The more modern a man becomes, the more violent he becomes. The ultra advancements in the field of education, technology and other spheres are primarily meant for the “development of human beings.” By development, it is inferred that his humane qualities hold the prime importance which if not groomed properly nullifies the real meaning and purpose of development. Violence against women is not a new phenomenon and requires no introduction. What could be deemed as the most unfortunate part is that notwithstanding the gigantic claims of women security, violence against women is taking turn for the uglier each passing day. One of the modern tools of violence erupts in the form of acid attacks. According to Acid Survivors ‘Trust International, acid attacks are at an alarming level in India with 250–300 reported incidents every year, while the actual number could exceed 1,000.’ The mental, psychological, emotional trauma they undergo apart from the severe injuries and deformation of shapes is unimaginable. The obnoxious, felonious and obviously barbaric acid attack cases on women have caught pace not only in the rest of the parts of the country but in the Kashmir valley alike. Such incidents were unknown to the society we live in. Last week, a young girl from Srinagar fell prey to the barbarity of similar kind who is struggling for her eyesight. In the last eight years, Kashmir has witnessed four cases of acid attacks. This may seem an insignificant number but in reality it is not. The fate of acid victims have taken an ugly turn whilst their ‘everything’ has been left in ruins. While the authorities have already arrested the culprits and booked them under various sections of the law, the recent attack once again has sent shocking waves across the valley with condemnations and anger pouring in from different sections of the society. Howbeit, there is a need to move beyond customary condemnations and contemplate deeply on the rising violence against women in different forms. Else, the time is not too far when the society we belong to will turn into a sanctuary of barbarism and misogynistic cruelty.
EDITORIAL: Exasperating Violence
