BAUPHAL, PATUAKHALI, June 5: Three physically disabled brothers in Bauphal Upazila of Patuakhali are living in extreme hardship after the death of their mother 18 days ago, who had been their sole caregiver for decades.
The brothers-Ripon Das, 40, Sadhan Das, 38, and Nidhor Das, 37-of Chandkathi Village under Dhulia Union are now left helpless following the loss of their mother, who had taken care of their daily needs, including food and mobility.
Their father, Ratan Das, died about a year and six months ago. He had previously supported the family by running a small puffed rice business. Since his death, the mother had been the only pillar of care for the three disabled sons.
With her passing, the brothers have been left in a vulnerable situation, relying entirely on their younger brother Sujan Das, a day-labourer, whose limited income is insufficient to support his own family along with his disabled siblings.
Visiting the family on Thursday, it was found that the earthen grave of their mother, buried 18 days ago, is still fresh. A basil plant placed on the grave stands beside it as the three brothers sit nearby daily, crying and grieving their loss.
"After my parents' death, my disabled brothers are completely helpless. I have three children of my own. I struggle even to run my household as a day-labourer. I cannot manage their care," said Sujan Das.
He added that if he receives financial support from the government to start a small business, he would be able to take responsibility for his brothers.
Sujan's wife, Akhi Rani, said two of the brothers receive a monthly disability allowance of Tk 900 each, and the third one has recently been included in the programme after local social services intervention. However, she said the amount is far from sufficient to cover their needs.
"Tk 900 is not enough to survive. A stable source of income is urgently needed for their care and survival," she said.
Locals said the brothers had been cared for by their elderly parents for nearly four decades.
Neighbour Amit Das said the burden of care has now fallen on Sujan, who is financially incapable of handling the responsibility alone.
Meanwhile, local MP Dr Shafiqul Islam Masud has announced that he will provide one month's salary to support the family after learning about their condition.
Upazila Nirbahi Officer Saleh Ahmed said assistance had been provided to the family during last Eid-ul-Azha and that government support would continue.
He also urged wealthy individuals in society to come forward to support the family.
