Dead body withheld over loan interest sparks nationwide criticism

In Chitla village of Damurhuda upazila in Chuadanga, loan interest was collected in a shocking manner by withholding a dead body. The incident has not only stunned locals but also shocked countless people on social media. Condemnation has poured in from all sides.

According to local sources, mason Harun, 45, went to his daughter’s house in Mohajanpur of Meherpur last Saturday. On Sunday morning, he suddenly died of a stroke. When the body was brought to his village in Damurhuda, preparations for burial after the Asr prayers were underway, when the inhumane incident occurred.

Locals said that during the ritual washing of the body, Marjina Khatun, wife of deceased Mohon Ali, demanded Tk 15,000 as interest owed to her by Harun. She said the burial would not be allowed until the money was paid. The grieving family became entangled in arguments over money beside the body, leaving neighbours shocked. Finally, after about an hour, the family was forced to settle the amount. Taking the money, Marjina fled in the face of locals’ anger.

The incident sparked strong outrage and condemnation on social media.

Harun’s cousin Matinur Islam Manik said, “About one and a half months ago, my brother borrowed Tk 8,000 from Marjina Khatun. He used the money for business. On Sunday morning, while washing the body, Marjina claimed Tk 22,000 as interest. We said it would be settled after burial, but she insisted the burial would not take place without payment. We even offered to leave a cow at her house, promising to return with cash later. She refused. Finally, she reduced the demand to Tk 15,000. The family collected the money and placed it on the bier. Marjina then took the money and left.”

Residents said Marjina Khatun is a major moneylender in the area. She regularly traps villagers in debt, and if anyone protests, she files cases against them. For this reason, no one dares to speak against her.