Akhinur's mother asked her to get ready for marriage with the person whom she used to know as 'Lokman Nana' (grandfather).

Bepari told The Daily Star that his six-member family, including two sons and two daughters, was badly affected by cyclone Aila. He had borrowed money, but could not repay even the interest on the loan.

He alleged that Sikder had told him to clear the loan immediately along with the accumulated interest or marry Akhinur to him in lieu of the outstanding amount.

The Imam (cleric) of the local mosque has denied that he conducted the marriage. Kazi Abdur Razzak, local marriage registrar, says he did not register it.