"Behind the Scars:

Acid attacks represent a severe form of gender-based violence, with approximately 80% of victims being women, as reported by Acid Survivors Trust International (2022). Despite the enactment of legislation aimed at curbing such violence, including the 2011 amendment to Section 336-B of the Pakistan Penal Code, which prescribes a minimum of 14 years imprisonment to life imprisonment and fines up to 1 million PKR. moreover, in 2012, the National Assembly passed further landmark legislation where it moved trials for acid attack crimes to the anti-terrorism courts, known for adjudicating longer sentences. Still, acid attack violence persisted in Pakistan. Despite such law enactment, the highest number of acid attacks were reported after the enactment of the law in 2016 with 43 cases hence the enforcement remains inadequate. The Pakistan Human Rights Commission (2023) notes a troubling increase of approximately 400 new cases annually. Such demonstrates Pakistan as the deadliest country for acid attacks. The continued unregulated sale of acid exacerbates the issue, undermining legal safeguards. For instance, in 2021, a victim's petition to the Sindh High Court underscored the ongoing availability of concentrated acid in local markets, despite existing restrictions (LUMS Online Application Interface, 2021). This persistent issue highlights the need for stricter enforcement of legal provisions and comprehensive measures to address both the sale of acid and the protection of survivors.

Why do acid attacks disproportionately target women in Pakistan? A range of socio-cultural and legal factors drives acid attacks against women in Pakistan. Commonly cited motives include allegations of infidelity, disputes over land or inheritance, giving birth to daughters, and familial conflicts. In many cases, attackers are motivated by a desire for retribution in response to rejected marriage proposals or perceived moral transgressions, such as a woman’s interactions with men outside her immediate family (Khan, 2022). These acts of violence represent a severe form of domestic abuse, deeply entrenched in a patriarchal societal framework that objectifies women and views them as property under male authority (Zafar, 2023). However, what justifies such extreme measures? Which law gives a permit to any stranger or member to give such graves punishment which not only gives internal trauma but whole physical appearance deteriorates which leads to social isolation due to their appearance.

Despite several NGOs such as the Acid Survivor Foundation (ASF), Chanan Development Association (CDA), and Kashf Foundation, etc. which support acid attack survivors the Acid attack victims in Pakistan often face significant barriers to reporting their assaults, rooted in societal, legal, and economic challenges. most of the time the cases go unreported due to which the actual number is still unknown however the hospital reports such as by Dr. Naheed Ahmad, the head of the burn unit at Multan’s largest hospital, have stated that the influx of acid attack victims has not decreased. Fear of retaliation from attackers or their families can deter victims from seeking help. Stigma and social pressure further compound this issue, as victims may encounter blame and discrimination from their communities (Khan, 2020). A lack of trust in law enforcement and the legal system, coupled with financial constraints and the complexity of legal procedures, also discourages reporting (Acid Survivors Foundation, 2021). These factors collectively inhibit the victims' willingness and ability to come forward.

So, what is the solution? To mitigate acid attacks and enhance victim reporting, a comprehensive strategy is essential. Strengthening legislative measures by enforcing stringent penalties for perpetrators and improving legal frameworks can act as a deterrent (Jamil, 2023). Law enforcement agencies need specialized training to handle cases with sensitivity and professionalism, ensuring victims feel safe when coming forward (Zafar, 2023). Public education campaigns are vital for altering societal attitudes, reducing stigma, and fostering a supportive environment for survivors (Acid Survivors Foundation, 2022). Additionally, establishing robust support systems, including access to medical care, psychological counseling, and legal aid, can address survivors' needs and encourage them to report incidents without fear of retribution or social ostracism (Khan, 2021). In 2018 the National Assembly passed another Acid and Burn Crime Bill, which provides free medical treatment and rehabilitation for acid attack survivors since the survivors haven’t come forward such is likely to be implemented. Additionally, Pakistan could benefit from incorporating elements of Bangladesh’s Acid Control Act (2002), which regulates the sale and distribution of acid, making it difficult for perpetrators to obtain the substance (Acid Survivors Foundation Bangladesh, 2023). Enforcing similar restrictions on acid sales in Pakistan would significantly reduce accessibility and potentially curb such attacks measures collectively contribute to a more supportive environment for victims and a reduction in acid attacks.