She insists that parents must ensure that daughters have rightful ownership over family property. “Men don’t typically face these challenges as women do. I firmly believe that if a woman has an equal share of property, many of her problems are resolved.” She urges more women to speak up for themselves, and their rights.
Bina’s (name changed) struggles began in 2019, following the passing of her mother. As a single child, she expected support from her family, but instead, faced discrimination and harassment. After her mother’s demise, pension funds and other benefits were received by her father, despite the fact that her father was already an earning member. This led others to assume that she had access to sufficient resources and therefore, no one offered her any support. However, her father grew reluctant to support her financially, leaving her isolated and uncertain about her future.
By 2020, Bina knew she had to take matters into her own hands. Seeking legal help, she approached a lawyer who informed her about free legal aid provided by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA). However, when her family discovered this, they attempted to confine her at home. Refusing to be silenced, she managed to escape and reached out to the DLSA, where she was directed to a One Stop Centre. Recognising that she was facing domestic violence, the Centre promised assistance. She hoped to receive financial support from her father’s income or rental earnings from tenants in their family property, but was instead given a notary agreement that held no legal value. When she tried to follow up, she found no real solution and was left with no choice but to let go.
Despite these setbacks, she channelled her energy into her education, determined to build a future for herself. She completed her graduation, got married, and pursued a master’s degree, yet one unresolved issue remained—securing the home her mother had left behind for her. In 2023, she came across North East Network and reached out to Moon Bora, a community mobiliser from NEN’s Gramin Mahila Kendra of Golaghat. With her guidance and support, she was able to claim her rightful property. Months of struggle followed, but eventually, she achieved financial stability through rental income and secured essential documents like her voter ID card and property inheritance.
Reflecting on her journey, Bina speaks about the discrimination she faced. “If I were a man, my relatives wouldn’t have tried to take away my rights,” she asserts. She expresses deep gratitude for her mother, who, despite bearing the heavy expenses of her own medical treatment, had the foresight to save every penny and purchase a property in her daughter’s name. “If she hadn’t done that, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” she emphasises.
Today, Bina is determined to build a better future for herself. She is completing post-graduation and preparing for NET, with aspirations of securing a stable career.
Through her lived experiences, Bina is now a staunch advocate for women’s property rights. She insists that parents must ensure that daughters have rightful ownership over family property. “Men don’t typically face these challenges as women do. I firmly believe that if a woman has an equal share of property, many of her problems are resolved.” She urges more women to speak up for themselves, and their rights.
