Scarred for life

A woman’s stepson allegedly threw acid on his stepmother and her sister in Multan because the former refused to give him money for narcotics. The police are still looking for the attacker. Acid is almost invariably used as a weapon against women by jilted lovers, jealous husbands, rejected suitors, or just as plain acts of vengeance such as this one. Many people just dismiss acid attacks as routine acts of injury but the gruesome reality of acid victims is much more horrifying. Some of them lose their lives in the end, while others who survive are condemned to live a painfully scarred life.

Despite being one of the most horrendous forms of crime, acid attacks are quite common in our part of the world. Those carrying out such attacks are not just aware of the irreparable damage they are going to cause but represent a sick mentality not averse to committing such an atrocious act. What makes acid the preferred choice is that it is easily available as toilet cleaner or for vehicle batteries, and can inflict severe disfigurement without causing death.

Apart from disfigurement, acid attack survivors have to constantly face social stigma, rejection, as well as psychological and emotional trauma. Usually, the survivors of such attacks become economically dependent on others for the rest of their lives, finding little space to adjust in society as healthy individuals. We, as a society, need to realise that survivors of acid attacks are equal citizens of this state and must be treated with utmost respect.

The previous parliament must be commended for introducing a minimum sentence of 14 years in jail and a fine of Rs 1 million for those found guilty of throwing acid. The conviction rate has increased since then but it is important to implement modalities to ensure that the sale and storage of acid is licensed to restrict access. Hospitals need more burn units and advanced technology to help acid survivors. The rehabilitation and social reintegration of acid survivors is another important area to work on.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 18^th, 2013.