Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala has been witnessing an alarming increase in acid attack cases, raising concerns about the safety and security of women. Despite the promises made by the government to prioritise women’s safety, the numbers have been steadily rising, with more than 100 reported cases since 2016, resulting in eleven tragic deaths.
In 2016, only three acid attack incidents were reported, but each subsequent year has seen a rise in the number of victims. Last year alone, seven individuals fell victim to these attacks. The worrying trend has brought into question the efficacy of the state’s law enforcement and the government’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens.
These attacks, which have spread even to the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram, are a stark reminder of the vulnerability of women in the region. Despite the robust police presence in the capital, women continue to be targeted, with the attackers managing to evade arrest and prosecution.
Women’s safety was a cornerstone promise of the Pinarayi government when it came to power. The recent surge in acid attacks has put the Home Department under scrutiny, as questions arise about its ability to prevent such heinous crimes within its jurisdiction. Critics argue that the failure to apprehend the culprits, especially in areas covered by an efficient police force, is indicative of a larger problem in the state’s approach to combating violence against women.
Discussion about this post