An elderly couple from the village of Dublia Hothatpara in Goaldihi Union under Khansama upazila of Dinajpur is enduring a life of extreme hardship while caring for their two disabled sons.
Md. Ashraf Ali (76) and his wife Mosha. Aleya Begum (60) are the parents of Anwar Hossain (35) and Akkas Ali (32), both suffering from physical and mental disabilities. Completely unable to work, the two brothers spend their days bedridden.
The family's only sources of income are the disability allowances and whatever meager earnings the elderly parents can make by working in others’ houses. Often, they are compelled to seek help from neighbors to meet basic needs.
According to family members and locals, the couple has four sons. Their eldest, Alam Ali, lives separately with his wife and children. One son has passed away. The couple now struggles to survive with their two disabled sons under their care.
On Sunday, August 3, a visit to the family’s home revealed their living conditions. They reside in a dilapidated house built on donated land. In one corner of the house, the two disabled sons lay bedridden while their mother devotedly tended to them. Despite her age, Aleya Begum juggles household chores and tirelessly works to feed her husband and sons.
“I live in misery with my husband and two disabled sons,” Aleya Begum shared. “I work in others’ houses as much as I can. Sometimes I have to ask for help—without that, we cannot eat. With proper assistance, we could live a better life.”
Their elder son, Alam Ali, said, “I myself am a poor man, struggling to support my wife and children. I help my parents and brothers as much as I can, but I can’t manage their treatment or provide regular meals. We need both government and private assistance.”
Goaldihi Union Parishad Chairman Sakhawat Hossain Liton stated, “I’m aware of the family’s situation. We have provided some aid through the Union Parishad. However, long-term support could significantly improve their living conditions.”
Khansama Upazila Social Welfare Officer Tamizul Islam added, “Both disabled brothers are already receiving disability allowances. We will consult with the UNO and higher authorities to explore further support for the family’s overall well-being.”
