A problem on the rise
Of the many crimes that affect humanity today, acid attacks are one of the worst. Their cruelty is just one aspect; the emotional and physical effects can sometimes be far more troubling. Quite often, victims feel that their only option is to end their own lives.
The frequency of acid attacks is particularly high in the Indian context, demanding immediate and decisive action.
Source: ASFI
So, what’s the
Root Cause?
According to the Acid Survivors Foundation India, the motives behind acid attacks range from something as simple as a girl rejecting a boy’s gestures of affection, to more deep-seated cultural issues such as dowry. While vengeance is a key reason, there are several other causes, as shown below.
Rejecting offers of love/marriage/sex
36%
Land/professional disputes
5%
No motive/for sadistic pleasure
5%
Alcohol/drug-related attacks
1%
Marital discord
13%
Dowry
5%
Family disputes
5%
Others (including 11% unintentional)
30%
Mostly
Women Suffer
This trend is undoubtedly troublesome. But to address the issue, we need to start from square one, and evaluate the many levels at which change must be initiated.
Other Factors
Administrative Factors
1. Easy access to acid, usually available over the counter
2. Lack of stakeholders working on the issue, leading to poor data and information
Societal Factors
1. Uncounselled anger and frustration
2. Biased social stigma, and its manifestation as discrimination against victims
Legal Factors
1. Poor reporting rates for fear of retribution (in the form of ostracising or subsequent attacks)
2. Inadequate implementation of regulations and policies
It’s time to
enable change
Acid attacks have lifelong repercussions that are very difficult to ignore. That’s why humanitarians across the country feel compelled to act, and this has led to the birth of numerous institutions and programmes that help these women take control of their lives again.
Even so, the question begs asking – is this enough?
In the current scenario, the focus is on helping women after an attack. However, the issue needs a more holistic approach: one that directs its efforts at changing mindsets, demanding more stringent laws, and rehabilitating survivors effectively.
It is this need that has led to the birth of Meer. We aim to bring people together, channel their energies, and build a safer world for women.
OUR APPROACH
We recognise that survivors are not defined by the effects of acid attacks, by the actions of their perpetrators. And as part of our efforts to provide holistic rehabilitation, Meer Foundation supports multiple institutions, including those that provide the following:
