Acid attacks are still a commonplace, despite the Government having taken strict action
It is shocking that a 45-year-old gang-rape survivor of Uttar Pradesh was attacked for the fifth time in eight years. What is more distressing is the fact that the latest attack took place amid round-the-clock security cover provided to the woman by the Yogi Adityanath Government in March this year. The series of attacks began in 2008 when the woman was allegedly gang-raped by two men at her home and attacked with acid over a property dispute. She later survived a knife attack in 2012, and was again attacked with acid in 2013. But the most harrowing incident was yet to happen. In March 2014, she was forced to drink acid. Such repeated attacks are unacceptable. To this end, soon after taking charge newly appointed Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, did not fail in taking appropriate action. Not only he directed the police officials to immediately nab the accused but also provided tight security cover to her and a compensation of one lakh rupees. Eventually, the two accused were nabbed and are currently facing trial. However, the latest incident is but a reminder that not enough has been done to eliminate the scourge. What is sure in this case is that there had been laxity on the part of officials who were on duty at that point in time. Certainly, the Opposition has wasted no time to blame the State's law and order machinery for the brutality. The Adityanath Government in-turn alleged that this is a conspiracy against his Government. Whatever be the case, the Chief Minister must conduct an independent probe into the matter so that the truth be out. There is also no running from the fact that among all the States, Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of acid attack cases in the country. Out of a total of 310 cases registered in 2014, 186 such incidents were reported from Uttar Pradesh. These are worrying figures and it’s high time the Adityanath Government must pull up it’s socks and improve law and order situation in his State.
Overall, the situation of this heinous crime in the country is grim. What is most distressing is that despite the Supreme Court's order to enact stringent rules to restrict and regulate the sale of acid across the country, India has failed to act upon. Easy availability of these highly corrosive fluids, not to mention their destructive, usually irreversible and often fatal impact on the victim, has been one of the reasons why acids have become the weapon of choice for many. Penal provisions against perpetrators have been strengthened but the question of eliminating easy access to acid has received little attention. Market is full of bottlles that can be picked up off-the-shelf. And worst is that despite the highest number of acid attacks in the world, India has a poor conviction rates which emboldens criminals. Speedy trial of acid attack cases; enhanced punishments to the culprits and strict implementation of the rules and regulations of the apex court can help combat the problem to a great extent. Equally, it is important that the survivors be put on the road to rehabilitation so that they can lead a normal life. There have often been cases where the victim, scarred for life, has been left to fend for herself.