Abstract

Bangladesh is a multi-religious and multi-racial country. The majority of the population consists of Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists Christians and some other minor communities. There are several indigenous tribes as well (i.e., Chakmas, Marmas, Tripuras, Garos, Santhals, Murong, Khasia, Kuki, Hazong etc.) living mostly in the hilly fringes of the Country. In absence of any Uniform Code of Family Laws, family disputes related to marriage, divorce, maintenance, custody of children, guardianship, inheritance etc. are dealt with under various Personal Laws. In addition to the Codified Personal Laws, many family disputes are resolved through local customs, practices and various methods of informal dispute resolution. This study has employed doctrinal methodology. To conduct this study several documents relating to family laws, cases and different article relating to this has been analyzed. This study finds how does the Uniform Family Code promote gender equality, women’s and children’s rights, and social cohesion, how a Uniform Family Code can promote gender equality, protect women and children, boost economic growth, and reduce social unrest having implementation issues, religious sentiments, and political opposition present challenges, despite its benefits. It also examines the challenges to implementing the Uniform Family Code in Bangladesh. This paper argues that gender equality for Bangladeshi women must transcend political and religious boundaries and the urgent need for a Uniform Family Code to achieve gender equality and social unity in Bangladesh’s diverse context.