The deadly acids were available for purchase in many shops of Bastar and people fear it may finds its way into the hands of people who unleash terror on the unsuspecting victims, usually women.
The Supreme Court, in its attempt to stop acid attacks, had in the past pulled up state and central governments for not being serious in framing a system to curb the sale of acid.
Although some steps were taken on pen and paper, it appears to have little impact. The acids were easily available in many shops. Similarly there was an alarming rise in acid attack incidents.
Sources said at least 600 liters of deadly acid are being sold every month in Bastar region although many of them do not have necessary permission. In Jagdalpur town alone shops sell about 600 liters of acids every month.
The acids a shop owner said usually people purchase and use it in the cleaning of jewelries, toilets and utensils. Besides eduction institutes often purchase acids for scientific experiment in the laboratories.
Sources said the acids which are on sale in Bastar are procured from Raipur and Visakhapatnam. Additional superintendent of police SR Salaam said police will take action against the shops which were selling acid without permission.