In India, schoolgirls are the primary victims of acid attacks due to the vulnerabilities faced during adolescence. At this age, boys often attempt to establish romantic connections and, when faced with rejection, resort to aggressive behaviours, including acid attacks. Laxmi Foundation’s Co-founder, Advocate Dr. Navpreet Kaur, highlighted these concerns during a program organized by PGIA on Wednesday.
Dr Navpreet emphasized the need to instil a habit of non-acceptance of inappropriate behaviour in boys from childhood to prevent such incidents. The aim is to discourage them from resorting to extreme measures like throwing acid, even in cases of rejection. Dr Navpreet noted that mental health is particularly fragile among acid attack survivors in South Asian countries due to the prevailing patriarchal society, limiting their rights to express themselves. In contrast, developed countries like the United States actively support survivors in overcoming such incidents.
Dr Navpreet revealed that the highest number of acid attack victims registered with the foundation are from Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, West Bengal, and Bihar. Acid attacks are not only prevalent in personal relationships but are also on the rise in cases of domestic violence.According to Dr Navpreet, acid attacks are most rampant among girls and women aged 14 to 35. The primary victims fall into two categories: schoolgoing girls and married women. In the latter category, husbands are often the perpetrators, driven by suspicion or a desire to disfigure their wives’ faces. Some attackers aim solely to make the victim’s life unbearable.
Dr. Navpreet urged immediate action, emphasizing that delay could lead to irreversible consequences. She cited the case of Lakshmi, who ignored a boy’s advances for a year, ultimately becoming a victim of an acid attack. Hence, it is crucial for girls to share their concerns with parents and, if necessary, inform school authorities about any distress they may be facing outside the home.
