Rituparna Chakma’s mother battles cancer, family seeks support
STAFF CORRESPONDENT, RANGAMATI
National footballer Rituparna Chakma’s mother has been diagnosed with breast cancer, but her family says they cannot afford treatment.
Rituparna, a key member of Bangladesh’s women’s football team, is from Magachhari, a remote hill area in Ghagra Union, Kaukhali Upazila, Rangamati. Reaching their home requires a 3.5 to 4 km walk through hilly terrain from the nearest main road.
The family has faced hardship for years. Rituparna’s only brother died from electrocution three years ago, and her three sisters are married. Her family depends entirely on the income she earns through football.
After Bangladesh’s SAFF Women’s Championship win, local authorities promised to improve the road to her village, build a new house for her family, and help her unemployed sisters get government jobs. But none of these promises have been fulfilled, according to the family.
Rituparna’s mother, Bhujopoti Chakma, has been suffering from breast cancer for a long time. Her family says financial constraints are preventing proper treatment.
“Our mother has breast cancer. We cannot afford proper and advanced medical care due to lack of money,” said Rituparna’s elder sister, Pampi Chakma.
She appealed for government and public support. “We demand a new house to replace the broken one, proper roads in our area, and government jobs for our unemployed sisters.”
Despite her illness, Bhujopoti Chakma remains proud of her daughter. “I watch all of Ritu’s matches,” she said, adding that she hopes Rituparna will one day shine globally in football. She also expressed concern about the family’s continued struggles.
Bir Sen Chakma, former head teacher of Magachhari Government Primary School, helped train many female footballers from the hills, including Rituparna, Monika Chakma, Anai Moghini, Anu Moghini, and Rupna Chakma.
“I believe a government job for Rituparna is essential for her future. Her mother’s treatment and the promised house should also be provided. I hope the government steps forward to help,” he said.
The family’s condition has seen little improvement despite Rituparna’s success on the field. Her father, Boroj Banshi Chakma, who inspired her to play football, died of cancer in 2015. She is currently studying philosophy at Dhaka University alongside her football career.
In the AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers, Rituparna scored both goals in Bangladesh’s 2–1 win over Myanmar and another goal against Turkmenistan.
Many hope players like Rituparna, who continue to raise Bangladesh’s football profile, won’t be held back by poverty.
