Woman, child rescued after leaping into Sugandha River

The woman says relentless pressure over custody of her 5-year-old daughter has left her mentally distressed

A woman has jumped into the Sugandha River with her 5-year-old daughter in Jhalakathi’s Nalchity, but both have been rescued alive after local residents rushed to their aid.

The incident occurred around 9:30pm on Friday near the Nalchity ferry terminal, Nalchity Police chief Touhiduzzan said.

The woman Lucky Akter recently divorced Saidul Islam, a resident of Nalchity town.

Citing witnesses, police said Lucky jumped into the river with her daughter near the terminal.

Seeing the incident, nearby residents immediately jumped into the water and pulled them out alive. Later they were treated with first aid.

Lucky said her marriage had been marred by constant conflict, ultimately ending in divorce.

She alleged, after the divorce, her former husband repeatedly tried to take their daughter, pushing her into deep emotional distress and driving her to the desperate act.

Saidul denied knowing why the incident occurred.

"Lucky lives with her father's family. Although we divorced 20 days ago, I have had no contact with her for the past three months. I don't know why she did this."

Officer Touhiduzzan said police were investigating the incident.

He said the mother and daughter were safe, and any necessary legal action would be decided after reviewing the circumstances.