Karnataka Women's Commission Chairperson Visits Acid Attack Victim in Mangaluru Hospital
Nagalakshmi Choudhary, the chairperson of the Karnataka State Commission for Women (KSCW), made a significant visit to Wenlock District Hospital in Mangaluru on Saturday to meet with an acid attack victim. This distressing incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by women in the state regarding safety and protection.
Details of the Acid Attack Incident in Belthangady
According to an FIR registered at the Belthangady police station on February 28, a 44-year-old woman was allegedly attacked by her husband. The complaint states that the woman, unable to enter her home due to her menstrual cycle, requested food from her husband, who refused. She then went to her brother's house to eat and returned home later.
While lying in the verandah, she observed her husband holding an acid can and pouring it into a small container. Frightened by this sight, she immediately went back to her brother's house to inform him of the situation. Upon returning home with her brother's son, the accused allegedly threw the acid from the container onto her, resulting in severe burns on the left side of her face, left arm, and hip.
The victim was initially taken to Belthangady hospital for emergency care and subsequently transferred to a hospital in Mangaluru for advanced treatment. Medical reports indicate that she suffered between 10% and 15% burns, highlighting the brutal nature of the assault.
Nagalakshmi Choudhary's Response and Advocacy Efforts
During her visit, Nagalakshmi Choudhary expressed deep concern over the incident and directed authorities to ensure adequate compensation is provided to the victim. She emphasized that a majority of harassment cases against women are linked to alcoholism, a issue she believes requires serious consideration.
"I visited the woman and directed the authorities to release adequate compensation to her," Choudhary stated. "The commission already recommended the government ban liquor in the state. However, the government did not consider this recommendation."
In addition to addressing this specific case, Choudhary highlighted another concerning situation involving a student acid victim. She mentioned that the mother of this victim had to pledge her gold ornaments to fund her daughter's fourth surgery. In response, Choudhary has instructed the District Health Officer (DHO) and the deputy director of the Department of Women and Child Development to ensure that the surgery expenses are reimbursed and that the government covers the cost of the upcoming fifth surgery as well.
Broader Implications for Women's Safety in Karnataka
This acid attack incident brings to light the urgent need for stronger measures to protect women in Karnataka. The Karnataka State Commission for Women continues to advocate for policy changes, including liquor bans, to reduce such violent acts. The visit by the chairperson serves as a reminder of the commission's commitment to supporting victims and pushing for systemic reforms to enhance women's safety and welfare across the state.
