The popular playwright Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar has been heavily criticised for the remarks he made during a TV show on acid attacks on women.
His words have been termed irresponsible and downplaying the seriousness of a sensitive issue, and have reignited social media and political discussions.
The incident was further fuelled by an acid attack on a female doctor in Quetta, which put the issue of the continued commission of acid violence as a serious crime in Pakistan once again on the agenda. Such comments come at a time when the victims are still reeling from the devastating effects of such attacks, critics say.
In a conversation with a group discussing women’s rights and issues plaguing acid attack survivors, Qamar said, “Men are seen carrying bottles of acid in their pockets.” Many viewers and commentators criticised the statement for being insensitive and inappropriate.
It gave rise to a strong response from social media, with people questioning the effects of its meaning in lessening the pain experienced by the victims and in opposing to awareness raising on gender-based violence and acid attacks.
People in the public eye should be more responsible when talking about issues that impact the vulnerable segment of society, especially victims of violent offences, critics argue.
Dr Mahnoor, a postgraduate doctor at Civil Hospital Quetta, is currently hospitalised in Karachi, and around 70 per cent of her body was affected in the incident.
“Arrangements were made to provide the injured doctor with the best available medical facilities, and she has been transferred to Karachi for further treatment”, said the chief minister’s spokesman and adviser, Shahid Rind.
She suffered severe burn injuries to her face, chest, legs, and other parts of her body.
According to reports, the man who attacked her was a former employee of the hospital. According to the police, he was killed in an encounter.
The suspect reportedly knocked on the doctor’s room door and threw acid on her when she came out of the room.
Also read: Acid-attack victim Dr Mahnoor will remain under treatment for several more weeks
