A MOST horrifying form of gender-based violence in Pakistan is throwing acid on women. The victim suffers long-lasting physical and psychological consequences.

Pakistan tops the list of countries with incidence of acid attacks on women. More than 150 cases have been reported during the past 12 months, despite the passage of a new law by parliament.

A litre of hydrochloric acid is available for as low as Rs50 and it can be easily bought from the market. Women are the main victim of such attacks.

Recently a woman was attacked in Peshawar with acid.

There is a need to implement the law to discourage such crimes.

A. KHILJI Hub Chowki