Written by: Ms. Parissa Barai, Intern, AMA & Ms. Arya Shukla, Intern, AMA

WARNING! SOME OF THE FOLLOWING DESCRIPTIONS ARE GRAPHIC IN NATURE AND MIGHT BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS.

“Geeta Mohar, 45 and daughter Neetu Mohar, 16. The father threw acid on his wife and child just because she did not bear a male child.”

“A reckless motorcyclist throws acid on a family of 12 in Surat for being told to drive slower.”

“A boy throws acid on his neighbour’s daughter just because she got a well-paid job while he had no work.”

Their skin drooped, charred and melted to their bones. Their eyes mere white voids of nothingness, permanently destroyed. The once beautiful smile now disfigured and broken. But a spirit, attempted to be crushed is still intact and its flame burns brighter than ever. As onlookers, we must not shy away from these monstrous images. We must not flinch or close our eyes because then we too are no better than the perpetrator.

The 15th Dr. Lalita Iyer Memorial Lecture, hosted by the Ahmedabad Management Association (AMA), featured Dr. Navpreet Kaur, Co-founder and Vice President of the Foundation. Titled “The Phoenix Effect: Stories of Survival, Hope, and Healing,” the lecture was a powerful testament to the resilience and strength of acid attack survivors. Preceding the lecture was an insightful press conference that shed light on the issue of acid attacks, acid sale, and the role of the government.

Dr. Kaur began by addressing the grim reality of ‘vitriolage’ (acid attacks) in India. With 70% of victims being female, these attacks are often rooted in deep-seated societal issues like dowry disputes, domestic violence, and a lack of respect for women’s autonomy. However, men are not exempt, with many also suffering from the physical and psychological scars of such attacks.

“Acid attacks are not just about the substance; they are about one’s mentality,” Dr. Kaur explained. She highlighted the amendments made in the Indian Penal Code, only post the Nirbhaya case (Sections 326 A & 326 B), aimed at deterring such heinous crimes. Until 2013, The Indian Constitution did not treat acid attacks as a separate entity in crime. It was also rightly pointed out that much work was left to be done here, mainly regarding the regulation of acid sale.

The Laxmi Foundation, based in Delhi, provides a holistic support system for survivors, offering shelter, medical care, legal assistance, and psychological counselling. One of their standout initiatives is the “Mitti Hand Print” project, where survivors create beautiful sand paintings. This not only aids in their rehabilitation but is also therapeutic and serves as a source of income and empowerment.

During the press conference, attendees heard the inspiring story of Mr.Prince Sahu , an acid attack survivor from Surat. Despite the trauma, Prince’s story is one of triumph. “Chehre pe acid dala, mere sapno pe nahi,” he said, a powerful reminder that while acid can scar the body, it cannot shatter dreams. Prince is currently at a position in Indigo Airlines as a photographer, defeating all odds and most importantly loving his work. He described a warm and inclusive atmosphere at his workplace.

Dr. Kaur emphasized the need for greater societal awareness and sensitization, particularly in slum areas and educational institutions. She called for stronger implementation of laws and better victim compensation schemes, sharing that states like Punjab and Haryana offer substantial compensation to victims and others should follow suit.

The press conference also brought to light the psychological aspects of acid attacks, stressing that societal attitudes need to change. “Society makes them criminals,” Dr. Kaur remarked, pointing to the pressures and expectations that often lead to such violent acts.

The Laxmi Foundation’s work, particularly their focus on inclusivity and creating opportunities for survivors, is a beacon of hope in the fight against acid violence. The conference served as a reminder that while the scars of acid attacks are visible, the strength and resilience of survivors shine even brighter. They truly are phoenixes, rising from the ashes, stronger and more determined than ever.