Village Court Brings Justice for All, Indigenous Communities Not Left Behind
Village Court Brings Justice for All, Indigenous Communities Not Left Behind
In the quiet village of Jhatapara under Gazirvita Union in Haluaghat Upazila, Mymensingh, justice arrived not through long waits or high costs, but through a local institution known as the Village Court. For Swapon Dibra, a day labourer from the indigenous Garo community, this local institution became a turning point in his life.
Village Courts in Bangladesh are designed to bring justice closer to the people—especially those in rural and marginalized communities. Piloted in 2009, and now expanded nationwide (excluding the Chittagong Hill Tracts) through the Activating Village Courts in Bangladesh (AVCB) Phase III Project, the initiative is supported by the Government of Bangladesh, the European Union, and UNDP. The aim is clear: to provide a fast, fair, and accessible dispute resolution system at the grassroots level, where justice is not a privilege but a right.
Swapon, a day labourer, lives with his wife and three sons, working tirelessly in the fields to sustain his family. Life is hard, but he remains hopeful. One day, a violent dispute erupted at his neighbour Bijoy Marma’s house. Hearing the commotion, Swapon rushed over, hoping to help. But instead of restoring peace, he became a victim, pushed to the ground and seriously injured.
Taken to the local health complex, Swapon spent three painful days recovering. When he returned, limping and disheartened, he could have stayed silent. Instead, he chose to act. Encouraged by his Ward Member, he approached the Village Court, a space many still underestimate, especially those from indigenous or poor backgrounds.
Swapon filed a complaint, requesting BDT 9,000 (approx. USD 82) to cover his medical expenses. The Village Court responded swiftly. Both parties were heard with dignity and respect. The facts spoke for themselves. Bijoy Marma agreed to pay BDT 5,000 (approx. USD 46) immediately, and Swapon, valuing peace over prolonged conflict, gracefully accepted the settlement. A written agreement was signed, and the matter was resolved amicably.
With emotion in his voice, Swapon shared, “I am just a simple day labourer from an indigenous community. I cannot afford the time or cost of a big court case. But the Village Court gave me justice—quickly and fairly. I feel respected.”
Bijoy also acknowledged the fairness of the process: “If we had gone to the police or court, it would’ve been costly and dragged out. This way, we found peace.”
This story is more than a personal victory. It’s a testament to the power of inclusive justice. The AVCB project ensures that women, indigenous groups, and the most marginalized are not left behind. It strengthens their voice, upholds their rights, and builds their trust in the justice system.
