuma still carries the scars from an abusive marriage. Seven years later, she got justice.

“My husband demanded dowry. The demands turned into mental and physical torture. Though my family paid the money, the torture continued. I received many injuries, including a fractured backbone.

“After seven years of marriage he divorced me, and refused to pay alimony. I needed the money to treat the injuries he inflicted.

“Seven years later, a BRAC legal counsellor helped me file a lawsuit. The verdict went in my favour, and the court ordered him to pay BDT 200,000 (USD 2,302). The court also found him guilty of abuse, and issued an arrest warrant against him - prompting him to surrender to the police.

“I used the money to start a small tailoring business from home. It is quite painful for me to use a sewing machine as my back is still fractured, but I have found closure.”