Bangalore: Fifty-three acid attack cases have been recorded and followed up by the Campaign and Struggle Against Acid Attacks on Women (CSAAAW) in the State since the organisation was formed in 1999. Judicial orders have been pronounced in only nine of these cases. Activists of the Bangalore-based voluntary organisation say the enormity of the problem is bigger than what the figures indicate, considering that many cases do not come to public notice, particularly in rural areas.

As part of its initiative, the CSAAAW has now filed public interest litigation in the Karnataka High Court seeking a series of measures to stem the problem. The litigation, admitted by a Division Bench, seeks a court order to the State Government to ensure not only speedy and gender-sensitive trial of acid attacks, but also better medical treatment and rehabilitation of victims. In its plea, the CSAAAW has also sought that production, distribution and storage of toxic acids be strictly monitored by the State.

Speaking to The Hindu , lawyer for CSAAAW Sheela Ramanathan said that acid attack cases needed to be handled differently because they were accompanied by serious medical complications, social stigma, psychological trauma, gender bias and a complete loss of livelihood.

"Medical awareness on the mode of treatment is also abysmal," she said. "There have been cases where coconut oil has been applied on the affected area and the victim wrapped in blankets. Such mishandling can cause irreparable damage."

Landmark judgment

In a landmark judgment last month in the case of acid attack victim Haseena, the Karnataka High Court had held the accused guilty of "attempt to murder" and sentenced him to life imprisonment.

Taking a tough stand on the issue, the court said it could not "shut its eyes to the obnoxious growing tendency of young persons resorting to the use of corrosive substances like acid for throwing on girls, causing not only severe physical damage but also mental trauma to the victims."

© Copyright 2000 - 2009 The Hindu