Acid attacks: Govt urged to ensure strict enforcement of laws

Karachi
Following four incidents of acid attacks on women in the last two months, the Aurat Foundation and Dastgir Legal Aid Centre on Tuesday demanded of the government to ensure strict implementation of the acid attack law, besides also demanding medical treatment and financial help for the victims.
Aurat Foundation Resident Director Mahnaz Rahman expressing worry over the frequent attacks said the four incidents reported had all occurred due to refusal of marriage proposals.
Lamenting the open sale of acid, she called for it to be sold only to licensed sellers that also after they had submitted copies of their national identity cards.
Mahnaz while referring to a protest, held on August 7 outside the Sindh Assembly, objected to the government authorities’ failure to fulfil its promises of taking action against the culprits besides announcing Rs1 million as compensation money for the victims.
Dastgir Legal Aid Centre, city head, Safi-ud-Din stated four incidents in two months called for a comprehensive action to be taken against perpetrators.
He also endorsed Mahnaz’s demand with reference to sale of acids and asked for unlicensed shops to be sealed.
“The law is in place but implementation is badly needed.”
Criticising the justice system, he said the perpetrators often go scot-free due to poor police investigations and trials.
Severe punishments for offenders, to set an example for future were also called to be handed down.
Steps to prevent more attacks were also demanded to be taken whereas laws upholding women equality were called to be made.
The Orangi Pilot Project was renovating Sidra’s house whereas the Parween Rahman Fund, HANDS, Women Action Forum and Aurat Foundation would be providing financial help to the victim whereas Dastgir Legal Aid Centre was providing free legal aid to her, it was announced.