what you think…
The article on acid attack victims in India really saddened me (‘Inside I’m still beautiful’, March 21). What’s even more saddening is the number of these victims is growing every year.
The punishment the Indian government considers for people who commit this inhumane crime is not sufficient. It should be more severe as the act not only destroys beauty but destroys the victim’s life.
Seven years of imprisonment with the possibility of being released on bail is just not enough to deter criminals – mostly men – who commit this heinous act.
The government should also increase the amount of money given to the victim as compensation. This would help the victim pay for corrective surgery and start her life all over again.
I believe that the tougher the punishment gets, the fewer people will commit this hateful crime.
AHMAD MONEER GHAFORI, VIA EMAIL
You are absolutely right, Ahmad. It is so shocking that many men, like the one who attacked Laxmi, are released so soon – in her attacker’s case within amonth – while the victims face a lifetime of pain and stigma. A new law has now introduced aminimum 10-year imprisonment term, but they need to stop giving bail for this crime. Making it difficult to buy acid over the counter is also an important step, which the government is addressing. They are working towards changing the law. Karen, editor
Your report on acid attacks made me wonder about the feeling called ‘love’.
What is it about this emotion that makes people destroy the lives of those who are the object of their desire if they’re rejected?
It’s time that men stop thinking women are mere objects and begin to treat them with respect.
I wish the organisation Stop Acid Attacks every success under the leadership of Alok, supported by Laxmi.
K SIVASANKARAN, ABU DHABI
Iwas deeply saddened on reading about Laxmi Agarwal’s experience. It compelled me to have a talk with my teenage daughter on what to do if she comes across a stranger who expresses his love for her but she does not reciprocate the feeling.
I told her that she needn’t be scared and she should immediately tell her family about the person. By ignoring him, he is going to feel rejected and will begin to develop negative thoughts that could have serious implications such as harming her or himself. The family can talk to the man and help him find a solution to his problems.
In Laxmi’s case I wish she had spoken to his family about the incident so they could have helped him see sense, therefore preventing this horrendous crime.
My prayers are with Laxmi and all other victims of acid attacks. May their future be bright and may every desire of their heart be fulfilled. This horrendous crime should stop.
DLIMA, VIA EMAIL
We have had so many letters on this article and I’m glad you spoke to your daughter about this important issue. We need to stamp out this evil crime.